Sleeping Pads

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ThermaRest NeoAir Xlite (13oz)

We've now used this pad, in all of its recent versions, for our last two thru-hikes, PCT section hike and numerous other trips of 20-100 miles. All together this adds up to a minimum of 170 nights on these guys, enough to give a fair review. The pros, the latest model is less "crunchy", the original sounded a little like a bag of chips when you rolled around. We always found adequate inflation helped and never were really bothered by this but it was unbearable for some. Its also the warmest air mattress I've ever used, by far, while still only weighing in at 13oz. The cons, it can develop slow leaks, often in the seams, but Thermarest has worked with me to replace the pad if the leak couldn't be patched. And my pads in the past from different manufactures have done the same thing. So this is more of an air mattress problem then one that's specific to this model in my opinion. Otherwise, its light, its comfy, probably not suitable to use as a pool float but it sleeps well.

(Seen here in Steven's Canyon, UT. No tent, no problem, it's probably just a passing shower anyway.)

Big Agnes Q-Core SLX

(link takes you to an updated selection of Big Agnes pads)

Our first sleeping pads, these saw us through the 1200 mile Pacific Northwest Trail and numerous other adventures. We both found it to be very comfortable, but definitely prone to cold spots if sleeping on cold ground or snow. Unfortunately this pad has been discontinued but Big Agnes does offer some other model as well.