Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking of 2024
The Top Comfortable, Lightweight Sleeping Pads for Backpacking
April 15th, 2024
Home > Gear Reviews > Backpacking
We’re just going to level with you: sleeping outside isn’t as cushy as sleeping inside. (Shocking, we know.)
But if you’re backpacking or bikepacking and trying to stay safe, warm, and as comfortable as possible, you’ll need a sleeping pad to insulate you from the ground. After checking dozens of review sites and hundreds of customer reviews - and considering our own testing experiences - we put together a list of top-notch sleeping pads for backpacking.
Looking for the best overall? We recommend the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT, a delightful inflatable backpacking sleeping pad that delivers mid-range insulation at a low weight.
Sleep cold, or headed somewhere colder? Our pick for More Insulation is the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT, only three ounces heavier for nearly double the insulating power.
If you’re anxious to get out there but don’t have much to spend, we love the NEMO Switchback for its low price and low weight for a closed-cell foam pad. Finally, if you want to go all out in terms of comfort, check out our review of the newest Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft pad.
Going car camping? There are thicker inflatable mattresses than will feel more like your mattress at home. See our guide to The Best Camping Mattresses.
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Comparison Table
| SLEEPING PAD | TREELINE AWARD | WEIGHT (ounces) | TYPE | PUMP SACK? | R-VALUE | THICKNESS (inches) | PACKED SIZE (inches) | LENGTHS (inches) | WARRANTY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT | Best Overall Read why |
13.0 | Inflatable | Y | 4.5 | 3.0 | 9 x 4.1 | 66, 72, 77 | Limited lifetime |
| Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT | Best for Cold Read why |
16.0 | Inflatable | Y | 7.3 | 3.0 | 9 x 4.5 | 72, 77 | Limited lifetime |
| Nemo Tensor All Season Insulated Sleeping Pad | Most Comfortable Read why |
14.1 | Inflatable | Y | 5.4 | 3.5 | 4 x 10 inche | 72, 76 | Lifetime |
| NEMO Switchback | Best Foam Read why |
14.5 | Foam | N/A | 2.0 | 0.9 | 20 x 5.5 x 5 | 51, 72 | Lifetime |
| Sea To Summit Ultralight Air Insulated | Best for Side Sleepers Read why |
16.9 | Inflatable | Y | 3.1 | 2.0 | 9 x 4 | 50, 66, 72, 78 | Lifetime guarantee |
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir is our overall winner for best backpacking sleeping pad. Photo by Liz Thomas
The Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads
The Best Overall Backpacking Sleeping Pad: Therm-A-Rest Neoair Xlite Nxt
R-Value: 4.5 (rated for 4-seasons)
Thickness: 3”
Weight: 12.5 oz (6-foot length)
Inflation: 25-40 breaths or comes with Pumpsack
Lengths: 66”, 72”, 72”-wide, 77”
What we liked: lightweight, great insulation and durability
What we didn't like: width
A perennial favorite of backpackers, thru-hikers, and bikepackers alike, no list of best sleeping pads for backpacking would be complete without the inflatable Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT. This bright yellow beaut is lightweight, with the Regular coming in at 12.5 ounces, and packs down to about the size of a Nalgene. With the best r-value insulation we’ve seen on a pad of this weight (essentially, 4-season), it’ll keep you warm, too.
It comes in four lengths-Short (66”), Regular (72”), Regular Wide (72”), and Large (77”), with the Regular Wide and Large also having a bit more width (25” vs. 20” for the other models). Each of the sizes is tapered at the foot to fit into tents that are similarly tapered. In our measurements, the new NXT version is even wider at the shoulders, improving on the design from earlier editions.
Depending on your lung capacity, in our tests, the Regular takes about 25-35 breaths to fill--it can be inflated using a pump sack. The last two iterations of this pad have comes with TwinLock and WingLock valves (read all about Valves and Pump sacks later in the story) that make inflating the pad relatively easy.
The low weight, great insulation, and durability of the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT-one of which went 12,000 miles’ worth of nights in the backcountry—is absolutely worth it.
You'll find the NeoAir on our Staff Picks article on Our Favorite PCT Gear.
Compare Prices On The Neoair Xlite Nxt
The 2020 Neoair XLite on a backpacking loop in the Sierra. Photo by Liz Thomas
Thickness
The newest version is thicker than previous versions—3” vs. 2.5”. At 3 inches thick, the XLite NXT is great for back, stomach, and side sleepers. The updated model includes changes to the baffles to improve the nestling in experience for side sleepers. Our own side-sleeping testers haven’t had issues bottoming out, even after thousands of miles and dozens of nights hiking on this pad.
Warmth and insulation
With an R-value of 4.5, most 3-season backpackers will find the NeoAir XLite NXT good year-round. Our testers have taken the older version (rated at an r-value of 4.2) into the teens on dozens of nights. Although we would’ve preferred the better-insulated XTherm for such conditions, we survived. We think the new NeoAir NXT with a r-value of 4.5 will feel even warmer.
Who else likes it
While review sites don’t tend to agree on much, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT was a commonality between all the sites we reviewed, receiving much praise. Wirecutter/New York Times in particular mentioned that the surface of the pad, rather than being slippery and hard to stay on, like some air pad models, was grippy throughout the night, making it easier for slick sleeping bags to find purchase and not slide off. (Full disclosure: Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas wrote the original version of their story.)
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT packs down to the size of a one liter Nalgene water bottle.
Width
If we’re being nitpicky, though, Outdoor Gear Lab mentioned that some testers felt like the previous edition of the XLite was more narrow than the stated 20”, making it less comfortable than it otherwise could be.
We ran our measurements on the new NXT version and it is wider (22” by our measurements). Both the old and new versions are listed at 20” wide. We think the 20” number is an average across the length of the pad from shoulders to feet. The new pad seems wider at the shoulders and narrower at the feet. And we much prefer these new dimensions.
Our testers agreed when field testing, though our ruler shows the width is exactly 20”. To appease these complaints, Therm-a-Rest introduced the Regular Wide size, which has a 25” width for the 72” model.
Inflation
As with all inflatable pads, it’s going to take some huffin’ and puffin’ to fill the NeoAir NXT. Therm-a-Rest includes the 1.8 oz pump sack (on our scale) or the 2.3 oz-before-batteries NeoAir Micro Pump.
Sound
In the past, the XLite was noted for its “crinkliness”- the material inside the XLite that provides most of its insulation is loud, and sometimes causes light sleepers to wake up when they change positions. However, this has changed with the NeoAir XLite NXT, as the manufacturer claims an 83% reduction in noise. Our testers (who admittedly are hard sleepers in the backcountry) have put in 30 nights on the most recent model and haven’t noticed crinkling sounds.
Interested in backpacking gear? See our Backpacking section for our most popular stories.
Backpacker, guide, and Treeline Review writer Duncan Cheung from Off Trail On Track tests the Neo-Air Xtherm sleeping pad on a winter trip. Photo courtesy Duncan Cheung.
The Best Sleeping Pad for Cold Sleepers: Therm-A-Rest Neoair Xtherm Nxt
R-Value: 7.3 (rated to below -40F)
Thickness: 3”
Weight: 16 oz (6-foot length)
Inflation: 25-40 breaths or comes with Pumpsack
Lengths: 66”, 72”
What we liked: among the best warmth to weight ratio, highly insulated, great for stomach sleepers, What we didn't like: price
Almost as popular as the NeoAir XLite, the inflatable Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT is the best backpacking sleeping pad for winter camping or if you sleep cold.
At only three ounces heavier than the XLite - 16 ounces instead of 13 - the XTherm provides a whopping R-value of 7.3, which Therm-a-Rest suggests is good for temperatures down to -40F(!). Plus, it has the same packed size as the XLite - about the size of a Nalgene.
Compare Prices On The Neoair Xtherm Nxt
The XTherm NXT (top with yellow valve) is a thicker pad than the old XTherm (red). It has a higher r-value, too.
Thickness and comfort
At 3 inches thick, the newest iteration of this pad is solid for side sleepers and back sleepers. But stomach sleepers will benefit the most from this pad. About 50% of a stomach sleeper’s warmth is derived from the R-value of both a compressed sleeping bag’s insulation (generally negligible) and the sleeping pad you choose. If you’re a stomach sleeper, a higher R-value air pad like the XTherm might help you sleep warmer.
Durability and warranty
The NeoAir has a 30D thickness to prevent against punctures. In addition, it comes with a Lifetime Warranty for repairs–one that Treeline writers have used multiple times. We also were impressed how Therm-a-Rest washed and repaired PCT thru-hikers' sleeping pads on site at PCT Days in 2023.
Treeline editor Liz Thomas uses the pump sack to inflate the XTherm to make it easier to inflate the pad without so many breaths. Photo by Brian Davidson.
Inflation
The XTherm requires a similar number of breaths to fill as the XLite (25-35)--though the newest version can be inflated using the included 1.8 oz pump sack. In the last two versions of the XTherm, it comes with TwinLock and WingLock valves (read all about valves and pump sacks later in the story) that make inflating the pad relatively easy. The XTherm comes in three sizes: Regular (20” x 72”), Large (25” x 77”), and Regular Wide (25”x 72”).
Width
We ran our measurements on the new NXT version and it is wider (22” by our measurements). Both the old and new versions are listed at 20” wide. We think the 20” number is an average across the length of the pad from shoulders to feet. The new pad seems wider at the shoulders and narrower at the feet. And we much prefer these new dimensions.
The Therm-A-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT provides a 4-season option for just 3 more ounces. Here, we tested the XTherm on a late season trip at altitude in the Sierra. Photo by Duncan Cheung
Insulation
The XTherm is a good choice for those looking to extend their backpacking gear system into the shoulder season (early spring and fall) or into the winter.
Our own testers have used this pad from snowshoeing in the Sierra in the winter to October thru-hikes of the Superior Hiking Trail in northern Minnesota. It was even a surprising favorite gear item for a fall thru-hike of the Arizona Trail so we could get away with carrying a less heavy-duty sleeping bag.
It can be paired with a 4-Season Tent for winter backpacking, ski touring, or overnight snowshoe trips.
While no single piece of gear is enough to keep you safe in the elements in cold weather, the XTherm is the one gear item we crave for winter outings and you'll find on our winter camping gear list.
Be sure to read up on how to winter camp safely and how to dress for winter hiking before you head out on a cold weather trip.
Close-up on the valve system on the newest XTherm NXT.
Value
The biggest issue reviewers had with this pad? It’s pricey. It’s the most expensive pad on our list. Still, you get what you pay for, particularly with regard to the R-value and this pad’s durability; as the fabric is heavier than the XLite's, it’s also better able to take wear and tear.
We found a better warmth-to-weight ratio with the new Nemo Tensor Extreme, which has an R-value of 8.5 for 17oz in the mummy version. That means it is better insulated than the XTherm for 1 oz of additional weight. It’s $10 less expensive as well. We’re currently testing the Nemo Tensor Extreme side-by-side with the XTherm and will report back.
Most Comfortable Sleeping Pad: Nemo Tensor All Season Insulated Sleeping Pad
R-Value: 5.4
Thickness: 3.5”
Weight: 14.1 oz
Inflation: Inflatable
Lengths: 72”, 76"
What we liked: supportive comfortable for all sleepers, good warmth to weight ratio, slightly less expensive than other pads
What we didn't like: increased height means bigger distance to roll off pad, height puts you closer to sloped walls on tarp tent systems
The Nemo Tensor was one of our favorite sleeping pads when we first started testing sleeping pads years ago. Our testing over the years proved it was ideal for side sleepers and felt more comfortable than all the other pads we tested.
Its newest iteration–the Nemo Insulated Tensor All-Season Mummy —released in October 2023, is lighter, has better insulation, and is more durable than previous versions, giving the Nemo Tensor Insulated a top award for most comfortable sleeping pad. Plus, it's even more comfortable with an additional 0.5 inches of thickness.
We also like that it is available in several shapes, including mummy and rectangular. The increased R-value and the divots in the pad help improve heat and are more supportive. This is great for side sleepers in particular, but we believe this is the most comfortable sleeping pad for anyone.
Compare Prices Of The Nemo Tensor All Season Insulated Sleeping Pad
Updates
The newest version of the Nemo Tensor Mummy has seen some substantial updates. It has a higher R-value, lighter weight, and additional 0.5 inches of height.
It has 40D fabric on the bottom and 20F fabric on the top, which increases durability compared to the previous version. This fixes an issue we had with the previous model.
Comfort
We've had multiple testers take the Nemo Tensor from alpine climbing trips in the Trinity Alps to off-trail backpacking trips in the Sierra to a thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail. Every single person has been surprised at how much more comfortable it is than other inflatable sleeping pads, including the NeoAir.
The divots work well for side-sleepers, feeling like a foam mattress. We didn't bottom out on this pad, either. The baffling system on the Nemo pads are generally more comfortable for most sleepers.
While some backpackers reported sliding off the NeoAir XLite NXT or NeoAir XTherm, the quilt-like dimples on the Nemo Tensor keep you in place.
Weight
Most backpackers felt that the 1 oz weight penalty on the Nemo Tensor compared to the NeoAir was worth it. The previous version of this pad weighed 14.5 oz, so the new version actually weighs 0.4 oz less.
It's worth noting that Nemo reported some issues with under-reporting weight discrepancies, so we're using a number based on an average weight from a large sample of pads: 14.5 oz for the regular mummy.
R-value
Nemo has several versions of the Tensor and we noticed the difference in R-value. When purchasing the Nemo Tensor, be sure to get the All Season insulated version, which has an r-value of 5.2. Their naming convention is somewhat confusing and the Nemo Tensor Ultralight Trail has an r-value of 2.8 oz, which felt cold when taken to higher elevations.
Nemo's R-value is independently tested and verified. However, some testers found that the Tensor All Season Insulated doesn't feel as warm as other pads.
Height
3.5 inches of height is a double-edged sword. If you're a side sleepers whose hip bottoms out on thinner pads, that extra cushion may be appreciated. However, other testers found themselves rolling off such a high pad. Others complained that the height put their face directly against the sloping walls of their ultralight tarps.
Comparison to the NeoAir NXT and XTherm NXT
At Treeline Review, we like to put in a full backpacking season of testing before we make any grand statements. But given what we have seen so far, the Nemo Tensor All Season could easily unseat one of our long-time winners.
The Nemo Tensor All Season Insulated mummy is $10 less expensive than similar mummy sleeping pads (the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir and XTherm) with an r-value between the two and weight between the two. It has a 40D fabric thickness on the bottom (vs. the NeoAir's 30D) but 20D on top. It weighs 1 oz more.
So is it worth getting over the NeoAir NXT?
If you're a side-sleeper or roll off horizontal baffle sleeping pads, you may prefer the dimple of the Nemo Tensor All Season. If comfort is your main concern and you think you'd benefit from 3.5" of height, the Nemo Tensor is our recommended option.
Best Foam Sleeping Pad: Nemo Switchback
R-Value: 2
Thickness: 0.9”
Weight: 10.5 oz (short) and 14.5 oz (regular)
Inflation: n/a
Lengths: 51” and 72”
Width: 20”
What we liked: affordable, more space-efficient than closed cell foam pads, durability that comes from foam pads
What we didn't like: lower insulation
With so much love for inflatable sleeping pads out there, it’s easy to get sticker shock if you’re not prepared. (See: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT.) Closed cell foam pads are a much cheaper option, and in our opinion the best among them is the NEMO Switchback. It’s 14.5 ounces-lighter (and more durable) than the blue foam pad you can find at big box stores. Its lack of bulk and extra thickness put it ahead of our former winners for best closed cell foam pad, the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol.
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The Therm-A-Rest Z Lite (left) compared with the NEMO Switchback (right). The NEMO Switchback compresses to a more compact size. Photo courtesy Naomi Hudetz
Compact
Good for back, stomach, and side sleepers, what we love about the NEMO Switchback is that it packs down better than any other foam sleeping pad. The NEMO is actually thicker than other foam pads at 0.9 inches thick vs. our former winner’s 0.75 inches. But the NEMO Switchback is also more space efficient than other foam pads, including the Z Lite Sol. We were skeptical, but after purchasing a Nemo pad and carrying it for 1,200 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail, we’re convinced. (See our PCT Gear List & Strategy for more on how this pad performed over 2,700 miles of hiking).
The reduced bulk of the NEMO Switchback is a much-desired update to the classic foam pad design. Some backpackers and bikepackers especially don’t like foam sleeping pads because they take up so much room. Often, people strap them to the top or the bottom of their pack because there isn’t enough room for them inside. Foam pads don’t absorb water. But if it’s raining, you’ll have to wipe down your pad before bedtime.
Even when a sleeping pad doesn’t weigh a ton, extra bulk on the outside of the pack can mess with your balance or get caught on low-hanging trees or branches.
The Nemo Switchback is most compact than other foam pads while having the same amount of height and comfort. That compactness makes it easier to carry on the outside of the pack without getting in the way. Photo by Naomi Hudetz.
Comfort
The NEMO Switchback has taller closed-cell foam nodes than the Z-Lite Sol. Each bubble on the node captures air and warms it against your back, making the pad feel more comfortable. Although the NEMO has the same R-value as the Z-Lite Sol, since the pad is thicker, we think it feels more comfortable than the Z-Lite. The R-value of 2.0 works fine for most folks in the summer months.
The NEMO Switchback comes in two sizes: Regular (72” x 20” x 0.9”) and Short (51” x 20” x 0.9”). It can fit into the back panel of a backpack and can provide support if you decide to go frameless. As with all foam pads, if you need something smaller, you have the option of cutting off one or more of the folding panels to lighten up a bit.
Durability
A closed-cell foam offers some perks over inflatable pads. The primary perk is an inability to fail. While you still wouldn’t want to lay it out over pine cones, closed-cell foam is great for folks who are harsh on gear, as it can take more damage than an inflatable pad and not lose its insulating properties.
We strapped the Nemo Switchback on the back of our backpack while we were thru-hiking the PCT. Photo by Naomi Hudetz.
As such, it’s for youth, who may or may not see the difference between jumping on an inflatable pad and jumping on a bed. It’s also better for hammock users, who, if they use a pad instead of an underquilt, need it to curve to their bodies to be most comfortable. And if you’re headed out to the desert, where stabby, deflating things abound, or on an international trip where manufacturers can’t reach you with a replacement, it’s nice to have a pad that won’t let you down.
Using with two pads
Another option is to combine the NEMO Switchback with a second pad-ideally a short, inflatable, lightweight, low R-Value pad. Three great options are the Therm-a-Rest ProLite, the Sea To Summit Ultralight Air Mat (the non-insulated version), and the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite (the small is a ridiculously light 6 ounces).
All three offer torso length versions, which is all you need with the NEMO Switchback underneath. The R-values of two pads are additive, so combining one of these lower R-value pads with the NEMO Switchback results in a 3-season pad. And the threat of puncturing your inflatable pad is greatly reduced with the foam pad underneath. It's a win-win-win. For more discussion of this sleep system, see our Arizona Trail Long Term Review.
Drawbacks of foam pads
The issues? As with any foam pad, the dimples in the pad’s surface can collect dirt, dust, and snow. Also, closed-cell foam eventually compresses, reducing both comfort and R-value. Ultimately, though, these drawbacks don’t diminish the NEMO Switchback in our eyes as a budget pad, a trying-out-backpacking-for-the-first-time pad, or a pad for a youngling.
Best Sleeping Pad for Side Sleepers: Sea To Summit Ultralight Insulated Air
R-Value: 3.1
Thickness: 2”
Weight: 16.9 oz (6-foot length)
Inflation: 3 breaths or comes with Pumpsack
Lengths: 50”, 66”, 72”, 78”
What we liked: comfortable for side sleepers, efficient pumpsack system
What we didn't like: heavy, less durable
Side sleepers often find inflatable sleeping pads don’t offer enough padding for a comfortable night of sleep in the backcountry. The Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Air has a pocketed (rather than baffled) design which makes it more comfortable for side sleepers.
Similarly priced to other inflatable pads, it has an R-value of 3.1 (women's has an R-value of 3.5 and weighs an ounce less). The Ultralight Insulated Air comes with a stuff sack / Airstream Pump combination which allows you to inflate the pad with one breath.
While other brands (notably Therm-a-Rest) are replicating this stuff sack pump, Sea to Summit’s system still is the most efficient and reliable.
Compare Prices On The Sea To Summit Ultralight Insulated Air
Our Sea to Summit Sleeping Pad in our tent on the Arizona Trail. It features a waffle/pocketed surface that some side sleepers find more comfortable than horizontal pockets. Photo by Naomi Hudetz.
Comfort
In our Long Term Reviews: Arizona Trail Gear story, we found a lot to like with the Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated. With an R-value of 3.1, it was definitely warm enough even on below-freezing nights. It was fairly easy to inflate and deflate, using a single valve for both. The fabric is quiet and didn’t bother us while turning over during the night. Thanks to the cellular design I never rolled off my pad.
As side sleepers who find the NeoAir XLite to be too uncomfortable for quality sleep in the backcountry (“unusable”), this was revelatory. Unfortunately, although this pad is better for side sleepers than the XLite or other horizontal baffled pads, as a side sleeper, our hips still bottomed out which caused some pain during the night
Inflation
At the end of the night, only requiring one breath to inflate the Ultralight Insulated Air was a game-changer.
Durability
We initially had some durability issues. It popped after only 7 nights on the trail (admittedly, we were hiking through cacti-filled Arizona but...). We were able to patch it and it was fine for the rest of the trip and has lived on for thousands of miles of trips on other long-distance trails, including the Blue Mountains Trail and Oregon Desert Trail.
Insulation
Another warning is to stay clear of the similar-looking Sea to Summit Ultralight Pad. This pad has the pocketed advantages of the Ultralight Insulated but (you guessed it) doesn’t have an R-value.
Sure, it won a National Geographic Gear of the Year award and Best New Gear Award from Gear Institute. But it has an R-value of 1 (less than a foam pad), which isn’t enough for spring or fall travel and won’t be enough for most people backpacking at altitude in the mountains in summer.
Weight
While this pad works really well for side sleepers, our main beef remains the weight. It runs at 16.9 ounces, not including the stuff sack / Airstream Pump. This seems like overkill when pads like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT are only 13 ounces, or more insulated pads like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT are only 16 ounces for 1.5 times the R-value.
Still, if you’re a side sleeper who is willing to pay in both dollars and weight to finally have a comfortable night’s sleep in the backcountry, you might want to take a look at the Sea To Summit Ultralight Insulated Air.
Best Hybrid Backpacking Camping Sleeping Pad: Sea To Summit Ether Light XT Insulated
R-Value: 3.2
Thickness: 4”
Weight: 17.3 oz
Inflation: inflatable, comes with air pump sack
Lengths: 66”, 72”, 78”
What we liked: versatile, comfortable, quality insulation
What we didn't like: heavy, not ideal for stomach sleepers and some side sleepers
The Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated sleeping mat is the best sleeping pad for people who want one pad for backpacking and camping. You may notice its thickness listed at 4”—almost twice that of every other mat we considered. It's comfortable enough for car camping, easy to use, and insulated enough to work for folks who only want to own one inflatable pad for camping and backpacking.
COMPARE PRICES ON THE SEA TO SUMMIT ETHER LIGHT XT INSULATED
UNISEX
WOMEN'S
Versatility
While it’s heavy for backpacking—17.3 oz for the sleeping pad alone and 19.4 oz for the pad and stuff sack— it’s an excellent option for 3-season camping if you run a little warmer. That's why it is the one pad you'll find in both this guide to backpacking sleeping pads and also find in our Best Camping Sleeping Mattresses guide. Should you need a little extra insulation, it’s also available in a winter edition called the Ether Light XT Extreme Insulated, which has an R-value of 6.2.
Inflation
Our tester, Amanda, tested the women's version. Even before a night of rest on the pad, she really liked that the stuff sack has an attached pump sack instead of the extra pump sack that comes with some models like the Therm-A-Rest Neoair XTherm NXT. She gets a little lightheaded after filling a sleeping pad by mouth; while the stuff sack says you can fill the pad with one breath, she managed to fill it in about 2.5 breaths.
The best way to fill the pad is to open the stuff sack as much as possible with your hands while it’s attached to the pad, then blow into it from about a foot away. Because the stuff sack and the pump sack are connected, you should always clean your pad before putting it away to avoid getting your stuff sack too dirty. Otherwise, there’s a non-zero chance that dirt and other debris could get inside your air pad, decreasing its lifespan.
Valves
The Ether Light XT Insulated’s single inflation and deflation valve is technically two valves layered on top of each other. If you open both valves, you’re deflating the air pad; the top one is sealed for easier inflating. If the pump sack doesn’t fit, you’ve got both of them open. Amanda was ambivalent about the stiffness of the valve–it seemed sturdy and airtight. However, with the wrangling required to get it open, there’s some concern about the integrity of the fabric around the valve with long-term use. This might not be the case with a twist-type valve.
Amanda also feels like the pump sack makes inflation a lot less awkward. Positioning your face over the valve to get it fully inflated requires some odd body-to-pad positioning that isn’t ideal on a windy day. With that being said, she was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to adjust and fine-tune the inflation. Pressing down on the orange seal with the inflation valve open didn’t let out too much air at once, which is excellent for folks who want a specific level of inflation.
Comfort
We found that the Ether Light XT Insulated is great for back sleepers and solid for side sleepers. Baffles on a sleeping pad often go either vertically (from head to foot, which can be less comfortable for side sleepers due to uncomfortable weight distribution and bottoming out) or horizontally (side to side). But, the baffles on the Ether Light Insulated run vertically through the air pad. This evens out weight distribution nicely for side sleepers and back sleepers alike.
Well then, why the lower ranking for side sleepers? We found that if you sleep primarily on your right side, the valve could press into your forehead. One solution is to get Sea to Summit’s Aeros pillow (sold separately) and attach the hook and loop patches that come with the Ether Light to secure it at night. If your head’s on a pillow, there’s no need to worry about the valve. Another solution is to flip the pad over and sleep on the side without the valve, but then you’re more likely to get dust and dirt into the valve, which can cause leakage. Also, this side didn’t seem nearly as warm when Amanda flipped it.
Insulation
Amanda could pretty quickly tell that the Ether Light Insulated is, in fact, an insulated pad. She runs cold, and it started reflecting the heat off her body in under a minute when she was under a quilt. (In a sleeping bag, it would take a little longer for you to feel the warmth, given the extra layer between you and the pad.) She was a little surprised to hear the R-value is only 3.5; that is mid-range for an insulated sleeping pad, but it feels like a solid three-season pad.
Women-specific and size options
The women’s version of the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated is— like other women’s-specific pads— shorter and narrower than ungendered or men’s-specific sleeping pads.
Our tester is 6 ft tall and 175 pounds with broad shoulders and hips, so the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated wasn’t long enough (part of her calves were hanging off the bottom) or wide enough to be comfortable.
If you're shorter or narrower, regardless of gender, this specific pad might be great for you; it also comes in a Long size, which brings the length to 6 ft. But, if you’re bigger or more restless at night, we recommend the "ungendered" version.
True, other sleeping pads have a higher R-rating or weigh less. With all of that said, that extra weight makes the Ether Lite Insulated more comfortable, and comfort is essential for a good night’s rest and a better day’s hike.
Best Budget Inflatable: Therm-A-Rest Prolite Plus
R-Value: 3.2
Thickness: 1.5”
Weight: 18 oz
Inflation: Self-inflating
Lengths: 47”, 72”, 77”
What we liked: easy to inflate, durable, affordable, not far to fall for sleepers who roll around, compact
What we didn't like: low insulation, not as thick of a pad
The Therm-a-Rest ProLite has been available for decades and its latest iteration, the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus, is still a great option for a backpacking sleeping pads.
It's a self-inflating pad, which means no huffing and puffing–a gift, especially after a long day of hiking. Like more expensive pads, it is compact and folds to the size of a Nalgene water bottle.
Compared to other pads, it is only 1.5" tall, meaning you won't fall as far if you roll off. It also means you won't hit your head against slanting slopes of backpacking tent.
Compared to other inflatable pads, it has 50D fabric, which is more durable against punctures and abrasion.
When the ProLite came out, it was a top-of-the-line backpacking pad. Now, the technology is older, but recent updates mean it is still a great option at a more affordable price.
Compare Prices Of The Therm-A-Rest Prolite Plus
Treeline Review writer Mike Unger has used a short length ProLite paired with the Nemo Switchback foam sleeping pad on numerous thru-hikes, including desert trails full of pokey plants like the Oregon Desert Trail, Arizona Trail, and the rugged Blue Mountains Trail. He finds the combination of a foam pad with the ProLite to more durable and comfortable than the NeoAir XLite NXT.
It also doesn’t have the crinkle noise of the old NeoAir. And at the price of the ProLite—especially the short length—it’s worth considering even if you aren’t on a budget but are simply desiring a good night of sleep.
Several of the pads we tested: Big Agnes Q-Core, Nemo Tensor, XPed, and Klymit Static Insultaed V. Photo courtesy James Rielly.
Contenders
While we’re satisfied with our picks, we thought we’d throw in some notable contenders to talk about pads that seem to be pretty popular and why they didn’t make our cut. In some cases, the pads mentioned here are former winners. Other pads may be great for certain use case scenarios or types of backpackers and bikepackers, but not best for most people (like the NeoAir UberLite). The following sleeping pads made our shortlist, meeting our requirements for being highly recommended by outdoor media and everyday users.
R-Value: 2.2
Weight: 8.8 oz, 11 oz, 12 oz
Inflation: valve
Lengths: 72”, 72” wide, 77”
The lightest full length inflatable sleeping pad is the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite. There’s been significant fanfare about this air pad—enough that we wrote a whole section on What is the Lightest Sleeping Pad? In this section, we also explain some of the issues with the UberLite, mainly that durability is an issue.
We tested the UberLite on weekend backpacking trips (we were too concerned about durability to test it on thru-hikes). We were pleasantly surprised to find it nearly identical in feeling to the NeoAir X-lite. The length and width and height are the same—only the whole package is lighter in weight.
The fabric is see-through, which is a little disconcerting. If you choose this pad, we recommend using it with a groundsheet and bathtub floor on your tent. We also recommend checking your campsite and clothing for anything that could damage the fabric.
VIEW THE NEOAIR UBERLITE
R-Value: 3.2 (32F)
Weight: 16 oz (6-foot length)
Inflation: 30-50+, comes with Inflation Sack (use it!)
Lengths: 66”, 72”, 78”
If you’re doing a lot of car camping and beginning to explore the weight-laden wonders of backpacking, we recommend the Big Agnes Q-Core Insulated.
With six different sizes to this rectangular pad, the Q-Core is one of the most body-diverse inflatable pads out there, with heights ranging from 66-78 inches and widths from 20-40 inches. It’s the closest backpacking pad we’ve seen to feeling like a camping mattress, which makes it an excellent pick if you have trouble sleeping outside.
The Regular size is 16 ounces making it the heaviest sleeping pad on our list. Why the weight? The Q-Core SLX is a whopping 3.5 inches thick in the middle, with 4.25-inch rails along the long edges, to keep sleepers centered at night.
The Big Agnes Q-Core is so robust, it can double as a “pool float” when you’re hanging out at alpine lakes. Photo by Duncan Cheung
We also found that it was wide enough to use as a pool float while hanging out at alpine lakes. Of course, it isn’t rated for that, but with some caution, can be a fun thing to do.
All the baffles, rails included, are vertical, making this pad a dream for side sleepers. And while Big Agnes doesn’t test for R-value, they suggest the pad is good down to 32F.
If you decide to start backpacking more frequently, you might want to make the switch to a lighter pad, but if you’re looking for comfort at both drive-up and walk-in campsites, the Big Agnes Q-Core SLX is a great choice.
Update: this product has been discontinued, but we’re leaving this review here for folks who want to snag remaining products while they’re still available.
Related: Yosemite Packing List
VIEW THE BIG AGNES Q-CORE
R-Value: 4.4
Thickness: 2.5”
Weight: 24.0 oz
Inflation: Inflatable
Lengths: 72”
The inflatable Klymit Insulated Static V Lite came up a couple of times in our review of popular reviews - particularly for its slightly-thicker side rails and v-shaped baffles that are ostensibly more comfortable for side sleepers.
With a 23-inch width, an R-value of 4.4, and a $100 price tag, there’s a lot to like about this air pad. The tradeoff? It’s loud and crinkly, it’s less durable than other pads, it doesn’t taper (so it’s harder to fit into tapered tents), and weighs a whopping 120 ounces-nearly a quarter of a pound more than our heaviest pick. We recommend the Big Agnes Q-Core SLX if you’re looking for something similar, but if you want an inflatable and are tight on funds, the Klymit Static Insulated V Lite might be what you’re looking for.
The Klymit Static Insulated pad tested in a tarp system in the Sierra. Photo courtesy Duncan Cheung.
COMPARE PRICES ON THE KLYMIT INSULATED STATIC V
R-Value: 2.0
Thickness: 2.0”
Weight: 14.0 oz
Inflation: N/A, closed-cell foam
Lengths: 72”
The 14-ounce Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol has long been considered the Gold Standard of foam sleeping pads. We still love this sleeping pad, but think the Nemo Switchback is slightly thicker, warmer, more comfortable, and compact.
The Z Lite Sol packs down to about the dimensions of the back panel of a backpack (20” x 5” x 5.5”) and can provide support if you decide to go frameless. It has an R-value of 2–about 37 F–which works just fine for most folks for the summer months. The Z Lite Sol also comes in two sizes: Small (20” x 51”) and Regular (20” x 72”). If you need something smaller or in-between, you have the option of cutting off one or more of the folding panels to lighten up a bit.
The Therm-a-Rest ZLite makes lunch breaks more comfortable. Photo courtesy Mike Unger.
VIEW THE THERM-A-REST Z LITE SOL
What we're looking forward to testing
Nemo Tensor Extreme Insulated Sleeping Pad
R-Value: 8.5
Thickness: 3.5
Weight: 17
Inflation: Inflatable
Lengths: 72, 76
The Nemo Tensor Extreme Insulated sleeping pad was released in Fall 2023 and boasts the highest r-value of any sleeping pad we considered at 8.5. At just 1 lb 1 oz, it has the best warmth-to-weight ratio of any sleeping pad we considered. It utilizes 4-layers of floating Thermal Mirror metallized film that are strategically placed. The bottom is 40 denier nylon for extra durability and 20 denier fabric top. Like other Nemo pads, it's 3.5 inches thick.
We're looking forward to testing this pad side-by-side with other high-insulation pads like the NeoAir XTherm NXT and Sea to Summit Extreme series.
Compare prices of the Nemo Tensor Extreme Insulated Sleeping Pad
R-Value: 2.8
Thickness: 3.5
Weight: 13
Inflation: Inflatable
Lengths: 72, 76
The Nemo Tensor Trail Ultralight sleeping pad is an ultralight pad designed for summer use with a similar dimpled baffling system to our winner for Most Comfortable sleeping pad, the Nemo Tensor All Season. The Ultralight has an r-value of 2.8, saving 4 oz compared to the insulated version. Yet it still has some of the same features as the All Season, including 40-denier nylon on the bottom for extra durability and 3.5 inches of height.
We're looking forward to testing this pad side-by-side with other summer pads like the NeoAir XLite NXT and the NeoAir XLite Uberlite.
View the Nemo Tensor Trail
R-Value: 4.3
Thickness: 3.25
Weight: 14 oz
Inflation: Inflatable
Lengths: 72, 78 inches
The Big Agnes Zoom UL is the lightest sleeping pad by Big Agnes. At 14 oz, it still boasts a 3.5 inch thickness and is even rectangular in shape instead of the mummy-shape found in most ultralight pads. Many backpackers find a rectangular pad to be more comfortable and easier to stay on throughout the night, as they are less prone to rolling off. It has an impressive r-value of 4.3 oz.
We're looking forward to testing this pad and will report back our findings.
View the Big Agnes Zoom UL
Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas testing the new XTherm NXT while cowboy camping in Joshua Tree.
How We Researched & Tested
Gathering the best sleeping pads for your backpacking adventures took some work. We dove into reviews from Adventure Junkies, Clever Hiker, Digital Trends, Outdoor Gear Lab, Section Hiker, Switchback Travel, and New York Times/Wirecutter.
Where these professional reviews overlapped, we checked out Amazon, REI, and Backcountry reviews of those pads, and compared those reviews with our own experiences with them, where we could. While this is a review for backpacking sleeping pads-and you might want something cushier if you’re going car camping-these will work for either endeavor.
In the end, we researched a total of 10 sleeping pads that met our criteria for being praised by experts and everyday users alike. We personally tested each of these pads over hundreds (and sometimes thousands) of miles of backpacking. We also loaned them out to thru-hikers to take on several hundred-mile sections, switching the pads out to test new ones.
The Therm-a-Rest ZLite can be carried on the outside of your pack to save volume inside your pack. Here it is on a particularly long food carry in the Canadian Rockies. Photo courtesy Naomi Hudetz
A couple of notes, before we get into the nitty-gritty:
Several of our recommended pads are from Therm-a-Rest. Why you might ask? A couple of reasons and none of them are “they paid us to do it.” Therm-a-Rest pretty much only makes sleepy-time outdoors gear, and it’s best known as a company for its sleeping pads. They take into account what users are saying, and pay attention to things like weight and durability (they even made a couple of pads less crinkly after users complained of being awoken by the loud noise). They even have a limited lifetime warranty on all their products (not including wear and tear), so if your valve fails or you get a leak at a seam, they’ll repair it for you for free. And because of all these qualities, people have put their Therm-a-Rest pads through rough use–and found them to hold up despite it. They top our list for a reason, and we wanted to make sure you knew it.
Lastly, in the interest of full disclosure, our fearless leader Liz Thomas co-wrote an earlier version of the New York Times/Wirecutter guide to sleeping pads The winners in this piece are corroborated by the other professional reviews and many years and thousands of miles of backpacking, so never fret.
Rise & shine! Waking up fresh because of your sleeping pad. Photo by Dean Krakel.
Buying advice
Okay, okay-you really want to know what the best sleeping pad for backpacking is? Well, we’d love to tell you flat out, here it is, this is the one-but we can’t. We don’t know what makes you comfortable and gives you a good night’s rest. We’ve chosen five sleeping pads that will serve most folks well, but below are things to consider when you’re choosing from among them.
Weight
When you’re looking to go backpacking, chances are you’re not looking to haul around your queen-sized, two-feet-thick air mattress from ye olde box store that works like a charm for car camping.
But if you’re like most folks, you’re also not looking to sleep on a ⅛-inch thick piece of foam that’s little better than sleeping in the dirt just to save a few ounces.
A reasonable backpacking sleeping pad will weigh a pound or less; all of the sleeping pads on our list fit that bill. If weight is your number one concern, see What is the Lightest Sleeping Pad? (Spoiler alert: the NeoAir Uberlite).
R-Value
Yes, yes, we ramble on about R-value in How to Choose and even give it its own section, but it really is an important consideration in a sleeping pad.
Whether you toss the covers to the floor the second you fall asleep or wake up in the morning as a blanket burrito, chances are you know how warm or cold you sleep. Selecting a sleeping pad with an eye not only to comfort but also to insulation rating will make sure you get the night of sleep that you’re looking for.
If you sleep warm and are going out in the warm, low R-values are fine; if you sleep cold, even in the summertime, you’re likely going to want to look for something in the 3-4 range. The R-values of sleeping pads on our list range from 2.6 to 5.7.
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: it doesn’t matter how warm your sleeping bag is. If your sleeping pad has a low r-value, you’ll likely still feel cold. Your sleeping bag and pad work together as a system–and we’d argue that system is the top place backpackers should invest in quality gear.
Here's another tip: insulation doesn't always equal the height of the air mattress. We discovered that even a two-feet-thick blow-up air mattress for use at home won't cut it camping on cool nights. Instead of height, check the R-value, which measures insulation. R-value is why a short foam pad like the Z Lite can feel warmer than a cheap, thick air mattress.
Comfort
A good sleeping pad helps you get the best night’s sleep possible, and part of a good night’s sleep is feeling comfortable. There are generally two types of sleeping pads: closed-cell foam sleeping pads, which are thinner and more utilitarian in nature, and inflatable sleeping pads (aka, air-sprung cells), which are thicker and loft you off the ground. Inflatable sleeping pads tend to be more comfortable and have a higher R-value than closed-cell foam pads, but the latter can also be used as sit pads during the day–and they’re significantly cheaper and more durable than inflatables. No sleeping pad will feel as comfortable as a bed, but it’s worth considering how far from that bed-like experience you want to get.
Comparing the Z Lite with the NEMO Switchback. Photo courtesy Liz Thomas.
Volume
Backpackers and bikepackers have a limited amount of space in/on their backpacks. Extra bulk on the outside of a pack can throw a backpacker off balance. A pad on the outside of a pack may get caught on branches when hiking narrow trails or bushwhacking off-trail. Space inside a backpacking backpack is limited, too. If two pads have similar comfort and insulation, a backpacker will prefer the pad that takes up less volume while packed. We found ourselves choosing the Nemo Switchback over a perennial favorite, the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol for this very reason.
Close-up of the Q-Core’s two-valve inflation/deflation system. We really like that the IN is a one-way valve, so you don’t lose any air you blow in. Photo by Liz Thomas
Ease of use
When you’re rolling into camp after a long, hard day, how much work do you want to have ahead of you to set up your sleeping place? Is your brain not functioning as usual, and you need the shortest distance between two points (upright and horizontal)? You might want the ease of just laying out a closed-cell foam pad like the NEMO Switchback. If you’re willing to spend more than just a hot second constructing your nighttime burrow, then an inflatable might do just fine. But know thyself: which is best for you?
Most of the inflatable pads we recommend now come with a Pumpsack and Valve system. You can learn more about these in an entire section on valves and pump sacks. We liked Sea to Summit’s pump sack and valve system best because the many moving parts stayed securely attached to one another throughout the process. It also required one breath to inflate (compared to other models which take several breaths and pumps to achieve a similar goal).
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT in regular length (bottom) shown in comparison with the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT in short length (top). The XTherm is only available in regular (6 feet) and long lengths. The XLite is available in 5 different lengths. Photo by James Reilly.
Length and width
Closely related to comfort, getting a pad that fits your body dimensions is important. Some models, like the NeoAir Xlite, come in wide lengths. Others, like the Big Agnes Q-Core Insulated, have wide dimensions as their standard. If you’re a smaller person, there’s no need for you to carry a 6-foot long pad (and the extra weight and bulk). Opt for a model that comes in short lengths, like the X-Lite at 48”.
Lifetime
A solid sleeping pad will run you at least $45, so it’s worth talking about how long they’ll last. More-expensive inflatable pads will last a long time with good care–we know of folks who have spent over 12,000 miles with one Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT, for example.
Closed-cell foam pads get compressed over time, losing their squish over the course of a couple of seasons. While pad compression doesn’t necessarily mean that the insulation is shot, it does make the pad a lot less comfortable to sleep on. (Just because it’s still usable doesn’t mean you still want to use it.) To our mind, the expense of the inflatables is justified over the life of the pads, but a closed-cell foam pad is great for starters and kids–and, after it’s too compressed to sleep on, can be cut smaller and used as pads for sitting on through its twilight days.
An Off Trail On Track participant testing a Big Agnes AXL insulated sleeping pad with under a tarp. Photo courtesy Duncan Cheung.
How To Choose The Best Sleeping Pad For You
Wondering what pad’s gonna give you the best zzz’s? You’re going to make the best choice for yourself if you ask yourself a few questions first:
Whatcha Doing?
While weight is a big consideration–especially for backpacking–how much weight is going to matter to you depends primarily on what you’ll be doing with your sleeping pad. Will you mostly be using it for car camping, with a stretch of backpacking here and there? A slightly heavier pad might not be so much of a bother. Headed out on a thru-hike attempt? You’re going to want something light enough to not be a burden, but comfortable enough that you sleep well for those long days ahead. We’ve chosen a range of sleeping pads between 12 and 16 ounces, so you can find what you’re looking for.
How warm or cold do you sleep?
Whether you toss the covers to the floor the second you fall asleep or wake up in the morning as a blanket burrito, chances are you know how warm or cold you sleep. Even if it’s warm outside, and even if you’re in a sleeping bag, contact between you and the ground is going to pull the heat from your body through conductive heat loss. Maybe that’s okay in the warmest of climates for the warmest of sleepers, but what if the conditions are something less than perfect? What if, say, you’re a cold sleeper looking to do some winter camping? Nearly everyone wants some amount of insulation between them and the ground, but how much you need is going to depend on the weather in addition to how warm you sleep.
Some sidesleepers find the REI Flash Insulated pad “bottoms out”. Photo courtesy Mike Unger.
What position do you sleep in?
While some folks can sleep in any position-and we here at Treeline desperately envy them that–the rest of us have to deal with the position our body finds most comfortable. But the best pad for side sleepers may not be the best pad for back sleepers, and even stomach and back sleepers may not get the same comfort out of the same pad. Side sleepers in particular run the risk of “bottoming out,” or ending up with their hips and shoulders touching the ground through even an inflatable pad. If you’re a side sleeper that wants to avoid this at all costs, we generally recommend inflatable pads that are at least 2.5 inches thick. We’ve made sure our sleeping pads cover the full range of sleep positions so that stomach, back, and side sleepers can all be comfy and cozy as they drift off to sleep.
What’s your budget?
As much as we’d love to have the sleeping pad of our dreams, the expense is, unfortunately, a consideration. And when only one of our picks is under $100, with the rest in the $100-250 range, a sleeping pad can seem like a barrier to sleeping outside and doing the things you love. One thing to remember, however, is that how well you sleep often determines how well you hike, bike, climb, or adventure the following day. We feel a good sleeping pad is worth the weight it lifts out of your bank account, but ultimately, you have to do what’s best for you and your budget.
Related: The Best Satellite Messenger and Personal Locator Beacon
X-therm being blown up by an Off Trail on Track student with a 2-oz pump sack and custom valve fitting guide Duncan Cheung made out of PVC pipe and med tape. The 2019 X-Therm had a small valve that could introduce moisture that's hard to get rid of when you use your mouth to inflate. This can cause the pad to lose some insulating capacity. The 2020 version has a much larger valve comes with a pumpsack that no longer requires Do-It-Yourself systems to inflate. Photo courtesy Duncan Cheung.
Sleeping pad pump sacks and valves
As Therm-A-Rest transitioned to the new, outdoor industry-wide R-value system, they also made another change we’re ultimately excited about. The company transitioned away from their “Classic” two-way valve to one of two different one-way valves, depending on the pad you choose.
In 2014, Sea to Summit revolutionized valve technology with their bigger multi-function valves that work with pump sacks which made inflating your sleeping pad easier, quicker, and more straightforward.
Now, you’ll see the WingLock valve on most Therm-A-Rest pads, and the TwinLock valve on three of their larger car camping pads. Our tester Amanda looked at the WingLock valve on a NeoAir XTherm NXT pad and came out convinced that the change was for the better.
The one downside of the older XLite and XTherm was their small valve. It introduced moisture that's hard to get rid of when you use your mouth to inflate. This could cause the pad to lose some insulating capacity. Additionally, if one wanted to inflate their pad without using the mouth (aka, with a pump sack), they’d have to do a little creative custom work. One of our writers rigged his own custom system with some PVC piping.
The new version has a much larger valve that comes with a pump sack that no longer requires Do-It-Yourself systems to inflate. While the new valves and pump sack aren’t perfect, it brings the NeoAir family closer in line with the standard of ease laid out by other manufacturers like Sea to Summit and Big Agnes.
The TwinLock and WingLock valve systems on the 2020 XLite (top) are an improvement compared to the valve system on the older moder (bottom). Photo by Liz Thomas.
One-way valves and pump sacks
Anyone who has experience using a two-way valve is familiar with two issues. First, you have to keep air pressure (or tongue pressure) on the valve while you’re inflating it by mouth so that air doesn’t come backward out of the valve. Second, closing the valve quickly enough to keep enough air in the pad to get the firmness you’d like was often a gamble. Both issues could lead to longer inflate times, and in some people, more dizziness or lightheadedness during inflation. The one-way valves solve both issues, offering potentially quicker inflate times with fewer breaths overall and easy firmness adjustment.
The valve system on the NeoAir XTherm NXT. Photo by Amanda Jameson.
The WingLock valve is shown here (above), on a NeoAir XTherm NXT pad. Our tester was concerned with weight, as it’s noticeably larger than single-way valves, but these valves did not seem to impact the pad weight.
After working the mechanisms on both one-way valves and WingLock valve, the size of the WingLock makes it easier to use more generally. This in turn makes the WingLock easier to operate with gloves on or with cold hands-and easier on folks with mobility issues, too.
It’s likewise easier to tell on the WingLock when the valve is actually closed. On the Classic, both the cap and the valve itself are black, meaning it’s hard to see when it’s actually closed. This increases the risk of over-tightening, which can cause the valve to fail over time. As the cap on the WingLock is black, and the valve is a lighter grey, it’s much easier to see (and feel!) when the valve is actually closed, eliminating the risk of ove-rtightening.
The “wings” of the WingLock valve, which are red in the photo, control deflation. When in line with the pad horizontally, the valve is set to one-way inflation. When turned vertically, the valve becomes a two-way valve, releasing air for deflation once the valve itself is opened.
We interviewed Will “Akuna” Robinson, the first Black man to complete the Triple Crown of Hiking, the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail. He mentioned that the WingLock valve deflates his pad much faster than single-way valves did.
The author, Amanda Jameson, on the XTherm with the Winglock valve. Photo courtesy Amanda Jameson.
The WingLock system also makes it easier to adjust the firmness of the pad after inflation, as turning the wings just slightly and opening the valve allows for the slow release of air from the pad. (We don’t recommend being on top of the pad when you adjust the firmness, as you’ll have more control if you’re off the pad.) While we were intitially concerned that the wing’s build could become a durability issue, two years and months of backpacking later, we haven’t had any issues with it.
As you move the wings back and forth, they rub against the fabric where the valve is seated. Given that the fabric is not flush with the plastic where the valve is seated, we had some concerns that, over time, the wings might pull on the fabric and stress the adhesive keeping the valve on the pad, causing that adhesive to fail a little quicker than it might otherwise. If you’re just using it for camping and backpacking–and not fiddling with it for fun like our tester–we believe you’ll get plenty of nights out of the valve before that happens. And if it does, you can always find more adhesive and glue it back together, as the valve itself seems well-built and unlikely to fail.
Don’t like blowing up valves? Opt for the 2.7 oz BlockerLite Pump Sack or the 2.3 oz-before-batteries NeoAir Micro Pump. If you’re backpacking at higher altitudes, our tester thinks the extra weight might be worth skipping the headache she got blowing the XTherm up manually-especially on longer trips.
All in all, we think the WingLock is an upgrade from single-lock valves of days gone by.
A foam sleeping pad can double as a sit pad when you’re cooking in camp. Photo courtesy Duncan Cheung
Other tips and sleeping pad tricks
If you choose an inflatable, always check to make sure there aren’t any leaks before you leave
There’s nothing like getting out on the trail, having a spectacular day, and noticing entirely too late that your inflatable sleeping pad has a leak in it. Check for leaks before you leave by filling a tub, dunking the inflated pad with the valve closed, and watching for bubbles to appear. Adding some soap to the water can help make the bubbles more apparent. To check for leaks in the field, you can do the same in a pond or a lake-but don’t put soap, even biodegradable soap, into natural water sources. To help prevent leaks while in storage, always store your inflatable pad with the valve open, to allow air to escape as necessary. This helps prevent seam leaks, which are harder to fix.
A close-up of one of the waffle weld failure repairs. This pad has 2 such failures on the top of the pad. They are tough to find in the field. Photo courtesy Mike Unger.
If you choose an inflatable, carry the repair kit
Or at least a portion of the repair kit, like the glue (which has multiple uses, for folks with ultralight aspirations). If you don’t want to wait for the glue to dry before you pack it away, bring a decent-sized patch. Like we said, your inflatable sleeping pad can’t do its job very well if the air doesn’t stay on the inside. We think it’s a small price to pay for more comfort. You’ll see a repair kit or at least some Tenacious Tape in our guide to Essential Backpacking Accessories for a reason—they’re incredibly lightweight and can save the day should a puncture happen.
Even if you don’t choose an inflatable, be choosy about where you set up camp
Sweep the area with your foot to make sure there aren’t any pokey-proddys underneath where you’d like to sleep. If the ground is on a slant, most people prefer their head to be on the higher side, so it doesn’t feel like all the blood in your body is pooling in your head. And always try to follow Leave No Trace Principle 2, and find a durable surface to camp on-whether that’s grass in an open meadow, bare dirt, or rock beneath a sturdy tree.
Clean it (we guess?)
The nice thing about sleeping pads is that they perform well whether they’re dirty or not-but your sleeping bag might pick up some of the grime, which, over time, can decrease the warmth of your bag. Sleeping pads can be cleaned with a damp rag, or with alcohol wipes for things like pine tree sap.
Backpacking sleeping pads care and maintenance tips
The following care and maintenance tips will help ensure the longevity of your sleeping pad.
Clean regularly
Keeping your sleeping pad clean helps prevent damage to the material, as well as mold or mildew buildup, and makes your overall backpacking experience more enjoyable. DEET found in insect repellent can damage the synthetic fabric of a sleeping pad. Plus, you’ll want to ensure the pad is free of things like pine needles or cactus thorns that might puncture the material.
Avoid sharp objects
Keep your sleeping bag clear of sharp objects to avoid punctures, tears, or other forms of damage.
Storage
The most important thing about storing a sleeping pad is preventing it from getting a hole, as that will render the sleeping pad defunct. While backpacking, tuck the sleeping pad safely in the middle of your pack. While not in use, store the (clean, dry) pad with the valve open somewhere cool, dry, and away from sharp objects. If possible, keep the pad unrolled — this helps with the longevity of the pad’s responsiveness to inflation.
How to Repair minor damage
Often, it’s difficult to spot leaks, as the punctures can be miniscule. You can use the soapy water method of finding small holes in which you apply a layer of soapy water over the pad and look for bubbles.
If you find a small puncture, you can fix it with gear-friendly sealant like the Gear Aid Seam Grip Seam Sealer. Follow the sealant instructions for use and allow plenty of time to dry. You can then test your work by inflating the pad and resting a (non-sharp!) heavy weight on it for several hours to see if it stays inflated.
You can also fix some sleeping pad holes with a patch or tape. Clean the wounded area, apply gear-friendly tape, like Gear Aid Tenacious Tape, or a patch with gear-friendly sealer.
HOW TO REPAIR A LEAKING SLEEPING PAD
Last year while thru-hiking across Arizona on the Arizona Trail, we found ourselves having to repair a popped sleeping pad in the field. Here’s a video that explains how we fixed a pad in a trail-side hotel room.
We recommend using repair pads that come with your sleeping pad.
Check out our Cleaning, Repair, and Maintenance section for more details on elongating the life of your gear.
How to Inflate and deflate properly
The inflation process will depend on the valve type on your sleeping pad. Some are manual while others are self-inflating, and different models will have slightly different processes. Nevertheless, unroll the sleeping pad and lay it flat. Follow the manufacturer’s guide to using the valve to inflate.
When deflating, keep the bag flat. When the air has released, roll the pad up and secure it in the middle of your pack, or store it (preferably flat) somewhere cool and dry.
For both inflating and deflating, be sure to keep the pad away from sharp objects.
Avoid moisture
You’ll want to avoid moisture as much as possible with your sleeping pad, as mold can easily grow inside. Air dry the pad (preferably out of direct sunlight) when you can. After a trip, inflate and deflate the pad (somewhere dry) a couple times.
If you can, use the pump bag or an electric pump like the Exped Widget pump or something other than your own lungs to inflate the pad with as little moisture as possible.
Check for wear and tear
Regularly inspect your sleeping pad for signs of damage. It’s not fun to wake up in the morning with aches and pains due to a deflated sleeping pad, especially when the damage responsible for the deflation could have been easily fixed. Keep gear tape, like Gear Aid Tenacious Tape, on hand for easy fixes.
FAQ
Which sleeping pad is the lightest?
Of the pads we tested, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite is the lightest, weighing a mere 8.8 oz for the small. The light weight comes at the cost of durability, and may not be the best option for most people. However, if shredding ounces is your priority, the UberLite is, indeed, the uber lightest.
The r-value on the newer X-Lite (top) is higher than the previous model (bottom) due to changes in the ASTM testing methodology. Photo by Liz Thomas
What is r-value in a sleeping pad?
Selecting a sleeping pad with an eye not only to comfort but also to insulation rating will make sure you get the night of sleep that you’re looking for. Insulation is measured in R-value, with higher numbers meaning more insulation. All of our top picks have R-values that range from 2.6 to 5.7.
If you sleep warm, and you’re headed out in warm weather, lower R-values work just fine. If you sleep cold even through the summer months, you might want to look for R-values in at least the 3-4 range.
R-value is the reason we recommend late season or early season backpackers switch out their sleeping pads in our Late Fall and Early Spring Thru-hiking Gear. You’ll also see a recommendation to sleep to a warmer sleeping pad before reaching the Sierra in our Southbound PCT Gear List & Strategy guide.
R-value refers to the sleeping pad’s insulation, and measures its capacity for heat to pass through it. The higher the number, the better the insulation. Most sleeping pads range from 2.0-5.0, and the highest we tested is the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT with an R-value of 7.3.
Did r-values change?
Sleeping pad manufacturers who wish to sell at certain retailers must use independent third-party testers to determine R-Value as of 2020. You may have noticed that some models of sleeping pads are report R-values higher than past models. Did anything change?
The ASTM R-Value standard is an international methodology used to test sleeping pads side-by-side to determine their insulating factor. To learn more about the science behind R-values, check out this blog post and story from Outside that explains how they’re calculated and why it’s important.
The methodology to test R-values was updated. So several models of sleeping pad haven’t changed their design or how much insulation they have, but are now reporting a higher R-value because of a change in measurement.
See our comparison chart to see a side-by-side comparison of the R-values of the sleeping bags we considered.
What is the difference between an air mattress and a sleeping pad?
Air mattresses will inflate higher and generally offer more comfort than a sleeping pad. However, sleeping pads are lighter and better insulated. You can read all about air mattresses designed for camping in our Best Camping Mattresses guide.
Can I use a sleeping pad for hammock camping?
You can use a sleeping pad in a hammock, though it might take deflating the pad a bit to better fit in the hammock.
What should I do if my sleeping pad loses inflation during the night?
If your sleeping pad is deflating, you’ll want to examine the pad for punctures. Often, the holes are tiny and difficult to see, so you may need to use the soap method to locate it. Check out our Care and Maintenance section to learn more about repairing damage to the sleeping pad.
However, if this happens, it isn’t necessarily a reason to panic. Sometimes, if the air temperature drops quite a bit over night, it may cause your pad to deflate slightly. This is similar to how cold air impacts the tire pressure on a car. Air condenses in colder temperature, taking up less space inside your pad.
The author, Amanda Jameson, on her Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike. Photo courtesy Amanda Jameson.
Why you should trust us
New piece, who dis
I’m Amanda or Zuul to folks on long-distance backpacking trails. (That’s my trail name, as I’m a bit of a nerd.) I’m not particularly new around these here Treeline Review parts; I write on backpacking gear here, so you might have seen my pieces on Rain Jackets, Water Filters, Backpacking Tents, and/or Trekking Poles before.
I’ve also written about going stoveless (and my Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike) for Backpacker Magazine, and about being outside for Griots Republic.
I’ve got right around 3500 miles under my feet, and I walked 3300 of those miles solo, beholden to nothing but the whims of nature and my on-again-off-again hiker hunger. Between those miles and a year as a Subaru/Leave No Trace Traveling Trainer, I’ve spent nearly a year of my life sleeping on sleeping pads-in deserts and lush valleys, on mountainsides and beachsides.
I’m still a Leave No Trace Master Educator, and am a former board of the American Long Distance Hiking Association-West. I also run the blog Brown Girl on the National Scenic Trail.
You can see all of Amanda’s Treeline Review stories on their author page.
Sources
How to choose a sleeping pad from REI Co-op
How to choose a sleeping pad from Outdoor Gear Exchange
How to choose the right size and shape of a sleeping pad by Therm-A-Rest
