My dad and I both bought these pads more than 6 years ago and they have held up very well! Mine has a little nick, but that was my own doing. I have used this pad on every campout and it has kept me warm and dry. I recently brought this to Philmont with me for 12 days and I rolled it up and attached it to my pack. It was super light, very comfortable and warm and I put the crew TP inside of it for quick access. I am returning to Philmont this summer and am bringing this great pad with me!
I took a regular sized Thermarest on my thru-hike attempt last year and used it in my Hennessy Scout hammock every night to insulate me from the colder air below the hammock as well as an underquilt suspended below the hammock during the first two months of the hike. The Thermarest kept me far warmer than I would have thought possible and even inside the hammock it didn't move around or become the "surfboard" that I have heard reported happening when used in hammocks. I did have one issue though - the valleys and ridges trapped too much moist, cool air under my bag, and when I got up in the morning the underside of the bag was usually soaked from condensation and the pad was so wet I could shake several ounces of water off of it. :) A minor annoyance at worst though, and the Thermarest performed beautifully and did not weigh me down. I have noticed some wearing of the silver side, but this isn't a big problem at all - usually during warmer months I sleep with the silver side down in the hammock so I don't get too warm. :)
The inflatable pads are way overpriced IMO. Don't really see any reason to buy inflatable pads over this one, unless you cant carry this on the outside of your pack. In fact, Therm-A-Rest website clearly shows that the insulation factor for this pad is the same as some of the 100 dollar inflatable pads.
I bought this as a gift for my son since he started going backpacking and camping with me. He loves it. Says it keeps him warm. He knows this because he rolls off of it at night and gets cold. It's light as a feather so it's one less thing I have to carry for him. I trimmed it down a little to fit the length of his bag. Any weight saved for a 10yr old is good. I will buy another one when my daughter starts going with us. I think they're great for kids because you cannot puncture them. I slept on it one night and it was fine as long as I slept on my back or stomach. I'm spoiled and sleep in a hammock more often than not.
Money well spent.
Negative reviews for this pad might just be a fact of not understanding the best use for a pad like this so hopefully this helps.
Okay, first off I have this and a Z-rest and honestly, in the summer time I pretty much dislike, if not hate, them both. They are rather hard and don't offer that much reward for the weight and bulk. For summer camping; go with an inflatable. So why the 4 stars you ask? Because in the winter this thrown under an Inflatable gives you an incredibly warm sleep (as long as your sleeping bag does its job and keeps you toasty on top). I've camped on top of mountains here in Colorado in subzero conditions with steady 30+ mph winds (granted this is usually inside a tent or snow cave, but I have tarped it a couple of times when the temp hung right around 0) and the combo of these foam pads and an inflatable is incredible, not to mention VERY comfy! So, for winter camping I don't leave these behind, they have become a part of my "permanent" gear list (at least until something better comes along).
I bought this to use when sleeping in my hammock, and it's been great for that. On the last few trips I've been on I didn't bring the hammock and just slept on this pad. I was comfortable enough, but I like a firm bed and I understand that this may not be for everyone.
I have been using one of these for years and have to say that for the money you cannot get a better ground pad!! I have also tried a variety of self inflating pads and yes some may be a bit more comfy but the Ridge-rest will never go flat in the middle of the night. Drag it acorss the gravel and rock with out worry!! I have even shoved it in to my trekker chair!! It can easily be lashed to the outside of your pack, shoved in to a kayak or canoe or tied to your touring bike (I've tested these theories) and won't let you down at the end of the day. If you want a pad you can depend on get a ridge rest.
I've used this for a long time, since the old Ensolite pad days. It is fairly light and cheap, but it takes a huge amount of space and It's miserable to sleep on.
The only pad I've never woke up to find flat. Don't get me wrong, I prefer an inflatable, but sooner or later they always let me down. Pairing them up with a closed cell like this atleast gives you a back up. In some situations it could be the difference that gets you through the night.
I have used my Therm-a-rest pad now for 6 years and I like it a lot for a couple reads. But before I say why, let me tell you that I am NOT an ultralight backpacker - my pack is generally 40-50 pounds. And obviously, I am not a “through hiker” or any kind of long distance hiker. I hike weeends and once a year I will do a week long trip. Averaging 12/30 miles (round trip) respectfully. So weight is not a “big” concern for me.
This product is one of those perfect things that should never change. They are economical, light weight and useful. They keep you warm at night. They don't stay wet. I use it backpacking. I use a short one to insulate my hammock and camp cot for car camping. I sit on it at lunchtime. I use it as a seat pad for river rafting. I use it for a yoga mat when I stretch out my back after a long day hiking or rafting. I put it over the cooler to preserve ice. I use it as a sun shade when the car is parked. I use it to pad my bike and other gear inside my roof box. I admit that it's not very soft, but I can sleep anywhere so that's not an issue.
I have owned an original Ridgerest 3/4 length sleeping pad since I was 12 years old. I am now 26, and I had used that same exact sleeping pad three times this past summer. I have purchased a few other sleeping pads since, trying to find a good balance between weight and comfort, but I kept coming back to the Ridgerest pad, as it is hard to beat it's comfort, weight and warmth.
After spending months on uncomfortable blankets and losing heat, I bought one of these. What a difference. It definitely blocks the cold ground and also provides good comfort. Not sure why I went so long without getting one.
I bought this to take to the Black Rock desert for three weeks, and I didn't want to rely on a self-inflating pad in the dusty alkaline environment where an inflatable may be damaged or fail. This was warm and reasonably comfortable in the desert down to about 40 degrees at night.
The RidgeRest SOLite is a tried and true sleeping pad by Therm-a-Rest and will keep you warm and comfortable when it's time to visit the Land of Nod of an eve. It's a closed-cell foam pad which is a great low-tech option that requires no pumps, extended bouts of breathlessness or a PhD in mattressology. We've taken ours to the Back of Bourke (see if you can find where that is!) and, well, back- and we loved it.
I use this model for car camping as it is a few inches wider than the folded versions. I put it under by Q-Core air mattress and like to have a few inches of extra pad on each side. The reason I do this is because the QCore will actually deflate when you sit on it or put all of your weight in a small concentrated area (getting up or down, etc). This mat just prevents damage or pain by any rocks, pebbles, etc. It also serves as an additional layer of insulation between me and the ground. Keep in mind this rolled version will want to stay curved once it is un-rolled (especially the inner tightest rolls). Perhaps storing it flat might help with the foam wanting to remember the rolled shape, but I have not tried that yet (the curves aren't really a big deal once you lay on it). If you are looking for a backpacking pad the folded versions are a few inches narrower and fold up much smaller.
Purchased one of these to get something small and lightweight for travel/hiking. It might help pad against uneven rocks, but it was as hard as the ground I was sleeping on. I did feel warm, though it didn't get particularly cold so I can't vouch for how well it helps on that front. My main gripe is that it's pretty bulky even though it's lightweight. If you're looking for something cheap to provide some insulation between you and the ground, it's probably a fine buy. I'm going to bite the bullet though and spend the extra money for something the same weight and more comfortable.
I used this on top of my Thermarest for some extra comfort while camping two weeks ago. The combined comfort was OK, but I liked this mat because the reflective coating kept me warm enough to use my sleeping bag as a blanket. It was also non-slip. It rolls up small enough for car camping, but could be bulky on a backpacking trip.
Using this product for a through hike on the JMT. I tested some new equipment in the back yard and this was one of them. very light and comfy. on the trail I will be so tired all I will need is a little comfort for sleeping. this is light enough . it must be carried on the out side of pack. my pack is a bit smaller than some but it weight is a huge factor so Im very happy with it!
I use this pad in two different ways. For 3-season camping, I use it solo and it works great. It keeps you very warm off the ground and adds a bit of comfort as well. I've never really had a problem with it other than it packing a bit large when you roll it up. For 4-season camping, I tend to use it in tandem with a therm-a-rest to add a bit more warmth. It really depends on the weather that day. For some winter trips, it may be just fine on its own.
I was at first skeptical of this huge thing hanging off my pack until yesterday. I was hiking and it got a lot colder then I was expecting so I pulled it out and could immediately feel the difference. it stunned me where has this been all my life. now its not a pad for comfort, I didn't feel much change in that respect but I was like whoa! I was not expecting this little silver pad to bring so much warmth!
This mat wouldn't be comfortable enough for me to use as a standalone backpacking pad, but works extremely well as a barrier pad between the tent floor and my insulated Exped pad while winter camping. It's lightweight, extremely durable and does noticeably insulate on snow.
I use this to supplement an inflatable and for sitting around fire. Its wide enough so i dont roll off it at night and is indestructable. Carry it outside you pack because it does take up space.
I purchased this sleeping pad for a camping trip, since I wanted something on the cheap(ish) side that also looked vaguely comfortable. I'm used to pads that are thinner than this and that cost a fraction, while giving the same exact comfort. All those ridges look cool and useful (and I'm sure they do keep you somewhat warmer at night), but as soon as you lie on it they disappear: a ridge on one side means it's hollow on the other side, so, when weight is applied on it, it flattens.
Also, I found it pretty bulky for the comfort it gives, even though it's very light.
I don't think it's worth the price: for a few more dollars you can buy an inflatable pad, which is better for your sleep.
I've used mine for almost ten years. This is most likely the most resilient, bang for your buck, piece of kit in my pack. Reliability is an 11/10. Where other, significantly more expensive, inflatable pads may fail the thermorest is utterly reliable. I don't mean to sing this pad's praises like it is so much better than alternative step-up options, but it is just a solid piece of gear. I have never had an issue with it--it does what it advertises. I can't think of a reason to not pick one up if you are considering it. It is a staple, entry level sleep pad and worth every penny that it costs.
I bought this for seventeen days of camping on the Black Rock playa, and I wanted something warm that could not develop a leak or take in the alkaline dust present in that environment, so the normal Therm-a-Rest self inflating pad was out. It worked beautifully for what I wanted out of it. I have since used it in weather conditions down to about 25 degrees at night, and have never felt any ground cold seeping up through the pad. I have never had a condensation problem with it. It is slippery, and keeping a pillow in one place is nigh impossible.
This was a good product for my thru-hike of the pacific crest trail. It's light weight, has fair insulation, and sufficient padding. I found it superior in all regards to the zlite. It's not much padding for side sleepers, but I still managed to make it work. It's not as comfortable or light as a neoair, but it couldn't pop, it's cheap, fast to use and put away, and not noisy at night, so it does have it's advantages.
I’m a short dude 5’9”. The short was perfect.
I've used this pad on some very cold ground and I believe the rating to be less than accurate. It should be a 4 or 4.5. No, its not comfortable but if you want comfort get an inflatable or stay home.
I don't understand why people say its uncomfortable, I sleep quite soundly on this pad. It is a bit thicker than a regular blue foam pad, weighs a little more, but is noticeably warmer. I have brought this pad mountain climbing with me and I have nothing bad to say about it. As far as packing is concerned, I line my bag with it for use as an internal frame. It works great, maybe a little bulkier than I would like, but you can't beat the price, the weight, and the comfort.
This pad is durable and keeps my hips and shoulders warm. I use it as a sitting pad when cooking or taking a rest. I have the 4 ft pad and it attaches nicely to the outside of my pack so I have easy access to it when I need a seat. I love that I don't have to worry about puncturing it or maintaining it in any way. It certainly is not a luxury mattress but it is perfect for backpacking.
I used this pad on a recent backpack trip rather than take my self-inflating Therm-a-Rest to save weight. The temps went below freezing and this pad kept me warm. Not as comfortable as the self-inflating, but I like to sleep on a hard surface so no problem. This pad is awesome! Inexpensive and great!
We used it for hiking in backcountry @ King's Canyon Natl Park at 8000 ft of elevation. We set up our tent two nights on the ground and the third one on snow and were always comfortable and warm (in combination with a 0 degree sleeping bag).
The only downside of this foam pad might be that you have to be careful when putting down the backpack, because gravel and stones make the foam chip off or cut through it.
We bought the REGULAR sized one in combo with our sleeping bag - the length is ok, but it could use 2-3 inches of width!
I can't understand all the high reviews for this product, nor do I understand how many people I saw on trail with this thing or a z-lite. I brought this up to around 11k in the Sierras, sleeping on gravel in about 35 degrees this past weekend and have to say it's the least comfortable thing I've ever slept on in a tent. Maybe it's because I'm a side sleeper, but this pad did nothing (zero) to cushion the "hot spots" at my hips and shoulders. The surface really just seemed hard / slippery to me. I actually have about 6 feet of grey foam I bought on REI outlet for about $15 that I've slept on that was more comfortable (though likely does not have the warming capabilities of this model.)In addition to being uncomfortable, it also packs huge compared to inflatables, and you have to pretty much keep it outside your bag. I've seen 1000 people with these things strapped to the outside of the bag, but have to think that without a cover / stuff bag for it, you're going to end up with a dusty, cracked on the edges, possibly carrying some nice poison oak oils, sleeping pad that introduces all that "stuff" into your tent. I'm taking this back, pronto, and exchanging. I'll take my chances with an inflatable, more comfortable, probably warmer, and packs smaller pad... with a repair kit.
I hate this pad. I've just finally had enough with not getting a good night's sleep and bought an actual air mattress (finally!). I slept only 3 hours per night on average on a recent trip with this thing. When I did wake up, I was achy from the lack of actual padding.
Bought two of these, one small and one large. Both made the same except for size differences. Very comfortable and easy to use. Silver side does seem to keep you a few degrees warmer. A must have for the casual camper or backpacker, but there are smaller & lighter options if bulk and weight are a factor.
I bought these for my family of 3 when we went camping in the mountains of Southern Colorado. The first night was rough. We had set up a mat under our sleeping bags ....1 regular size on one side, a small size for my 2 yr old in the middle and another regular size for my husband. Somehow my daughter had flipped around and ended up with my husband on his mat and I had rolled over to get closer to him for his body heat and was sleeping on the small pad. From my knees down I was so cold.
It's true. You can't have your cake and eat it too.
This pad is lightweight and great for keeping the cold ground at bay, but it was the worst sleep I've ever had. It was ridiculously uncomfortable, and after sleeping on it for 4 nights (each night more awful than the next) I am now in day 5 of sore muscles from neck to ankles. Definitely take an additional pad if you're looking for comfort. I was sucked in by the price, but you get what you pay for when it comes to this pad.
I have had this pad for a while. If you are going to spend money on a good pad look some where else it is light but bulky it had kept me warm but it is not very comfortable
This is excellent for lightweight campers who need a low-weight pad that's effective. It's very lightweight, even in the full length, and very comfortable for sleepers light enough and young enough not to need an inflatable.
I'm a first time backpacker and this was a great buy, price is great as well as the product, it weighs next to nothing, and is really comfortable, I went with a regular size, you don't need the extra width if your sleeping in a mummy bag, not much tossing and turning, I had a good night sleep, not sure if it help keep me warm all night because the sleeping bag I have is rated for 35 degrees, and tempatures reached into the low 30ss but if it did then its definitely worth 6 stars.
camped almost 3 weeks in the snow of yosemite. this pad will keep you warm.the ridges are great cause my experience has been the inevitabl
These sleeping pads are amazing! Used them camping in early Spring cool weather and they delivered as promised. Kept us warm all night!
Completely useless in terms of comfort and warmth - I tossed and turned the whole night, felt my hips grind into the ground anytime I tried to turn on my side, etc. I also felt like it gave me no extra warmth compared to just sleeping on the ground. Only pros are it's lightweight and you don't have to worry about air leaks. Save the money and put it toward a better mattress!
the difference between a comfortable night sleep and a shivering horrible night
I needed a sleeping pad for camping, as I used to use my parents' old inflatable one and then it got a hole(s?) in it. I bought this. My roommate had the same one and said it does the job. Well, on a whim, I took it into my local REI to just see what else they had available (I had not tried it out camping yet, just on the floor in my house). I ended up returning this and buying a Big Agnes inflatable pad (Sand Mountain; not available anymore I guess). Inflatables are more expensive, but the difference was HUGE. I sleep on my side, so I need something that will be comfortable and that I won't be able to feel the hard ground through. This would have been okay, but just okay. Also, even though I don't backpack, I think this would have been way too bulky for packing in my car compared to an inflatable that can pack super small.
In my bridge hammock I use an under quilt that covers 3/4 of the hammock and my Therm-a-Rest covers the remaining portion. I cut the pad in a couple of pieces to put it in a place on the under side of the hammock made to put insulation. It works. That’s all that I care about. I have used it in some pretty cold weather. Since I try to go ultralight as much as possible without sacrificing comfort Therm-a-Rest works out well. Light but insulates well.
I needed something to insulate my body from the cold air of REI's large air mattress on a tent floor, so I tried 3 of the small pads laid crosswise, reflective side up. It kept me warm wherever I was laying, but wherever my leg or arm or torso moved to a new spot, it felt cold for a few seconds. But the cold went away quickly and was warm again. The pads moved around a bit, and I could definitely tell where my knee was on the air mattress - it was much colder there. I have ordered one more pad so that the entire air mattress will be covered. Also, the pads were much more comfortable than I thought they would be, given the stiffness that they have, but then, I like a firm mattress. I think this layering will be perfect (from the bottom up): air mattress, thick blanket, pads, sheet (or reverse the pads and blanket and if you want it softer).
Alright pad for the price, but a little fragile and bulky for my standards. If you want something barebones though, it does its job. As several others have mentioned, the reflective side is nice, but seems to come off easily. Doesn't weigh much, but it's pretty huge when rolled up. I'd recommend cutting it down to the side of your torso and a bit of your legs if you want to save space. Overall, a cheap, relatively comfy pad for warmer weather.
This pad is lightweight and keeps you very warm even below freezing, but provides minimal comfort. If you are a back sleeper this pad can probably be used alone and keep you comfortable; I personally often pair it with a lightweight air matress for extr protection from the ground. I feel like this pad is best for ultra lightweighters, scout and youth groups, and super long distance hikers. It's relatively inexpensive and a great intro piece.
I have had this pad for a couple years now and am very impressed with it. It's the most comfortable foam pad i've ever slept on and is very durable. Of course the expensive blow up pads are more comfortable than this one, but not anywhere near as durable, lightweight and inexpensive. I've heard people complain about it being bulky when rolled up, but that just means there is that much more loft there! Great R value and Well worth the money.
When the temps haven't been too low, I sleep like a rock on this.
As far as its limits seem to go, it's considered a three-season pad for a reason. I had chills while sleeping on this pad in the Wind River Range one night in August, but I figured that had a lot to do with me having a cheap 15-degree bag. Last night I was in the Medicine Bow Mountains while camping out at 11500' on top of snow, and for the entire night I could not get warm. This time it was not just the bag--I could feel cold coming up through the pad into my back side. So it surely does have its limits of course. I think last nights temps up there neared 15 degrees. My car this morning, 1200 or so feet below, said 24 degrees F, and that was at dawn when it was plenty light out. I plan to get one of Thermarest's inflatables plus a -10 or -20 bag for this winter to avoid further bedtime chilliness
I used this for a 6 day backpacking/camping trip. My sleeping bag has no insulation on the back (Big Agnus Roxy Ann) and because of this my back was right on the ridges of the pad. They were super uncomfortable! The pad was lightweight and warm, but I think I'm going to be saving up for an inflatable. I think I will keep this as a secondary pad for winter camping, like another reviewer suggested!
Used this mat just last night while hiking in the Ozarks. Also used this while hiking in Northern California. The pad was great while sleeping on the Spanish Flats and on the Beach but while sleeping on the hard ground in the Ozarks...not comfortable at all but the temps were less than 20 and it kept the warmth great, definitely didn't feel the ice cold ground. Just not ideal for comfort on a hard ground.
I ended up returning this product because I ordered it online, and didn't realize how big it was. Don't get me wrong, it's a great size to where my body won't roll off the side in my sleep, but for winter hiking purposes it's a bit bulky. Trying to attach it to a pack, and not have it become uncomfortable or get in the way is a challenge. If you're just using it for camping, without any hiking then go for it.
Can't complain about this pad's price or weight. The Shiny surface feels pretty warm after a bit, warmer than an old inflatable I used to have. Don't have to worry about punctures either. It doesn't pack down that small, but I'm rockin an old external frame pack so it doesn't matter as much for me.
Perfect price for what it does but it is a bit large volume wise... With that said, I am a taller/larger, than average size person (6'1-210) and ordered the largest they had available. But no holes that can come from this bad boy - rugged and light.
We used these pads on wooden bunks in Forrest Service type cabin's. They were very uncomfortable, in fact I have honestly slept on bare rock more comfortably, so I don't think I could even say it's better than nothing.
I bought this pad because I needed some insulation from the ground and for in my hammock and didn't want to spend a ton of money on a pad. My first use was the first 30 miles of the AT starting here in Georgia. The pad is super bulky and I had to strap it to the bottom on my pack where it protruded out on both sides making it hard to maneuver the trail. It rubbed and got caught on just about everything tearing up the foam (also a good way to get poison ivy oil etc all over it). It is not made to be used in a hammock! It shifted all over the place because it had no way of being anchored so if your hammock/bag doesn't have a sleeve for a pad then definitely don't buy this. I have also used it in my tent. I am a larger man and found it to be just as uncomfortable as sleeping on the ground. You could buy a cheap piece of foam and probably get the same performance. The insulation it provided was minimal. Overall, this product is best for an easy over night or car camping but even in those situations there are better alternatives. My advice is to spend a little extra money on an air pad. I returned this and got the Big Agnes air core on sale here for about the same price. It packs down to the size of a nalgene bottle and is a ton more comfortable than this foam pad.
I purchased two of these only to read on the packaging (after receiving from mail order) that it may have chemicals in it known to cause cancer.
I was looking for something to put under my sleeping bag while hammock camping and this worked great. I accidentally rolled off of it twice during the night and in about 2 minutes could feel the cold through my sleeping bag. I purchased the small size so it was just big enough to cover my torso and butt. It is definitely not the smallest pad you will find, but overall a great purchase.
I love this pad. I got the Large because I am a plus size girl and other pads don't have a wider option. I couldn't be happier! I have used it in a tent but recently converted to hammock camping and this pad is perfect to keep your booty warm. My Large fits perfectly in a 60L REI Durable Stuff Sac. I have also used it to lay down by a camp fire and by a lake and beach.
I recently completed the O Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park in CHILE (patagonia) and this sleeping pad was well worth it! I kept in the ThermaRest bag on the exterior of my pack on the hike. We experienced everything from snow to rain and a few sunny days and this did a great job providing a barrier from the ground to my sleeping bag.
Just used it and it does keep your back warm, but it is not comfortable. It is hard and your back will pay for it the following morning. Going to return and go for an inflatable to get some cushion.
I've had this ridgerest with me for a while now. It has served dual purposes as a night sleeping pad and also as importantly a sitting pad to keep me off the ground when hanging around the campsite. It durable and lightweight. It's not the easiest to pack, I tie it on the bottom of the backpack and it does well.
Pretty straight forward closed cell pad. It’s not the warmest option available but, the reflective side actually works. It does a good job of reflecting heat back to you. During warm weather, I simply flip it over with the reflective side down. Best of all, it doesn’t deflate in the middle of the night!
Needed a pad for a spur of the moment camping trip. This pad kept me warm in my hammock in 30 degree weather with a sleeping bag. The ridges didn't bother me, but I was wearing a light jacket which may have affected that. Not bad for the price, but I will be upgrading to a inflatable pad soon.
I rated this at 3 stars due to lack of durability. It’s lightweight and gives added warmth when combined with an inflatable pad in cold weather camping. I bought the short version to keep weight down. It certainly isn’t as packable as a blow up pad but it does its job.
Awesome mat have slept on lots of mats got this because of thermal and lite weight had it abt a year have cut it down to size as it rolls up large for my taste thermal all but striped off after 6 months of rigorous use but seriously this Matt is the sh$@ buy it
like the title says, it's an additional pad. I'm planning a trip up north. I've got a thermarest neo air X lite and was told if the temperature drops below my 20 degree bag them this additional pad will help me out with the temperature difference
This is a great product. I used it in temperatures that dropped into the mid 20s. Coupled with a quality bag you will be comfortable and warm. Note that it does not provide a lot of cushion but given the price you shouldn't expect a Serta.
I love this pad, especially the weight savings I get from it. Don't use it to sleep on directly but use it to protect my Uber lite from the ground. Use it to sit on, Has been valuable on wet grounds. Keep my pack standing straight up etc....
I bought this to cut up into smaller pieces to sit on in the snow during snowshoe, fat biking, xc skinning, etc. lunch. It works GREAT. I'm amazed how warm it is. I've sat for almost 2 hours directly on the snow and never even knew it.
Used this pad on my cot in an antelope hunting camp last Oct in Wyoming. I felt no cold drafts on my back, did not slip off the mat at any time, and never felt uncomfortable on it. It did the job real well while I was out there.
Bought this for my 11 year old grandson. Nice and light buy he said he didn't like the bumps. He could feel them and said not too comfortable. I think we'll go for a light air pad next time.
Keeps you off the ground and will never deflate. Hard / not comfortable to lay on except on flat ground. I cut mine up and replaced the back pads in all my packs for an emergency bivy pad.
Light. Easy to carry. If you don't need 'fancy' or 'gadgety', the Therm-a-Rest is the best for first time campers. It can sell one that camping is a great experience. Stores away easily.
Bulky but very light. I was surprised how effective the coated grid pattern was for keeping warm. Comfortable in an open AT shelter in mid-teens (Fahr). Low cost and effective.
Reflects body heat back towards you, keeps you warm and insulated, and can't go flat like inflatable pads. Not super padded, but it gets the job done, and does what it says.
Got the shorter one to lay underneath my self-inflating pad for a bit more insulation and padding. Works great so far! Between this and my other pad, I sleep like a baby.
The review was good from the two of our group that used them. They were comfortable, off the ground, and did not take up a lot of space.
I bought this spur of the moment and it saved me. It's not as comfortanle as the blow up air pads, but won't go flat. It's dependable!
I recently bought this product, and was able to test it out last weekend on a car camping trip. I wanted to purchase a foam pad because I prefer the durability and price over an inflating pad. (I also really don't like the idea of spending $60 on an inflating pad that springs a leak after a few trips.) I'm 5'3", and the short length went down just past my knees, while weighing in at only 9oz! I didn't mind the bulk of it, since I can roll it up and strap it to the bottom of my backpack using the compression straps. I was very happy with the comfort and warmth of the pad - I brought it on a stargazing trip in pretty chilly weather (40 and windy, and we were outside without a tent), and it kept me really warm. I even had multiple family members try it and comment on its warmth and comfort! I slept both on my side and my back, and I don't have any complaints about the comfort (although to be fair, I'm used to sleeping on the ground). My husband (who hasn't ever used a sleeping pad) mentioned that he needs to buy one for himself. If you don't need your pad to be small, this one manages to be lightweight, basically indestructible, and plenty warm and comfortable!
Perfect for a 2-3 day camping trip, but I would invest in something a little more comfortable for any longer length of time.
Great weight for backpacking but does roll up a bit large.
I was surprised at how comfortable it was. Has kept me warm.
very comfortable easy to set up its very durable it stays in place very well thers great insalation.
The price was reasonable, but I really didn't care for the product. Felt like sleeping on the floor.
I had an inflatable mat and honestly, I thought that was the right route to go for backpacking. But then my inflatable got a hole and no matter how much duct tape and medical tape and glue I put on and around it, it would deflate in about 10 minutes.
If you don't mind the bulk, this sleeping pad is a super durable and comfortable back saver
It’s lighteright and easy to pack.
But it doesn’t stay unrolled; nature of the material
I don't like that I slide off the pad by the middle of the night. And it was not my size
This was a great pad where you don’t feel any bump and no coldness from the ground.
Works well, however a little slippery on snow, even on a footprint.
It's a bit too thin for my liking but got the job done.
rsturm
Regarding sleeping on snow (in a tent), if the R value of this pad is a bit too low, couldn't one fold the 6' pad in two to have a 3' double thickness pad? Does this then double the R value making it OK for snow? (your feet could be propped up on a pack)
We do not suggest folding this sleeping pad. If you are camping on snow we suggest using two sleeping pads to provide additional thermal protection.