Topic

Exped Synmat UL 7 VS Downmat UL7 VS Big Agnes Q Core

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Megan P BPL Member
PostedJul 25, 2012 at 2:25 pm

Hey All,

I have read through a lot of posts already but I just have a pretty basic question. How does the R value convert into a temp rating for these pads.

I'm a girl so naturally I'm cooler but I sleep REALLY hot. And 70% it's in the 40's where I go. Occasionally it's dropped into the high 20's, maybe ONCE into the low 20's. I normally sleep in a 20 degree bag and I'm looking to get a new mat to pair with a quilt for the summer but something that will also be warm enough for the colder nights in the bag.

I don't mind the extra weight at all but also don't want to carry it if it's unnecessary. Comfort is probably my top priority, I don't mind the weight which is why the BA Q Core is also in there. I have heard great things about that, although its much more difficult to inflate. What's everyone think? Anyone have any experience with the Expeds in hot and cold?

Thanks in Advance.

Cheers,
Megan

Stuart . BPL Member
PostedJul 25, 2012 at 2:48 pm

If you're expecting to use the pad in the 40s the vast majority of the time, I'd suggest the SynMat UL7, then supplement it with a thin (1/8" – 3/8") pad like that offered by Gossamer Gear for the nights you expect to drop below 35F.

Alternatively get the DownMat UL7 and replace your sleeping bag with a lighter one or a quilt. (Sorry, spending your money for you here.)

I'm told by a buddy the BA Q-Core is super comfortable but it's in a different league weight-wise, and most BPLers will recommend the lighter weight kit.

PostedJul 25, 2012 at 2:56 pm

I have the SynMat UL7.

I'm a man that sleeps cold. I use a 20 degree bag. I found the SynMat UL7 only felt cold to me when temps outside my tent were at freezing. The other trips I've done in the Pacific NW, where nights have been 45 or so, the pad has been great.

PostedJul 25, 2012 at 9:59 pm

I agree with the advice above to get the Synmat UL7 and a thin foam pad to supplement it on colder nights. If you do this, you might want to strap the two together, as stacked pads tend to become unstacked quickly unless you're a very still sleeper.

I have the Synmat UL7 and the Downmat 7 (the heavier 32 oz version, same R-value as the Downmat UL7) for winter. I use the Synmat when night temps will be 25-30F or higher, and the Downmat for anything colder. In a 0F bag, double wall tent, on the Downmat, I was completely unphased by the cold at 9F this winter. I plan to supplement it with a Ridge Rest foam pad for anything below 0F, maybe -10F. I've used the Downmat in warmer temps, but I honestly struggle with it being too warm above 50F.

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