Using two pads: closed cell foam below or above inflatable pad for best warmth/insulation from cold?

[Robert Kelly]

All you expert analysts at BPL – (specifically for a NeoAir and a Ridge Rest used in winter in a tarp); under what conditions, if any, is it better to have the closed cell foam pad below the inflatable, and under what conditions, if any, is it better to have the closed cell foam pad above the inflatable? What is the science here?

I can make an argument in either direction, but my instincts say I'll be warmest with the Ridge Rest below the NeoAir, and the NeoAir somewhat deflated but still comfortable in any sleeping position. Would be using a down sleeping bag, if that somehow matters.

If this has been asked and answered and you can point me to the thread, I'd be most grateful.

[James Horner]

closed cell on top. no research or science that I know of but when i put the cc on top I'm warmer.

[Brian Lewis]

Equally unscientific, my brief experiements at this also suggest that the ccf pad above the inflatable is warmer. So like I think a number of people now do, if I'm pretty sure I'll be warm enough that way, I put the ccf pad under, to reduce the odds of a leak or puncture. If I'm not so sure, then the ccf pad goes above the inflatable instead.

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