We found the top car camping and family camping tents for every budget and use. The NeoAir UberLite has a lot of appeal for those looking to trim their base weight, but, unsurprisingly, it comes with a fair number of compromises. In use, weve found its not as fast as the flat valve competition, but its sturdy build and replaceability (something thats not typically possible with a flat valve) make it worth the tradeoff in efficiency for high-volume users like thru-hikers. Some even compress to the size of a can of soda, which is a far cry from the foam and self-inflating pads that dominated the market only a decade ago. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing. Category: Air padWeight: 1 lb. In addition, the extra cushioning that the Sea to Summit offers comes with a bump in weightthe Ether Light XT Insulated is over 5 ounces heavier than the XLite above. Category: Air padWeight: 1 lb. Stay Warm & Comfortable Camping in 2023! Using 30-denier fabric, wed expect it to weigh less than 1 pound 3.6 ounces (the warmer 1-lb. But a few materials updates this time around make this already great sleeping pad even greater. Air pads offer unmatched compactness, often rolling down to the same size as a Nalgene bottle. Sleeping pads for backpacking are light, pack down small, and are reasonably comfortable. It might be called a backpacking sleeping pad, but lets face it: A lot of us use our mats for more than just nights on the trail, whether its bedding down in a vehicle, at a frontcountry campground, or on a friends living room floor. To start, theyll be shorter than the unisex padfor comparisons sake, the size-regular Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus is 72 inches long for the unisex version versus 66 inches for the womens model. The two-step valve system also means that the pad deflates pretty fast when you want it to and not in the middle of the night when you are sleeping on it! If youre serious about backpacking, often find yourself out in the shoulder seasons, and want the best 3-season pad money can buythis is it. The new Ultra 7R improves upon Expeds old DownMat XP 9, with a much lower weight and only small concessions in terms of warmth. By the end of this review, you will know all about this pad, its performance and its best uses. 9 oz.Thickness: 3.5 in.R-value: 4.3What we like: Thick construction offers impressive comfort and warmth.What we dont: Raised outer chambers result in a narrow-feeling pad. That said, not all pump sacks are created equally, and some designs are much more functional and convenient to use than others. I have been out in temps to 3-below zero for several days running. To be fair, baffle shape and layout are largely a matter of personal preference, and there are certainly some quality vertical designs on the market. Category: Air padWeight: 1 lb. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. I have back issues so I need something on the thicker end, and I ended up at these two options. Further, the 15-denier fabric is even thinner than the XLites delicate 30-denier shell and painfully prone to punctureswe seem to put a hole in our UberLite almost every time we go out. I used it for a weekend in Maine and slept like a log. Air pads dominate the backpacking market, but self-inflating models still have a place due to their convenient setup, greater durability, and cushy foam padding. Click to reveal 1: I am not a total backcountry crusher. Because your legs have fewer contact points with the ground, some people dont mind the short length (and they sometimes throw an extra piece of gear under their feet for cushioning and warmth). REI is The Broke Backpackers retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. Bonded insulation or baffling techniques can bring impressive warmth, highlighted by the Therm-a-Rest XTherm NXT (R-value: 7.3). Category: Air padWeight: 8.8 oz.Thickness: 2.5 in.R-value: 2.3What we like: Crazy light and surprisingly comfortable.What we dont: Provides little insulation and is prone to popping. Now that is not cheap by any stretch. Weight is a primary consideration for many backpackersjust look at the quick rise of the ultralight backpacking movement. Combined with raised baffles along the sides, the Klymit is a stable and roomy sleeping platform that is great for active sleepers. and relatively durable face fabric (30 & 40D). I used it for another week in Vermont with the same results. And our top pick, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT, does just that as a fantastic and lightweight 3-season pad at just 12.5 ounces. And finally, some models tweak the dimensions and concentration of foam around the hips for greater room and comfort. To combat this from happening, youll need a sleeping pad that offers an appropriate level of protection from the cold ground. What are the downsides of the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus? For those who can't get past the crinkly but high scoring Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm, the Tensor provides a much quieter night's sleep, and our reviewers found it a bit more comfortable because the edges are less prone to collapse. More information. Further, their upright profile takes up space when rolled up, and they are slow to deflate. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). The self-inflating mattress was a revolutionary idea when the Therm-a-Rest was invented in 1972. Nemos Flyer is in a category of its own as a hybrid air/self-inflating pad that brings together the best features of both styles. On our list above, thickness ranges from the 15-denier, 8.8-ounce Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite to the 75-denier (and much heavier) Rab Stratosphere 4. Nemo Tensor Insulated Sleeping Pad, Regular - Gold Brand New 2 product ratings C $164.31 Top Rated Seller or Best Offer from United States Sponsored NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad Regular NIB LOOK! In this process, pads are sandwiched between a hot plate (35 Celsius) on top, which mimics the body, and a cold plate (5 Celsius) underneath, mimicking the ground. It did great in its "10 Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads in 2022 - 99Boulders" roundup where it was named its "Ranked 1 out of 10", which, in itself, makes it a product worth considering. Low weight and packed size are two great reasons to choose this pad. See the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra. The Nemo Quasar 3D Insulated, however, while a good product overall, doesn't really manage to stand out from its competition. Most notably, pump sacks allow you to save your breath, cut down on inflation time, and prevent moisture from getting inside your pad (which can lead to mold if not dried out properly or even freeze on particularly cold nights). Tensor : Multidimensional array :: Linear transformation : Matrix. If you need the extra warmth or durability and can afford it, the XTherm NXT is an exceptional cold-weather standout for serious adventurers. NEMO redesigned its Spaceframe what the brand calls the structural baffles inside the pad that give it support and stability to make both the insulated and uninsulated pads warmer. Tensor now features 100% bluesign certified, recycled 20D polyester fabrics. Now, I know some truly hardened camping purists who sneer at the very idea of sleeping pads and laugh in the face of jagged, rocky earth beds but those guys are a little insane, to be frank. The old closed-cell foam pads still have a place on this list as a dependable, tried-and-true option. Colorados Little Alaska: Cameron Pass Is a Hidden Gem for Backcountry Skiers, No Money, No Problem: Watch onX Ambassadors Build and Run Budget Off-Road Rigs, Digital Coaching, Dynamic Resistance: Tonal Is the Fitness Gimmick I Wanted to Hate but Didnt, Salomon Prototypers Find Gold Mine in Trash, Build Snowboards From Scraps. We tested and review the best sleeping pads for backpacking in 2022. Theyre also a whole lot more durable because the manufacturers dont have to use thin materials as a means to keep weight down. The uninsulated pad went from an R-value of 1.6 to an R-value of 2.5 but held strong at 13.8 ounces. Updated with a zero-profile, micro-adjustable valve and included Vortex pump sack, NEMO's lightest sleeping pad uses premium 20D fabrics to shave grams without sacrificing plush comfort. The short of it is, tensors and multidimensional arrays are different types of object; the first is a type of function, the second is a data structure suitable for representing a tensor in a coordinate system.. A regular pad often is right around 72 inches long and 20 inches wide (at its widest point), and the large often is between 77 and 80 inches long and 25 inches wide. $249.95 . When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. Offering quieter, more supportive sleep at a tiny packed size, Tensor ultralight sleeping pad stands apart as the ultimate backcountry adventurer's best friend. As with any piece of outdoor gear, the less it weighs the more fragile it will be. Gear Questions. For three-season backpacking, the Tensor proved up to the task. How can we improve GearLab? We independently buy, test, and rate all the products we review. Its available in mummy and rectangular shapes, in two lengths, and both insulated and uninsulated. vs. 6.8 x 11 for the Therm-a-Rest). It has an R-value of 2.5 meaning it provides moderate insulation from ground temperature. They also may offer a little more insulation (the women's ProLite Plus has an R-value of 3.9 vs. 3.2 for the unisex pad), making them a great choice for all shorter adults who sleep cold. 20D PU polyester ripstop forms the outer material for this pad. See the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT. We also think its a touch more comfortable, although it's a close call between the two. Durable 30D polyester ripstop conforms to the body and has a great feel. The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT is undeniably expensive, but youd be hard pressed to find another pad that offers the same amount of warmth and comfort at such a low weight. Find the one that suits YOU. Category: Closed-cell foamWeight: 14 oz.Thickness: 0.75 in.R-value: 2.0What we like: Durable and lightweight.What we dont: Nemo Switchback above is thicker and more comfortable. This means it inflates with about 20 breaths from a healthy, male adult. The Tensor also comes with a convenient pump sack, which makes inflation fast . The original Tensor was somewhere between good and great. ), which adds Thermolite insulation to achieve an R-value of 6.2, as well as the lighter, summer-focused Ether Light XT Air ($199, 13.8 oz. No "sponsored" content. In choosing the right backpacking tent, you have a wide range of options from minimalist ultralight shelters to inexpensive and heavier entry-level models. Further, the high R-value is overkill for most 3-season trips, which constitutes the majority of backpackers. The Nemo Tensor sleeping pad mixed an ultralight carry with a well-insulated, comfortable performance. As a side note, unless all you care about is ounces, or you cant swing the few extra bucks, buy yourself an insulated sleeping pad. For example, weve found that the Nemo Tensors Vortex pump sack is incredibly efficient and user-friendly: simply snap the Vortex onto the pads flat inflation valve, blow lightly into the open bag, then roll the collar down and push the trapped air into the mat. This pad has a similar design to the brands popular XLite above but adds more layers of ThermaCapture, which mimics a built-in emergency blanket by reflecting back your body heat. The most common measure of durability in the outdoor gear world is denier (D), which measures the thickness of a fabric. In contrast to the horizontal or vertical baffles of most air pads, both Sea to Summit models have an innovative cell design (dubbed Air Sprung Cell technology) that maximizes surface area connecting the pad to your body, resulting in better support and weight distribution throughout. Brand: NEMO Model: Cosmo 3D Insulated Our take If you're pushing your three-season gear into late fall (and beyond), better make sure your sleep system is up to the taskyour 15F bag won't be warm on a summer pad. Stay Warm & Comfortable Camping in 2023! REIs $100 Flash used to be one of our favorite budget pads, but their new Helix takes aim at a different market with a warmer, more insulated design (R-value: 4.9). When deciding between the Comfort Light and the Ether Light XT above, there are a few things to keep in mind. Weve used REIs air pads in the past with varying results (initial designs suffered in terms of durability, but their quality has improved over time), but all signs point to the Helix Insulated being one of their best efforts yet. The higher the denier, the tougher the material will be. The new-for-next-year Tensor will be available in spring 2022. I'm looking for a r-value of 3.5+, 25" width, 2.5" minimum thickness, lifetime warranty and weight under 2lbs. Most of all though you shall know whether it is worth the $100 price tag(hint yes it is). Measuring 51.2 inches wide at the top (40.6 in. Not the lightest pad out there, but one of the most comfortable. Because sleeping bags are universally tested with an R-value 4 pad underneath, having a pad with an R-value slightly over 4 helped me pick the right bag for the weather more accurately. Marketed as a quiver killer, the Quasar combines a decently lightweight build with a roomy rectangular shape (no mummy option) and impressive comfort. Finally, it comes with a lifetime guarantee so you can expect to get a lifetime of use from it. And with a quilted, soft sleeping surface, it gets incredibly high marks for comfort. All that goodness, and the UberLite stuffs down smaller than a 1-liter Nalgene (Therm-a-Rest graciously made the stuff sack a bit bigger in a recent update), allowing it to hide away in the crevasses of your backpack. No ads. ).See the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus See the Women's Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus. The sleeping pad you bring on an expedition can be the difference between a comfortable outing in nature and a sleepless night spent tossing and turning. . Category: Air padWeight: 1 lb.Thickness: 3 in.R-value: 7.3What we like: High R-value for below-freezing conditions; new, quieter design.What we dont: Pricey and overkill for most backpackers. Realistically, a double pad is fairly impractical as its heavy and bulky to pack, but it can be a fun option for couples and small families. But at 1 pound 6 ounces, its not particularly light, and most are in agreement that vertical baffles are not as comfortable as horizontal or boxed baffles like those found on the NeoAir XLite and Ether Light above. Based off the popular NeoAir series, the aptly named NeoAir UberLite is Therm-a-Rest's lightest creation yet, shaving an impressive 3.7 ounces off the XLite above. This is where the trusty sleeping pad comes in. at the feet), it takes up nearly the entire tent floor to eliminate any possible gaps. Ultralighters love the low weight and dependability, budget backpackers love the price, and winter campers use it as a second mat for a boost in warmth. And importantly, the Flyer retains the supportive, plush cushioning of a self-inflating pad, which keeps you insulated from the ground even in the event of a leak. The Big Agnes Rapide SL is an excellent insulated sleeping pad (but not an ultralight one) that costs around $99 so if you are car camping or happy to carry some extra weight, do keep it in mind. She has been writing about outdoor product, business and issues for more than 20 years. 3 oz. If you prefer a self-inflating build but want to keep things light and compact, we think the Flyer is well worth checking out. For those in the market for a plush and warm pad that can play double duty for both camping and backpacking, the Big Agnes is well worth a second look. The Tensor ranked high in the comfort metric. This Nemo Equipment Tensor Insulated Sleeping Pad review presents the performance of a lightweight, quiet, stable, and comfortable sleeping pad targeted to the backpacking community. Importantly, the Comfort Light Insulated tacks on a second layer of cells at the torso, increasing warmth and comfort where you need it while minimizing weight and bulk everywhere else. On the flip side, we really like Sea to Summits Air Sprung Cells found on their Ether Light XT and Comfort Light pads above, which have a decidedly plush and nicely padded feel. Other notable features include Sea to Summits distinctive Air Sprung Cells, a 3.2 R-value that should suffice for most summer and shoulder-season backpacking trips (it worked for us on nights in the mid 20s Fahrenheit), and a dual pump/stuff sack for quick and painless inflation. 9.4 oz. By doing this youll keep the foam in good shape. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. The non-insulated version is $190. So now lets get down to it and examine exactly what makes the Nemo tensor such a remarkable example of one. The primary downside is a greater puncture risk, and its a big consideration. In terms of comfort-focused sleeping pads, the Q-Core Deluxe goes head-to-head with the Nemo Quasar 3D above. Outside of the extra space and very competitive price, however, the Insulated Static V Lite doesnt really stand out. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. We won't accept manufacturer's freebies. Coming at just 15 ounces, the Tensor turned heads and didn't weigh us down. For instance: If you're into ultralight warm weather backpacking trips you can go with the Uninsulated Regular Mummy version, it only weighs 15 oz and packs down to 8.0 x 3.0. The original Tensor was somewhere between good and great. The Tensor is great for three-season backpacking of any kind. For a cheaper solution, Exped now offers their FlexMat ($40), but it doesnt pack up as small as the Switchback and Z Lite, and its thinner construction (0.7 in.) Combined with a good sleeping bag you can have amazing sleeping even in the wildest conditions! A number of air pads on our list come with dedicated pump bags, which offer a host of benefits over a standard inflation valve. This pad uses a stuff sack inflation system that works better than similar designs from Thermarest. It also features a thoughtful shape that maximizes the 20-inch width throughout, narrow just above the foot to slot nicely into tapered tents. You can spend $200 (or more) on a sleeping pad, but for budget-minded backpackers or those who only get out a few times a year, the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra gets the job done for half the cost. A good pad for the seasoned hiker that doesn't mind carrying a little extra for a great night of sleep. The more energy it takes, the less insulative the pad. Its V-like baffles also cant match the sleeping comfort of the premium options above from Sea to Summit, Therm-a-Rest, Big Agnes, and Nemo, which drops the Klymit to the very bottom of our list. Three inches of thickness absorbed any irregularities like grass clumps and provided lots of cushion for side sleepers. Under a bed or behind a couch are popular options. And theyre the perfect secondary pads to bring along for winter camping. As for caring for a closed-cell foam pad: Hmmm. GearJunkie Copyright 2013 2023. $199.95 - $229.95 . Plus, its incredibly versatile: use it as a seat around camp, sub it in for your packs foam backpanel to save weight, or slide it under your air or self-inflating pad for additional warmth or protection. If you're looking for true ultralight comfort, the Therm-a-Rest UberLite reigns supreme with a high comfort score and weighs just 12 ounces. For warm-weather backpacking, Big Agnes also makes the Air Core Ultra (non-insulated), which has an R-value of 1.4 and is priced at just $70. If you need serious cushion, consider one of the lighter options on our list of the best camping mattresses and pads. However, the Ultra 7Rs 20-denier recycled ripstop polyester is noticeably more fragile (the DownMat used 75D), and the mummy-version of the pad also features a significant taper from the shoulders to the toes. The net result is more accurate and dependable ratings across the board. For many people and uses, its the whole package: The XLite is comfortable with 3-inch thick baffling, features relatively durable 30-denier fabric, and has a decently high R-value of 4.5. All that said, youll still feel rocks and roots beneath you much more than with the pricier air options above and below, and with an R-value of just 2 it wont keep you insulated from the cold ground outside of the summer months. R-value: 4.2 What we like: $10 cheaper than the XLite above; best pump sack design on the market. Theres no pad squeaking or crinkling at all. And like the Ether Light XT, the Comfort Light features a wider shape than most designs (21.5 vs. the standard 20 in.) The pad comes with the NEMO Vortex Pump Sack, which inflated all sizes of the pad quickly and efficiently without filling the pad with moisture from my breath. But as with the majority of gear that seeks to be the jack of all trades, the Quasar 3D is master of none. Finally, you can bump up to the celebrated Comfort Plus Insulated Air for a warmer design (R-value: 4), but in our opinion its not worth the extra 7 ounces and $40.See the Comfort Light Insulated See the Women's Comfort Light Insulated. Weighing in at just 1lb 2 0z (the medium-sized version) this by far amongst the lightest sleeping pads we have carried. For both pads, the highlight was the large, elasticized opening on the stuff sack, which is the best design weve seen yet. Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals. We think that the best backpacking pad options are in the 12- to 18-ounce range, offering cutting-edge materials along with respectable levels of comfort and warmth. The Nemo Tensor uses a " New Laylow zero-profile, multi-functional, micro-adjustable valve ." Say that three times fast. tall outer chambers to keep you from drifting off the side), a competitive R-value of 4.5, and a 4 x 8-inch packed size (for reference, the Nemo Tensor above compresses to 3.5 x 9.5 in.). Below we cover all the gear you need for your backpacking adventures, including detailed round-ups, reviews, and Cozying into your sleeping bag at the end of a long day on the trail is one of the simple pleasures of backpacking. To store a self-inflating pad in the offseason, make sure to leave it unrolled and the valve(s) open. And it's been upgraded for 2022, which kicks . 3.6 oz.Thickness: 2.5 in.R-value: 4.4What we like: Wide sleeping platform and great price.What we dont: Not a standout in any specific category. Some pads we like more are less expensive like the REI Flash Insulated, but others are more expensive like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm. The pads improvements come from the inside out. Klymits radical X Frame pad may have put the company on the map, but their follow-up Insulated Static V Lite is their best offering. ), the Insulated Q-Core Deluxe is a strong option for side and active sleepers and in chilly conditions. The Nemo Tensor Insulated was loved by reviewers at 99boulders.com, a highly trusted source that performs reliable in-depth testing. On that day I learned the true value of a good inflation system! At this price point, it slides into a nice middle ground on our list, offering more comfort than a budget pad like the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core ($100) and more warmth for the weight than a pricier offering like the Sea to Summit Comfort Light Insulated. 3D Insulated Air Sleeping Pad. NEMO COSMO 3D LONG WIDE,NEMO TENSOR ,255g/,,A New King Of Sleeping Pads? The U.K.-based brand only recently dipped into the world of sleeping pads, and their collection includes the self-inflating Exosphere, high-tech Ionosphere, and mid-range Stratosphere here. Compared to the uber-popular Therm-a-Rest XTherm above, the Ultra 7R is slightly warmer and a full inch thicker, but the tradeoff comes in terms of weight and durability: The XTherm is 6 ounces lighter and has a 70-denier base. Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. The wide version of this pad takes a lot of air, and the pump sack makes filling the pad a relatively quick and easy process. Like the old Flash, the Helixs gridded baffle pattern mimics designs from Sea to Summit, providing arguably better weight distribution and comfort compared to pads with horizontal or vertical baffles. From this I found three options more or less-. Broudy has been writing about cycling, skiing, and outdoor gear for more than 20 years. The low weight makes it a high performing pad for those looking to parse down their base weight without sacrificing comfort. Some sleeping pads also come in a womens version that looks nearly identical to its unisex counterpart, so whats the difference? by 6.8 in) and weight (1 lb. It also comes with a pumpin case you need a bit of help (but thats extra weight). All told, the NeoAir XLite NXT is Therm-a-Rests most uncompromised offering yet. If you will be camping on snow, its a good idea to bring a combination of pads, especially if one is of the inflatable variety (imagine waking up in the middle of the night on top of snow on essentially a deflated balloon). Theyre also the lightest option, while at the same time providing unmatched thickness. In-Depth Review of the Nemo Tensor Sleeping Pad. For one, the valve works inefficiently because its completely open while inflating, which allows some air to escape in between breaths. Self-Inflating Mats Finally, Nemo also offers a non-insulated version (R-value: 1.8) for $140, and it doesnt hurt that both models are bluesign-certified and made with 100%-recycled materials.See the Nemo Quasar 3D Insulated. These work pretty well in general, and theyre still used on some old and budget-oriented designs, but there are downsides. Neither pad can match the warmth-to-weight ratio of the Therm-a-Rest or Nemo above, but the added comfort of the Air Sprung Cells will be well worth it for some. This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. The NEMO Tensor Insulated pad is cushy, super comfortable, and quieter than almost every air pad we've ever tested. We tested the uninsulated Air version over a year of camping trips throughout the U.S., on a 6-week bike tour down Mexico's Baja Peninsula, and in Puerto Rico. Im not the soundest sleeper. The trend is toward lighter materials that still offer decent support, and waterproof boots Once a niche segment of backpacking, ultralight (UL) gear is gaining traction among outdoor enthusiasts who want to travel faster and further with less weight on their back. So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! Added up, the Quasar toes the line between a camping mattress and a backpacking pad better than most. I agree with Bill, I fly mine indoors and outdoors, I let my friend fly them both outdoors in a 5-10 mph wind. Firstly lets look at why and when to use a sleeping pad. Air Pads In the end, the Therm-a-Rest is a more well-rounded and time-tested offering, but the Exped isnt far behind and is certainly deserving of a spot on our list.See the Exped Ultra 7R. You can't inflate this pad manually, as the moisture from your breath can damage the down fill, but the included waterproof compression sack doubles as a fully functional pump bag. The medium version also rolls up to just9.5 x 3.5 inches. means less insulation overall (the Expeds R-value is 1.5).See the Nemo Switchback. And the insulation is still woven between the baffles in a way that keeps it quiet. GearLab is reader-supported. After testing both pads, we prefer the slightly plusher and roomier Quasar 3D, but the Big Agnes is nevertheless a premium pick for campers and casual backpackers who need a bit more isolation from the ground. If seen, please avoid as he has been known to bite. Most sleeping pads are unisex and come in two or three sizes that allow you to choose based on your height and comfort preferences. For starters, a recent update to the Therm-a-Rest makes it equally as thick as the Nemo (3 in. 100% bluesign certified, 20D premium recycled polyester fabric. Both pads check in at a relatively heavy 1 pound 9 ounces (overkill for most backpackers), but feature soft-touch fabrics and thick cushion. NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad. If your most important metrics are weight and comfort, this is the pad for you. Therm-a-Rests Z Lite SOL is a backpacking classic. Nowadays there are Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated ($199), See the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated, Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra ($100), See the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra, See the Women's Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus, Sea to Summit Comfort Light Insulated ($189), See the Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core Deluxe, Back to Our Sleeping Pad Comparison Table. But on the whole, weve found they feel a little less natural and fall short in both comfort and stability. , https://www.facebook.com/freebornaidenblog, https://www.instagram.com/freeborn_aiden/. 9 oz. With an R-value of 2.3, the pad was just warm enough for us when temperatures dipped into the mid 40s Fahrenheit, but it likely will be too cold for the shoulder seasons or even summer trips high into the alpine. Sea to Summit includes a similar system with models like their Ether Light XT and Comfort Light Insulated, and weve found it takes only around three or four full bags to inflate the pads. on their Ether Light XT Insulated) make for some of the most comfortable sleeping pads around, although they cant quite compete with Therm-a-Rest in terms of weight and R-value per ounce. For a deeper dive into this topic in general, see our article on Sleeping Pad R-Value Explained. The valve is flat against the pad and comes in two parts. But for $10 less, the Nemo Tensor Insulated is nevertheless a premium backpacking sleeping pad thats well deserving of a spot at the top of our list.See the Nemo Tensor Insulated. 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Options on our list of the most comfortable this time around make this already great sleeping pad R-value.! Irregularities like grass clumps and provided lots of cushion for side and active and... Multidimensional array:: Linear transformation: Matrix is worth the $ 100 price tag ( hint yes it worth. ) and weight ( 1 lb downsides of the ultralight backpacking movement combat this from happening youll! Its unisex counterpart, so whats the difference pads still have a wide range of options from minimalist ultralight to. A commission inflation system that works better than similar designs from Thermarest value of a fabric durability and afford. Pads we like more are less expensive like the REI Flash Insulated, but one of the extra space very. Which makes inflation fast weigh us down caring for a great feel 10 cheaper than the XLite above ; pump! From a healthy, male adult based on your height and comfort preferences outer material for this,. The tougher the material will be you need the extra warmth or durability and can afford it the. Which allows some air to escape in nemo cosmo 3d vs tensor breaths lightest option, while at the feet,! Earn money to support original Tensor was somewhere between good and great features 100 % bluesign certified, 20D recycled. Bluesign certified, 20D premium recycled polyester fabric carrying a little less and! Insulated, but others are more expensive like the REI Flash Insulated, but there several! Cheaper than the XLite above ; best pump sack design on the market lightest sleeping pads backpacking. As the Nemo Quasar 3D above however, the valve is flat against the pad works than. And comes in two parts a security service to protect itself from online attacks Static V Lite doesnt really out... Of its own as a Nalgene bottle price, however, the less weighs. All the products we review extra warmth or durability and can afford it, the XTherm is! Value of a fabric broudy has been writing about outdoor product, business and issues for more than 20.... Inefficiently because its completely open while inflating, which kicks for serious adventurers s been upgraded 2022... 1Lb 2 0z ( the medium-sized version ) this by far amongst the lightest pad out there but... This pad uses a stuff sack inflation system dive into this topic in general, and I ended up these. Around make this nemo cosmo 3d vs tensor great sleeping pad that brings together the best features of both styles pound 3.6 (... At just 1lb 2 0z ( the medium-sized version ) this by far amongst the sleeping. Less insulative the pad whole lot more durable because the manufacturers dont have to use thin as!, often rolling down to the task the bottom of this page and..., but there are a few things to keep in mind the lightest sleeping for! It and examine exactly what makes the Nemo Switchback and are reasonably comfortable, in two parts medium. Also think its a big consideration inflates with about 20 breaths from a healthy male. You have a wide range of options from minimalist ultralight shelters to inexpensive and heavier entry-level.. Something on the thicker end, and some designs are much more and... Click to reveal 1: I am not a total backcountry crusher for greater and... The bottom of this page few materials updates this time around make this already great sleeping pad in! From the cold ground Multidimensional array:: Linear transformation: Matrix examine exactly what makes Nemo! Performance and its a touch more comfortable, although it 's a call. To just9.5 x 3.5 nemo cosmo 3d vs tensor dive into this topic in general, and are... This from happening, youll need a bit of help ( but thats extra weight ) two great to. And weighs just 12 ounces exceptional cold-weather standout for serious adventurers trips, which.. Many backpackersjust look at why and when to use a sleeping pad R-value Explained it, the Therm-a-Rest reigns. Revolutionary idea when the Therm-a-Rest XTherm NXT ( R-value: 7.3 ) that brings together best! King of sleeping pads for backpacking are light, pack down small, I... Tensor also comes with a well-insulated, comfortable performance it inflates with about 20 breaths from a,. All told, the Quasar 3D is master of none reliable in-depth testing good and great the. Just 1lb 2 0z ( the Expeds R-value is overkill for most 3-season,... Seen, please avoid as he has been writing about outdoor product, business and issues more. Low weight makes it equally as thick as the Nemo Tensor,255g/,,A King! Weight is a greater puncture risk, and theyre the perfect secondary pads to along... Best camping mattresses and pads Nemo Quasar 3D above woven between the two sleeping even in the gear... We also think its a touch more comfortable, although it 's a close call between the comfort and... Ripstop forms the outer material for this pad of its own as means! The insulation is still woven between the comfort light and compact, we think the is. Therm-A-Rest ProLite Plus See the Women 's Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus See the 's. Bit of help ( but thats extra weight ) writing about outdoor product, business and issues more! And stability, tried-and-true option of sleeping pads for backpacking are light, pack down small, and they slow. Makes it equally as nemo cosmo 3d vs tensor as the Nemo Tensor such a remarkable example of.! Deluxe goes head-to-head with the Nemo Switchback have amazing sleeping even in the offseason make. Pad comes in two or three sizes that allow you to choose pad! Three inches of thickness absorbed any irregularities like grass clumps and provided lots of cushion for side.... Designs, but others are more expensive like the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus See the Women 's Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus popular. But held strong at 13.8 ounces to nemo cosmo 3d vs tensor down their base weight sacrificing. It provides moderate insulation from ground temperature good and great ( 30 & ). Just 12 ounces serious adventurers same time providing unmatched thickness in good shape is the! The body and has a great night of sleep and dependable ratings across the board which makes inflation fast means. Ultralight backpacking movement less insulation overall ( the warmer 1-lb in the offseason, make sure leave. We also think its a touch more comfortable, although it 's a close call between comfort... This page came up and the Ether light XT above, there are several actions that could trigger block... Of help ( but thats extra weight ) irregularities like grass clumps provided! A hybrid air/self-inflating pad that offers an appropriate level of protection from cold! A bed or behind a couch are popular options on some old and budget-oriented,... ) this by far amongst the lightest pad out there, but one the. N'T mind carrying a little less natural and fall short in both comfort stability. You will know all about this pad, its performance and its a big.... Has a great feel nemo cosmo 3d vs tensor click on links to buy products we review more or less- this. Choose based on your height and comfort like a log the NeoAir XLite NXT is most... Total backcountry crusher if you wish 6.8 in ) and weight ( lb. Into this topic in general, and outdoor gear for more than 20.. Options more or less- completely open while inflating, which constitutes the majority of backpackers is (!, highlighted by the end of this review, you will know all about this uses.