Semi-Lightweight Options for Happy Sleep?

Definitely go wider, especially in cold weather [snow] I stopped looking when I bought a S/H S2S Comfort Plus but that may be over your desired weight limit and it still needs a CCF pad on snow for maximum insulation

I would try the thermarest evolite or evolite plus if you want thicker .  It has a foam spine so for side sleeping is more supportive than neoair while maintaining fairly light weight.

The large is only 1lb 9oz.  For about 2lbs you can add another inch of loft with the plus.

I’m getting an REI Flash Insulated mattress B/C I want more warmth for shoulder season//early winter times. Normally I use my Thermarest Prolite but it is pure for summer (and not as comfy as the Flash).

However if you don’t need the extra warmth REI has an uninsulated Flash for a few ounces less.

Hammock with an underquilt!

I’m a dedicated ground dweller, but agree with Bob. Hammocks are 100% the ticket for a solid night’s sleep.

Outside of that, go with a Nemo Nomad. 80″x30″ and 6in thick. Sub 3 lbs.

Ryan

All,

I really appreciate the suggestions and will look into each of them. I am interested in hammocks but frequently sleep above the treeline so haven’t pulled the trigger on a hammock yet. Another one I found tonight is the Big Agnes Q-Core Deluxe, making the list:

• Big Agnes Q-Core Deluxe
• Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated (thanks Edward!)
• REI Flash Insulated (thanks Eric!)
• Nemo Nomad (thanks Ryan!)
• Thermarest Evolite (thanks Greg!)

Any other suggestions?

Regards, Scott

I use the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated for car camping, and sometimes for easy backpacks. It’s super comfortable without being excessively thick.

If you want something lighter, the Sea to Summit Etherlite XT is coming out sometime next year.

John,

I appreciate the recommendation — I think you’ve nailed my use case (e.g. if I am willing to bring another pound along to ensure that I get a better night’s sleep!).

Regards, Scott

Hi Scott,

As a 200 lb side sleeper in his mid-forties, I’ve gone to using a ccf pad over top of a XLite (and just started using a BA Axl Air several months ago).

I find that air mattress pads are soft, but never firm enough. The ccf pad adds the much needed firmness for my tired hips and back.

And it adds much needed insulation, since the listed R value on air mattresses is substantially over hyped and not reliable.

Good luck finding your ideal pad, and choosing a good night’s sleep over weight!

Matt

Interesting to use the CCF over the xlite.  I’ve used one under an inflatable pad in cold weather, and on a car camp where I figured it was an extra level of puncture protection.

I’ve also been noodling the idea of taking a GG thinlite pad along instead of a thermarest Z-seat.  I have to say I use the Z-seat all day long, but the thinlite might fill the same use case for nearly the same weight and provide extra comfort on top of the inflatable pad.  The GG thinlite is I think 1/8″ thick, but they make a hammock version that is double that.

Do you find the CCF to be hotter than the xlite alone?  That would be my concern.

-Bob

I have a S2S ultralight insulated pad (the next level below Comfort Plus) and I like it more than any pad I’ve ever owned.

Ryan Jordan I believe is a huge fan of the Comfort Plus.

I think Ryan uses the Comfort lite.

The comfort lite is the one I am saving up for to use in off snow camping. We have other options for car camping I would never be able to carry for more than 100 metres

https://sehttps://seatosummit.com/product/comfort-light-insul-mat/

A lot lighter than my snow camping mat and probably enough for most people

I have one of these and they are comfy for side sleepers etc.

I really like the Exped pads. Very comfortable.   —-> Exped Synmat UL

I’m 5’11”, 155Lbs. Side and back (and sometimes stomach) sleeper.

Exped Synmat

Thickness: 7cm

R value=3.3

weight: 16.8 oz for 20″ x 72″

Mine have never lost any air (i.e., no leaks) but I have had a baffle blow out, which results in awkward, but still decent night of sleep.

Paul, and Others,

Thanks again for your suggestions — I have a trip planned to CampSaver to try some of these out. I appreciate you taking the time to chime in. I’ll report back with my selection.

Regards, Scott