I backpacked forever with my old Thermarest self inflating 1" thick pad. Hot or cold - same pad. I recently bought a Rapid SL long wide. DUDE! such a nice pad!
I purchased the Big Agnes Rapide SL. I was able to use it on a cold night and was happy with it. So thank you for all your honest reviews. They are very helpful. Love watching all your vidoes.
Great video thanks!! I see the reviews and popularity etc of these models, but then when you go over what you thought of them I"m like "THAT is exactly the info I wanted and would have found out if I was there in person checking them out" but YOU DID which is why we freaking watch reviews and appreciate what you do man. I would have made the exact same decisions for the same reasons. So, thanks a lot!!! Keep em coming!
The Big Agnes Rapide has recently updated their range to make it slightly lighter and smaller packed, but also increased the R rating to 4.8. Look for 24 in the MPN. We bought the double wide as we bikepack as husband and wife, and it is an amazing pad. Thanks Dan!
Love your channel. EXPED Dura 8 and Downmat 9 are my favorite. I live in Alaska and backpack down to -30F no heat int tent. They do not deflate at all once you inflate them. Silent, comfy, 3 " high. Blows Thermorest out of the water. My least favorite Sea to Summit Ether Light Insulated. Rolling around on a plasic bag of Fritos.
First off, Dan THANK YOU! Watching your videos has encouraged me to get out and start backpacking. I completed my first overnighter today and slept on a Rapide SL. I slept good, but realized I was having some hip pain. I remembered your love for 2 pillows and so I made do with a fleece and a stuff sack. BINGO pain gone. I'm ordering my 2nd pillow now. Keep the content coming!
I get all kinds of pain too... Do you think it could have been that you filled it with air below your body temp and then your body temp heated the air and made it too firm? I've had that happen. The temperature change has a dramatic effect on the volume and therefore pressure inside the pad. I got a free (with shipping) inflatable pillow, and it just wasn't enough for my head when I'm camping, but I actually use it between my knees in my bed every night now, and I LOVE it..Regular pillows and body pillows can end up way too hot, or you get tangled up in them...
What are your thoughts on double wide sleeping pads for couples? I've been eyeing up the big agnes rapide tent floor pad. The weight and cost savings compared to two single Rapides is quite appealing.
Dan, since you love your tiny pump, help your buddy out, and attach the plastic nozzle to the intake port of the pump. They will all fit both ports. Then you can suck all the air out and roll it up tight like the day you bought it! - Ron
As a big side sleeper who loves the cold my go to pad is definitely the sea to summit etherlite xt extreme 👍 such an amazing pad , don't care about weight if I sleep well
Yes Emmitt! Thank you! That is the whole reason I returned a Thermarest Uberlite (old valve). It was so difficult and annoying to deflate! I never hear anyone talking about that. Went to the 25” Nemo Tensor Insulated and never looked back. Why wasn’t that pad mentioned? Super comfortable and deflates in a flash.
I LOVE that the double Big Agnes rapide SL is made for their tapered 2P tents. Most comfortable night sleep in the outdoors. Worth not skimping on your sleep system just like your bed at home.
Unless you are seriously camping great chanks of a year I would put this money towards your bed mattress and just get decent camping mattress for 1/3 of this preposterous price. Fanny how your best picks are the most expensive once.
I love my XTherm for colder weather, and I've tried the Uberlite (purchased two and have returned both) due to a lack of durability. The first one was fine for me on a number of tests at home, but it sprung a leak on the first night of the first trip I took it out on. Then I decided to give it a second chance and the second one had a faulty valve and never held air even the first time I inflated it at home. I haven't tried any Big Agnes pads, but I love my Sea to Summit Ether Light XT (most comfortable pad I've owned) for 3 seasons.
I switched to the Rapide. Took it on the Pinhoti trail this weekend and got the best sleep ever. I'm a side sleeper so I love the thickness it was also quiet.
@@snlzach2205 Sorry to hear that! I have actually heard similar things from others, but have had no issues with mine and sleep so well. I have been very comfortable down to low 20s (Haven’t tried any lower than about 22 degrees). I also baby my pad, use a thin foam pad underneath, and only weigh 165 pounds wet, so I’m sure all that helps. Lol
I can attest to the XTherm. I took a late season Yellowstone trip (Late October) last year and had temps down into the single digits, on snow, and it felt like having a heating pad under me. By far, the best sleeping pad for the cold I've ever used. I've cowboy camped on snow with nothing between the pad and the ground surface. Durable, check. I can't speak to any of the others as I don't really camp in the summer, at least not at low elevation. :)
Hey Dan! I been watching your videos and really enjoy the info you provide and value your opinion. Which is why I went and bought a Rapide too. Excellent pad. You are right, very comfortable. Got the 20X72 and being a side sleeper the narrow doesn’t bother me at all. I love it. And it packs down smaller which is a plus. Coming from a 2 1/2 inch thick mat, the difference is night and day. I use it for moto camping so the weight isn’t an issue but size makes a difference. Thanks for the advice. Keep up the good work.
Big Agnes didn’t backup a defective pad. Said they wouldn’t look at it for 4 months after I sent it back unless I bribed them with a $50 expedited evaluation fee. I’m done with them. I took the loss and got a Thermarest. Been very happy with it. P.s., I won’t be writing a letter back to them like you did there.
Great video, thanks for the info! I have a NeoAir Xtherm, and getting all the air out of it is pretty simple with the Tiny Pump X. Let the air out of it first by opening the valve, and then when it looks like it's done, hook the Tiny Pump X up and let it suck the remaining air out of it. Doesn't take very long and it's completely flat when you're done.
Rapide SL for me! super confy, it can be deflated(adjusted) anytime during use to make it even more soft. Edges are great and prevent me from falling off and it has some insulation too for colder nights. Dont think there's a better pad for me than this 👍
The only piece of gear in my kit that I don't care about size or weight is my sleeping pad. All I care about is comfort! Also with a little more weight comes more durability which is also always a plus when it comes to what you are sleeping on. That's why I have the BA Rapide SL normal wide!!
I can attest to the warmth of the Thermarest Neo. I have that exact mattress in Large due to being 6'5 220. I have had it down to 12 degrees on frozen ground with nothing but a tarp under and sleeping in a 3 sided pole tent. My bag was the Outdoor Vitals 15 degree stuffed into a GI Gortex Biivvy. I sweat my buns off until I took off my sweat shirt and stripped to base layer. After that toasty warm. In the warmer months 50 and above, I have learned to just lay directly on the pad and just sleep in the bivvy by itself. Once that pad warms up with your body heat it is like sleeping on your own little heater. I am actually shopping for a lighter and smaller mattress just for the warmer months due to , why take the weight penalty?
I’m taking the Rapide SL into low 40s/high 30s in a couple weeks. I expect the rapide to perform well. I’m also a side sleeper. So I’ll try to remember to report back when I get back. Also taking a 30* HG quilt which might be pushing it but we’ll see.
You should be ok. Remember that you can also change the stiffness of the bag really quick and easy. I had it too pumped up but once I let some air go I got some of the best sleep I've ever had
Sorry yes - the Rapide SL and 30* HG quilt worked well in the low 30 degree range for me. Just to give you an idea of what I’m wearing to bed - I ended up picking up a balaclava over the winter also but usually just used a beanie and gloves. Slept in my underwear, socks, base shirt and microgrid fleece most nights.
I have the new tensor, a little extra weight but I think my new favorite. my uberlight was the first one I bought, narrow version so I just haven't used it much. your videos have helped me not make so many mistakes like that. those kind of mistakes have cost me thousands all together. so thanks for your help, it has saved me a lot of money
I slept direct on snow with the rapide and felt the cold soaking through underneath. Comfy as hell but probably more a 3 season unless you have a thin bit of foam under it to help it out.
I do mostly motorcycle camping, so I use the Nemo Cosmo 3-D which is 30” x 80” and I sleep good, but still have a few aches and pains in the morning. I’ve thought about adding a foam pad for underneath. Have you ever tried that combination…?
My question too! I primarily backpack/hike, but I'm a side sleeper with wide hips and a chronic pain disorder. I'm very interested in solutions for hips digging into the ground. I've been considering the same fix of an air pad on top of a foam pad.
I have two Therm a rest Neo Xlite. One is the 72 inch and one is the 48 inch one. I was thinking of getting their super light model but it has terrible reviews. My 48 inch pad only weighs eight ounces and it’s a good pad and has held up good. The newer versions seem to have improved with the chip sound some people complain about. I don’t sleep great in my own bed so these pads are fine for me and I don’t like to carry a bunch of crap. I would never carry a pad more than 12 ounces. I can’t imagine ever carrying a 26 ounce pad, that is crazy town. Then again I realize many people are only hiking short distances for a day or two. We all have our things.
Why not the Big Agnes Air Core Ultra for the value pad? Also $100, 4.5r value, the regular is 22oz, 3 1/4” thick with thicker out baffles, durable outer shell, and rather quiet. Usual best choice for anyone not familiar with sleeping pads and willing to spend for proper kit but not almost double the price to shave some weight.
7:06 I did put my rapide on snow at 20F. I went inside at 3am. I felt cool from below but my arm on top was cold-I think because I got a draft (user error). I was in the women's nemo disco 15 (comfort rating 17F) and I wore thick pants and a thin long sleeved shirt). My pad would probably keep me warmer if it wasn't 12'' taller than me. Even more of it is exposed because I sleep with knees very bent on my side. I'm also just a very tiny person, so it's a tiny body trying to heat a large volume of air. I haven't heard anyone talk about that on youtube. Anyway, I put a layer of mylar bubble wrap on TOP of the pad and felt MUCH warmer when I laid on the cold pad for 20 minutes the other day. It takes a long time to heat up the air pad, but when you're on a layer of bubble wrap, you don't have to, and you feel warm almost instantly. I have yet to try that for a full night because our temps warmed up, but if it really works, it means I can truly make it a 4 season pad for free using those reflective bubble wrap envelopes from the food boxes. The bonus is that the mylar bubble wrap, while not capable of keeping you warm on snow with one layer, could probably keep you safely alive with 2-3 layers...at least it probably could for me because i weigh 100 pounds and don't pop it. I think as long as you distributed your weight, anyone could carefully lay on it without popping it.
After using the Anivl Horn sleeping bag with the sleve that holds the pad in place I can't imagine why every company doesn't do exactly the same thing with all their bags. I never slide off and I never get tangled up. Matched with those nice sleeping pads it's the best sleep you can get.
I have a 10 year old Xtherm - bullet proof, used in all kinds of conditions and never had a leak (but I am fearful now that it is 10+ years old). Before that I had a Big Agnes Q-Core that developed SEVERRAL leaks in just a few outings. I have not treated the Xtherm any differently. My Xtherm is 17 oz, mummy style - a little narrow but I have adapted. I am a side sleeper and I have to deflate the pad to where my hip almost touches the ground in order to be fully comfortable. I have used it on snow (& 20 degree temp?) and was fine. I do store it deflated, valve open, folded flat in thirds. I am looking to buy a new one - but the prices !!! I would be interested in tips from others on how they configure inflatables for sleep, pack them on hikes and long term storage.
Nalgene hard water bottles make a good tool for size comparison (but that's about it). Warm pads, paired with a warm top quilt are easily as heavy as an ultralight hammock with whoopie slings and a 900 fill underquilt and the same top quilt (and you won't wake up on a flat, cold pad with a dirty or wet floor underneath). For occasional hikers, weight is less of an option, and, for couples, a tent can win the weight comparison, but I sleep SO WELL in a hammock vs. on the ground. Of course, trees are pretty much mandatory for hammock use, and tents give much more living space, for those who enjoy camping more than making miles. I still have my old '90s foam-filled Thermarest for tent and shelter use (mostly in winter these days). Btw: hammocks are SOOOOO much cooler in the heat of summer than even an air-only pad. Being air-proof makes pads 100% NON-breathable.
i`ve just pressed the "buy" button on your recommendation Dan , so here goes with that big Agnes , i`ve been dithering over that Xtherm for ages but at nearly £70 cheaper i can live with a slightly lower R-rating and a tiny bit more weight......... also they MUST be popular now because the wide version was an utter pig to find anywhere!! all sold out
Greetings from Eureka M,T Got the rapide sl 25x78 after your last sleeping pad video. Had he tensor at first but I took it back and grabbed the rapide sl because I like the extra half inch and the raised sides! First sleeping pad! Thank you for your help!
Theses videos are perfect for trying to figure out which one to get! I personally have the REI Co-op AirRail Plus Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad. Took it to Africa in 70 degree nights and was good. Comfort level 3.5/5. When I took it to Cottonwood lakes and another trip, it was low 40s I was definitely colder than expected on it. R-value of 3.3. I’m leaning towards Big Agnes Rapide for my March 3-5 trip.
I had cheap an uninsulated air mattress with an additional quality closed cell foam (R 3.5) on top and was cold from below in 10°C, and was looking for a new setup. Watched some of your recommendations and settled for the Thermarest Xterm max, and damn thats a difference, from thermal insulation to ease of inflating with the valve on the pad. This was an eye opening experience what quality and higher end stuff really brings to hiking and sleeping outdoors. Thank you for sharing your insights on these products 👍 Pay once cry once!
Hi Dan! Been enjoying your videos for the last 6 months. Just purchased a new Big Agnes Q Core Deluxe sleeping pad (25X72) at a really great price ($95) and I'm excited to use it on my first hot tent adventure of the 2022/23 winter season here in Ohio. I may have missed it in one of your videos, but I can't seem to locate a review from you on this particular pad? I know you enjoy and highly recommend both the Q Core SLX and Rapide by Big Angus. I almost bought the Rapide, but after comparing specs, reviews and price, I felt to go with the Q Core Deluxe since it is being discontinued. If you have done a review, I'd love to hear your take! Specifically in comparison to these other pads. Keep up the great work. Really enjoying your channel and just subscribed. Not sure what took me so long? LOL. Patrick
The best I’ve come across so far is my green BA Qcore xls wide/long. Its a bit heavy, but the comfort it totally worth it, and it seems pretty durable and no leaks so far.
Who is Emmit? Family? I bought the rapide because of another video of your pad reviews. Leave Monday for first trip with it in the sequoias, can’t wait.
I have started taking a double nemo quasar. I dont care if its 3lbs. I have a full size mattress that I have the best sleep on and never hang/fall off the side.
The problem with the Big Agnes Rapide SL I found is that if you move onto your side you will slide around quite a bit. The surface appears to be too smooth and if you move around alot you're going to slide around.
Just got back from a 3 day motorcycle trip up in the Yarra Rangers here in Australia, still snow on the ground on Mt Buller. Sleeted on the Thermarest Xtherm standard mummy. Man super impressed with how warm it was!! I do wish I had have brought the max size or the large. But dude got a great night sleep. Definitely worth the money.
Im a fat guy and like to sleep on my side and I have thermarest pads and the rapide sl (25x72) and I must say that rapide is by far the most comfortable of the pads I own and have used. I don't think of the weight being any issue, when you weigh as much as I, you don't notice that minor differences. I'd buy 30"x72" if they'd only made one😁
I feel the same, the Rapide is head and shoulders above any pad Ive tried in terms of comfort. I didnt think sleeping pads could compete with my bed til I slept on a Rapide.
Do you happen to know how much weight the 25x72 rapide can take? I've currently got the tent floor version (50x78 tapered) for a 2p tent that's really comfortable but I'm wondering if it's too much size wise.
I used the NeoAir UL on the JMT without testing first (I know). Horrible mistake. Not much different than a foam pad and absolutely killed back after a few days. Not worth the weight savings vs my tensor. My wife used the static V Luxe and loved it. The size of a small air bed, and the weight to match but probably worth being well rested.
I'm surprised that there was no mention about the Nemo Tensor. I specifically bought two of them based off of your recommendation in one of your previous videos. Has your opinion changed about the Nemo Tensor or do you have updated information that you can share?
On the rapide SL as I make this comment. Currently on a 3 week field camp for my degree and man o man have I never had beeter sleep while camping! So go infact that we had a bear go through our campsite, terrorize one of our classmates, had a tazor go off and it wakes everyone up, and I slept through the entire thing! Amazing sleeping pad.
I am wondering if u have tried any of the Zenbivy mattresses yet. Your video testing the light sheet and quilt on the Big Agnes Rapide as well as your video with Mike Glavin have definitely helped to sell me on the Zenbivy system. Comfort is critical for me with warmth to weight ratio being very close second. I’ll be riding around the continental US on my DR650 indefinitely, perhaps diving into Central America, definitely riding as far north as Oregon, camping as frequently as possible (every night, weather and laws permitting). Would any of the Zenbivy mattresses parallel the Big Agnes Rapide?
I bought the NeoTherm Max a few weeks back.... excited to use it - is there such a thing as too insulated/ too warm for sleeping pads during warm months? Do I need a cooler pad for next summer? Thanks for the killer content Dan...
Hey Dan, Totally agrees with you on the Rapide. It’s been a game changer for me, simply love it. After watching you talking high praises on the Thermarest pillow I went and bought it online from Germany (I’m living in Denmark, and the pillow isn’t sold here). But then I read on the instructions that if I’ve wanted more loft, I should put it in the washer. Have you tried that? And does it work? I’m a bit sceptic 🤨. Great show btw love it 👍🏻
REI makes a pad called the flash it is awesome and under 100 bucks. It os light it has like a 5.7 or 5.8 insulation value. And has a guarantee. The good thing about therapist as well as more products they will fix or replace pads if they get damaged
I have a Thermarest Neoair and a Sea To Summit, both insulated. I will never, ever consider going out (much less in winter/snow) with an additional eva foam mat for additional protection. Doesn't need to be the uber thick and rigid mats... a Zrest or even a flimsy generic YOGA mat will do wonders. If you happen to puncture one of those mats in subzero temps, you are up to a miserable cold night with no sleep at all. If you are also going to set up camp on rocks (which is a common occurence in alpine terrain) this will provide additional protection to the inflatable one. Great review though.
I have a thermo rest and find it very comfortable however how does a person become a member of the Dan Becker backpacking equipment library of no returns? Asking for a friend😎
@Dan Becker the Klymit non insulated Static V pad is rated at 1.8 R value. The Insulated Static V is rated at 4.4 and less than $100 on Amazon. Shouldn’t you make a correction for those that can’t afford the $200+ pads? I have both versions and if you’re not a cold sleeper, the insulated does fine into the low 40’s. And it weighs about 25 ozs on my kitchen scale.
I've slept on my static V insulated down to 35F, without clothes on and didn't feel cold from the pad. I use a mummy bag deployed as a quilt, so it was literally bare skin on the pad. Since those big ribs are meant to allow a sleeping bag to loft underneath you, maybe that 4.4 R value is closer to true in that instance. But I find that dead, trapped air is also a good insulator. Works for me. I will probably purchase their 27 inch wide Static Luxe SL pad next ($160 on their site)/ Width is the most important dimension for me, and that's the widest I can find that still retains some packability. 30" would be better.
Dan. I have a bad back and traditionally use a hammock while camping. I’m going to the Tetons to hike and camp. What are your recommendations for comfort for bad backs. I’m around 6’2” and 220lbs Thx for any help.
Best Pad..? Big Agnes Q Core 30x78! Big Agnes baffles run vertical (head to foot) very comfortable! ThermARest baffles run side to side, not nearly as comfortable. Oh yea.. I’m a moto-camp guy, don’t care about weight as much; That why I also carry a OneTigres lightweight cot with extension legs.
Great video Dan, former Wisconsinite here now been living in Texas. I have the Therm-a-rest Neoware Uberlite and my arms keep falling off the pad at night. I am leaning to upgrading to the Big Agness Repide SL wide version . Thanks for all the info!
Love my thermarest and my big agnes BUT the KLYMITE IS SO NOT CONFORTABLE !!!! bought it on your recommendation and worst 2 night outside !!! lol Team hammock anyway ! Thank you ! good video !
Thanks for this review. Debating between the Repide & Zoom UL. Have you tried the Zoom? I love how much lighter it is but wonder about the noise of the Zoom vs. Repide.
I bought the BA AXL Air last year. Hate it. 1- It's noisy as hell. Fabric rubs with the tent bottom and it's just loud as hell. 2- Air fill/empty plug just sucks for emptying. Honestly, very expensive pad, great size and weight, good R-value, HORRIBLE NOISE WHENEVER YOU MOVE. Great videos!
I backpacked forever with my old Thermarest self inflating 1" thick pad. Hot or cold - same pad. I recently bought a Rapid SL long wide. DUDE! such a nice pad!
I purchased the Big Agnes Rapide SL. I was able to use it on a cold night and was happy with it. So thank you for all your honest reviews. They are very helpful. Love watching all your vidoes.
Great video thanks!! I see the reviews and popularity etc of these models, but then when you go over what you thought of them I"m like "THAT is exactly the info I wanted and would have found out if I was there in person checking them out" but YOU DID which is why we freaking watch reviews and appreciate what you do man. I would have made the exact same decisions for the same reasons. So, thanks a lot!!! Keep em coming!
Honestly know how this channel doesn’t have that many subs yet. Honest no BS reviews, good talking flow and informative content. Great job.
This guy famously has more subs than almost anyone else in the outdoor/backpacking space…
You crack me up! Makes it easier to watch complete reviews when humor/sarcasm is used!!
The Big Agnes Rapide has recently updated their range to make it slightly lighter and smaller packed, but also increased the R rating to 4.8. Look for 24 in the MPN. We bought the double wide as we bikepack as husband and wife, and it is an amazing pad. Thanks Dan!
Love your channel. EXPED Dura 8 and Downmat 9 are my favorite. I live in Alaska and backpack down to -30F no heat int tent. They do not deflate at all once you inflate them. Silent, comfy, 3 " high. Blows Thermorest out of the water. My least favorite Sea to Summit Ether Light Insulated. Rolling around on a plasic bag of Fritos.
First off, Dan THANK YOU! Watching your videos has encouraged me to get out and start backpacking. I completed my first overnighter today and slept on a Rapide SL. I slept good, but realized I was having some hip pain. I remembered your love for 2 pillows and so I made do with a fleece and a stuff sack. BINGO pain gone. I'm ordering my 2nd pillow now. Keep the content coming!
I get all kinds of pain too...
Do you think it could have been that you filled it with air below your body temp and then your body temp heated the air and made it too firm? I've had that happen. The temperature change has a dramatic effect on the volume and therefore pressure inside the pad. I got a free (with shipping) inflatable pillow, and it just wasn't enough for my head when I'm camping, but I actually use it between my knees in my bed every night now, and I LOVE it..Regular pillows and body pillows can end up way too hot, or you get tangled up in them...
What are your thoughts on double wide sleeping pads for couples? I've been eyeing up the big agnes rapide tent floor pad. The weight and cost savings compared to two single Rapides is quite appealing.
Dan, since you love your tiny pump, help your buddy out, and attach the plastic nozzle to the intake port of the pump. They will all fit both ports. Then you can suck all the air out and roll it up tight like the day you bought it! - Ron
As a big side sleeper who loves the cold my go to pad is definitely the sea to summit etherlite xt extreme 👍 such an amazing pad , don't care about weight if I sleep well
Yes Emmitt! Thank you! That is the whole reason I returned a Thermarest Uberlite (old valve). It was so difficult and annoying to deflate! I never hear anyone talking about that. Went to the 25” Nemo Tensor Insulated and never looked back. Why wasn’t that pad mentioned? Super comfortable and deflates in a flash.
I LOVE that the double Big Agnes rapide SL is made for their tapered 2P tents. Most comfortable night sleep in the outdoors. Worth not skimping on your sleep system just like your bed at home.
I have the same pad and completely agree
Unless you are seriously camping great chanks of a year I would put this money towards your bed mattress and just get decent camping mattress for 1/3 of this preposterous price. Fanny how your best picks are the most expensive once.
I love my XTherm for colder weather, and I've tried the Uberlite (purchased two and have returned both) due to a lack of durability. The first one was fine for me on a number of tests at home, but it sprung a leak on the first night of the first trip I took it out on. Then I decided to give it a second chance and the second one had a faulty valve and never held air even the first time I inflated it at home. I haven't tried any Big Agnes pads, but I love my Sea to Summit Ether Light XT (most comfortable pad I've owned) for 3 seasons.
I switched to the Rapide. Took it on the Pinhoti trail this weekend and got the best sleep ever. I'm a side sleeper so I love the thickness it was also quiet.
I personally really love my Nemo Tensor insulated pad
My first NTI, the welds sprung a leak on the first trip! Hoping the replacement NTI does better or I’m ditching it for the BA Rapide
Amusingly, I think that was once Dan's all time favorite. Its a great pad!
@@snlzach2205 Sorry to hear that! I have actually heard similar things from others, but have had no issues with mine and sleep so well. I have been very comfortable down to low 20s (Haven’t tried any lower than about 22 degrees). I also baby my pad, use a thin foam pad underneath, and only weigh 165 pounds wet, so I’m sure all that helps. Lol
So do I!
Same. Got mine in the reg/wide since I’m a side sleeper!
I can attest to the XTherm. I took a late season Yellowstone trip (Late October) last year and had temps down into the single digits, on snow, and it felt like having a heating pad under me. By far, the best sleeping pad for the cold I've ever used. I've cowboy camped on snow with nothing between the pad and the ground surface. Durable, check.
I can't speak to any of the others as I don't really camp in the summer, at least not at low elevation. :)
Hey Dan!
I been watching your videos and really enjoy the info you provide and value your opinion.
Which is why I went and bought a Rapide too. Excellent pad. You are right, very comfortable. Got the 20X72 and being a side sleeper the narrow doesn’t bother me at all. I love it. And it packs down smaller which is a plus. Coming from a 2 1/2 inch thick mat, the difference is night and day.
I use it for moto camping so the weight isn’t an issue but size makes a difference.
Thanks for the advice. Keep up the good work.
Big Agnes didn’t backup a defective pad. Said they wouldn’t look at it for 4 months after I sent it back unless I bribed them with a $50 expedited evaluation fee. I’m done with them. I took the loss and got a Thermarest. Been very happy with it. P.s., I won’t be writing a letter back to them like you did there.
Great video, thanks for the info! I have a NeoAir Xtherm, and getting all the air out of it is pretty simple with the Tiny Pump X. Let the air out of it first by opening the valve, and then when it looks like it's done, hook the Tiny Pump X up and let it suck the remaining air out of it. Doesn't take very long and it's completely flat when you're done.
Rapide SL for me! super confy, it can be deflated(adjusted) anytime during use to make it even more soft. Edges are great and prevent me from falling off and it has some insulation too for colder nights.
Dont think there's a better pad for me than this 👍
Literally just ordered mine after having two other pads that just didn’t quite meet the mark
you have the wide? or reg? i got reg and often feel like im falling out
@@jon6123 wide ofc
The only piece of gear in my kit that I don't care about size or weight is my sleeping pad. All I care about is comfort! Also with a little more weight comes more durability which is also always a plus when it comes to what you are sleeping on. That's why I have the BA Rapide SL normal wide!!
I can attest to the warmth of the Thermarest Neo. I have that exact mattress in Large due to being 6'5 220. I have had it down to 12 degrees on frozen ground with nothing but a tarp under and sleeping in a 3 sided pole tent. My bag was the Outdoor Vitals 15 degree stuffed into a GI Gortex Biivvy. I sweat my buns off until I took off my sweat shirt and stripped to base layer. After that toasty warm. In the warmer months 50 and above, I have learned to just lay directly on the pad and just sleep in the bivvy by itself. Once that pad warms up with your body heat it is like sleeping on your own little heater. I am actually shopping for a lighter and smaller mattress just for the warmer months due to , why take the weight penalty?
This couldn't have come at a better time, I spent yesterday afternoon looking at pads and trying to decide on one.
Just used the big Agnes Rapide this past weekend and it was a really really comfortable sleep. I got the long and wide version
This definitely helped me decide that I am indecisive about what pad to buy. Will probably buy Rapide SL😊
Looks like it has no anu too painfull compromises, if you pair it with a good folding pad, you can use either one or bolth, together or separatedly.
I have an uberlite that delaminated.sending it to thermarest for repair. Had it for 3 yrs and is pretty comfy.
I’m taking the Rapide SL into low 40s/high 30s in a couple weeks. I expect the rapide to perform well. I’m also a side sleeper. So I’ll try to remember to report back when I get back.
Also taking a 30* HG quilt which might be pushing it but we’ll see.
You should be ok. Remember that you can also change the stiffness of the bag really quick and easy. I had it too pumped up but once I let some air go I got some of the best sleep I've ever had
Did you go? Anything to report?
Anything to report?
Sorry yes - the Rapide SL and 30* HG quilt worked well in the low 30 degree range for me.
Just to give you an idea of what I’m wearing to bed - I ended up picking up a balaclava over the winter also but usually just used a beanie and gloves. Slept in my underwear, socks, base shirt and microgrid fleece most nights.
Thank you for not terrifying everyone with your mug on the thumbnail of this video.
My son gave me a BA Rapide SL for Christmas. I’m looking forward to getting out as soon as possible to give it a shot!
I have the new tensor, a little extra weight but I think my new favorite. my uberlight was the first one I bought, narrow version so I just haven't used it much. your videos have helped me not make so many mistakes like that. those kind of mistakes have cost me thousands all together. so thanks for your help, it has saved me a lot of money
Paria Products makes a 23" x 76" x 4" pad with an R value of 4.7 which cost right at $95 UD dollars although it weighs 26 oz.
I own one and it works great!
Insulated Tensor for shoulder/winter (in California), uninsulated Sea to Summit Ether Light for Summer.
I slept direct on snow with the rapide and felt the cold soaking through underneath. Comfy as hell but probably more a 3 season unless you have a thin bit of foam under it to help it out.
Thank you for giving the ASTM rating for the Klymit instead of the overinflated (pun intended) value they give on their website.
I do mostly motorcycle camping, so I use the Nemo Cosmo 3-D which is 30” x 80” and I sleep good, but still have a few aches and pains in the morning. I’ve thought about adding a foam pad for underneath. Have you ever tried that combination…?
My question too! I primarily backpack/hike, but I'm a side sleeper with wide hips and a chronic pain disorder. I'm very interested in solutions for hips digging into the ground. I've been considering the same fix of an air pad on top of a foam pad.
I do this, it doesn't help a lot only if you have a really thick one but that's too bulky. It's just warmer.
I have two Therm a rest Neo Xlite. One is the 72 inch and one is the 48 inch one. I was thinking of getting their super light model but it has terrible reviews. My 48 inch pad only weighs eight ounces and it’s a good pad and has held up good. The newer versions seem to have improved with the chip sound some people complain about. I don’t sleep great in my own bed so these pads are fine for me and I don’t like to carry a bunch of crap. I would never carry a pad more than 12 ounces. I can’t imagine ever carrying a 26 ounce pad, that is crazy town. Then again I realize many people are only hiking short distances for a day or two. We all have our things.
Why not the Big Agnes Air Core Ultra for the value pad? Also $100, 4.5r value, the regular is 22oz, 3 1/4” thick with thicker out baffles, durable outer shell, and rather quiet. Usual best choice for anyone not familiar with sleeping pads and willing to spend for proper kit but not almost double the price to shave some weight.
You had me at the candle and fountain pen. LOL!
7:06 I did put my rapide on snow at 20F. I went inside at 3am. I felt cool from below but my arm on top was cold-I think because I got a draft (user error). I was in the women's nemo disco 15 (comfort rating 17F) and I wore thick pants and a thin long sleeved shirt).
My pad would probably keep me warmer if it wasn't 12'' taller than me. Even more of it is exposed because I sleep with knees very bent on my side. I'm also just a very tiny person, so it's a tiny body trying to heat a large volume of air. I haven't heard anyone talk about that on youtube.
Anyway, I put a layer of mylar bubble wrap on TOP of the pad and felt MUCH warmer when I laid on the cold pad for 20 minutes the other day. It takes a long time to heat up the air pad, but when you're on a layer of bubble wrap, you don't have to, and you feel warm almost instantly. I have yet to try that for a full night because our temps warmed up, but if it really works, it means I can truly make it a 4 season pad for free using those reflective bubble wrap envelopes from the food boxes. The bonus is that the mylar bubble wrap, while not capable of keeping you warm on snow with one layer, could probably keep you safely alive with 2-3 layers...at least it probably could for me because i weigh 100 pounds and don't pop it. I think as long as you distributed your weight, anyone could carefully lay on it without popping it.
After using the Anivl Horn sleeping bag with the sleve that holds the pad in place I can't imagine why every company doesn't do exactly the same thing with all their bags. I never slide off and I never get tangled up. Matched with those nice sleeping pads it's the best sleep you can get.
That was very romantic Dan Dan. Thanks. The quill . . .very classy.
outstanding production values!kept me glued to my seat.what in your opinion is the bomb proof pillow?
I have a 10 year old Xtherm - bullet proof, used in all kinds of conditions and never had a leak (but I am fearful now that it is 10+ years old). Before that I had a Big Agnes Q-Core that developed SEVERRAL leaks in just a few outings. I have not treated the Xtherm any differently. My Xtherm is 17 oz, mummy style - a little narrow but I have adapted. I am a side sleeper and I have to deflate the pad to where my hip almost touches the ground in order to be fully comfortable. I have used it on snow (& 20 degree temp?) and was fine. I do store it deflated, valve open, folded flat in thirds.
I am looking to buy a new one - but the prices !!!
I would be interested in tips from others on how they configure inflatables for sleep, pack them on hikes and long term storage.
Nalgene hard water bottles make a good tool for size comparison (but that's about it).
Warm pads, paired with a warm top quilt are easily as heavy as an ultralight hammock with whoopie slings and a 900 fill underquilt and the same top quilt (and you won't wake up on a flat, cold pad with a dirty or wet floor underneath).
For occasional hikers, weight is less of an option, and, for couples, a tent can win the weight comparison, but I sleep SO WELL in a hammock vs. on the ground.
Of course, trees are pretty much mandatory for hammock use, and tents give much more living space, for those who enjoy camping more than making miles.
I still have my old '90s foam-filled Thermarest for tent and shelter use (mostly in winter these days).
Btw: hammocks are SOOOOO much cooler in the heat of summer than even an air-only pad. Being air-proof makes pads 100% NON-breathable.
Gotta love them 'Buget' sleeping pads 🤣😜
It’s spelled BUJIT
i`ve just pressed the "buy" button on your recommendation Dan , so here goes with that big Agnes , i`ve been dithering over that Xtherm for ages but at nearly £70 cheaper i can live with a slightly lower R-rating and a tiny bit more weight......... also they MUST be popular now because the wide version was an utter pig to find anywhere!! all sold out
Greetings from Eureka M,T Got the rapide sl 25x78 after your last sleeping pad video. Had he tensor at first but I took it back and grabbed the rapide sl because I like the extra half inch and the raised sides! First sleeping pad! Thank you for your help!
Dan do you have a preferred “blower upper” for the rapid? The blow up sack is terrible!!
@@joshdonathan7311 BA sells a better pumpsack called the Pumphouse Ultra. It works great and worth it IMO.
@@joshdonathan7311 Or a flextail. I'd be looking to pick one up if I was camping with a group
For me, the Big Agnes is easily the best, all things considered. I LOVE mine!
You should review the big Agnes, insulated Q core deluxe
i bought the big agnes rapid sl for me and my partner, we love them. such a good nights sleep......
Theses videos are perfect for trying to figure out which one to get! I personally have the REI Co-op AirRail Plus Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad. Took it to Africa in 70 degree nights and was good. Comfort level 3.5/5. When I took it to Cottonwood lakes and another trip, it was low 40s I was definitely colder than expected on it. R-value of 3.3. I’m leaning towards Big Agnes Rapide for my March 3-5 trip.
I'm gonna need the links to your quill and ink set lol. That's a cool set!
The Neo Air X-therm Max is $550 in Australia
I had cheap an uninsulated air mattress with an additional quality closed cell foam (R 3.5) on top and was cold from below in 10°C, and was looking for a new setup.
Watched some of your recommendations and settled for the Thermarest Xterm max, and damn thats a difference, from thermal insulation to ease of inflating with the valve on the pad.
This was an eye opening experience what quality and higher end stuff really brings to hiking and sleeping outdoors.
Thank you for sharing your insights on these products 👍
Pay once cry once!
Don't get rid of the closed cell foam mat, you can always carry both, they are not that heavy.
Thanks for the video, one of your best quality so far.
Hi Dan! Been enjoying your videos for the last 6 months. Just purchased a new Big Agnes Q Core Deluxe sleeping pad (25X72) at a really great price ($95) and I'm excited to use it on my first hot tent adventure of the 2022/23 winter season here in Ohio. I may have missed it in one of your videos, but I can't seem to locate a review from you on this particular pad? I know you enjoy and highly recommend both the Q Core SLX and Rapide by Big Angus. I almost bought the Rapide, but after comparing specs, reviews and price, I felt to go with the Q Core Deluxe since it is being discontinued. If you have done a review, I'd love to hear your take! Specifically in comparison to these other pads. Keep up the great work. Really enjoying your channel and just subscribed. Not sure what took me so long? LOL. Patrick
Thanks, Patrick! Really appreciate it!
The best I’ve come across so far is my green BA Qcore xls wide/long.
Its a bit heavy, but the comfort it totally worth it, and it seems pretty durable and no leaks so far.
Who is Emmit? Family? I bought the rapide because of another video of your pad reviews. Leave Monday for first trip with it in the sequoias, can’t wait.
I have started taking a double nemo quasar. I dont care if its 3lbs. I have a full size mattress that I have the best sleep on and never hang/fall off the side.
I love the Nemo Tensor and the S2S Ether.. very comfy!!!
The problem with the Big Agnes Rapide SL I found is that if you move onto your side you will slide around quite a bit. The surface appears to be too smooth and if you move around alot you're going to slide around.
I really like the exped pads. Their winter pads are fantastic
Just got back from a 3 day motorcycle trip up in the Yarra Rangers here in Australia, still snow on the ground on Mt Buller.
Sleeted on the Thermarest Xtherm standard mummy. Man super impressed with how warm it was!! I do wish I had have brought the max size or the large. But dude got a great night sleep. Definitely worth the money.
I have a Paria, has decent R value, pretty comfortable, doesn't sound like a bag of potato chips, and didn't cost a ton.
You training the boy up good, he already noticing stuff by himself! 😁
The Klymit Static V Lite Insulated was not good for me. I finally switched to the Paria Recharge and it has made a huge difference!
Im a fat guy and like to sleep on my side and I have thermarest pads and the rapide sl (25x72) and I must say that rapide is by far the most comfortable of the pads I own and have used. I don't think of the weight being any issue, when you weigh as much as I, you don't notice that minor differences. I'd buy 30"x72" if they'd only made one😁
I feel the same, the Rapide is head and shoulders above any pad Ive tried in terms of comfort. I didnt think sleeping pads could compete with my bed til I slept on a Rapide.
Do you happen to know how much weight the 25x72 rapide can take? I've currently got the tent floor version (50x78 tapered) for a 2p tent that's really comfortable but I'm wondering if it's too much size wise.
@@BananaSixx well I have not tested anything heavier than myself, so at least 280 pounds.
I’m surprised the Tensor didn’t make the cut. I thought Dan was a big fan of that pad.
I used the NeoAir UL on the JMT without testing first (I know). Horrible mistake. Not much different than a foam pad and absolutely killed back after a few days. Not worth the weight savings vs my tensor. My wife used the static V Luxe and loved it. The size of a small air bed, and the weight to match but probably worth being well rested.
I'm surprised that there was no mention about the Nemo Tensor. I specifically bought two of them based off of your recommendation in one of your previous videos. Has your opinion changed about the Nemo Tensor or do you have updated information that you can share?
I called Big Agnes for the material specs: The Rapide SL Insulated uses a 40 denier fabric on both sides.
I've slept in the Uberlite close to freezing (and strong winds) without problems and I like to sleep warm.
On the rapide SL as I make this comment. Currently on a 3 week field camp for my degree and man o man have I never had beeter sleep while camping! So go infact that we had a bear go through our campsite, terrorize one of our classmates, had a tazor go off and it wakes everyone up, and I slept through the entire thing! Amazing sleeping pad.
I am wondering if u have tried any of the Zenbivy mattresses yet. Your video testing the light sheet and quilt on the Big Agnes Rapide as well as your video with Mike Glavin have definitely helped to sell me on the Zenbivy system. Comfort is critical for me with warmth to weight ratio being very close second. I’ll be riding around the continental US on my DR650 indefinitely, perhaps diving into Central America, definitely riding as far north as Oregon, camping as frequently as possible (every night, weather and laws permitting). Would any of the Zenbivy mattresses parallel the Big Agnes Rapide?
I bought the NeoTherm Max a few weeks back.... excited to use it - is there such a thing as too insulated/ too warm for sleeping pads during warm months? Do I need a cooler pad for next summer? Thanks for the killer content Dan...
Not a bad idea. I left a comment mentioning that exact topic. You will absolutely love that pad though.
Yup there is! I sleep on my Xtherm Max with my sleeping bag on top and not in as its way to warm. Best bit of kit I've bought TBH. 😉
Do you find it loud? I was thinking of getting that one or the Nemo insulated
That big Agnes is $350 here in Nz!😆
The Xtherm is worth every penny. The Xlite was a fail for a couple of my tramily on the pct. Might look at the Uber lite for summer hiking
Another good budget option is the Paria Recharge XL. Much warmer and more comfortable than the Klymit for around the same price.
I ditched my Nemo Tensor because it leaked after just 3 nights. So I went for the Rapide and man, I love it. More robust and even more comfortable.
Hey Dan, Totally agrees with you on the Rapide. It’s been a game changer for me, simply love it. After watching you talking high praises on the Thermarest pillow I went and bought it online from Germany (I’m living in Denmark, and the pillow isn’t sold here). But then I read on the instructions that if I’ve wanted more loft, I should put it in the washer. Have you tried that? And does it work? I’m a bit sceptic 🤨. Great show btw love it 👍🏻
Hey! I have not tried to put it in the wash. But if the instructions say to do it, then I would say, go for it!
I tried it and oh my, it works !
When I’m backpacking, I wanna be comfortable, and I take a long wide Insulated Q-Core Deluxe pad and it’s the most comfortable pad I’ve ever used
I had some baffles blow out on my Uber Lite. They replaced it under warranty, but I’m not sure I trust it. I’m using a Neo X-Lite now.
REI makes a pad called the flash it is awesome and under 100 bucks. It os light it has like a 5.7 or 5.8 insulation value. And has a guarantee. The good thing about therapist as well as more products they will fix or replace pads if they get damaged
I just bought a new Xlite and it was not noisy! In fact, my wife commented how much quieter it was than my Uber Lite!
I have a Thermarest Neoair and a Sea To Summit, both insulated. I will never, ever consider going out (much less in winter/snow) with an additional eva foam mat for additional protection. Doesn't need to be the uber thick and rigid mats... a Zrest or even a flimsy generic YOGA mat will do wonders. If you happen to puncture one of those mats in subzero temps, you are up to a miserable cold night with no sleep at all. If you are also going to set up camp on rocks (which is a common occurence in alpine terrain) this will provide additional protection to the inflatable one. Great review though.
I have a thermo rest and find it very comfortable however how does a person become a member of the Dan Becker backpacking equipment library of no returns? Asking for a friend😎
@Dan Becker the Klymit non insulated Static V pad is rated at 1.8 R value. The Insulated Static V is rated at 4.4 and less than $100 on Amazon. Shouldn’t you make a correction for those that can’t afford the $200+ pads? I have both versions and if you’re not a cold sleeper, the insulated does fine into the low 40’s. And it weighs about 25 ozs on my kitchen scale.
I read that even thought it says 4.4 r value that it really isn’t .
I've slept on my static V insulated down to 35F, without clothes on and didn't feel cold from the pad. I use a mummy bag deployed as a quilt, so it was literally bare skin on the pad. Since those big ribs are meant to allow a sleeping bag to loft underneath you, maybe that 4.4 R value is closer to true in that instance. But I find that dead, trapped air is also a good insulator. Works for me. I will probably purchase their 27 inch wide Static Luxe SL pad next ($160 on their site)/ Width is the most important dimension for me, and that's the widest I can find that still retains some packability. 30" would be better.
The opening of this video had me rolling 😂
Which model is the orange Patagonia shirt / hoodie you're wearing?
Dan. I have a bad back and traditionally use a hammock while camping. I’m going to the Tetons to hike and camp. What are your recommendations for comfort for bad backs. I’m around 6’2” and 220lbs Thx for any help.
great intro dan & team !!! lovee ittttttt
hard to beat the weight, pack size and r value of the uber light right. especially for bikepacking
Best Pad..? Big Agnes Q Core 30x78! Big Agnes baffles run vertical (head to foot) very comfortable! ThermARest baffles run side to side, not nearly as comfortable. Oh yea.. I’m a moto-camp guy, don’t care about weight as much; That why I also carry a OneTigres lightweight cot with extension legs.
Great video Dan, former Wisconsinite here now been living in Texas. I have the Therm-a-rest Neoware Uberlite and my arms keep falling off the pad at night. I am leaning to upgrading to the Big Agness Repide SL wide version . Thanks for all the info!
Why no Nemo tensor? I bought the pad because you said it was your favorite, but it's not even on this list 🧐
Very surprised the Nemo Tensor didn't make the list.
Just spent a weekend on the Nemo Tensor Ultralight and it was SO crinkly and loud that my neighbors complained about it. Not doing that again.
Love my thermarest and my big agnes BUT the KLYMITE IS SO NOT CONFORTABLE !!!! bought it on your recommendation and worst 2 night outside !!! lol Team hammock anyway ! Thank you ! good video !
Thanks for this review. Debating between the Repide & Zoom UL. Have you tried the Zoom? I love how much lighter it is but wonder about the noise of the Zoom vs. Repide.
I bought the BA AXL Air last year. Hate it. 1- It's noisy as hell. Fabric rubs with the tent bottom and it's just loud as hell. 2- Air fill/empty plug just sucks for emptying. Honestly, very expensive pad, great size and weight, good R-value, HORRIBLE NOISE WHENEVER YOU MOVE. Great videos!