best sleeping pad for:

I use a combo of the Gossamer gear 1/8" thin light and the G.G. Nightlight torso pad. This combo is warm, offers full insulation from the ground, is relatively comfortable, and offers good pack support. The total weight of this combo is about 5.5 – 6 oz. The total cost is about $30 dollars. I know this is a popular setup for quit a few people.

I don’t sleep well on closed cell pads alone, so here are some lightweight options that have worked for me:

1. If you like your Therm-a-Rest, take a look at MontBell’s line of self-inflating pads. You can add a closed cell pad for a little extra softness, or, like me, add a dual foam mat for pure luxury. My UL 90 and judiciously trimmed foam mat add up to a total of about 18 ounces.

2. Combine a thin closed cell foam pad (like the Gossamer Gear ThinLight) with a lightweight air mattress like BA’s new Clearview. The combination offers insulation, pack structure, and a very comfortable night’s sleep at a minimal weight penalty (16-18 ounces).

Of course, both of these options are quite a bit heavier and more expensive than Joshua’s Gossamer Gear pad combo.

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Rob, I use the SMD Essence with a GG Nightlite Torso length – plenty of frame up to about 20 lbs. I throw a 1/8 GG thinlite underneath for summer temps. If you need more cushion, try the montbell infatable and then throw the torso Nightlite under your legs when you sleep.

thanks all – I know where to look now.