The perfect air pad is the one does not puncture ! And the Exped Flexpad Plus is very comfortable and does not puncture but is very bulky I grew up with ensolite closed cell foam mats, so the Flexpad Plus is luxury 😊
The new REI helix is by far the most comfortable sleeping pad out there right now. First sleeping pad that doesn't just feel like a balloon.. and that's compared to the sea to summit ether lite, Nemo tensor and big Agnes qcore deluxe
I bought a Helix for $85 during the Memorial Day sale. It’s looking pretty good after 10 nights on it. The only thing I notice so far, is I have to keep it fully inflated. I start to feel a cold spot on my hip pretty quickly if I let a little air out. But, it’s comfortable fully inflated. Also, can’t speak about durability yet, but it seems well made.
I’m very happy with my system, as cost was also a factor. I got two inexpensive pads and stack them to boost comfort and rvalue. Got some inexpensive material called insul-bright from a craft store that I put on top of pads (reflects some heat back at me) for dirt cheap. I use some bank line to tie the whole thing together and it works great. It sounds elaborate but the whole thing goes together easy and the weight isnt that much more then insulated pads with similar height off the ground.
Great generalist overview on where pads are today! I say generalist because I believe there are scenarios where this equation will differ a bit. If you are a backpacker that is willing to always seek out campsites with a softer surface (see Jupiter and Glen Van Pesky) and prioritize weight savings and durability, then CCF pads are still viable. Cost is another factor which wasn’t included here. For those who don’t have a $150+ budget but still want a light option, pairing a CCF and inexpensive uninsulated inflatable can achieve the trifecta of warm/comfortable/light. And there’s still a good chunk of backpackers out there (mostly younger) that are preferring CCF without complaint. Lastly, I (and hiking partners) have experienced enough inflatable failures that I can’t recommend using only an inflatable for trips beyond a weekend and warm summer temps. My last 2 week trip included an unpatchable tear around my Nemo tensor’s valve. With no alternative, my folded 1/8” CCF pad and pine duff site selection kept me on the trail.
The nemo 3D quasar is so comfortable. I think you put it on my radar a few years ago, and I was about to kayak the grand. I was planning to bring my SS etherlite but impulse bought the quasar after watching one of your videos and never looked back. I just wish they would replicate the same shape with lighter materials. I still end up reaching for it despite the weight
The quasar is super comfy and the weight tradeoff is worth it for a good night’s sleep. Pair that with the Nemo fillo pillow and it almost feels like home.
I'm fine with the Nemo Tensor Insulated Wide but then I haven't tried a lot of others. I like how fast it is to deflates and how small it packs down. It was pretty expensive, but i guess we'll see if it's worth it in time.
When I am not in my hammock I rock an OG Women's 3/4 Thermorest Prolight. I have no idea how it is still alive and holding air like a champ, it's old enough to vote. Was the first bit of really nice kit I ever saved up for actually and I recall drooling over them in Backpacker Magazine at the library. I also drooled over the Hennessey Hammock and that's actually what I mostly use now! Who says dreams can't come true?
I got a Nemo Tensor. I remember when closed cell foam pads were invented. I used the Ridgerest for about 20 years. I’ve got a couple of Thermarest pads. They are heavy and always get pinholes in them. I got tired of patching them and went back to the Ridgerest. Closed cell pads work great on snow. My NOLS course in Alaska used closed cell foam. Slept on snow every night for a month. When light weight air mattresses were invented, that was a no brainer switch. So much more comfortable.
Thanks for the quick differences in sleeping pads. I use the BA QCore uninsulated version. It is comfortable and I typically only hike/camp in the late spring - early fall. I probably should have gotten the insulated version, but my budget didn't allow it (for now). PS: I use the small pump to inflate it instead of the sack.
If you’re just looking at weight, comfort and warmth it is obviously inflatable and price is also important. But what about the little mentioned factor of durability?
I know I'm probably the minority here, but I sleep fantastic on a CCF pad, even used one at home for awhile as my every day mattress before going straight carpet. Now I'm on just a mattress topper on a plywood bed platform. Let's address some of the assumptions, yes I am younger. No, I am not a back or stomach sleeper, I'm actually a side sleeper and love it! Truly shows how everyone is unique!
Devin - How would you rate the Thermarest Topo Luxe in this conversation? I have the etherlight, but i like the idea of a 30" wide pad for my broad shoulders. Yeah it's on the heavy end, but I'm thinking of comfort & quality sleep as more important. Thoughts?
I actually get the best sleep on a closed cell foam pad even when compared to my Nemo tensor Wide. Something in my sleeping brain knows that I'm sleeping on air and doesn't like it
Wished we could have seen them all in their stuff sacks first and then inflated. Still a great video and informative but finding or seeing same info and still of videos everywhere with no comparisons of the ease size and packed away options. Been researching pads all wk and my mind is scrambled form choices and info overload 😂.
I've always used the thinnest and lightest Thermarest self-inflating pads available (mostly 1 inch). They've worked extremely well year-round, on thruhikes and even on snow even if they are marketed at three season. Buying today though I'd probably go for a Thermarest Uberlite combined with a Gossamer Gear 1/8" closed cell foam pad (or similar) getting the total weight down slightly while increasing comfort and getting the versatility of the closed cell pad for day use on breaks.
🤣🤣🤣way to show the moosejaw ad with the Big Agnes pad with 1 star rating you're trying to sell us on. The race on pad filling, you can walk away and let the pump do all the work instead of holding it.
With the loud ones, I hate to say it you might not sleep at all and as well you will wake up everybody else, while turning around and around in your warm but sleepless night 😆😂😜
There is no perfect pad. -Eitherlite XT for comfort in the summer. -Nemo Tensor is lightweight, comfortable, and warm but not durable. -Thermalrest Neoair Xlite is warm, durable, but less conformable. Good for fall and spring camping
BA Rapide SL - best pad on the market!
One of the best explanations for the different kinds of pads. I'll take comfort over weight. But I'm old so. 😆
The perfect air pad is the one does not puncture !
And the Exped Flexpad Plus is very comfortable and does not puncture but is very bulky
I grew up with ensolite closed cell foam mats, so the Flexpad Plus is luxury 😊
The new REI helix is by far the most comfortable sleeping pad out there right now. First sleeping pad that doesn't just feel like a balloon.. and that's compared to the sea to summit ether lite, Nemo tensor and big Agnes qcore deluxe
I have my doubts, I’m big on BA convert. But, I have also learned that REI has great gear so I’m considering buying it to see for myself.
I need to get my hands on the Helix and give it a go.
I've tried the helix and like it a lot too. It even keeps my legs in place better than I thought.
Got mine for $56 when REI changed the color of the pad!
Both comfortable and warm, and lightweight
The holy trinity!
I bought a Helix for $85 during the Memorial Day sale. It’s looking pretty good after 10 nights on it.
The only thing I notice so far, is I have to keep it fully inflated. I start to feel a cold spot on my hip pretty quickly if I let a little air out. But, it’s comfortable fully inflated.
Also, can’t speak about durability yet, but it seems well made.
BA rapide. Warm, super comfy and about 2lbs. Packs up pretty small too. I got no problem carrying a few extra ounces for maximum comfort!
I’m very happy with my system, as cost was also a factor. I got two inexpensive pads and stack them to boost comfort and rvalue. Got some inexpensive material called insul-bright from a craft store that I put on top of pads (reflects some heat back at me) for dirt cheap. I use some bank line to tie the whole thing together and it works great. It sounds elaborate but the whole thing goes together easy and the weight isnt that much more then insulated pads with similar height off the ground.
Great generalist overview on where pads are today! I say generalist because I believe there are scenarios where this equation will differ a bit.
If you are a backpacker that is willing to always seek out campsites with a softer surface (see Jupiter and Glen Van Pesky) and prioritize weight savings and durability, then CCF pads are still viable.
Cost is another factor which wasn’t included here. For those who don’t have a $150+ budget but still want a light option, pairing a CCF and inexpensive uninsulated inflatable can achieve the trifecta of warm/comfortable/light.
And there’s still a good chunk of backpackers out there (mostly younger) that are preferring CCF without complaint.
Lastly, I (and hiking partners) have experienced enough inflatable failures that I can’t recommend using only an inflatable for trips beyond a weekend and warm summer temps. My last 2 week trip included an unpatchable tear around my Nemo tensor’s valve. With no alternative, my folded 1/8” CCF pad and pine duff site selection kept me on the trail.
Klymit and Exped have been my favorite comfort-wise. Been using Klymit since I first started backpacking.
The nemo 3D quasar is so comfortable. I think you put it on my radar a few years ago, and I was about to kayak the grand. I was planning to bring my SS etherlite but impulse bought the quasar after watching one of your videos and never looked back.
I just wish they would replicate the same shape with lighter materials. I still end up reaching for it despite the weight
My question is , which is the noisier, pump sack or air pump? How long does the battery last on the air pump?
My favorite sleeping pad is the Nemo Quasar Insulated 3D in regular wide.
The quasar is super comfy and the weight tradeoff is worth it for a good night’s sleep. Pair that with the Nemo fillo pillow and it almost feels like home.
I completely agree!
I'm fine with the Nemo Tensor Insulated Wide but then I haven't tried a lot of others. I like how fast it is to deflates and how small it packs down. It was pretty expensive, but i guess we'll see if it's worth it in time.
When I am not in my hammock I rock an OG Women's 3/4 Thermorest Prolight. I have no idea how it is still alive and holding air like a champ, it's old enough to vote. Was the first bit of really nice kit I ever saved up for actually and I recall drooling over them in Backpacker Magazine at the library. I also drooled over the Hennessey Hammock and that's actually what I mostly use now! Who says dreams can't come true?
I got a Nemo Tensor. I remember when closed cell foam pads were invented. I used the Ridgerest for about 20 years. I’ve got a couple of Thermarest pads. They are heavy and always get pinholes in them. I got tired of patching them and went back to the Ridgerest. Closed cell pads work great on snow. My NOLS course in Alaska used closed cell foam. Slept on snow every night for a month. When light weight air mattresses were invented, that was a no brainer switch. So much more comfortable.
NOLS and closed cell foam pads are inseparable, ha ha. :)
Thanks for the quick differences in sleeping pads. I use the BA QCore uninsulated version. It is comfortable and I typically only hike/camp in the late spring - early fall. I probably should have gotten the insulated version, but my budget didn't allow it (for now).
PS: I use the small pump to inflate it instead of the sack.
Great overview! I’m currently using a nemo tensor and am really happy with it. That said I really want to try one of the Zoom pads from Big Agnes.
Maybe wait and see how the new 2024 Tensor is when it comes out?
@@BackcountryExposure right on! Got some inside info? 😉
@@Everydaybackpacker I’ve got a sample/pre production pad of the new Tensor All Season in hand that I’m checking out right now.
@@BackcountryExposure awesome!
If you’re just looking at weight, comfort and warmth it is obviously inflatable and price is also important. But what about the little mentioned factor of durability?
love my self inflatable mat, I wish they still made the 15oz 3/4 length. on a side note a self inflater will still be good with a hole.
I know I'm probably the minority here, but I sleep fantastic on a CCF pad, even used one at home for awhile as my every day mattress before going straight carpet. Now I'm on just a mattress topper on a plywood bed platform. Let's address some of the assumptions, yes I am younger. No, I am not a back or stomach sleeper, I'm actually a side sleeper and love it! Truly shows how everyone is unique!
Devin - How would you rate the Thermarest Topo Luxe in this conversation? I have the etherlight, but i like the idea of a 30" wide pad for my broad shoulders. Yeah it's on the heavy end, but I'm thinking of comfort & quality sleep as more important. Thoughts?
I liked the Top Luxe for the few nights I used one. I think that's a great option.
I'm still really enjoying my Ether Lite XT. But I have the Nemo Flyer, and I enjoy sleeping on it, but I don't like packing or carrying it haha
I got the flyer, thanks to you!
I actually get the best sleep on a closed cell foam pad even when compared to my Nemo tensor Wide. Something in my sleeping brain knows that I'm sleeping on air and doesn't like it
I just want a sleeping pad thats as comfortable as my bed, has an R-value of 30, and weighs 4 oz. Is that too much to ask?
I have been having really good results with the Trekology UL80
Great option!
Wished we could have seen them all in their stuff sacks first and then inflated. Still a great video and informative but finding or seeing same info and still of videos everywhere with no comparisons of the ease size and packed away options. Been researching pads all wk and my mind is scrambled form choices and info overload 😂.
I've always used the thinnest and lightest Thermarest self-inflating pads available (mostly 1 inch). They've worked extremely well year-round, on thruhikes and even on snow even if they are marketed at three season. Buying today though I'd probably go for a Thermarest Uberlite combined with a Gossamer Gear 1/8" closed cell foam pad (or similar) getting the total weight down slightly while increasing comfort and getting the versatility of the closed cell pad for day use on breaks.
🤣🤣🤣way to show the moosejaw ad with the Big Agnes pad with 1 star rating you're trying to sell us on. The race on pad filling, you can walk away and let the pump do all the work instead of holding it.
With the loud ones, I hate to say it you might not sleep at all and as well you will wake up everybody else, while turning around and around in your warm but sleepless night 😆😂😜
What is the bathtub floor you're using in the video?
It's a bathtub floor I made myself. One of a kind.
An FYI: The shiny part of the foam pad is suppose to face up to help keep in your body warmth like a space/survival blanket would.
You use your z fold mat upside down dude😂
Marginal difference I’m sure but it’s an observation
There is no perfect pad.
-Eitherlite XT for comfort in the summer.
-Nemo Tensor is lightweight, comfortable, and warm but not durable.
-Thermalrest Neoair Xlite is warm, durable, but less conformable. Good for fall and spring camping
thermarest über lite