I don't understand why you ignore the budget pads by Klymit?!? Super comfy, the uninsulated is super light and works for summer camping, which is when most new people start.😮
Hi @@JustinOutdoors At @GearPriority I left you today in a comment section, below Exped 5R pad review, an info about new Decathlon lightweight pad, surprisingly interesting.
Zenbivvy light mattress ? Reviews and comments please I have the Nemo tensor alpine ATM it's been good but zenbivvy light mattress looks alright ? But the aluminized film vs fully baffled synthetic insulation I'm not sure so any advice would be good cheers mate 👍
For me it has everything to do with attempting to side sleep on a pad that is so thin it bottoms out every time I turn and so narrow, it's only when it's freezing I can be certain I am even on it and if I manage to sleep at all, I wake up every time I turn because I roll off and during the summer, I mostly wake up stiff in my whole body, more often than not somewhere beside it after another horrible night.
Because sleeping on any pad almost always sucks. so we are always searching for a better one. Not soft plastic felling Makes to much noise Not enough padding pressure points To stiff,bouncing feeling To cold To big to heavy to small Etc etc etc. the key is to camp longer than a week. by then your so tired you are finally used to it and you sleep The struggle is real
Tried out the Helix a few weekends ago for the first time. As a side sleeper I wanted to try it out and it worked great. I didn’t wake up with a soar hip. I weigh around 212 and I’m 6’2 and I didn’t bottom out. Only complaint it the valve system being on the bottom and the fact that there 2 valves which can make it a little tricky fold and roll when you’re used to 1 valve.
If weight isnt that much of a problem for u, i can recommend the exped DURA series. Its the exact same as the ULTRA series, but its way more durable because of 75 D fabric on top and 170 D fabric on the bottom. Clearly it uses up a little more space in ur BP and weighs 1000 gramms but for me, the durability is worth it ( Never had a hole in mine in 1.5 years of heavy usage). I have been to norway and sweden and have slept on rocks, forest ground without any protection mat underneath. and not a single puncture hole.
FYI the DURA series pads currently on sale aren’t different material on top and bottom, they mix the 75 and 170 threads in a crossweave pattern. That way it’s lighter than straight up 170 denier fabric.
Big Agnes Boundry Deluxe is a phenomenal pad. I use the regular wide. It’s warm, quiet, spacious and so comfortable. I was actually speechless the first few times I used it. I was astonished how well it performed.
Nice video. I own the Exped 7R, Nemo Tensor EC, and the Zenbivy Flex. All of them are L/W. The Exped is my most comfortable (and thickest) but is a bit finicky to deal with because you have to make sure the down inside isn't packed crushed and is evenly distributed. It's wonderful when you get that sorted though. The Nemo Tensor EC is comfortable enough to be sure. I haven't had an issue with cold spots, but I have a theory on that (and it probably applies to all the reflective style insulation pads): If you don't have the pad entirely covered (sides and top) you'll wind up actually reflecting heat out of the pad where other air-retention systems (like the down in the Exped) won't. I'd be interested to see if you get better results by ensuring you are using a bag/quilt that entirely covers the pad. I did a side-by-side with the 7R and EC (my 10F Zenbivy Light on the Exped and my 40F EE Revelation on the EC). When I swapped at the coldest point of the night I found the Exped was slightly cooler than the EC but the added thermal range of the Zenbivy was now keeping me warmer, whereas the EC was allowing me to say under the EE with a much higher thermal limit well past its comfort limit; I got cold on top before having cold transfer up. The Zenbivy was a pad that initially felt pretty comfortable to me. The more I use it, the more I find it's really getting very close (maybe exceeding) the comfort of my Exped, and it's a good bit lighter but more importantly, packs WAY smaller (as does the EC which is nearly identical). I'd been having a bit of a stiff back and a couple of nights ago I did an overnight camp with my son and I was using this pad. About 30 minutes into laying on it my back popped and felt awesome! The support is so good on this thing, and it has an advantage due to the 4-way stretch material on top: You get the best thermal results if you have a pad pumped up toward it's upper limit, and normally that makes a pad less comfortable (like the EC) but that doesn't happen with this pad; it's still just as comfortable (maybe even more). That also keeps it warm, and one thing I noticed about this pad over the EC and Exped is how even the thermal distribution is; it's just warm everywhere which I presume has to do with the baffle system they employ. To be fair, I have NOT used this in extreme weather; the lows have been in the mid 40s with fairly low humidity at altitude (7600-8k'). I'm interested in the Helix because it seems like the price is good and has similar features to the Zenbivy, but the weight gives me pause. Maybe if it is more durable that could be a selling point, but ultimately I'm not sure the pricepoint is worth the weight penalty; while it seems like a lot, $60ish doesn't get you a whole lot these days and so that becomes a reasonable cost for a much lighter and (by your admission) just as comfortable pad. I'm interested to hear your thoughts.
Finally Exped gets some attention!!! I have been using the Exped Ultra 3R wide rectangle for two years now and love it. Comfortable, warm and no durability issues. I have used this pad at about 5 degrees Fahrenheit WITH a closed cell foam pad under it and been plenty warm. I am a side sleeper/flip flopper and have never sunk through this pad. I can’t speak highly enough of this product. I have never seen this pad on anyone else’s channel, I believe because it is not expensive enough. Thank you Justin for another great video… oh have you seen the new Temu pad?!? LOL Joke!
Hey Justin - true story, I just got back from the Boundary Waters and used the Helix based on your recommendation. Super comfy and helped keep me warm with overnight temps in the 40’s. Also very easy to inflate and deflate. THANKS!
Waiting for best ultralight sleeping bag according the comfort rate and budget options Need recommendations before I back to my home country and go hike, the coldest temperature of the mountains in Indonesia is around -5°c
I'm 280 and have not had issues with cold spots with the REI Helix when sleeping on my side. On cold nights I have felt the cold ground when shifting around... so 280 is pretty close to the top end though.
I must have the old version of the rapide SL unless I'm understanding the differences wrong. Mine is always SUPER warm and feels like a heated pad when I've been laying in one spot for at least a few minutes. Even down to freezing it's been a great warm pad for me. Never cold on the underside with that baby.
Rab Ultrasphere is a great ultralight option too. Comfort between Xlite and Nemo Tensor, warmth closer to Xlite, packs way smaller than either and is pretty cheap
Would be curious to know how the updated Nemo tensors (non-extreme) rank. I know that they increased their R-value and they kind of rebranded their line a bit.
@@JustinOutdoors Thanks Justin. I picked up the Nemo Tensor (non-alpine) last year for like 40% off at MEC, and soon realized why... but haven't seen much comparing old and new. Nemo's new line is a LOT more simple than the old line with three orange pads, insulated and not. The new ones is simple to understand. I like it from a smart marketing perspective.
I recently bought the exped ultra 7R, the Nemo Tenser, extreme, and the REI helix to test out. For me the most comfortable was the exped, second was Nemo and third was helix. All still pretty nice, but but it was cool to test them side by side. My wife also agreed of the comfort in that order
To save some weight without sacrificing comfort OR warmth, take a look at the mummy version of the ultra 3r or ultra 5r for a little more warmth. They both come in Long-Wide versions. I’m a 6’1”, and the mummy version works GREAT for me.
Time to give us your opinion on the newer MEC pads. Especially the VectAir UL 4S Insulated LW. Very warm and comfortable. Heavier, but possibly warmer and more comfy than the Helix or Rapide. Great dimpled baffles with both reflective and synthetic insulation.
Still rocking my nemo tensor insulated pad just for the comfort. Though I do also always put a closed cell foam pad under my sleeping pad just so when I roll over I'm not putting my elbows and hips into the ground :)
I’m curious to know why you prefer the vertical baffles to the horizontal ones? I’m interested in something for sleeping in my car on a raised platform, and R-value is not really important to me. Have an old Nemo (horizontal baffles) on top of a yoga mat, but I still “bottom out” quite a bit. (I weight 200 LB.)
I rock a 30 inch wide Q core deluxe. It weighs a lot but the rest of my gear is light so it's feasible. I bought 2 smaller lighter pads but I'm a big guy that sleeps on his back and its pretty much torture using them. I'd love something lighter but comfort and good sleep is key.
I guess it's all relative. I've just upgraded from a 25 year old Thermarest (so you can't fault the durability, longevity and value for money) to the new Nemo Tensor All-Season. By comparison my new pad is soooo warm and comfortable. I sleep better on it than I do in my bed. It's nice to see this pad in your review, and reassuring to know that I made a good choice and a wise investment. Whether or not it will last 25 years remains to be seen. I'll let you know! 😂
I work at REI and my number 1 pad I recommend to people is the Exped Ultra 3R. Around here most people are doing 3 season camping so the 2.9 is fine. One advantage I’ve found is that with the tubular design if you get a puncture it’ll be slightly easier to fix/find compared to something with more valleys and bumps
I can tell you now that the most comfortable sleeping of out there is the sea to summit comfort plus xt. It has the dimple baffle system but with dual air chambers so you can adjust it. It’s my go to winter pad due to the redundancy and it’s heavy but I’m glad I have one!
Cheers for the reply. Yeah the weight isn’t the best but for comfort it’s ridiculous and it’s toasty. I suppose you can’t have everything. I only use it on overnighters so I don’t mind it. At the end of the day it only another 500g. I also have a 40” Rapide SL (old version thankfully), 30” Q Core Deluxe, 25” Thermarest Topo Luxe, 25” Xlite NXT and 20” Tensor in the collection to cover all the bases.
Hi Justin. I know you are a big decathlon fan. Have you / are you planning to test the forclaz mt900 ? It seems great value for money based on specs. Also for ultra light category. Why no mention of thermarest uberlite? You’re sleeping pad reviews are second to none 👍
I would say that it’s about a 50% reduction in sound. The extra 30% might be due to frequency changes rather than loudness itself. These are scientifically different things. However marketing people confuse them all the time.
What would you suggest to help with katabatic quilt on a big Angnes pad, that creates the straps to be suspend above the pad and very distracting to sleep with.
If r-value is irrelevant, is Sts Etherlight XT still the best option for comfort? I reside in Thailand, where my only options are sts, thermarest, and nemo.
Nice vid ! I'm still waiting for your review of the new decathlon insulated pad ;) Also does the synthetic insulation makes the exped 3R more bulky to pack than an Xlite ? Thanks
using the REI Helix and trekology pillow with nemo disco 15 degree bag in the Colorado Rockies. i end up sleeping with wool toe socks and alpha direct socks.😂
I'm not in the market for a new sleeping pad but great comparison video. I'm still using the Nemo Tensor Insulated Regular Wide for my 3 season and the Nemo Tensor Alpine Mummy with the Nemo Switchback as my winter setup.
I've read it sleeps colder than the stated R value (unfortunately S2S pads all seems to sleep a little colder than suggested by R rating). All comfortable though.
Did you ever try the Thermarest Topo Luxe? I moved from the S2S Etherlight XT (it was failing in all the dimples) to the Topo Luxe. Been really happy with it! Went for the XL size for the 30" of width, and super comfy! Might be different in terms of comfort from the Thermarest XLite line.
I have this pad in 25” and it is great. The 4” thickness means that you can under inflate it and sink in. When buying my 30” wide pad I went for the Q Core Deluxe which is also very comfy. I didn’t want 2 topo luxe pads lol.
Rapide SL also has poor build quality! Had 3 of them break on me on my pct thru. Big agnes were good on their warranty and replaced them all, but I would honestly rather have gotten something else
Heard you mention it that you might not recommend a pad for comfort if “you’re over 200 lbs”. So what pad might you recommend if you were 210? As a taller hiker who’s been lifting weights for over 15 years, I’ve always just accepted that any pad just gives up if I sleep in certain positions… any suggestions?
Hi Justin, Thank you for the video. What is the coldest temperature you can go with the Exped Ultra 3R? I'm planning to do the AT next summer and would start in March. THANKS :)
My Exped Synmat UL 7 just collapsed internally when I was testing it after few years of no use. 200 eur gone. I also do not like the color of Expeds because it is attracting bugs like honey.
Did you get a chance to test the Zenbivy Ultralight Mattress? I see you reviewed the Flex, but the Ultralight seems like a stronger contender, since it's also very similar to the Helix but notably lighter. A reviewer on their site even compared it to the Helix directly.
You missed out the best all rounder by a mile. It costs less than $10₩ has an R rating of over 5, folds up really small and is hugely comfortable. I will never use another, its the onetigris obsidian sleeping pad. Took it on a 10 day long distance hike in scotland recently and it was amazing
I know you are having a more North American audience, but since you included REI, was wondering if you have any opinion about MEC pads for us Canadians? They have few models and are pretty competitive on price, especially when on sales (which happens often).
@justinoutdoors I am about to start the GDT and have switched to the Ultra Exped from the Nemo All-season based on this recommendation. I bought both the Exped Ultra 5R MW and the 3R MW, with the idea that I would start on the 5R for Section A (still snow up there) and switch to the 3R into Section B. I sleep average (neither hot nor cold) and have a GG thinlight that I will put under the pad on cold days (other wise it is under my Trekology pillow). Looking for advice - do you think I will be ok with just the 3R for the entire trip (with the GG 1/8" pad) or should i stick to the plan to bring the 5R for Section A.
The 3R would be cold on snow or cold/wet ground. Whether that is at the beginning or end of the trip. The 3R would probably be fine for the hotter middle July/August nights.
Without caring about the price which is the most comfortable im going camping in a month and it’ll be my first time and I’ll be trying to go to sleep. Quick!
Can't recommend Sea To Summit Ether XT Insulated either. I've had 3 of them and 2 were constantly deflating and the 3rd had several sections blown up because of the outside temperature or pressure. Expensive and not reliable
How about gear for people over 220 pounds? Also believe what is considered an ultralight set-up needs to change. I'm 270lbs and if my total gear weight is 30lbs then it's not considered ultralight. Needs to be a percentage.
It's hard for me to assess what would work since I am not over 220lbs. I look at ultralight as a mindset and not the 10lbs number. Gatekeepers will disagree, but hopefully it doesn't discourage you too much!
Hey Justin also I’ve spoken to big Agnes about the Mylar film dropping to the bottom of the sleeping pad and he told me that they aren’t supposed to do that so I guess maybe you (and I also own one) got unlucky with them they have taken mine to go and have a look and see what might be happening inside
I'm not sure how they would prevent it. I have also looked at 2 other Rapide SLs from two different stores and both had the film dropping problem. Let me know if your new ones doesn't have the issue!
@@JustinOutdoors hi Justin just got the zoom back and it is a lot better there’s film at the top and the bottom and it actually feels warm when the other one didn’t it may have just been an issue with the manufacturing of the first batch - maybe worth contacting them with your issue and they should send you another one like they did with me
Without Lighttour R7.5, this video would be a failure. They have a public and authoritative test report, which I have never seen other brands willing to share.
"The thousands I've tested." I assume this is a slip of the tongue. There are only 365 nights in a normal year. You would have to sleep on a different pad every single night for nearly 5.5 years to have tested 2000 sleeping pads. I highly doubt there are even 2000 different models of pads on the market in the entire world. Not to mention, you would only have had 1 night on each pad, which means you wouldn't have had the opportunity to test them under different conditions.
On the Ultra 3R, you stated wide and are showing the rectangular pad. The non-wide or the wide mummy get close to the weight you show, but all the specs I'm seeing are about 19oz for the reg/wide. Important since its winning the ultralight category!
Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated 30x78 has been the most comfortable pad I've ever had. Rivals my actual bed. Costs 2.5 lbs - but I'm 6'4" 220 lbs, so things weigh more.
Justin. You are the standard when doing gear reviews for hiking gear. I love your channel. It’s been almost 2 years since your last electronics review for battery banks. I feel like electronics and new tech get released on the regular with a ton of new updates. What are you using now on the trail to charge everything? Are you still liking the nitecore 10000mah? Is there a big difference between the 10,000 and the 20,000 mA hour nitecore or do you carry 2 10000mah?
As a side sleeper, how does the Exped Ultra 5R work for you as far as pressure points, numb arm or hands, etc? I'm a side sleeper as well and was dismissing it due to not having baffles like the REI Helix....
FWIW I recently bought the Rapide despite your issues and took it out this weekend. I do probably sleep much warmer than the average person, but it was around low 40s, maybe high 30s and I was plenty warm both nights, if not too warm. Can’t say whether I got the old 2023 version or the new one as I didn’t inspect it, but just wanted to throw my 2 cents out there. Also very comfortable and I slept relatively well.
I just got back from a trip to Greenland. Used my 2024 BA Rapide SL every night for almost 2 weeks. Did not have any issues at all, despite the temperature dropping to just above freezing most nights. It's an excellent pad, although a bit heavy. I combined it with an EE Revelation 20F quilt and a sea-to-summit reactor liner.
👇 GEAR FROM THE VIDEO 👇
Ultra 3R: geni.us/Ultra3R
Xlite: geni.us/XliteNXT
Xtherm NXT: geni.us/xtherm
Ultra 7R: geni.us/Ultra7R
Tensor Extreme: geni.us/TensorExtreme
Oblivion: geni.us/OV-Oblivion
Recharge: geni.us/PariaRechargeXL
Helix: geni.us/HelixSleepingPad
Flex Air: geni.us/FlexliteAir
Ultra 5R: geni.us/Exped5R
Tensor All-Season: geni.us/TensorAllSeason
I don't understand why you ignore the budget pads by Klymit?!? Super comfy, the uninsulated is super light and works for summer camping, which is when most new people start.😮
@@pyronymph-868 I don't find them comfy and they have no warmth.
Hi @@JustinOutdoors At @GearPriority I left you today in a comment section, below Exped 5R pad review, an info about new Decathlon lightweight pad, surprisingly interesting.
Have you tried the Flextail mattress?
Zenbivvy light mattress ? Reviews and comments please I have the Nemo tensor alpine ATM it's been good but zenbivvy light mattress looks alright ? But the aluminized film vs fully baffled synthetic insulation I'm not sure so any advice would be good cheers mate 👍
Why do I find myself always looking forward to a good sleeping pad review 🙂
Was thinking the same thing, and I just bought one.
Same
For me it has everything to do with attempting to side sleep on a pad that is so thin it bottoms out every time I turn and so narrow, it's only when it's freezing I can be certain I am even on it and if I manage to sleep at all, I wake up every time I turn because I roll off and during the summer, I mostly wake up stiff in my whole body, more often than not somewhere beside it after another horrible night.
Its value info
Because sleeping on any pad almost always sucks. so we are always searching for a better one.
Not soft plastic felling
Makes to much noise
Not enough padding pressure points
To stiff,bouncing feeling
To cold
To big to heavy to small
Etc etc etc.
the key is to camp longer than a week. by then your so tired you are finally used to it and you sleep
The struggle is real
Tried out the Helix a few weekends ago for the first time. As a side sleeper I wanted to try it out and it worked great. I didn’t wake up with a soar hip. I weigh around 212 and I’m 6’2 and I didn’t bottom out. Only complaint it the valve system being on the bottom and the fact that there 2 valves which can make it a little tricky fold and roll when you’re used to 1 valve.
If weight isnt that much of a problem for u, i can recommend the exped DURA series. Its the exact same as the ULTRA series, but its way more durable because of 75 D fabric on top and 170 D fabric on the bottom. Clearly it uses up a little more space in ur BP and weighs 1000 gramms but for me, the durability is worth it ( Never had a hole in mine in 1.5 years of heavy usage). I have been to norway and sweden and have slept on rocks, forest ground without any protection mat underneath. and not a single puncture hole.
which exped DURA would you recommend?
FYI the DURA series pads currently on sale aren’t different material on top and bottom, they mix the 75 and 170 threads in a crossweave pattern. That way it’s lighter than straight up 170 denier fabric.
Big Agnes Boundry Deluxe is a phenomenal pad. I use the regular wide. It’s warm, quiet, spacious and so comfortable. I was actually speechless the first few times I used it. I was astonished how well it performed.
Nice video. I own the Exped 7R, Nemo Tensor EC, and the Zenbivy Flex. All of them are L/W.
The Exped is my most comfortable (and thickest) but is a bit finicky to deal with because you have to make sure the down inside isn't packed crushed and is evenly distributed. It's wonderful when you get that sorted though.
The Nemo Tensor EC is comfortable enough to be sure. I haven't had an issue with cold spots, but I have a theory on that (and it probably applies to all the reflective style insulation pads): If you don't have the pad entirely covered (sides and top) you'll wind up actually reflecting heat out of the pad where other air-retention systems (like the down in the Exped) won't. I'd be interested to see if you get better results by ensuring you are using a bag/quilt that entirely covers the pad. I did a side-by-side with the 7R and EC (my 10F Zenbivy Light on the Exped and my 40F EE Revelation on the EC). When I swapped at the coldest point of the night I found the Exped was slightly cooler than the EC but the added thermal range of the Zenbivy was now keeping me warmer, whereas the EC was allowing me to say under the EE with a much higher thermal limit well past its comfort limit; I got cold on top before having cold transfer up.
The Zenbivy was a pad that initially felt pretty comfortable to me. The more I use it, the more I find it's really getting very close (maybe exceeding) the comfort of my Exped, and it's a good bit lighter but more importantly, packs WAY smaller (as does the EC which is nearly identical). I'd been having a bit of a stiff back and a couple of nights ago I did an overnight camp with my son and I was using this pad. About 30 minutes into laying on it my back popped and felt awesome! The support is so good on this thing, and it has an advantage due to the 4-way stretch material on top: You get the best thermal results if you have a pad pumped up toward it's upper limit, and normally that makes a pad less comfortable (like the EC) but that doesn't happen with this pad; it's still just as comfortable (maybe even more). That also keeps it warm, and one thing I noticed about this pad over the EC and Exped is how even the thermal distribution is; it's just warm everywhere which I presume has to do with the baffle system they employ. To be fair, I have NOT used this in extreme weather; the lows have been in the mid 40s with fairly low humidity at altitude (7600-8k').
I'm interested in the Helix because it seems like the price is good and has similar features to the Zenbivy, but the weight gives me pause. Maybe if it is more durable that could be a selling point, but ultimately I'm not sure the pricepoint is worth the weight penalty; while it seems like a lot, $60ish doesn't get you a whole lot these days and so that becomes a reasonable cost for a much lighter and (by your admission) just as comfortable pad.
I'm interested to hear your thoughts.
Thanks for you’re experience, that was very helpful!
Finally Exped gets some attention!!! I have been using the Exped Ultra 3R wide rectangle for two years now and love it. Comfortable, warm and no durability issues. I have used this pad at about 5 degrees Fahrenheit WITH a closed cell foam pad under it and been plenty warm. I am a side sleeper/flip flopper and have never sunk through this pad. I can’t speak highly enough of this product.
I have never seen this pad on anyone else’s channel, I believe because it is not expensive enough. Thank you Justin for another great video… oh have you seen the new Temu pad?!? LOL Joke!
Amok UL is actually better
Yeah that’s crazy that if the pad isn’t $200 or more, people think it’s garbage.
The Exped 5R is really versatile. Good comfort, and warm enough (with CCF pad) to use on snow, and still relatively light and small.
Bought the REI Helix for my husband during the Labor Day sale! It is on sale for $118 right now.
Hey Justin - true story, I just got back from the Boundary Waters and used the Helix based on your recommendation. Super comfy and helped keep me warm with overnight temps in the 40’s. Also very easy to inflate and deflate. THANKS!
Would you give a slight edge in comfort to the REI Helix or Zenbivy Flex Air?
Waiting for best ultralight sleeping bag according the comfort rate and budget options
Need recommendations before I back to my home country and go hike, the coldest temperature of the mountains in Indonesia is around -5°c
I'm 280 and have not had issues with cold spots with the REI Helix when sleeping on my side. On cold nights I have felt the cold ground when shifting around... so 280 is pretty close to the top end though.
I'm 160 lbs and I love to REI Helix, I've had it down to 17 degrees F (on 3 different strips in Michigan) and stayed warmed, plus slept all night.
I finally bought a Helix during the last sale and found it bottomed out way too easily for me as a side sleeper. Returned it.
On all the websites I’ve looked at the exped 5r is 23 ounces. Not 18? Where did you find 18 ounces?
He must have taken the weight for the Mummy Wide version which is listed at 18.9oz on the site.
Same with the 3r he said it's 15.4 oz. It's actually 19 oz....that's borderline no longer even ul....
I must have the old version of the rapide SL unless I'm understanding the differences wrong. Mine is always SUPER warm and feels like a heated pad when I've been laying in one spot for at least a few minutes. Even down to freezing it's been a great warm pad for me. Never cold on the underside with that baby.
Rab Ultrasphere is a great ultralight option too. Comfort between Xlite and Nemo Tensor, warmth closer to Xlite, packs way smaller than either and is pretty cheap
I don't trust pad in 20D anymore, especially when they have so many welds.
@@tt-of4xv We shall see how it fares. I think it depends more on the process and the TPU coating than the denier of the fabric
Good to see the olé trusted Helix is still there🙌 got my fiancé and me both one after your sleeping pad video from last yr and LOVE IT
Would be curious to know how the updated Nemo tensors (non-extreme) rank. I know that they increased their R-value and they kind of rebranded their line a bit.
The Tensor All-Season is a solid all-around option. Where is drops off relative to the Ultra 5R is womfort.
@@JustinOutdoors Thanks Justin. I picked up the Nemo Tensor (non-alpine) last year for like 40% off at MEC, and soon realized why... but haven't seen much comparing old and new.
Nemo's new line is a LOT more simple than the old line with three orange pads, insulated and not. The new ones is simple to understand. I like it from a smart marketing perspective.
I recently bought the exped ultra 7R, the Nemo Tenser, extreme, and the REI helix to test out. For me the most comfortable was the exped, second was Nemo and third was helix. All still pretty nice, but but it was cool to test them side by side. My wife also agreed of the comfort in that order
To save some weight without sacrificing comfort OR warmth, take a look at the mummy version of the ultra 3r or ultra 5r for a little more warmth. They both come in Long-Wide versions. I’m a 6’1”, and the mummy version works GREAT for me.
Have you seen the Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft yet? Would love to hear your thoughts on it.
Hi Justin, What kind of slepping pads do you advice for side sleeper of 220 lbs ? Best regards from Switzerland
Are there any recommendations for larger people in terms of comfort? Pack weights not as much of an issue for issue but comfort is.
Time to give us your opinion on the newer MEC pads. Especially the VectAir UL 4S Insulated LW. Very warm and comfortable. Heavier, but possibly warmer and more comfy than the Helix or Rapide. Great dimpled baffles with both reflective and synthetic insulation.
Still rocking my nemo tensor insulated pad just for the comfort. Though I do also always put a closed cell foam pad under my sleeping pad just so when I roll over I'm not putting my elbows and hips into the ground :)
I’m curious to know why you prefer the vertical baffles to the horizontal ones? I’m interested in something for sleeping in my car on a raised platform, and R-value is not really important to me. Have an old Nemo (horizontal baffles) on top of a yoga mat, but I still “bottom out” quite a bit. (I weight 200 LB.)
I rock a 30 inch wide Q core deluxe. It weighs a lot but the rest of my gear is light so it's feasible. I bought 2 smaller lighter pads but I'm a big guy that sleeps on his back and its pretty much torture using them. I'd love something lighter but comfort and good sleep is key.
I guess it's all relative.
I've just upgraded from a 25 year old Thermarest (so you can't fault the durability, longevity and value for money) to the new Nemo Tensor All-Season.
By comparison my new pad is soooo warm and comfortable. I sleep better on it than I do in my bed.
It's nice to see this pad in your review, and reassuring to know that I made a good choice and a wise investment.
Whether or not it will last 25 years remains to be seen.
I'll let you know! 😂
I work at REI and my number 1 pad I recommend to people is the Exped Ultra 3R. Around here most people are doing 3 season camping so the 2.9 is fine. One advantage I’ve found is that with the tubular design if you get a puncture it’ll be slightly easier to fix/find compared to something with more valleys and bumps
The Ultra 5R Medium Wide version is listed as 23.1oz not the 18.8oz listed in the video. Is that your own measurement?
Sorry, it's for my measurements of the reg/wide mummy version. I should have put the weight for the reg/wide square.
I can tell you now that the most comfortable sleeping of out there is the sea to summit comfort plus xt. It has the dimple baffle system but with dual air chambers so you can adjust it. It’s my go to winter pad due to the redundancy and it’s heavy but I’m glad I have one!
I love the design but over 1kg for a pad is getting out of the realm of backpacking pads for me. Hopefully the weight comes down!
Cheers for the reply. Yeah the weight isn’t the best but for comfort it’s ridiculous and it’s toasty. I suppose you can’t have everything. I only use it on overnighters so I don’t mind it. At the end of the day it only another 500g.
I also have a 40” Rapide SL (old version thankfully), 30” Q Core Deluxe, 25” Thermarest Topo Luxe, 25” Xlite NXT and 20” Tensor in the collection to cover all the bases.
Hi Justin. I know you are a big decathlon fan. Have you / are you planning to test the forclaz mt900 ? It seems great value for money based on specs. Also for ultra light category. Why no mention of thermarest uberlite? You’re sleeping pad reviews are second to none 👍
have EXped stopped their long vertical baffles from internally tearing now?
That seems to be the case over the last couple of generations
I would say that it’s about a 50% reduction in sound. The extra 30% might be due to frequency changes rather than loudness itself. These are scientifically different things. However marketing people confuse them all the time.
What would you suggest to help with katabatic quilt on a big Angnes pad, that creates the straps to be suspend above the pad and very distracting to sleep with.
How cold could you comfortably use the nemo tensor all season?
How would you compare the warmth of the Xlite, rei helix, and Zenbivy flex air?
If r-value is irrelevant, is Sts Etherlight XT still the best option for comfort? I reside in Thailand, where my only options are sts, thermarest, and nemo.
So, the REI Helix and Zenbivy Flex beats out the Etherlight XT now?
Nice vid ! I'm still waiting for your review of the new decathlon insulated pad ;)
Also does the synthetic insulation makes the exped 3R more bulky to pack than an Xlite ? Thanks
Have you ever slept on any MEC sleeping pads, like the VectAir Insulated UL 3S? I’d love to hear your review on those.
using the REI Helix and trekology pillow with nemo disco 15 degree bag in the Colorado Rockies. i end up sleeping with wool toe socks and alpha direct socks.😂
hi
in the Very cold Canadian trips -- I saw that you use a reflective ground cover
what is that ?
that you Peter
Awesome review!! Wish the flextail pad was on here 😆
I'm not in the market for a new sleeping pad but great comparison video. I'm still using the Nemo Tensor Insulated Regular Wide for my 3 season and the Nemo Tensor Alpine Mummy with the Nemo Switchback as my winter setup.
For warmth, what do you think of the
Sea to Summit
Ether Light XT Extreme Mat?
I've read it sleeps colder than the stated R value (unfortunately S2S pads all seems to sleep a little colder than suggested by R rating). All comfortable though.
I just bought the new Naturehike R8.8 and a little disappointed that it is not featured.
If you have any info on this I'd love your opinion.
Can you buy REI products in Canada without ordering from the USA?
Did you ever try the Thermarest Topo Luxe? I moved from the S2S Etherlight XT (it was failing in all the dimples) to the Topo Luxe. Been really happy with it! Went for the XL size for the 30" of width, and super comfy! Might be different in terms of comfort from the Thermarest XLite line.
I have this pad in 25” and it is great. The 4” thickness means that you can under inflate it and sink in. When buying my 30” wide pad I went for the Q Core Deluxe which is also very comfy. I didn’t want 2 topo luxe pads lol.
Perfect Timing!
Thanks for the video.
Intex dropped one as well called the trueair sleeping mat , no reviews anywhere on it , even Amazon 😵💫
Rapide SL also has poor build quality! Had 3 of them break on me on my pct thru. Big agnes were good on their warranty and replaced them all, but I would honestly rather have gotten something else
What about the Flex gear zero RO 5 ????
How about thermarest uberlite
what about the xped ultra 7r?
No Nemo Quasar in the comfort category? big and a bit heavy and not all that warm but wow is it comfy for me.
Heard you mention it that you might not recommend a pad for comfort if “you’re over 200 lbs”. So what pad might you recommend if you were 210? As a taller hiker who’s been lifting weights for over 15 years, I’ve always just accepted that any pad just gives up if I sleep in certain positions… any suggestions?
The Exped Ultra line is something I would take a look at along with the Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe.
Hi Justin, Thank you for the video.
What is the coldest temperature you can go with the Exped Ultra 3R?
I'm planning to do the AT next summer and would start in March.
THANKS :)
I started feeling some cold at around freezing on pretty warm ground. It's definitely a warm temp pad.
My Exped Synmat UL 7 just collapsed internally when I was testing it after few years of no use. 200 eur gone. I also do not like the color of Expeds because it is attracting bugs like honey.
Try the big Agnus divide, its a great affordable pad (sub 100$ in places) and nobody seems to be reveiwing despite is being an amazing pad.
It's much heavier than the mentioned pads; most likely not suitable for ultralight classification.
Xlite is the best all around pad for me. The Uber light doesn't even deserve a thought. And the xtherm performance is phenomenal
Did you get a chance to test the Zenbivy Ultralight Mattress? I see you reviewed the Flex, but the Ultralight seems like a stronger contender, since it's also very similar to the Helix but notably lighter. A reviewer on their site even compared it to the Helix directly.
Yup. I have a video comparing the Helix to the zenviby UL
@@JustinOutdoors I see it now don’t know how it slipped past me. Thanks!
You missed out the best all rounder by a mile. It costs less than $10₩ has an R rating of over 5, folds up really small and is hugely comfortable. I will never use another, its the onetigris obsidian sleeping pad. Took it on a 10 day long distance hike in scotland recently and it was amazing
Should say $100
Thermarest… especially for their post purchase service! Also warranty ❤
I know you are having a more North American audience, but since you included REI, was wondering if you have any opinion about MEC pads for us Canadians? They have few models and are pretty competitive on price, especially when on sales (which happens often).
They are a good price and comfortable but then are heavy for the warmth.
@justinoutdoors I am about to start the GDT and have switched to the Ultra Exped from the Nemo All-season based on this recommendation. I bought both the Exped Ultra 5R MW and the 3R MW, with the idea that I would start on the 5R for Section A (still snow up there) and switch to the 3R into Section B. I sleep average (neither hot nor cold) and have a GG thinlight that I will put under the pad on cold days (other wise it is under my Trekology pillow). Looking for advice - do you think I will be ok with just the 3R for the entire trip (with the GG 1/8" pad) or should i stick to the plan to bring the 5R for Section A.
The 3R would be cold on snow or cold/wet ground. Whether that is at the beginning or end of the trip. The 3R would probably be fine for the hotter middle July/August nights.
@@JustinOutdoors Do you think the GG 1/8" pad might be enough to push it over the edge for that early/late sections?
Great comparison Justin Indoors!
Without caring about the price which is the most comfortable im going camping in a month and it’ll be my first time and I’ll be trying to go to sleep. Quick!
Can add the new decathlon mat on with a r value of over 5
Can't recommend Sea To Summit Ether XT Insulated either. I've had 3 of them and 2 were constantly deflating and the 3rd had several sections blown up because of the outside temperature or pressure. Expensive and not reliable
How about gear for people over 220 pounds?
Also believe what is considered an ultralight set-up needs to change. I'm 270lbs and if my total gear weight is 30lbs then it's not considered ultralight. Needs to be a percentage.
It's hard for me to assess what would work since I am not over 220lbs. I look at ultralight as a mindset and not the 10lbs number. Gatekeepers will disagree, but hopefully it doesn't discourage you too much!
I sleep on the big agnes rapide and it is almost to warm
Forclaz MT900 Air Insulated please!!
Hey Justin also I’ve spoken to big Agnes about the Mylar film dropping to the bottom of the sleeping pad and he told me that they aren’t supposed to do that so I guess maybe you (and I also own one) got unlucky with them they have taken mine to go and have a look and see what might be happening inside
I'm not sure how they would prevent it. I have also looked at 2 other Rapide SLs from two different stores and both had the film dropping problem. Let me know if your new ones doesn't have the issue!
@@JustinOutdoors hi Justin just got the zoom back and it is a lot better there’s film at the top and the bottom and it actually feels warm when the other one didn’t it may have just been an issue with the manufacturing of the first batch - maybe worth contacting them with your issue and they should send you another one like they did with me
There is a new kid on the block and thats the Alton sleeping pad with a R value of 4. Also affordable.
Ahhhhh yeah Justin ❤!!!
You took the wrong weight for both Exped Ultras. The Ultra 3R is at about 565g and the 5R MW is at about 662g.
The Oblivion?
what about it?
Exped Ultra 5 and 7 are better comparison to the Xlite.
They also make a mummy le version for gram weenies
10 seconds💪
I don't think you sldefine budget correctly. Boone going camping 2 times a year pays 110 for a pad
Without Lighttour R7.5, this video would be a failure. They have a public and authoritative test report, which I have never seen other brands willing to share.
Bros got $5k worth of sleeping pads right here 😂
That's a fraction of the pads I have in my basement that I have tested. Please don't rob me.
Noise noise noise. Who’s going to make the first silent pad with similar specs?
There's no way you have 2024 sleeping pads there 😅
Thousands! ;)
I am on a search for anyone who uses something other than an air-style pad. So far... nothing. I can't stand air pads. Am I alone? 😆
What do you prefer? foam pads?
And yet no remark about the Dura 8R
Blimey, talk about out of ideas content-wise lol but I still watched it😅
If i have new things to say, I'll make a new video.
Big Agnes Rpide or whatever its called failed within 6 months. I dont recommended big agnes
"The thousands I've tested." I assume this is a slip of the tongue. There are only 365 nights in a normal year. You would have to sleep on a different pad every single night for nearly 5.5 years to have tested 2000 sleeping pads. I highly doubt there are even 2000 different models of pads on the market in the entire world. Not to mention, you would only have had 1 night on each pad, which means you wouldn't have had the opportunity to test them under different conditions.
If you notice, the moment he said "thousands" a text pops up and says "dozens"
On the Ultra 3R, you stated wide and are showing the rectangular pad. The non-wide or the wide mummy get close to the weight you show, but all the specs I'm seeing are about 19oz for the reg/wide. Important since its winning the ultralight category!
Big Agnes Boundary Deluxe Insulated 30x78 has been the most comfortable pad I've ever had. Rivals my actual bed. Costs 2.5 lbs - but I'm 6'4" 220 lbs, so things weigh more.
Justin. You are the standard when doing gear reviews for hiking gear. I love your channel. It’s been almost 2 years since your last electronics review for battery banks. I feel like electronics and new tech get released on the regular with a ton of new updates. What are you using now on the trail to charge everything? Are you still liking the nitecore 10000mah? Is there a big difference between the 10,000 and the 20,000 mA hour nitecore or do you carry 2 10000mah?
Did you test the Flextail ZERO MATTRESS R05?
As a side sleeper, how does the Exped Ultra 5R work for you as far as pressure points, numb arm or hands, etc? I'm a side sleeper as well and was dismissing it due to not having baffles like the REI Helix....
Pretty good! The stretchy-ish material helps goes a long way. I don't get numb arm with it.
I have been using the 3r for two years, am 200 plus pounds and a side sleeper. I love it.
@@matt67524 what’s the coldest temperature you’ve used your exped 3r? Thanks
FWIW I recently bought the Rapide despite your issues and took it out this weekend. I do probably sleep much warmer than the average person, but it was around low 40s, maybe high 30s and I was plenty warm both nights, if not too warm. Can’t say whether I got the old 2023 version or the new one as I didn’t inspect it, but just wanted to throw my 2 cents out there. Also very comfortable and I slept relatively well.
Check the R value on the bag, should be 4.8 if it's the new one
I just got back from a trip to Greenland. Used my 2024 BA Rapide SL every night for almost 2 weeks. Did not have any issues at all, despite the temperature dropping to just above freezing most nights. It's an excellent pad, although a bit heavy. I combined it with an EE Revelation 20F quilt and a sea-to-summit reactor liner.
Thanks for imput, I really needed this comparison and I wondered how Big Agnes performs in 2024.
Have you tried the new MT900 sleeping pad from Decathlon? It’s a 5.4 R. Value pad