Hey Dan, love Big Agnes, in 2019 my big Agnes air mattress let me down on the trail on night, slept on the ground. When to their web site and they said send it to us and if we can fix it we will charge a nominal fee. I figured what the hell, shipped it back. A few weeks letter I received a package with a new Q core. The letter enclosed stated that they found a defect and they replaced a 9 year old Air mattress with a new one, customer for life.
I've been using this pad for the past few years and it is the most comfortable pad out there. One thing to watch though. If it get's overinflated it can spring leaks where the attach points from top to bottom meet. This can happen if you get up in the morning and leave camp. The pad heats up in the sun which will over inflate the pad. This happened to me on the Deluxe as well as the SLX. However Big Agnes replaced both of them without question. Definitely the best service of any outdoor gear I've had!
I just started using the Big Agnes Q-core SLX 20 inch wide and 66 inches long (I am short) about a month ago. Why did I not do it sooner!? I love this pad.
I've started using the Exped winter UL. It's almost identical to this Big Agnes in build. But this Exped is filled with down and rated to -25F. I love it.
I have mine for a few years now and indeed, what a great product! Always warm but it starts to be a bit cold from -15°c and no it isnt because of the sleeping bag imo.
I'm a side sleeper and just bought a sleeping bag that didn't quite feel right, so I really appreciate this video! I just returned the first bag and bought the sidewinder through your link. Thanks again!
Love the that pad. 25" wide but it feels so much bigger. I still like my quilts though. May have to try that bag though. The wife may beat me if I buy more backpacking gear
Have the same issue here but genders reversed. Trying to find the Goldilocks/ sweet spot for camping and in the process have too much in our garage. 🤦♀️
Canuck here. I cannot get a 15F side sleeping bag from BigAgnes anywhere (for a decent price I mean). I will look into their pad. I like the idea of higher baffles. I had an Amok system 2 weeks ago in Algonquin (Two Rivers campsite) and it was good. I am still looking for a good cold weather sleeping bag. Time will tell. Thank you Dan for the updates, I have most of your stuff on hand and you are doing a good job. Keep it up.
I use a Z Pack triplex, single skin, 800gms, Dynema/cuban fibre fabric tent. My mat is an Exped 78". Gone from sleeping bags to throwover/duvet as there is no wasted crushed/zero insulation down to carry. In winter I have adapted my old Everest "Fairydown" bag to make high fitting trousers so I can wear them around the hut or tent. My old Arthur Ellis duvet jacket is my versatile winter clothing as bag-upper. I sleep with a hat/balaclava and woolen mitts. Pull the top over the nose to warm the nose and inhaled air. Nuts not to.
I too am a side sleeper. And because of that I am not very comfortable in your typical mummy bag. I will definitely look into purchasing this sleeping bag. Thank you.
I have had a version of the insulated Q-core with the side “bolsters” since about 2015, until a failure in 2019. I don’t get out enough just camping with our Troop occasionally (stopped in 2019), so it had about 40 nights with me side sleeping on it. I’m a heavy guy @ 6’ and 275, and at least once a year the pad was used at 0° F. I was VERY pleased with the performance up to the point that the internal constraint (baffle, stitching, ??) failed an the side bolster is like a big bubble near my shoulder. I have been in touch with the folks at BA, and will send it back for their analysis.
LOL, i love the opening, and in response, i'll say, depends on where and when your camping, and how long you are staying for. Caribou hunting, often a base camp is set up, and then hunters will fan out from the base camp to hunt. The base camp might be there for 2-3 weeks straight, with gear brought in by snowmobile. in they will set up big sidewall tents, 12x24 territory, have bunks, set up, some go with big air mattresses, on raised bunk frames, with sheets, blankets, comforters, a big wood stove, tables, chairs, kitchen space, and some even bother setting up showers, baths, and even laundry facilities. Seriously, its like RV'ing, without the RV. LOL.
I know you’re a Nemo fan and like others in your comments, I’d like to see a comparison to the Quasar 3D. I agree with all of them and have to say it is by far the most comfortable pad I’ve ever slept on.
I just did a 4 day thru hike in the boonies of PA, with this same tent. It’s a really nice tent. The barrier cover can be setup in so many configuration.
I've had a Big Agnes sleep system for a few years now. Always sleep better on it than my bed at home. Your excitement is not unwarranted. I recommend Big Agnes to everyone looking for new gear.
My wife and I just got two of these pads. After testing out various pads at REI, this pad was very obviously the best. We’ll be using them for the first time this weekend. I’m hopeful to finally get a good night’s rest on this trip.
After using this pad on our last trip, I can honestly say I had the best sleep ever on a backpacking trip. I slept directly on the pad and opened up my sleeping bag to use it like a quilt. The pad is well insulated and kept me warm (maybe a little too warm) all night.
Definitely try the Q-Core Deluxe! I have over 150 nights on my Q-core SLX and its an amazing pad. But, I stitched over to the Deluxe and its been hands down the best pad I have ever owned. Have about 100 nights on the Deluxe so far. I would also recommend the 25 inch for width
Dan, we just anted to drop a quick note to tell you ow much we are enjoying your channel. From the gear reviews to you personality and humor it has been such a treat. Thank you for everything you do and we hope you continue doing it. Wondering if you have made a video about how to find overnight backpacking spots or hikes? We are new to the channel and there is so much content!
I bought the same sleeping bag this summer. The down feathers in the sleeping bag came out through the bag material. I too am a side sleeper but I also sleep on my back. This bag is not comfortable in my opinion. Wish I had bought a different t bag. Now the pad you bought looks great
That pad sounds great, I probably need to try this. My first designed-to-backpack sleeping bag in the 1960s was designed similar to the Sidewinder, just without that great pocket for a pillow. After using a Gatewood Cape for the last couple of years, matching that headroom is now a must in any other shelter. I may need to check out that tent for two-person summer use.
I have a hammock gear 0 degree quilt. I love my quit, but not in temps below 20 when just sleeping in tshirt. Not a fan of wearing my puffy to sleep. Got the sidewinder. Its heaverier, but awesome in colder temps. I use as a quilt mostly. When it gets really cold, i can zip myself into!! Super comfy. Con:Does leak down, a little.
The design is very similar to the REI Quarter Dome 1. I rented one for a 2 day backpacking trip in Colorado. Great design color coding everything is genius.
Yep! We have that pad! 😊Bought when we started camping 4 years ago, wanted the best comfortable pad... glad to start out with it instead of spending money switching. 😂Like did with sleeping bags! Lol.
A hammock with a top quilt and underquilt does all of the above, and you don't have to crawl to get into it. It works so well that I sleep in one in my house. I still have pads and tents for times that hammocks aren't an option, but I never look forward to sleeping in them like my hammocks.
I seem ti be one of tye rare campers out there that like the Big Anes AXzl insulated series. And uses the Q-Core SLX for car camping. Both are great, easy to inflate and deflate. Neiairs seem more durable. Tensors all have a funny rubbery smell imho. So welcome to the comfort family!
Side-rails are now mandatory. Have BA AXL, known for popping leaks because of internal dog-bone loops, but simply can't sleep on a pad without rails after BA's comfort. So, will keep patching until Uberlight puts rails on a wide (hopefully short) pad? Non-insulated. If one wants to add 4oz to their system, get a wider quilt. Most cold enters pad from the sides, not the bottom. If quilt drapes over pad sides, it'll stay warm.
Its a super comfortable pad, and this is comparing it to the exped megamat 10. Being a side sleeper, the megamat wasn't thick enough for me. Saw the slx on sale and got it. No more worrying about my hips touching the ground, and I have a pad for when I do start to backpack.
I just got the Ether Light XT Extreme - Sleeping pad - Men's - Size : Regular. It's the same as the insulated but with even more thermal insulation (6.2R). It's super comfy and very well made/designed.
Can you do a review on the Nemo Riff "spoon" sleeping bag? I like your reviews and you and I are roughly the same size so I take your recomendations seriously. Thanks!
I spend a small fortune on the most ultralight gear EXCEPT my air mattress. I'm a side sleeper and my hip digs into the ground with the 2" ultralights so I toss and turn all night. A 3.5" air mattress is heaven and worth an extra pound. I also prefer a quilt over a bag. If it's really cold I use bungee cords with alligator clips to secure the quilt.
I know that you mentioned in the video you sleep on your stomach a bit, and that is where I sleep the most. Is the Sidewinder good for stomach sleepers?
Side sleeper here and this looks AMAZING. But...like pretty much all backpacking gear they don't make it in smaller sizes for petite people like me. I'd love to save some pack weight and have a smaller bag that fits me, that's not a cheap off brand. Big brands, get it together, smaller ladies go backpacking too!!!!
Here in Scandinavia it would NEVER use a tent where I can't pitch outer and inner at the same time! Just ordered the Exterlight xt extreme... I hope it's good!
Been looking at the twin brother of this tent for a bit now. The sea to summit Telos 2 which is freestanding! Telos 2 is essentially a giant copper spur 2 man with cooler features lol) The Alto 2 and 1 men and def lighter though. Telos is better in higher winds and prob overall space. Which neither is lacking lol. I guess im still scared of semi freestanding tents lol..No they are both sweet! The Telos 2 is def heavier but your supposed to share the weight! Lol The cost when these first came out kinda worried me too. I'm sure you get what you pay for though. They even have 4 season versions of these tents!! Nice sleep system too dan!! Sleeping bag is up my alley! Stay safe! Hike on!
I had an AXL and it was the best sleep i ever had. It developed leaks. It has kept me away from BA but I am ready to purchase one. Please update the durability when you can
You are also one of the best! Lot of love and respect to you and your great work from a solo mountain hiker from the Lower Chitral District of Pakistan.
I know it's a bit heavier but I like the nemo quasar sleeping pad. I'm normally a hammock camper and I haven't had a bad night yet on that sleeping pad. The slx is on my radar for lighter pads.
I had actually asked for a modification of the pads to have a larger lip around the edges. In this way, the insulation will be awesome when using a quilt. Nice move.
We really won’t know how good the tent is until it downpours in the middle of the night!! Please review the tent again after your first downpour!! Bag and pad look excellent!!! Thankyou!!
Had mine in a huge thunder storm this summer where it rained enough to wash out 20cm gravel from the road nearby. Combined with high winds. Tent was in an exposed spot on an island. No leaks, only needed to close the vents and that was in the worst of the storm and can be done from inside.
I've used BA tents, the Blackburn bag and Q core for a few years. They make very good stuff. The pad is very warm but is crinkly when I move and has leaked down a couple of times through the valve due to it not "seating" just right when snapped closed. I am intrigued by the Sidewinder bag but recently switched to a Zenbivy quilt setup and don't see myself going back to a bag anytime soon.
I got 2 of those lol loved them so much. Also got a deluxe for winter. Tested out in the summer n that pad felt like I had an oven underneath lol I'm sure late fall n winter it will work great.
interested in that pad but wonder how big it is packed up compared to my thermarest. My thermarest is amazing warmth rating, weight and size but I don't sleep well on it. Just looking at it, seems like it might be way larger unless it somehow rolls up amazingly well.
I have the same pad and did a review also. It is without a doubt the best and mort comfortable air pad out there. My only criticism of it is that it is not insulated enough. Don’t go too cold with it.
I use the Exped Downmat xp 9 wide. In part because I have wide shoulders and cant stand when I lay on my back and my arms lay on the floor of the tent. In any case its a winter rated mat and wieghts 2 1/2 lbs. Ill take the extra pound and a half over the tensor wide I have that isnt wide eough to keep may arms on while sleeping. Best mat I have ever used and is absolutley comfortable to sleep on.
We had 2 of the SLX pads and had huge leaking issues almost immediately. Mine specifically and ~20 unpatachable pin holes in the same spot on multiple welds. Good luck.
Dan, Have you put this pad in your tigerwall 2 tent? I thought this pad was crazy loud until I cowboy camped on a tarp. Now I put a sheet of tyvek in my tent to quiet the pad. Wondering if anyone else has come across this. Also, if you could test out a different barrier like polycryo?
The bag sounds like a solution looking for a problem. I have never noticed any issue with sleeping on my side (which is the only way I sleep) in my regular mummy bag.
I had an older Q-Core from Big Agnes and, even though Big Agnes is a great brand and they seem to care about the performance of their products, the mat was just too slick and non-supportive. It was a lightweight mat though. I've been using Exped mats since and have been really happy with them. Competition is fierce these days, though, so there are at least a few good options.
We bought the BA Insulated Q-Core Deluxe this summer. It’s a game changer. With our BA Dream Island sleeping bag, we sleep like babys. Not for backpack but the nights are fabulous. I guess you were able to inflate yours with your USB pump?
Funny, years later your semi free is the Nemo Hornet, still Big Agnes but the Rapide UL, and Zenbivy ultralight quilt and sheet. Love looking back to old vids to make sure what I am comparing and buying. PS: just throw pillow in hood. That pillow webbing is tight and stinks as you toss and turn.
Hey Dan, your channel is awesome! Can you recommend guided backing tours, and especially ones that are for those who are newer to backpacking? I've been searching online and there are definitively a few guided tour companies out there but as a newbie, trust means a lot and we subscribers of your channel trust your advice and recommendation, so any guidance is totally appreciated....and bonus, if they're in the midwest area? Thank you!
Just got the "Ether Light XT Extreme - Sleeping pad - Men's - Size : Regular" - and that is super comfy and insulated (6.2R) for a side sleeper. It is designed to spread the load and is very thick. That could give your new one a run for its money. Not sure if you tried really comfy pads before from your previous reviews? Glad you tried a comfy one!
I’ve put a lot of effort and money into cutting down weight in my pack, tent, and sleeping bag just so I can carry a tiny bit of extra weight to have a big Agnes pad. A bit extra work to blow up but WOW is that 3”+ amazing to sleep on
I just ordered that pad actually, but the 35° version of sidewinder bag in hopes a liner would get the warmth rating up in case it gets too cold. What liner would you recommend? Or should I have gone with a 20° bag?
Hey Dan, love Big Agnes, in 2019 my big Agnes air mattress let me down on the trail on night, slept on the ground. When to their web site and they said send it to us and if we can fix it we will charge a nominal fee. I figured what the hell, shipped it back. A few weeks letter I received a package with a new Q core. The letter enclosed stated that they found a defect and they replaced a 9 year old Air mattress with a new one, customer for life.
Just had a similar experience with a 10 year old Big Agnes mattress. They replaced it without issue when one of the seems blew out.
I've been using this pad for the past few years and it is the most comfortable pad out there. One thing to watch though. If it get's overinflated it can spring leaks where the attach points from top to bottom meet. This can happen if you get up in the morning and leave camp. The pad heats up in the sun which will over inflate the pad. This happened to me on the Deluxe as well as the SLX. However Big Agnes replaced both of them without question. Definitely the best service of any outdoor gear I've had!
Check out BA Rapide. It's new
I just ordered the deluxe online then realized it is 9 ounces heavier than the slx. I'm considering returning it
I just started using the Big Agnes Q-core SLX 20 inch wide and 66 inches long (I am short) about a month ago. Why did I not do it sooner!? I love this pad.
Wow, these guys actually put a lot of thought into the tent, and the bag is mighty clever as well. Thanks Dan! Dave J
Been using the Q-core SLX mat, wide and long, for a year and it’s THE best mat I’ve ever slept on. Good choice
same...2 yrs.
100% agree
I've started using the Exped winter UL. It's almost identical to this Big Agnes in build. But this Exped is filled with down and rated to -25F. I love it.
I have mine for a few years now and indeed, what a great product! Always warm but it starts to be a bit cold from -15°c and no it isnt because of the sleeping bag imo.
Exped is definitely lighter but also pricier. A lot!
I like the exped also particularly their megamat. Super thick pad. Insulated. Respectable weight for what it is and how great it performs
I'm a side sleeper and just bought a sleeping bag that didn't quite feel right, so I really appreciate this video! I just returned the first bag and bought the sidewinder through your link. Thanks again!
That has been my winter go to for a couples of years, love it. It is also quieter than most pads. I need to find a summer pad that is quiet.
Love the that pad. 25" wide but it feels so much bigger. I still like my quilts though. May have to try that bag though. The wife may beat me if I buy more backpacking gear
Well, if your wife send you to the dog house, don't forget to bring this sleeping pad with you.
What quilt are you using?
@@prodantech hammockgear 20 degree wide with 2oz of over stuff. I have both an econ and a premium version.
Have the same issue here but genders reversed. Trying to find the Goldilocks/ sweet spot for camping and in the process have too much in our garage. 🤦♀️
Canuck here. I cannot get a 15F side sleeping bag from BigAgnes anywhere (for a decent price I mean). I will look into their pad. I like the idea of higher baffles. I had an Amok system 2 weeks ago in Algonquin (Two Rivers campsite) and it was good. I am still looking for a good cold weather sleeping bag. Time will tell. Thank you Dan for the updates, I have most of your stuff on hand and you are doing a good job. Keep it up.
I use a Z Pack triplex, single skin, 800gms, Dynema/cuban fibre fabric tent. My mat is an Exped 78". Gone from sleeping bags to throwover/duvet as there is no wasted crushed/zero insulation down to carry. In winter I have adapted my old Everest "Fairydown" bag to make high fitting trousers so I can wear them around the hut or tent. My old Arthur Ellis duvet jacket is my versatile winter clothing as bag-upper. I sleep with a hat/balaclava and woolen mitts. Pull the top over the nose to warm the nose and inhaled air. Nuts not to.
I too am a side sleeper. And because of that I am not very comfortable in your typical mummy bag. I will definitely look into purchasing this sleeping bag. Thank you.
So glad you featured this Sea to Summit tent, I was just looking at it earlier this week!!
I have had a version of the insulated Q-core with the side “bolsters” since about 2015, until a failure in 2019. I don’t get out enough just camping with our Troop occasionally (stopped in 2019), so it had about 40 nights with me side sleeping on it. I’m a heavy guy @ 6’ and 275, and at least once a year the pad was used at 0° F. I was VERY pleased with the performance up to the point that the internal constraint (baffle, stitching, ??) failed an the side bolster is like a big bubble near my shoulder. I have been in touch with the folks at BA, and will send it back for their analysis.
What did they find?
The sleeping bag with feet ventilation seems really cool!
I just took that exact pad on the JMT. Not the lightest pad for a long hike, but 100% worth it!
How heavy is it? Thanks.
Been rocking the Q-Core since last year…. The minimal extra ounces are worth it 👍🏼
Same. Got the long and wide and worth every single extra grams
Got the same one but yet to try. Please tell me it’s worth it! 😂
LOL, i love the opening, and in response, i'll say, depends on where and when your camping, and how long you are staying for. Caribou hunting, often a base camp is set up, and then hunters will fan out from the base camp to hunt. The base camp might be there for 2-3 weeks straight, with gear brought in by snowmobile.
in they will set up big sidewall tents, 12x24 territory, have bunks, set up, some go with big air mattresses, on raised bunk frames, with sheets, blankets, comforters, a big wood stove, tables, chairs, kitchen space, and some even bother setting up showers, baths, and even laundry facilities. Seriously, its like RV'ing, without the RV. LOL.
I know you’re a Nemo fan and like others in your comments, I’d like to see a comparison to the Quasar 3D. I agree with all of them and have to say it is by far the most comfortable pad I’ve ever slept on.
I got both the pad and bag for my last trip thanks to this! I can only agree more with you! They were great for a cold Missouri evening!
I just did a 4 day thru hike in the boonies of PA, with this same tent. It’s a really nice tent. The barrier cover can be setup in so many configuration.
I've used the Q-Core SLX 25" for years and it's the most comfortable sleeping pad I've ever used. It's literally more comfortable than my bed.
I've had a Big Agnes sleep system for a few years now. Always sleep better on it than my bed at home. Your excitement is not unwarranted. I recommend Big Agnes to everyone looking for new gear.
My wife and I just got two of these pads. After testing out various pads at REI, this pad was very obviously the best. We’ll be using them for the first time this weekend. I’m hopeful to finally get a good night’s rest on this trip.
After using this pad on our last trip, I can honestly say I had the best sleep ever on a backpacking trip. I slept directly on the pad and opened up my sleeping bag to use it like a quilt. The pad is well insulated and kept me warm (maybe a little too warm) all night.
Definitely try the Q-Core Deluxe! I have over 150 nights on my Q-core SLX and its an amazing pad. But, I stitched over to the Deluxe and its been hands down the best pad I have ever owned. Have about 100 nights on the Deluxe so far. I would also recommend the 25 inch for width
I’ve got the sidewinder and I love it. Just used it on a 3 day trip. Each night with low 30 and I stayed warm all night. It is a great bag.
Dan, we just anted to drop a quick note to tell you ow much we are enjoying your channel. From the gear reviews to you personality and humor it has been such a treat. Thank you for everything you do and we hope you continue doing it.
Wondering if you have made a video about how to find overnight backpacking spots or hikes? We are new to the channel and there is so much content!
Love that sleeping pad!! And the sleeping bag featured makes me want to try a new bag!!! Here just take my money!!!
😂😂
You're a great communicator! God bless bro!
I bought the same sleeping bag this summer. The down feathers in the sleeping bag came out through the bag material. I too am a side sleeper but I also sleep on my back. This bag is not comfortable in my opinion. Wish I had bought a different t bag. Now the pad you bought looks great
This is the most excited I've seen you in a video in some time. All that comfy sleeping is paying off. :)
That pad sounds great, I probably need to try this. My first designed-to-backpack sleeping bag in the 1960s was designed similar to the Sidewinder, just without that great pocket for a pillow.
After using a Gatewood Cape for the last couple of years, matching that headroom is now a must in any other shelter. I may need to check out that tent for two-person summer use.
I have a hammock gear 0 degree quilt. I love my quit, but not in temps below 20 when just sleeping in tshirt. Not a fan of wearing my puffy to sleep. Got the sidewinder. Its heaverier, but awesome in colder temps. I use as a quilt mostly. When it gets really cold, i can zip myself into!! Super comfy. Con:Does leak down, a little.
The design is very similar to the REI Quarter Dome 1. I rented one for a 2 day backpacking trip in Colorado. Great design color coding everything is genius.
Yep! We have that pad! 😊Bought when we started camping 4 years ago, wanted the best comfortable pad... glad to start out with it instead of spending money switching. 😂Like did with sleeping bags! Lol.
Love my Q-core. It’s fantastic. Sometimes I wish I bought the wide, but, the extra thick sides make a 20” work out. 6’ 200lbs for reference.
I have a Alto TR1 in my cart waiting to pull the trigger. Glad to hear you liked the TR2
A hammock with a top quilt and underquilt does all of the above, and you don't have to crawl to get into it.
It works so well that I sleep in one in my house.
I still have pads and tents for times that hammocks aren't an option, but I never look forward to sleeping in them like my hammocks.
I seem ti be one of tye rare campers out there that like the Big Anes AXzl insulated series. And uses the Q-Core SLX for car camping. Both are great, easy to inflate and deflate. Neiairs seem more durable. Tensors all have a funny rubbery smell imho. So welcome to the comfort family!
I've been sleeping on a QCore SL for years. The only difference is the valve, I think. I agree, it is way comfy. Welcome to comfy sleeping.
Your thumbnail expressions are the best.
Side-rails are now mandatory. Have BA AXL, known for popping leaks because of internal dog-bone loops, but simply can't sleep on a pad without rails after BA's comfort. So, will keep patching until Uberlight puts rails on a wide (hopefully short) pad? Non-insulated. If one wants to add 4oz to their system, get a wider quilt. Most cold enters pad from the sides, not the bottom. If quilt drapes over pad sides, it'll stay warm.
I got the pad which is awesome and I just got the exact same sleeping bag. Can't wait to try it out!
Been using that sleeping pad with the BA anvil horn 15 for two seasons. Best sleep I ever had in the woods.
Its a super comfortable pad, and this is comparing it to the exped megamat 10. Being a side sleeper, the megamat wasn't thick enough for me. Saw the slx on sale and got it. No more worrying about my hips touching the ground, and I have a pad for when I do start to backpack.
Have you ever tried the Nemo Forte? Supposed to be for side sleepers. Just bought one and will try it out on a AT section in 2 weeks.
I am trying out that pad this weekend. I'm psyched.
Always enjoy the videos you produce, Dan. Thanks.
Awesome video, Dan, thank you! Used the Big Agnes Q Core in the Tetons in '12, and other Big Agnes pads in Yosemite in '10. The best!
100% upgrading to that pad … thanks Dan!
Still rocking the Nemo tensor wide/ long (at your recommendation like 2 years ago) and a western mountaineering 👌
Does anyone know if you can sleep on your back in the sidewinder? I prefer sleeping on my side but occasionally sleep on my back during the night.
Can you do the Q-core against the Sea To Summit Ether Light XT insulated?
I just got the Ether Light XT Extreme - Sleeping pad - Men's - Size : Regular. It's the same as the insulated but with even more thermal insulation (6.2R). It's super comfy and very well made/designed.
This pad is awesome! Been using it for yrs
Mostly kayak camp so I went with the Tent Floor. Fits perfectly in my two person tent and covers the entire floor. It’s glorious!
I have that same pad! I use it with the Big Agnes Anvil Horn 15° bag and it’s magical sleep.
Can you do a review on the Nemo Riff "spoon" sleeping bag? I like your reviews and you and I are roughly the same size so I take your recomendations seriously. Thanks!
That is the 1st bag that makes sense for me except the lack of fill. Loved the pad to. Hat is the R-value?
3.2 I believe. Good for three seasons
I spend a small fortune on the most ultralight gear EXCEPT my air mattress. I'm a side sleeper and my hip digs into the ground with the 2" ultralights so I toss and turn all night. A 3.5" air mattress is heaven and worth an extra pound. I also prefer a quilt over a bag. If it's really cold I use bungee cords with alligator clips to secure the quilt.
I know that you mentioned in the video you sleep on your stomach a bit, and that is where I sleep the most. Is the Sidewinder good for stomach sleepers?
How comfortable is the sleeping bag for sleeping on your back. I’m probably 60-70% side sleeper, and the rest on my back.
Side sleeper here and this looks AMAZING. But...like pretty much all backpacking gear they don't make it in smaller sizes for petite people like me. I'd love to save some pack weight and have a smaller bag that fits me, that's not a cheap off brand. Big brands, get it together, smaller ladies go backpacking too!!!!
Here in Scandinavia it would NEVER use a tent where I can't pitch outer and inner at the same time! Just ordered the Exterlight xt extreme... I hope it's good!
Been looking at the twin brother of this tent for a bit now. The sea to summit Telos 2 which is freestanding! Telos 2 is essentially a giant copper spur 2 man with cooler features lol) The Alto 2 and 1 men and def lighter though. Telos is better in higher winds and prob overall space. Which neither is lacking lol. I guess im still scared of semi freestanding tents lol..No they are both sweet! The Telos 2 is def heavier but your supposed to share the weight! Lol The cost when these first came out kinda worried me too. I'm sure you get what you pay for though. They even have 4 season versions of these tents!! Nice sleep system too dan!! Sleeping bag is up my alley! Stay safe! Hike on!
I had an AXL and it was the best sleep i ever had. It developed leaks. It has kept me away from BA but I am ready to purchase one. Please update the durability when you can
You are also one of the best! Lot of love and respect to you and your great work from a solo mountain hiker from the Lower Chitral District of Pakistan.
Thank you! Amazing you’re watching from Pakistan!!
I literally upgraded from a nemo tensor to this pad today for a trip this weekend, can’t wait to try it out.
😮👍 I think you’re gonna love it! Although the Nemo tensor is an amazing pad as well!
@@DanBecker I switched from the Q-core to a Tensor. Far happier with the Tensor.
I've been using a Big Agnes Air Core Ultra insulated pad for the past couple of year. Super comfortable.
Just received my Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra.......awesome bag...in my living room. ;) Can't wait to get out with it. :)
I know it's a bit heavier but I like the nemo quasar sleeping pad. I'm normally a hammock camper and I haven't had a bad night yet on that sleeping pad. The slx is on my radar for lighter pads.
I had actually asked for a modification of the pads to have a larger lip around the edges. In this way, the insulation will be awesome when using a quilt. Nice move.
Peninsula State Park for the win. Been a part of our family's memories for over 50 years!
We really won’t know how good the tent is until it downpours in the middle of the night!! Please review the tent again after your first downpour!! Bag and pad look excellent!!! Thankyou!!
Had mine in a huge thunder storm this summer where it rained enough to wash out 20cm gravel from the road nearby. Combined with high winds. Tent was in an exposed spot on an island. No leaks, only needed to close the vents and that was in the worst of the storm and can be done from inside.
Awesome bag, my sons agree totally.
I used to use ultra light. I bought it and love it.
I've used BA tents, the Blackburn bag and Q core for a few years. They make very good stuff. The pad is very warm but is crinkly when I move and has leaked down a couple of times through the valve due to it not "seating" just right when snapped closed. I am intrigued by the Sidewinder bag but recently switched to a Zenbivy quilt setup and don't see myself going back to a bag anytime soon.
I got 2 of those lol loved them so much. Also got a deluxe for winter. Tested out in the summer n that pad felt like I had an oven underneath lol I'm sure late fall n winter it will work great.
Would the sleeping pad be good for back sleepers too? Great video !!
interested in that pad but wonder how big it is packed up compared to my thermarest. My thermarest is amazing warmth rating, weight and size but I don't sleep well on it. Just looking at it, seems like it might be way larger unless it somehow rolls up amazingly well.
I have the same pad and did a review also. It is without a doubt the best and mort comfortable air pad out there. My only criticism of it is that it is not insulated enough. Don’t go too cold with it.
Good to know. Thanks.
I use the Exped Downmat xp 9 wide. In part because I have wide shoulders and cant stand when I lay on my back and my arms lay on the floor of the tent. In any case its a winter rated mat and wieghts 2 1/2 lbs. Ill take the extra pound and a half over the tensor wide I have that isnt wide eough to keep may arms on while sleeping. Best mat I have ever used and is absolutley comfortable to sleep on.
I love my q-core slx. It’s soooo loud but very comfy
I have this pad and it is ridiculously comfortable.
We had 2 of the SLX pads and had huge leaking issues almost immediately. Mine specifically and ~20 unpatachable pin holes in the same spot on multiple welds. Good luck.
I use a core pad as well👍being a big guy, like the thickness of it
Dan, Have you put this pad in your tigerwall 2 tent? I thought this pad was crazy loud until I cowboy camped on a tarp. Now I put a sheet of tyvek in my tent to quiet the pad. Wondering if anyone else has come across this. Also, if you could test out a different barrier like polycryo?
Does your FlexTail gear tiny pump work with that valve?
Yah, I use it on mine with the grey rubber attachment. You have to hold it there, but it works just fine especially since it’s a one way valve
Definitely gonna be getting that pad!
The bag sounds like a solution looking for a problem. I have never noticed any issue with sleeping on my side (which is the only way I sleep) in my regular mummy bag.
I had an older Q-Core from Big Agnes and, even though Big Agnes is a great brand and they seem to care about the performance of their products, the mat was just too slick and non-supportive. It was a lightweight mat though. I've been using Exped mats since and have been really happy with them. Competition is fierce these days, though, so there are at least a few good options.
Cool. Sadly I start sleeping on my side but always shift to my back in the night.
We bought the BA Insulated Q-Core Deluxe this summer. It’s a game changer. With our BA Dream Island sleeping bag, we sleep like babys. Not for backpack but the nights are fabulous. I guess you were able to inflate yours with your USB pump?
Funny, years later your semi free is the Nemo Hornet, still Big Agnes but the Rapide UL, and Zenbivy ultralight quilt and sheet. Love looking back to old vids to make sure what I am comparing and buying.
PS: just throw pillow in hood. That pillow webbing is tight and stinks as you toss and turn.
Hey Dan, your channel is awesome! Can you recommend guided backing tours, and especially ones that are for those who are newer to backpacking? I've been searching online and there are definitively a few guided tour companies out there but as a newbie, trust means a lot and we subscribers of your channel trust your advice and recommendation, so any guidance is totally appreciated....and bonus, if they're in the midwest area? Thank you!
Just got the "Ether Light XT Extreme - Sleeping pad - Men's - Size : Regular" - and that is super comfy and insulated (6.2R) for a side sleeper. It is designed to spread the load and is very thick. That could give your new one a run for its money. Not sure if you tried really comfy pads before from your previous reviews? Glad you tried a comfy one!
I’ve put a lot of effort and money into cutting down weight in my pack, tent, and sleeping bag just so I can carry a tiny bit of extra weight to have a big Agnes pad. A bit extra work to blow up but WOW is that 3”+ amazing to sleep on
I just ordered that pad actually, but the 35° version of sidewinder bag in hopes a liner would get the warmth rating up in case it gets too cold. What liner would you recommend? Or should I have gone with a 20° bag?
Been using my BA qcore deluxe (30”x78” i think) for a year here in northern utah!! I absolutely love it
I use therm a rest questar and sea to summit ether lite in a big agnes copper spur 2 with sea to summit down pillow large
Well, while I'd love to get these to try, that $1,000 price tag for all three will keep me hammock camping for quite a while. :`(