Sleeping pad recommendations
Contributors to this thread:Elk
From: Mixxy
28-May-20
Looking for a new sleeping pad. I have a Therma Rest lite, that is absolutely to noisy for me. I toss and turn alot while sleeping, and its sounds like i'm sleeping on a bag of potatoe chips. Even my hunting partners in different tents have complained. What's everyone using and how do you like it.
From: 76aggie
28-May-20
Never heard that complaint before. I use the same pad. I stay a lot in teepees without a floor. I put a sheet of Tyvek directly on the ground and that stuff is loud. You may think about putting your pad and sleeping bag in a lightweight bivy sack. That should internalize any noise you may make. The bivy sack also provides more warmth and condensation can accumulate. I never zip mine all the way so as to "vent" the system.
From: Mule Power
28-May-20
Foam or inflatable? I love my ExPed Downmat. I’m a side sleeper so need a really good inflatable.
From: 76aggie
28-May-20
Mine is inflatable.
From: elkster
28-May-20
ExPed Downmat like Mule Power said. Although there are lighter pads out there, the extra ounces are worth the comfort.
From: bb
28-May-20
Nemo, Tensor
From: nmwapiti
28-May-20
I got tired of the noise and mummy shape. Got a Nemo Tensor. Large, rectangular and thick. Also like the bag inflater. Worth every ounce.
From: OTT2
28-May-20
ExPed Downmat is a good pad. The extra R-value is also good to have. Like others have said, they are not the lightest.
From: Scrappy
28-May-20
Exped downmat for me too. Started out on a nemo tensor and just wasn't thick enough as I'm also a side sleeper.
From: Mule Power
28-May-20
In my opinion if a side sleeper finds it comfortable anyone will. My ExPed is a good 10 years old and still ticking. If it ever dies I’ll buy the exact same pad.
From: RTJ1980
28-May-20
Nemo Tensor for me too. First year on it last year and I loved it over my 10-year old Thermarest.
From: Jims
29-May-20
Neoair is super light and compact. Some complain about the older model being noisy but I sleep like a baby!
From: wilhille
29-May-20
I'm a side sleeper as well. I also use Exped. They are awesome pads.
From: JDM
29-May-20
Two things to make sure you get. First, get a pad with some insulation. A sleeping bag will compress from your weight and provide little to no insulation from the ground. Second, get one that accepts the quick fill. Hyperventilating when trying to blow up your mattress gets old.
From: Mixxy
29-May-20
Thanks for all the replies. Which ExPed would be good for early to mid season?
From: Mule Power
29-May-20
I use the ExPed Downmat 9. Highest R value of any pad on the market but that won’t be a problem for you.
From: brettpsu
29-May-20
I had the Exped Downmat 7 and really liked it. Tore pretty big hole in it after 5 great years and couldn't get it to stop leaking. I will buy another one or the 9. Been through many different brands but the exped was the best for comfort, warmth and quiet.
From: Bou'bound
31-May-20
Tough to beat a good thermarest lite. I’m sleeping on it not stalking in it. Lol
From: Trophyhill
04-Jun-20
The biggest issue I have with the Exped 9 that many have mentioned is the space it takes up in the pack, and the weight. Especially for September. Unless you are naturally cold, you'd be better off with the UL7 Exped. I got away from both and now have a Sea to Summit Ether Light. Love it!
From: willliamtell
04-Jun-20
I like my cabelas instinct - it's super light and has some insulation. As someone else posted, with so many pads having decent r-value, it really makes sense to get one with it, particularly if you're sleeping late season and/or on a cot with cold air directly underneath. If size and weight isn't an issue, I've got a big 3" thermarest that keeps underneath good and toasty.
From: rjlefty3
09-Jun-20
Klymit static V (insulated) for me. Not the lightest either but it's pretty duration compared to some others and I like the peace of mind on waking up with a still inflated pad!
From: soccern23ny
09-Jun-20
i like the thermarest Z sol(accordion style), simple, lightweight, and affordable.
Doesn't sound loud to me
From: jordanathome
09-Jun-20
I've like the nemo and the thermarest myself
