Backpacking Sleeping Pads

Choosing a Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad for the trail

Every backpacking sleeping pad is a balance between weight, packed size, warmth and comfort. Our NeoAir XLite NXT weighs 13 ounces in Regular, rolls up as small as a 1-liter bottle and still carries a 4.5 R-value, which makes it our pick for most three-season trips. The XLite NXT MAX gives the same warmth in a rectangular shape for sprawlers and side sleepers.

Air, self-inflating or foam?

Air pads like the NeoAir XTherm NXT and NeoLoft give the most comfort and warmth per ounce; the XTherm's 7.3 R-value is built for snow. Self-inflating pads like the Trail Pro, Trail Pro MAX and Trail ProLite use StrataCore foam and air, so they're quiet, stable and fill themselves while you pitch the tent. Closed-cell foam pads like the Z Lite SOL and Z Lite Original weigh 14 ounces, can't puncture, and make a great second layer under an air pad in winter.

Pairing a pad with your sleeping bag

Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads are designed as the base of a sleep system. The insulation under you matters as much as the sleeping bag over you, because down crushed under your body stops working. A lightweight, compact pad with good support and durability lets you carry a lighter sleeping bag or quilt, and the comfort of a stable pad means you wake up ready for the next outdoor day.

Sizes, valves and care

Regular pads are 20 x 72 inches; Regular Wide and Large add width and length for broad shoulders or tall sleepers. WingLock and TwinLock valves inflate quickly with the included pump sack and deflate in seconds. Store pads unrolled with the valve open, and carry a field repair kit so a thorn never ends a trip.