Well, I, like many are on a journey... as mentioned in the video I have recently found the thetmarest, wish I'd bought it sooner.... hopefully I won't be needing to replace anytime soon. I'm not sure what else from my gear I would offer as the only bit if kit I use. To be honest I like the variety of my gear, swapping and changing bits out for each adventure is half the fun ro me.
There is at least one positive in using two mats, the l ower one can offer some protection from sharp stones etc especially with the very thin groundsheets in modern tents. Some folk just carry one of those very thin silver thermal sheets, which also keeps the cold away.
I'll be honest trev.... After countless trips my ul80 has never ever failed me mate. Yes I have to use a matt underneath to trap the heat but that weighs nothing so its never been an issue for me👍👍
Yep, UL80 never let me down. Really best for summer I think but had it out in March and Nov no real issues. Got a multi mat expedition as well for winter. Insulated mat as well. If I was camping every week then maybe I'd spend £150-200....then maybe I wouldn't.
I found out many many years ago on my first white water kayaking camping trip that when it comes to outdoor equipment, just buy the best you can afford. If you get wet and cold miles from help it may just save your life or maybe somebody else's that you come across. There is no substitute for quality and it costs money. Obviously weight plays a part as well. Once you reach a certain level of quality then you just pay extra for more weight savings, then it becomes a personal choice to decide if saving 200g is worth the extra £150. Example: I have a Vango Omega 400 sleeping bag, had it for over 25 years, still use it, have slept in -7 very happily, but its 3.5Kg and pack size is huge so only good for car camping, my new western mountaineering down Alpinlite is rated to -7 comfort but weighs in at 880g and it is wider at the shoulders as I have grown a bit in my old age. :-). You pays yer money and takes your choice. !!!
To everyone using a secondary reflective mat (usually the Highlander thing off Amazon): put it on top of your other sleeping pad (tested on my old UL80). It's warmer. I promise.
You are right. Its what I do Andy with my cheapo Chinese pad. Same as you on top never underneath my pads ( the Highlander is not noisy) Went out last weekend using a 10 year old Snugpak Autumn Chysalis bag in my Vaude tent warm as toast.
100% agree everyone gets this wrong and put the reflective mat under the pad. I put a survival foil blanket down first then my pad then my reflective mat which has elasticated straps to attach it. I think most trekkers are more concerned with not carrying too much bulk as opposed to weight as the more room you have in your pack, the more beer you can fit in
@@tonyubr if you really want cosy foil emgency blanket>unroll army bivvy>insert multimat>layer with cheap insulating foil picnic blanket, then a heated usb powered heated jacket on top>throw yourself in bivvy with down sleeping bag>enjoy melting
Good recommendations here. I did similar, started out with a cheap, heavy summer only air mat, served me ok ish until it didn’t. Went down the self inflating route, loved it until I didn’t. Now on to the exped synmat. Which is worth every penny for me. Pack size, warmth, weight… all boxes ticked.
Hi Paul, I agree with you. I've done many long distance wild camp UK hikes, so I feel qualified to say the Exped Synmat HL is the mat to go for. I've never felt the need to find anything "better". ATB. Neil
The Nemo Tensor comes in a few sizes and shapes so several options to suit individual needs. It’s very popular here in North America as a lightweight option. I believe its R-value per the new standards is 3.5. I don’t own one personally but am considering it as a lighter option than my MEC Vectair (which I love and is warm and comfy)
I’ve been using a thermarest xtherm for a few years. It’s warm and light weight. Wish I could say I bought once and cried once but like so many I’ve tried loads of different equipment. It’s all a learning curve plus justifying how much your budget can take. Great discussion
I have the klymit insulated static v and to be honest, I hate it. Yes, it doesn't let any cold air through but it has a funny nozzle so can't use one of those flexigear mini pumps. It's also very narrow and I fall off it all night. It's only 180cm long and I'm 191, so that's an issue. Basically, I don't like it 🙂 but I do think it's worth getting a good mat, I don't understand when people take a lower R value one and then ANOTHER foam or silver foil roll to put under it. May as well just take one mat. Anyway....nice video. Thanks!
Absolutely invaluable video Trev. I was about to take the plunge on a mat and this has been a perfect guide. I am 6 foot and didn’t know what size to get. Now I know, as big as possible and as warm as possible. Thanks mate, brilliant.
I’m using the Amok equipment fjol winterlight mat it has an R value of 5 and packs down to the size of a 2l bottle, it’s just as good on the floor of a tent as it is inside the Draumr. Great video as always trev
Good video. Some sleeping mats slide about on slippery tent floors. I have woken underneath mine once and found the pad up the side of the tent on a couple of other occasions. Doesn’t happen to me with foam which is what I mainly use. NeoAirs are odd to sleep on initially, at least for me. I know what you mean about thinking your going to fall off but I got used to mine and now find it comfortable. Very comfortable, actually, but, as I say, I usually use foam cut to torso length.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Leaks out the WingLock Valve /// I got a new one and does the same! slow leak.. Test your Valve by using a bowl or pool or anything that you can get the Valve underwater, test closed and open and see if your mat does leak before you go on the trail.. I even pop the top off and i was surprised it does not seat down to the rubber gasket! This would be easy fix for them, they just need the inside of the cap to have the round plastic under the cap to set more into the Tube around the rubber seal..
Great review Trev as always.I used a Thermarest (ridgerest) foam mat for a while, years ago but oh boy,I couldn't sleep and i had to stay in the Scottish mountains for an extra day to overcome the backache.I couldn't walk,let alone carry my pack back out of the mountains.I learnt the hard way.I bought an Exped UL synmat (r value 2.3) for the warmer months and never looked back after that.Next purchase is the winter version and like you,i'll be buying the long,wide version..I love my Exped and they are slightly cheaper than Thermarest and a lot quieter too... Congatulations on reaching 20 k subs...Keep up the great work.Maybe see you on Dartmoor one day... Best wishes and have a great Christmas.
Great video. Long and Wide rectangular pads for inside tents, Regular mummy shape for inside bivy bags. Sizing seems to be based on inches. Regarding the Nemo mats they are available in Long and Wide.
Great video Trev. I got a sleeping pad in the summer. What the description didn’t say was it had a whopping great plastic pump in the pillow. Is like sleeping with a cricket ball on your head.
I made the same mistake as you Trev’ with the purchase of the Thermarest as soon as I lay on it in the living room when I first purchased it. Side sleeper like you, mat not wide enough sent an email to my supplier, i sent it back without the packaging as i had already thrown it. Paid the difference between the regular to the wide, I received the wider one. Great! The down side is its noisier and not as comfy as my Klymit insulated static V. size (58.4x182.9 x 6.4 cm 23"x 72"x 2.5”) 4.4 R value. Which is half the price of the Thermarest. I am suprised the Klymit was not mentioned in you top 5. I had a Klymit inertia XL for years (its a mat that comprises of lots of cut outs to keep the weight down) Anyway after years of arduous use it failed, emailed klymit, as they did not make that model any more they said pick any from there range. Free of charge no proof of purchase. A Brilliant after sales service. Ps thoroughly enjoy all the videos ATB
I have a few mats and one of them is the UL80. I agree with you. OK as a budget mat for summer and comfortable but I had it down to around 7°C and it wasn't great. Also because of the thickness of the mat there is more cold air inside it so sticking a RidgeRest underneath doesn't solve that entirely as the entirety of the mat isn't protected from the elements. I reckon I'm a cold sleeper so I went for the Neo Air Xtherm so I know I'm completely in the clear. At the end of the day buy cheap buy twice is true here.
My self inflating mat cost £12.50 in trago mills. I use it with an old foam mat. I never wild camp so I don't carry it and I use a trakker big snooze smooth sleeping bag which is 3kg and the size of a bus. However you can tuck the mats into pockets on the underneath so you never fall off your mats. Might look at the ul80 though.
I've got a Thermarest Prolite Plus, weighs 650g and has a 3.2 R value, perfect for me as I'm a 3 season camper only. Price is about 90 quid for the regular. It's a nice balance between durability, comfort, price and weight. I don't trust fully inflatable mats with having a dog in the tent with me, at least if the self-inflater goes down, you still have some foam to kip on! I've tried a closed cell foam mat (Z-Lite) and that was horrendously uncomfortable, hence the move to the Prolite. I really liked the UL80, it was exceptionally comfy (I'm a side sleeper), but I don't trust the durability and in anything other than summer temps I was freezing! Your choice of mat is really critical if you use a down quilt like I do.
Good review. I use the Alpkit 'cloud base' £45, it only weighs 420g (8x28cm packed) but is huge when it's unpacked. I've used it numerous times on Dartmoor - including freezing and snowy conditions - with a thin/light reflective roll mat under it and I've had a good night's sleep!
Got the biggest, warmest Extreme XT and they are quite remarkable bits of kit. For winter, car camping or just kipping on a friend's floor - you know, real life - unbelievably good. But a bit bulky outside the cold months.
I have a ul80 for the summer/warmer days. I do have a foam matt too but if it's cold I just use my memory foam self inflating matt. It's heavier but I don't yomp too far in the winter so I can handle the extra kg, especially for the r rating of 8 and the comfort. I just lash it to the bottom of my pack where I would of had the folding matt anyway and I've gained space in the bag... not all bad news. I've never had a bad night on my memory foam matt. Not once.
That's good to know. Does seem to be a common issue with leaky seams, but they are a really comfortable budget pad. Hope the new one lasts longer for you.
@@SummitOrNothing luckily I found the leak straight away. They were very helpful and answered my email within a couple of hours. Top marks for customer service
I've been using the UL80 for months, only recently replacing it due to the colder weather. It is the most comfortable of all the mats I have used by a country mile. It has never deflated on me in the night and I absolutely love it. BUT it is coming into winter now, and on the cold ground the UL80 is a bit feeble. I replaced it with an R2.4 Unigear Campfy P3, which is warmer but not nearly as comfortable. But it's cheap and has so far done the job. BUT (again) on the back of this video I have just bought the Sea To Summit Etherlite XT. That R value is great and I'll be able to do away with my aluminium foil under-mat and at the same time save the better part of half a kilo in my pack. I value warmth over comfort, but with an extra inch of thickness I expect the S2S to be more comfy than the Unigear too. Thank you so much for this vid Trev, it's been a big help bud
By the way, your video advises the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Extreme mat with an R-value of "over 6", but your product link is to the Ether Light XT (non-insulated) with an R-value of 0.8! So I've just accidentally purchased the wrong product lol! Anyway, you might wanna change it.
Hope you enjoy your new pad Trev. For me the UL80 is my most comfortable pad and fingers crossed I've never had a deflation problem. I do have the Large Sea to Summit extreme and it's a great pad BUT I am not convinced with the R being over 6? I recently used it in the cold and was expecting a bit more from it. Maybe I am just carrying too much timber atm ha ha
Well, thats a good job that the UL80 is still working out for you - it is definetly a comfy mat. Shame the sea to summit isnt so good for you though! All the best, mate!
I've got a sea to summit ultralight insulated from Santa this Christmas. R value of 3.1 and weight and bulk works well with my limited space in the pack. Done frosty camps with a klymit 3/4 length pad with a 1.3 R value so the extra warmth from the sea to summit one should be luxurious!! Can always use my decathlon foam pad to add more warmth if needed and think I'll be happy with this setup. Almost bought the ether light xt but was far too bulky and would have had to buy a larger pack. Oh and got the sea to summit ultralight insulated for 25% off the RRP as Go Outdoors beat another retailers price by 10%. Bargain!
being under 6 feet I tend to go for 3/4 length mats, not that I have tried many, I usually use a bag of clothes as a pillow off the mat and do not mind my feet overhanging so I purchased the womens neoair xlite which I found sufficient and has a higher "R" rating than the regular for the same price. I tend to sleep on my side and can understand why you prefer the wider mats
I can recommend the Big Agnes insulated Air core ultra mat. R Value is over 4. Comes in various sizes and widths all for around £100. It's a few inches thick so good for side sleepers and comes with a pump sack.
Great review...had the trekokology Ul80 was comfy but had to have a mat underneath..now got the Sea to Summit mens Ether light XT extreme regular wide..amazingly comfy and toasty...big pack size and heavy but worth it for the comfort..
I have the Trekology UL80. It's fine for summer but I wholeheartedly agree, skimping on a mat isn't a great idea. I've bought a Thermarest Xtherm large for the winter. The Trekology gets great revievs on Amazon, but how many of those are from serious all year campers.
Nice one trev good honest review. 👍 top tip theres a well known outdoors shop that has all the mats on display ..... try before you buy or try before ordering online .
UL80 for me also. I am a side sleeper and find it comfortable. When the weather is a bit chilly I use an inexpensive reusable space blanket under it. I am a bit of a wriggler but I do not notice the crisp packet noise.
Hi Trev, Trekology have a 1 year warranty on all there products. My UL80 deflated and they sent me another one free of charge as it was less than a year. I definitely agree with you about investing in a winter pad, Im looking at the Exped mats at the moment. The trekology is really only good for summer.
My UL80 is fine after ~10 uses. But it is really far too cold for Autumn/Winter and fairly heavy at >750g; even putting a foam mat underneath does not help much. Ended up getting a EXPED SynMat HL for the colder weather and it's been great. The UL80 is super comfy for the warmer summer nights no doubt.
Yea, it certainly is like having a bed out with you as opposed to a bit of foam as some of the self inflating mats feel like, but yea, the R-value let's it down!
I had my UL80 for 3 more months and it failed, i emailed Trekology and they were amazing, new replacement on my doorstep within 3 days, this thing with a foil mat underneath it is the bollocks and with the right sleeping bag is the comfiest winter mattress out there so sorry Trev it’s you that’s wrong 😂👍🏻
Thats great to hear, Ken, glad that they turned around so quickly with a replacement - hope the replacement holds out a little longer for you. Cheers for commenting!
I'll go with the Thermarest. But Things seem so expensive now. Like the top end brands have significantly increased over the last few years. Do what I do people, make do until you see a sale. Search and wait for that bargain. Don't just rush out and buy it.
Great idea, Sam. I could have waited but just wanted to get out and have a comfortable night sleep... I was willing to pay the £160 to get it out if the way. I must have spent twice that on other mats though, to be honest!
I used a cheap foam roll up camping mat all through the winter for years up on the mountains in wales on snow and still have the same mat I purchased back in 1980s (no R value)
I went for the Neoair xtherm after my ul80 went flat after 4 trips. The £220 price tag was painfull but as you say life time warranty and I'll never need another pad.
Yea, its quite a price, but to be honest I must have spent more than that on various mats over the years... hopefully, once I fork out for the larger thermarest, I shouldn't need another one lol
@@SummitOrNothing yes I'm 6ft 1 and like the wider pads too so I went for the regular wide rectangular shape xtherm that's why it was a little more expensive than the regular shape.
I've had many pads over the years and now have both the ul80 and the thermarest xtherm max. My ul80 would deflate one night but then not the next which was rather puzzling. I think as you get older comfort becomes all the more important to you so my thermarest I think was well worth the money and so much warmer. Worth saving up for. 😂😂
Trev, I'm nearly sold on the Neoair xlite regular wide. However, when I've researched it, the pad sounded like a crisp packet when the guy moved on it! Can you reassure me that this isn't the case mate? ATB to you and Nath...
Trev, good tips and thanks. I have discussed this with wifey and she is fine with the upgrade from the UL80. I just need to discuss it with my boyfriend now😉
Have you tried the foil and air pocket insulation roll from Wickes etc cut to size weighs nothing and it works even with the cheapy thick air mattresses.
It's just a case of you get what you pay for isn't it. I currently use the trekology ul50, it's been really good for the £35 that I paid for it. But I do obviously get cold, so I will be upgrading. I think that if its something that your going to really get the use out of then it's worth the extra cost.
The UL80 annoys the crap out of me. Best mat I have ever slept on, but I just don't trust it. Make it stronger, add some insulation and slap on a price label of £100 and they would sell shed loads. Regards JB.
I've had two UL80's, both only lasted four or five camps before the deflation made them a real pain. They both leak in the same place around the edge where the two sides are bonded together.
I use a Synmat 7 which I purchased for £70 at the time. Warm, comfortable, and reliable, and comes with a decent integrated hand pump that works well. Great value for money.
The loops on the bottom of my pack are just big enough to hold my thermarest trail lite large pad. Under £100 and 4 season in the UK. I'll use that until I've run it into the ground lol. I'd say it was in the middle of carrying a roll mat and a cheap summer pad and an expensive ultralight one.
Ul80 probably outsells the other 20 fold hence more faults reported but it’s only 40 quid and so comfortable, got the S2S extreme which is awesome but £200 quid horses for courses , nice vid mate 🤟
I just knew the UL80 would come out no 1 lol! We use them and we like a roll underneath anyhow and would, even with an expensive mat because, it emulates being in bed so well 😴😴! I guess i'ts just the bulk of taking a roll when your camping all the time like you guys!
Too many nights fighting pads wanting to go separate directions and then deflating throughout the night did it for me, Maggi! Hopefully the thermarest will see me OK. Watch this space I guess!
@@SummitOrNothing We've not had that problem Trev! We use quilts so there's nothing slippery on our mats and we put the roll rough side up, it has little bobbles so they act as a grip.
I don't see the point of an uninsulated mat. I use an exped down mat. Very comfy. It cradles you and is warm. I also use it in the summer. It is a bit heavier but is tough and quiet. I have had a vaude norrsken, also good but not made any more. The only budget at I have used was a paria. It is insulated. My wife uses it now. Then again. We started when Karrimat were the high tech mats...
You have compared apples with pears by contrasting the UL80 to the others. In its favour the UL80 is only a quarter of the price!. The UL80 is ok for its price point but will never look great alongside the other 4. Having said that, really looking forwards to getting a S2S pad for xmas!
Hi Trev, I'm new to wild camping. Could you suggest a Thermarest or anything of decent quality for coolish weather up to Autumn, I won't be Winter camping just yet, just feeling my feet. I have the UL 80 but dont trust it for the cooler months and want to avoid using the additional foam/ foil mat underneath. Many Thanks.
I'm surprised there are never any Multimat products mentioned in this sort of review. My self inflator cost £17.50, it is warm, is comfortable both on my back and on my side. and doesn't deflate. I have a feeling that there is some snobbery involved here.
Just a thought...... is it worth asking if you can return the one you bought in exchange for the large? That would save having to shell out another big sum of money. I think most reputable firms would allow this - especially if it is for a swap/upgrade of one of their own products. Great video. Thanks.
I’m not so worried about the weight or packed size as I use a travoy so, budget, comfort all season and R value are key. Are you able to suggest options? Being a side sleeper, not having hips touch the floor would be great.
I think any of the products mentioned are the way forward - I know the budget side seems a little too much to stretch, but I havent yet found a pad that ticks all the boxes. I am hoping that the Thermarest is going to do its job!
Nice one mate, the new one for me was ul50... An it's shit. The first four camps it was great. I've not being in woods or hard grounds. But grass. An as you said with the 80, it was going down. It pissed me right off. So I've gone back to use a season one sleeping bag an a mat I got from the pound shop 🤣🤣🤣. Thanks for sharing buddy tc Andy 💜🔥👍🇬🇧
Haha I’ve gone round the exact same circles Trev always trying to find an happy medium & save £&&…… sell it! Buy the Xtherm Max buddy you’ll never ever look back👍🏻👍🏻 that pad together with the Laviathon = 🔥🔥🔥🔥 & COMFORT. 👍🏻
@@SummitOrNothing eBay it buddy!😂 it’ll get snapped up for hardly any loss & be somebody else’s Xmas pressie while your out lording it up on your very own Xtherm Max!!🤣 … it’ll make excellent content too, you’d be grinning from ear to ear😂👍🏻 Take care bud looking forward to your Xmas stuff👍🏻🏔
I have a self-deflating UL80, bought new from a third party on eBay. Lasted four camps then started deflating during use. Made for some very uncomfortable nights I can tell you. Trekology wouldn’t entertain replacing it as I didn’t buy it directly from them so it’s now gathering dust although I’m going to attempt using seal seam on it to see if that “fixes” it. Won’t be buying any more Trekology products.
Yea - its a shame that this is such a common occurrence as they really are a comfy mat. I was wondering whether seam sealing may work too. Keep us posted!
No doubt someone will correct me if I'm wrong but I believe the thermarest and others aren't properly r rated so they're over rated and the official rating system, ASTM, has virtually halved them. Again the Ul80 isn't ASTM rated so just made up by trekology. Plus the fact it deflates and maybe they send you a new one each time but no doubt it will ruin a camp.
Ah, that's a shame then... you never can tell what you're buying then?! It certainly seems an improvement over what I've had in the past though. Will tell over the winter if it continues to keep me warm.
@@SummitOrNothing it will definitely keep you warm but it's like sleeping bags that have no official rating system. Now pads do and those previously claimed r ratings are dropping like flies now its standardised.
New Sleeping Pad (Light Tour) - tinyurl.com/4arfewej this is what I've used the last few times. Great mat, rivals the expensive mat I own too, about £120, but there are different sizes and shapes that work out cheaper.
@@SummitOrNothing Thanks so much for the reply and more importantly for the inspiration. I'm getting out in the mountains regularly thanks to you mainly.
@@SummitOrNothing That looks good. Thanks so much for the reply and more importantly for the inspiration to get out in the Connemara Mountains. I'm getting out regularly now with the gear I've got and slowly building up the things I need to get some camping in. I look forward to more videos from you.
I really identify myself with skimping on my gear. Yes I know the more high-end gear could be cheaper in the long run, and yes I want it, but the moment I actually have to spend money on it I skimp... Leaving me always a bit dissapointed, but ohw well, it's a learning process :P
@@SummitOrNothing Haha, yeah I get that, but I guess that's also part of expensive stuff always looking more attractive. So doesn't matter what we buy, we always see the next in line and are like... I wish I just put in that 10er.
I was so nearly going to go for a Trekology as I was hearing good things everywhere, then I dug a little deeper and found at least half of the people that review it were having issues with it deflating and no interest from the manufacturer in doing anything about it. Looks like I'll be saving up.
When you say these all come with life time guarantees, the reality is the life time guarantee doesn't cover punctures lol so I'm not clear on what the actual use of it is. Faulty valve? It bursts into flames? Dunno
Just bought the sea to summit. Just a heads up for folks, I got it from a Spanish site because it was £166 (bargain)……. Not so much, due to brexit you now have import taxes, vat, and a charge from Royal Mail, added 47 fecking quid to the price, which I’ve had to pay to Royal Mail to organise delivery……. Just a word of caution.
Xtherm in square rectangular a great matt . Tapered matts so overrated , go full rectangle 😀. I also really like my thermarest trail pro regular about 5 to 6 yrs old is favourite, great smooth quiet material and warm but a bit to bulky unfortunately
@@waynus2021 granted that is a lot 😬 think I payed about 180 for mine 2yrs agoish . If I had to keep one matt it would be this one . Last used it in October on a bikepack trip . The matt really makes big difference in warmth towards , allowing you to get away with lighter sleeping bag if u wanted . Though for that price I guess we should expect nothing less :)
Thanx Trev. I can't justify to myself the cost of these products. I will upgrade to a insulated klymit pad. The ul80 pad after it failed on me really made me think first before investing in a insulated pad. I will book mark this video just in case I change my mind and think hard before investing in a thermerest ect. I will stick with emergency blankets for now . Look into snug Pak tactical 3 . Which I used in Nov In Dartmoor and I was so warm . In the evenings. Did a shout out mini video to you and Nathan to say thank you again . ruclips.net/video/VTTstwiiI94/видео.html Take care buddy all the best to you and your family and Nathan and his family. Merry Xmas and a happy new year.
Summit or …….. sense at last 👍 Xlite is the best all round lightweight air mattress don’t worry you’ll get used to the size just feel that weight. Now just imagine if you do the same with your backpack, tent and get a down quilt how light your kit will be 👍 We will soon have you ditching the xlite bag and other gear bags and using a liner 👍
I'm not entirely bothered about the weight, but comfort and convenience at night has become a priority. Fighting separating pads and constantly blowing up was the nail in the coffin!
@@SummitOrNothing yes I agree but if you can cut weight get quality sleep you can walk further more comfortably. The trekology is a good base camp summer mattress but be prepared to replace it when it fails that’s why it’s cheap. My advice for sleep systems is go 5c more than you’ll need and you should be ok, so a -12c pad will work great down to -7c (just my rule of thumb but it means I’m never caught out). As a side sleeper see if you can borrow or get a quilt the freedom it gives you is great totally changed my sleep no more turning over and being wrapped up like a mummy. Same rule applies buy once cry once but the thermarest vesper and chorus quilts are good value just be aware when they quote 0c they really mean 5c (in my opinion and lots of other peoples)
The only one i like is the UL 80 which i have,thermarest are too thin and way to expensive for me,and i dont think they are worth the dough,i use a foil mat,a 1” thick roll mat and my UL 80,never had a bad nights sleep,i need a thicker air mat as im aside sleeper,some of the pads at £130 -£180 are just taking the piss money wise for what they are,id never pay that much,if my UL 80 fails I’ll get a UL 140,ive heard of issues with UL 80,s going down,but i can honestly say,I’ve never had a problem,and at £40 its a bargain 👍 Also,most the other pads are only 2.5 inches thick,which is no good for me,trekology is much thicker,great comparisons trev👍
Yea, I found it comfy, but having to carry two is a pain, and the last few times it's deflating was annoying through the night. I'm hoping that the thermarest will eliminate the need for extra pads (I certainly found it as comfy as the ul80) and knowing its got a lifetime guarantee, hopefully I won't have to fork out again... well, after I finally buy the large that is🤦♂️
@@SummitOrNothing wow!!!! That’s incredible. Is that a reaction to the vango soul that time?🤣 I can’t wait to finally be able to do one of the meet ups. So many bits of kit to show you! Even a inflatable hooped bivi prototype I found on eBay.
@@chrishanssen1980 haha... no, someone has one they bought but was too small for two so offering me first dibs. I'm picking it up tomorrow. Exciting Exciting. Sure we will get to meet up soon. I will keep the camps regular next year.
Hate to disappoint you but your R-value table is pure nonsens. R is a value for calculated heatloss. Putting a minimal usuable temperature on a mat is a joke. Sorry... FYI there's an excellent testingvid here : ruclips.net/video/e2H8EYHvF3U/видео.html
It would be good to see a “buy once” series, where budget gear is discussed and we find out the level where an upgrade is not needed.
Well, I, like many are on a journey... as mentioned in the video I have recently found the thetmarest, wish I'd bought it sooner.... hopefully I won't be needing to replace anytime soon. I'm not sure what else from my gear I would offer as the only bit if kit I use. To be honest I like the variety of my gear, swapping and changing bits out for each adventure is half the fun ro me.
@@SummitOrNothing good reply, variety is the spice of life
@@boldmeregarden637 So they say!
There is at least one positive in using two mats, the l ower one can offer some protection from sharp stones etc especially with the very thin groundsheets in modern tents.
Some folk just carry one of those very thin silver thermal sheets, which also keeps the cold away.
I'll be honest trev.... After countless trips my ul80 has never ever failed me mate. Yes I have to use a matt underneath to trap the heat but that weighs nothing so its never been an issue for me👍👍
Glad it's still holding up. I know many people swear by them, but mine was beginning to be a bit of a pain!
Yep it’s the UL80 for me too 👍🏻
Same here ul80👌
Yep, UL80 never let me down. Really best for summer I think but had it out in March and Nov no real issues. Got a multi mat expedition as well for winter. Insulated mat as well. If I was camping every week then maybe I'd spend £150-200....then maybe I wouldn't.
I love my ul140. Super comfortable and I don't need to worry about a pillow. The pad pump is crap though!
I found out many many years ago on my first white water kayaking camping trip that when it comes to outdoor equipment, just buy the best you can afford. If you get wet and cold miles from help it may just save your life or maybe somebody else's that you come across.
There is no substitute for quality and it costs money. Obviously weight plays a part as well. Once you reach a certain level of quality then you just pay extra for more weight savings, then it becomes a personal choice to decide if saving 200g is worth the extra £150.
Example: I have a Vango Omega 400 sleeping bag, had it for over 25 years, still use it, have slept in -7 very happily, but its 3.5Kg and pack size is huge so only good for car camping, my new western mountaineering down Alpinlite is rated to -7 comfort but weighs in at 880g and it is wider at the shoulders as I have grown a bit in my old age. :-).
You pays yer money and takes your choice. !!!
Good review. I have the Nemo Tensor insulated long wide and it's fantastic, well worth the money compared to cheaper matts I had before.
That's great to hear, thanks for your feedback! Cheers!
To everyone using a secondary reflective mat (usually the Highlander thing off Amazon): put it on top of your other sleeping pad (tested on my old UL80).
It's warmer. I promise.
Sounds like a great tip, Andy! Cheers!
You are right.
Its what I do Andy with my cheapo Chinese pad.
Same as you on top never underneath my pads ( the Highlander is not noisy)
Went out last weekend using a 10 year old Snugpak Autumn Chysalis bag in my Vaude tent warm as toast.
100% agree everyone gets this wrong and put the reflective mat under the pad. I put a survival foil blanket down first then my pad then my reflective mat which has elasticated straps to attach it. I think most trekkers are more concerned with not carrying too much bulk as opposed to weight
as the more room you have in your pack, the more beer you can fit in
@@tonyubr if you really want cosy foil emgency blanket>unroll army bivvy>insert multimat>layer with cheap insulating foil picnic blanket, then a heated usb powered heated jacket on top>throw yourself in bivvy with down sleeping bag>enjoy melting
@@serialkillazzs I probably wouldn't rely on that though too much to go wrong
Good recommendations here.
I did similar, started out with a cheap, heavy summer only air mat, served me ok ish until it didn’t. Went down the self inflating route, loved it until I didn’t.
Now on to the exped synmat.
Which is worth every penny for me. Pack size, warmth, weight… all boxes ticked.
Sometimes, it pays to pay... comfortable night sleep is worth every penny! Thanks for watching, Paul!
Hi Paul, I agree with you. I've done many long distance wild camp UK hikes, so I feel qualified to say the Exped Synmat HL is the mat to go for. I've never felt the need to find anything "better". ATB. Neil
The Nemo Tensor comes in a few sizes and shapes so several options to suit individual needs. It’s very popular here in North America as a lightweight option. I believe its R-value per the new standards is 3.5. I don’t own one personally but am considering it as a lighter option than my MEC Vectair (which I love and is warm and comfy)
That's good to know there's various options. Decent little pad by all accounts. Thanks for commenting
There's also the Alpine version with a higher R value. They're orange in top colour
3 versions of Sea to summit mate . XT, XT insulated and Xt extreme. All different R value and weight.
I’ve been using a thermarest xtherm for a few years. It’s warm and light weight. Wish I could say I bought once and cried once but like so many I’ve tried loads of different equipment. It’s all a learning curve plus justifying how much your budget can take. Great discussion
Yea - it is a learning curve, and so often budget gear is sufficiant, but I just want a comfy night sleep haha!
Solid advice Trev, I am on the fork out and get decent and don’t skimp train too 👏🍻
I like to go budget where I can, never had a fault with my budget tents, but the sleeping pad has been an ongoing issue. Hopefully this will sort it.
I have the klymit insulated static v and to be honest, I hate it. Yes, it doesn't let any cold air through but it has a funny nozzle so can't use one of those flexigear mini pumps. It's also very narrow and I fall off it all night. It's only 180cm long and I'm 191, so that's an issue. Basically, I don't like it 🙂 but I do think it's worth getting a good mat, I don't understand when people take a lower R value one and then ANOTHER foam or silver foil roll to put under it. May as well just take one mat. Anyway....nice video. Thanks!
Thats a shame you don't get in with the klymit. And isn't it annoying when they don't let you use any old pump sack etc?!
Klymit updated the valve, the new flip valve 2019 onwards is compatible with the tiny X pump.
Absolutely invaluable video Trev. I was about to take the plunge on a mat and this has been a perfect guide. I am 6 foot and didn’t know what size to get. Now I know, as big as possible and as warm as possible. Thanks mate, brilliant.
No worries, Bzarry - glad that it helped! Thanks for watching!
I’m using the Amok equipment fjol winterlight mat it has an R value of 5 and packs down to the size of a 2l bottle, it’s just as good on the floor of a tent as it is inside the Draumr. Great video as always trev
Good video. Some sleeping mats slide about on slippery tent floors. I have woken underneath mine once and found the pad up the side of the tent on a couple of other occasions. Doesn’t happen to me with foam which is what I mainly use. NeoAirs are odd to sleep on initially, at least for me. I know what you mean about thinking your going to fall off but I got used to mine and now find it comfortable. Very comfortable, actually, but, as I say, I usually use foam cut to torso length.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Leaks out the WingLock Valve /// I got a new one and does the same! slow leak.. Test your Valve by using a bowl or pool or anything that you can get the Valve underwater, test closed and open and see if your mat does leak before you go on the trail.. I even pop the top off and i was surprised it does not seat down to the rubber gasket! This would be easy fix for them, they just need the inside of the cap to have the round plastic under the cap to set more into the Tube around the rubber seal..
Great review Trev as always.I used a Thermarest (ridgerest) foam mat for a while, years ago but oh boy,I couldn't sleep and i had to stay in the Scottish mountains for an extra day to overcome the backache.I couldn't walk,let alone carry my pack back out of the mountains.I learnt the hard way.I bought an Exped UL synmat (r value 2.3) for the warmer months and never looked back after that.Next purchase is the winter version and like you,i'll be buying the long,wide version..I love my Exped and they are slightly cheaper than Thermarest and a lot quieter too...
Congatulations on reaching 20 k subs...Keep up the great work.Maybe see you on Dartmoor one day...
Best wishes and have a great Christmas.
Great video. Long and Wide rectangular pads for inside tents, Regular mummy shape for inside bivy bags. Sizing seems to be based on inches. Regarding the Nemo mats they are available in Long and Wide.
Great video Trev. I got a sleeping pad in the summer. What the description didn’t say was it had a whopping great plastic pump in the pillow. Is like sleeping with a cricket ball on your head.
I made the same mistake as you Trev’ with the purchase of the Thermarest as soon as I lay on it in the living room when I first purchased it. Side sleeper like you, mat not wide enough sent an email to my supplier, i sent it back without the packaging as i had already thrown it. Paid the difference between the regular to the wide, I received the wider one. Great! The down side is its noisier and not as comfy as my Klymit insulated static V. size (58.4x182.9 x 6.4 cm 23"x 72"x 2.5”) 4.4 R value. Which is half the price of the Thermarest. I am suprised the Klymit was not mentioned in you top 5. I had a Klymit inertia XL for years (its a mat that comprises of lots of cut outs to keep the weight down) Anyway after years of arduous use it failed, emailed klymit, as they did not make that model any more they said pick any from there range. Free of charge no proof of purchase. A Brilliant after sales service. Ps thoroughly enjoy all the videos ATB
I have a few mats and one of them is the UL80. I agree with you. OK as a budget mat for summer and comfortable but I had it down to around 7°C and it wasn't great. Also because of the thickness of the mat there is more cold air inside it so sticking a RidgeRest underneath doesn't solve that entirely as the entirety of the mat isn't protected from the elements. I reckon I'm a cold sleeper so I went for the Neo Air Xtherm so I know I'm completely in the clear. At the end of the day buy cheap buy twice is true here.
My self inflating mat cost £12.50 in trago mills. I use it with an old foam mat. I never wild camp so I don't carry it and I use a trakker big snooze smooth sleeping bag which is 3kg and the size of a bus. However you can tuck the mats into pockets on the underneath so you never fall off your mats.
Might look at the ul80 though.
Cheers for the feedback, Matt! Amazing what bargains you can get from Trago!
I've got a Thermarest Prolite Plus, weighs 650g and has a 3.2 R value, perfect for me as I'm a 3 season camper only. Price is about 90 quid for the regular. It's a nice balance between durability, comfort, price and weight.
I don't trust fully inflatable mats with having a dog in the tent with me, at least if the self-inflater goes down, you still have some foam to kip on! I've tried a closed cell foam mat (Z-Lite) and that was horrendously uncomfortable, hence the move to the Prolite.
I really liked the UL80, it was exceptionally comfy (I'm a side sleeper), but I don't trust the durability and in anything other than summer temps I was freezing!
Your choice of mat is really critical if you use a down quilt like I do.
Yea - lots to consider, and I guess that forking out on a good inflatable mat isnt the greatest idea when you have a canine in with you.
Good review.
I use the Alpkit 'cloud base' £45, it only weighs 420g (8x28cm packed) but is huge when it's unpacked.
I've used it numerous times on Dartmoor - including freezing and snowy conditions - with a thin/light reflective roll mat under it and I've had a good night's sleep!
Cool - that sounds an awesome pad for the price! Thanks for sharing! Cheers!
Got the biggest, warmest Extreme XT and they are quite remarkable bits of kit. For winter, car camping or just kipping on a friend's floor - you know, real life - unbelievably good. But a bit bulky outside the cold months.
Sounds like you've found your ideal pad, there Kristen. Thanks for tour feedback
I have a ul80 for the summer/warmer days. I do have a foam matt too but if it's cold I just use my memory foam self inflating matt. It's heavier but I don't yomp too far in the winter so I can handle the extra kg, especially for the r rating of 8 and the comfort. I just lash it to the bottom of my pack where I would of had the folding matt anyway and I've gained space in the bag... not all bad news. I've never had a bad night on my memory foam matt. Not once.
Just got sent a new ul80 after having deflating problems . Sent them a video of leak in the seam and was sent to me in 2 days
That's good to know. Does seem to be a common issue with leaky seams, but they are a really comfortable budget pad. Hope the new one lasts longer for you.
@@SummitOrNothing luckily I found the leak straight away. They were very helpful and answered my email within a couple of hours. Top marks for customer service
I've been using the UL80 for months, only recently replacing it due to the colder weather. It is the most comfortable of all the mats I have used by a country mile. It has never deflated on me in the night and I absolutely love it. BUT it is coming into winter now, and on the cold ground the UL80 is a bit feeble.
I replaced it with an R2.4 Unigear Campfy P3, which is warmer but not nearly as comfortable. But it's cheap and has so far done the job. BUT (again) on the back of this video I have just bought the Sea To Summit Etherlite XT. That R value is great and I'll be able to do away with my aluminium foil under-mat and at the same time save the better part of half a kilo in my pack. I value warmth over comfort, but with an extra inch of thickness I expect the S2S to be more comfy than the Unigear too.
Thank you so much for this vid Trev, it's been a big help bud
By the way, your video advises the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Extreme mat with an R-value of "over 6", but your product link is to the Ether Light XT (non-insulated) with an R-value of 0.8! So I've just accidentally purchased the wrong product lol! Anyway, you might wanna change it.
Oh, crap.not sure what's happened there. Sorry about that! I will get it changed ASAP. Hope uts not too much hassle changing it.
Excellent comparison... If I had the budget I would go with the Sea To Summit... But alas...LOL
Hope you enjoy your new pad Trev. For me the UL80 is my most comfortable pad and fingers crossed I've never had a deflation problem. I do have the Large Sea to Summit extreme and it's a great pad BUT I am not convinced with the R being over 6? I recently used it in the cold and was expecting a bit more from it. Maybe I am just carrying too much timber atm ha ha
Well, thats a good job that the UL80 is still working out for you - it is definetly a comfy mat. Shame the sea to summit isnt so good for you though! All the best, mate!
Recently got an exped synmat. I am so happy with it. Hope you are well mate
Glad that it's working out for you. All good here, cheers!
I've got a sea to summit ultralight insulated from Santa this Christmas. R value of 3.1 and weight and bulk works well with my limited space in the pack. Done frosty camps with a klymit 3/4 length pad with a 1.3 R value so the extra warmth from the sea to summit one should be luxurious!! Can always use my decathlon foam pad to add more warmth if needed and think I'll be happy with this setup.
Almost bought the ether light xt but was far too bulky and would have had to buy a larger pack.
Oh and got the sea to summit ultralight insulated for 25% off the RRP as Go Outdoors beat another retailers price by 10%. Bargain!
being under 6 feet I tend to go for 3/4 length mats, not that I have tried many, I usually use a bag of clothes as a pillow off the mat and do not mind my feet overhanging so I purchased the womens neoair xlite which I found sufficient and has a higher "R" rating than the regular for the same price. I tend to sleep on my side and can understand why you prefer the wider mats
your UL80 is the old one I believe at 520g with the deflation issues. the new upgraded one is 750g
I can recommend the Big Agnes insulated Air core ultra mat. R Value is over 4. Comes in various sizes and widths all for around £100. It's a few inches thick so good for side sleepers and comes with a pump sack.
That's a decent price Bari for the R Value. Cheers for the recommendation!
@@SummitOrNothing really hard to find in stock at the moment though. 🤔🤔
Great review...had the trekokology Ul80 was comfy but had to have a mat underneath..now got the Sea to Summit mens Ether light XT extreme regular wide..amazingly comfy and toasty...big pack size and heavy but worth it for the comfort..
YEa - theres a lot to be said for a comfortable nights sleep. Sometimes worth the extra grams!
I have the Trekology UL80. It's fine for summer but I wholeheartedly agree, skimping on a mat isn't a great idea. I've bought a Thermarest Xtherm large for the winter. The Trekology gets great revievs on Amazon, but how many of those are from serious all year campers.
I never spent much on pads, but if I ever do any real camping again, I'll as I'm now older and wiser.
Nice one trev good honest review. 👍 top tip theres a well known outdoors shop that has all the mats on display ..... try before you buy or try before ordering online .
Yea - the Exeter branch (closest to me) usually has bare shelves. Its a shambles!
UL80 for me also. I am a side sleeper and find it comfortable. When the weather is a bit chilly I use an inexpensive reusable space blanket under it. I am a bit of a wriggler but I do not notice the crisp packet noise.
Yea it certainly is comfy. Impossible to roll off too I'd say! Thanks for commenting, Fiona!
I'm off to buy the sea to summit right now . Makes sense 😎
Good on you, Carl. Hopw you enjoy it!
Hi Trev, Trekology have a 1 year warranty on all there products. My UL80 deflated and they sent me another one free of charge as it was less than a year. I definitely agree with you about investing in a winter pad, Im looking at the Exped mats at the moment. The trekology is really only good for summer.
Oh that is good to know, I couldn't find that info when I looked but may send mine back then. If it stays up, it is comfy for the summer months.
eyup,20k! Congrats gents!
FYI: The reg size Sea to summit ether light extreme weighs 720g, not 400g as you state.
My UL80 is fine after ~10 uses. But it is really far too cold for Autumn/Winter and fairly heavy at >750g; even putting a foam mat underneath does not help much. Ended up getting a EXPED SynMat HL for the colder weather and it's been great. The UL80 is super comfy for the warmer summer nights no doubt.
Yea, it certainly is like having a bed out with you as opposed to a bit of foam as some of the self inflating mats feel like, but yea, the R-value let's it down!
I had my UL80 for 3 more months and it failed, i emailed Trekology and they were amazing, new replacement on my doorstep within 3 days, this thing with a foil mat underneath it is the bollocks and with the right sleeping bag is the comfiest winter mattress out there so sorry Trev it’s you that’s wrong 😂👍🏻
Thats great to hear, Ken, glad that they turned around so quickly with a replacement - hope the replacement holds out a little longer for you. Cheers for commenting!
I'll go with the Thermarest. But
Things seem so expensive now.
Like the top end brands have significantly increased over the last few years. Do what I do people, make do until you see a sale. Search and wait for that bargain. Don't just rush out and buy it.
Great idea, Sam. I could have waited but just wanted to get out and have a comfortable night sleep... I was willing to pay the £160 to get it out if the way. I must have spent twice that on other mats though, to be honest!
I used a cheap foam roll up camping mat all through the winter for years up on the mountains in wales on snow
and still have the same mat I purchased back in 1980s (no R value)
I went for the Neoair xtherm after my ul80 went flat after 4 trips. The £220 price tag was painfull but as you say life time warranty and I'll never need another pad.
Yea, its quite a price, but to be honest I must have spent more than that on various mats over the years... hopefully, once I fork out for the larger thermarest, I shouldn't need another one lol
@@SummitOrNothing yes I'm 6ft 1 and like the wider pads too so I went for the regular wide rectangular shape xtherm that's why it was a little more expensive than the regular shape.
Nice video.. hey, nice hoodie, Rab?
I've had many pads over the years and now have both the ul80 and the thermarest xtherm max.
My ul80 would deflate one night but then not the next which was rather puzzling.
I think as you get older comfort becomes all the more important to you so my thermarest I think was well worth the money and so much warmer. Worth saving up for. 😂😂
Yea, I think if you get out a lot, then the thernarest is a great investment. Shame the ul80 has the deflation issue.
Trev, I'm nearly sold on the Neoair xlite regular wide. However, when I've researched it, the pad sounded like a crisp packet when the guy moved on it! Can you reassure me that this isn't the case mate?
ATB to you and Nath...
Trev, good tips and thanks. I have discussed this with wifey and she is fine with the upgrade from the UL80. I just need to discuss it with my boyfriend now😉
🤣🤣🤣 can you tell I was scared of offending someone when I said that bit 🤣🤣
@@SummitOrNothing I wouldn't say scared... just covering your bum. Oh, hang on. Can I say that?
Have you tried the foil and air pocket insulation roll from Wickes etc cut to size weighs nothing and it works even with the cheapy thick air mattresses.
I just got oex traverse under I use karrimor karrimat and bit bulky but comfatable
We bought 2 UL80's...... & shortly later bought 2 Exped downmat 9's. The UL80 is not for cold sleepers
Great review and really helpful. Many Thanks!
It's just a case of you get what you pay for isn't it.
I currently use the trekology ul50, it's been really good for the £35 that I paid for it. But I do obviously get cold, so I will be upgrading.
I think that if its something that your going to really get the use out of then it's worth the extra cost.
The UL80 annoys the crap out of me. Best mat I have ever slept on, but I just don't trust it. Make it stronger, add some insulation and slap on a price label of £100 and they would sell shed loads. Regards JB.
Yea - they could easily improve it and come it at mid price range.
I've had two UL80's, both only lasted four or five camps before the deflation made them a real pain. They both leak in the same place around the edge where the two sides are bonded together.
Yea - its a shame but seems to be a common fault with this pad.
I use a Synmat 7 which I purchased for £70 at the time. Warm, comfortable, and reliable, and comes with a decent integrated hand pump that works well. Great value for money.
The loops on the bottom of my pack are just big enough to hold my thermarest trail lite large pad. Under £100 and 4 season in the UK. I'll use that until I've run it into the ground lol. I'd say it was in the middle of carrying a roll mat and a cheap summer pad and an expensive ultralight one.
Cool. Sounds ideal. Thanks for your feedback
Ul80 probably outsells the other 20 fold hence more faults reported but it’s only 40 quid and so comfortable, got the S2S extreme which is awesome but £200 quid horses for courses , nice vid mate 🤟
Yea, I guess there's more about, but a lot of people saying after 3 or 4 times they start deflating. Does seem to be very common fault.
@@SummitOrNothing not had a problem with mine , hit be a little careful with them , xlite does look good for size and weight thou
I just knew the UL80 would come out no 1 lol! We use them and we like a roll underneath anyhow and would, even with an expensive mat because, it emulates being in bed so well 😴😴! I guess i'ts just the bulk of taking a roll when your camping all the time like you guys!
Too many nights fighting pads wanting to go separate directions and then deflating throughout the night did it for me, Maggi! Hopefully the thermarest will see me OK. Watch this space I guess!
@@SummitOrNothing We've not had that problem Trev! We use quilts so there's nothing slippery on our mats and we put the roll rough side up, it has little bobbles so they act as a grip.
Hi Trev
I have same mat as you but did regular wide as I had the ul80 and liked the width.
It’s amazing the difference in temp 👍
Atb Graham
Yea, I wish I had just gone regular wide too. Eejit! Lol
I don't see the point of an uninsulated mat. I use an exped down mat. Very comfy. It cradles you and is warm. I also use it in the summer. It is a bit heavier but is tough and quiet.
I have had a vaude norrsken, also good but not made any more. The only budget at I have used was a paria. It is insulated. My wife uses it now.
Then again. We started when Karrimat were the high tech mats...
Yea - makes sense if you are going to be going out throughout the colder seasons to get one pad to the job! Thanks for commenting, Ewen!
Hey mate the tensor comes in multiple sizes
You have compared apples with pears by contrasting the UL80 to the others. In its favour the UL80 is only a quarter of the price!. The UL80 is ok for its price point but will never look great alongside the other 4. Having said that, really looking forwards to getting a S2S pad for xmas!
Ps, always enjoy watching your vids Trev and Nath. Thanks
I’ve got the Sea To Summit Ether light XT Insulated Mat. Bit pricey at around £150 but incredibly comfortable and warm. Couldn’t recommend it more.
Yea, they are pricy but hopefully you wouldn't need to buy again!
Totally agree. As a side sleeper I find it really comfortable.
Hi Trev, I'm new to wild camping. Could you suggest a Thermarest or anything of decent quality for coolish weather up to Autumn, I won't be Winter camping just yet, just feeling my feet. I have the UL 80 but dont trust it for the cooler months and want to avoid using the additional foam/ foil mat underneath. Many Thanks.
I'm surprised there are never any Multimat products mentioned in this sort of review. My self inflator cost £17.50, it is warm, is comfortable both on my back and on my side. and doesn't deflate. I have a feeling that there is some snobbery involved here.
Just a thought...... is it worth asking if you can return the one you bought in exchange for the large? That would save having to shell out another big sum of money. I think most reputable firms would allow this - especially if it is for a swap/upgrade of one of their own products. Great video. Thanks.
Yea, it may be worth looking into. Great idea, thanks Penny!
My UL80 failed me.. once bitten, twice shy!
Exactly!
I’m not so worried about the weight or packed size as I use a travoy so, budget, comfort all season and R value are key. Are you able to suggest options? Being a side sleeper, not having hips touch the floor would be great.
I think any of the products mentioned are the way forward - I know the budget side seems a little too much to stretch, but I havent yet found a pad that ticks all the boxes. I am hoping that the Thermarest is going to do its job!
@@SummitOrNothing I might have to resort to taking 100mm thick foam from an old gym crash matt I have and a car windscreen reflective sun screen.
Nice one mate, the new one for me was ul50... An it's shit. The first four camps it was great. I've not being in woods or hard grounds. But grass. An as you said with the 80, it was going down. It pissed me right off. So I've gone back to use a season one sleeping bag an a mat I got from the pound shop 🤣🤣🤣. Thanks for sharing buddy tc Andy 💜🔥👍🇬🇧
Yea, a common fault by all accounts. Shame cause it is proper comfy
Haha I’ve gone round the exact same circles Trev always trying to find an happy medium & save £&&…… sell it! Buy the Xtherm Max buddy you’ll never ever look back👍🏻👍🏻 that pad together with the Laviathon = 🔥🔥🔥🔥 & COMFORT. 👍🏻
Yea, I may just give the xlite a go for now and see how I get on. I feel all spent foe the time being lol
@@SummitOrNothing eBay it buddy!😂 it’ll get snapped up for hardly any loss & be somebody else’s Xmas pressie while your out lording it up on your very own Xtherm Max!!🤣 … it’ll make excellent content too, you’d be grinning from ear to ear😂👍🏻
Take care bud looking forward to your Xmas stuff👍🏻🏔
I have a self-deflating UL80, bought new from a third party on eBay. Lasted four camps then started deflating during use. Made for some very uncomfortable nights I can tell you. Trekology wouldn’t entertain replacing it as I didn’t buy it directly from them so it’s now gathering dust although I’m going to attempt using seal seam on it to see if that “fixes” it. Won’t be buying any more Trekology products.
Yea - its a shame that this is such a common occurrence as they really are a comfy mat. I was wondering whether seam sealing may work too. Keep us posted!
Good informative video Trev....Good man 👍
Cheers Stuart, glad you enjoyed it thanks for watching.
Thanks Trev that was a great review.
Cheers Kevin, glad that you enjoyed it.
No doubt someone will correct me if I'm wrong but I believe the thermarest and others aren't properly r rated so they're over rated and the official rating system, ASTM, has virtually halved them. Again the Ul80 isn't ASTM rated so just made up by trekology. Plus the fact it deflates and maybe they send you a new one each time but no doubt it will ruin a camp.
Ah, that's a shame then... you never can tell what you're buying then?! It certainly seems an improvement over what I've had in the past though. Will tell over the winter if it continues to keep me warm.
@@SummitOrNothing it will definitely keep you warm but it's like sleeping bags that have no official rating system. Now pads do and those previously claimed r ratings are dropping like flies now its standardised.
Is there any mat in between the trekology and the expensive mats? Something round the 80 to 100 quid mark would be great
New Sleeping Pad (Light Tour) - tinyurl.com/4arfewej this is what I've used the last few times. Great mat, rivals the expensive mat I own too, about £120, but there are different sizes and shapes that work out cheaper.
@@SummitOrNothing Thanks so much for the reply and more importantly for the inspiration. I'm getting out in the mountains regularly thanks to you mainly.
@@SummitOrNothing That looks good. Thanks so much for the reply and more importantly for the inspiration to get out in the Connemara Mountains. I'm getting out regularly now with the gear I've got and slowly building up the things I need to get some camping in. I look forward to more videos from you.
I really identify myself with skimping on my gear. Yes I know the more high-end gear could be cheaper in the long run, and yes I want it, but the moment I actually have to spend money on it I skimp... Leaving me always a bit dissapointed, but ohw well, it's a learning process :P
Yea, you and me alike. Even when I finally fork out I skimped 🤦♂️
@@SummitOrNothing Haha, yeah I get that, but I guess that's also part of expensive stuff always looking more attractive. So doesn't matter what we buy, we always see the next in line and are like... I wish I just put in that 10er.
I was so nearly going to go for a Trekology as I was hearing good things everywhere, then I dug a little deeper and found at least half of the people that review it were having issues with it deflating and no interest from the manufacturer in doing anything about it.
Looks like I'll be saving up.
They've changed the valve
Nemo Quasar is a class pad good r-value for 3 season camping super comfortable
cool, Jon, thanks for the feedback
I recently picked up a Thermarest Original self inflating 3/4 mat for a tenner, out of interest anyone know what R value it might have?
Never skimp on certain things sleep pads boots tent sleeping bag buy the best it's worth it in the end and makes camping so much better.
When you say these all come with life time guarantees, the reality is the life time guarantee doesn't cover punctures lol so I'm not clear on what the actual use of it is. Faulty valve? It bursts into flames? Dunno
Just bought the sea to summit. Just a heads up for folks, I got it from a Spanish site because it was £166 (bargain)……. Not so much, due to brexit you now have import taxes, vat, and a charge from Royal Mail, added 47 fecking quid to the price, which I’ve had to pay to Royal Mail to organise delivery……. Just a word of caution.
Thanks for the heads up. It's become frustrating buying from abroad now, that does seem excessive extra costs!
@@SummitOrNothing just had a Mail from them, apparently they’ll refund the VAT, so that’s £29 back, I had to dispute it though….
1st 🤘😎
Xtherm in square rectangular a great matt . Tapered matts so overrated , go full rectangle 😀.
I also really like my thermarest trail pro regular about 5 to 6 yrs old is favourite, great smooth quiet material and warm but a bit to bulky unfortunately
Yea, I guess our beds at home are rectangular for a reason lol. Cheers for the comment!
just looked , the rectangle in a large is £250!!!!! , i know we say buy cheap buy twice but holy hell that`s a lot for a sleeping matt
@@waynus2021 granted that is a lot 😬 think I payed about 180 for mine 2yrs agoish . If I had to keep one matt it would be this one . Last used it in October on a bikepack trip . The matt really makes big difference in warmth towards , allowing you to get away with lighter sleeping bag if u wanted . Though for that price I guess we should expect nothing less :)
My UL 80 failed after 4 uses
I hear this a lot!
Thanx Trev. I can't justify to myself the cost of these products. I will upgrade to a insulated klymit pad. The ul80 pad after it failed on me really made me think first before investing in a insulated pad. I will book mark this video just in case I change my mind and think hard before investing in a thermerest ect. I will stick with emergency blankets for now . Look into snug Pak tactical 3 . Which I used in Nov In Dartmoor and I was so warm . In the evenings. Did a shout out mini video to you and Nathan to say thank you again .
ruclips.net/video/VTTstwiiI94/видео.html
Take care buddy all the best to you and your family and Nathan and his family. Merry Xmas and a happy new year.
Summit or …….. sense at last 👍
Xlite is the best all round lightweight air mattress don’t worry you’ll get used to the size just feel that weight.
Now just imagine if you do the same with your backpack, tent and get a down quilt how light your kit will be 👍
We will soon have you ditching the xlite bag and other gear bags and using a liner 👍
I'm not entirely bothered about the weight, but comfort and convenience at night has become a priority. Fighting separating pads and constantly blowing up was the nail in the coffin!
@@SummitOrNothing yes I agree but if you can cut weight get quality sleep you can walk further more comfortably. The trekology is a good base camp summer mattress but be prepared to replace it when it fails that’s why it’s cheap.
My advice for sleep systems is go 5c more than you’ll need and you should be ok, so a -12c pad will work great down to -7c (just my rule of thumb but it means I’m never caught out).
As a side sleeper see if you can borrow or get a quilt the freedom it gives you is great totally changed my sleep no more turning over and being wrapped up like a mummy. Same rule applies buy once cry once but the thermarest vesper and chorus quilts are good value just be aware when they quote 0c they really mean 5c (in my opinion and lots of other peoples)
The only one i like is the UL 80 which i have,thermarest are too thin and way to expensive for me,and i dont think they are worth the dough,i use a foil mat,a 1” thick roll mat and my UL 80,never had a bad nights sleep,i need a thicker air mat as im aside sleeper,some of the pads at £130 -£180 are just taking the piss money wise for what they are,id never pay that much,if my UL 80 fails I’ll get a UL 140,ive heard of issues with UL 80,s going down,but i can honestly say,I’ve never had a problem,and at £40 its a bargain 👍
Also,most the other pads are only 2.5 inches thick,which is no good for me,trekology is much thicker,great comparisons trev👍
Yea, I found it comfy, but having to carry two is a pain, and the last few times it's deflating was annoying through the night. I'm hoping that the thermarest will eliminate the need for extra pads (I certainly found it as comfy as the ul80) and knowing its got a lifetime guarantee, hopefully I won't have to fork out again... well, after I finally buy the large that is🤦♂️
Second😁
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Theres no way I'd pay 480 bar for a camping pad..I've got an oex that's spot on.
480 sounds a lot. I paid 160, but if added up all the pads previous to get there I've probably spent closer to 480!
@@SummitOrNothing yeah that's understandable but 480 is mental mate.love the channel as I'm a budgeting wildcamper too👍
Trev, here’s Luke’s latest video, a review of the Nemo which comes in many sizes, shapes and r values….
ruclips.net/video/f4GHZw-1ApQ/видео.html
Great video! Enjoyed it. You will be justifying a hilleberg any second now at this rate 😉😂🤣😁
Hahah! Not for the time being, but there may be an MSR on the horizon very soon!
@@SummitOrNothing wow!!!! That’s incredible. Is that a reaction to the vango soul that time?🤣 I can’t wait to finally be able to do one of the meet ups. So many bits of kit to show you! Even a inflatable hooped bivi prototype I found on eBay.
@@chrishanssen1980 haha... no, someone has one they bought but was too small for two so offering me first dibs. I'm picking it up tomorrow. Exciting Exciting. Sure we will get to meet up soon. I will keep the camps regular next year.
Hate to disappoint you but your R-value table is pure nonsens. R is a value for calculated heatloss. Putting a minimal usuable temperature on a mat is a joke. Sorry... FYI there's an excellent testingvid here : ruclips.net/video/e2H8EYHvF3U/видео.html
Bronze
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