Have a womans W sized Tensor Insulated Pad; a yellow job, one generation before this one. Tested it out several times at home. The older model had some valve issues, and I had to many times inflate using the enclosed “blow sack”; I kept screwing up the two valves and let too much air out. Either that or design issues. I also carried a closed cell foam pad.
I found that one frustrating, yet had a high R-Value (insulation) for its steep price. But I still carried the closed foam cell pad. Always go for a Wide, as the fear of rolling off a pad robs one of sleep.
Then this “latest and greatest” came around. I had to wait long time for it too. Never, ever, skimp on quality sleep at my age and research “improved” items all the time. I ordered a “regular Wide”.
Found the valves on this pricey, up-graded model better and a high enough R-Value, allowing me to ditch the weight from my cell foam Therma-Rest Pad.
The new pad was tested in a two-person tent on rain, cold, wet back yard, desert heat and performed well under my quilt. I used a Zen-Bivy “sheet” to prevent my skin from sticking to this pad, laundering sheet when home, keeping pad cleaner and provided more insulation.
In all, despite high price recommend product; valve more User-friendly. I ditched the enclosed carry sack and hook and loop. (Velcro) band, saving some grams and squishing it gently into my back pack. Do not misplace Blow Sack. Seems durable so far have not had any holes. But always carry repair kit.
Model / Variant
regular wide
My level of backpacking experience
intermediate
# of days I've used this product
8
Would I recommend this product to a friend?
Yes
Overall3.50
Light Weight4
Durability4
Versatility4
Performance4
Design4
Price1
Membership Required
This feature requires an active Backpacking Light Membership.
Premium Articles
You're currently viewing a free preview of a member exclusive premium article. Our premium articles include in depth journalism and insights from the Backpacking Light editorial team.
Get full article access by subscribing to a Premium or Unlimited Backpacking Light membership!
© Beartooth Media Group Inc.
Loading...
Better valves
1/30
Have a womans W sized Tensor Insulated Pad; a yellow job, one generation before this one. Tested it out several times at home. The older model had some valve issues, and I had to many times inflate using the enclosed “blow sack”; I kept screwing up the two valves and let too much air out. Either that or design issues. I also carried a closed cell foam pad.
I found that one frustrating, yet had a high R-Value (insulation) for its steep price. But I still carried the closed foam cell pad. Always go for a Wide, as the fear of rolling off a pad robs one of sleep.
Then this “latest and greatest” came around. I had to wait long time for it too. Never, ever, skimp on quality sleep at my age and research “improved” items all the time. I ordered a “regular Wide”.
Found the valves on this pricey, up-graded model better and a high enough R-Value, allowing me to ditch the weight from my cell foam Therma-Rest Pad.
The new pad was tested in a two-person tent on rain, cold, wet back yard, desert heat and performed well under my quilt. I used a Zen-Bivy “sheet” to prevent my skin from sticking to this pad, laundering sheet when home, keeping pad cleaner and provided more insulation.
In all, despite high price recommend product; valve more User-friendly. I ditched the enclosed carry sack and hook and loop. (Velcro) band, saving some grams and squishing it gently into my back pack. Do not misplace Blow Sack. Seems durable so far have not had any holes. But always carry repair kit.