How to Choose the Best Sleeping Pad for Camping and Backpacking

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Offering exceptional insulation and comfort with a small pack size, the Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 sleeping pad is filled with 700-fill-power pure duck down for serious cold-weather use.
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View all Mountain Equipment Air PadsBest Use | Backpacking |
---|---|
Sleeping Pad Type | Air |
Sleeping Pad Shape | Rectangular |
Insulated | Yes |
Insulation Type | Down |
R-Value | 5 |
Repair Kit Included | Yes |
Stuff Sack Included | Yes |
Packed Size | Unavailable |
Sleeping Capacity | 1-person |
Pad Thickness (in.) | 2.8 inches |
Gender | Unisex |
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I bought this pad (long version) based on the weight REI listed in its spec sheet which was really competitive for the r value (5) and helps justify the cost of this product. However, upon receiving this mat, the specification on the packaging clearly states the weight is actually 30oz which is different from the lower number REI specified at the time of purchase. I confirmed the packaging is correct with a home scale. While REI's listed information was only off from the official spec by ~6 oz, every oz counts when backpacking and there are more affordable options with a similar warmth/weight ratio that can be found once you consider the actual weight.
Have used this many nights camping over the past 3 years. I bought my sleeping bag when I lived in a warmer climate- the sleeping pad really helped even out the difference, so I could keep my old sleeping bag. It is VERY comfortable (I am a side-sleeper and tend to be cold easily). My husband has a sleeping pad from another popular company that's lighter and packs smaller, but we both much prefer this one. Also very easy to inflate with included bag. I've also got a 100-lb dog that walks all over it and it's been fine under her weight and paws. This is my favorite piece of camping equipment that I own. I use it in all 4 seasons.
This is a great pad, especially if you're doing any backpackibg in cold weather without that god-awful crinkly sound that other pads have. I have a few really nice ultralight pads but they sleep cold if it's anywhere below 45 degrees. This takes care of all that for just a few ounces more. The included inflation system is ingenious and easy to use.
From now on this will be my go to pad for all my backpacking trips. My first time purchasing a Mountain Equipment pad, and I must say it was easy to inflate with about 3-4 repeats. It held up nicely and comfortable.
This is the most comfortable pad I've ever slept on for backpacking. Packs down nicely if you "roll" it 3 or 4 times which makes it take longer to stow away but willing to do it for the comfort, warmth, and reliability of the product. I did rip the bag by not rolling it up properly the first couple times but it still works. Other than that I couldn't be happier. My favorite piece of gear. I've had it for 2 years and haven't had any problematic wear or problems with it other than the tear in the stuff sack seam due to not compacting it properly.
I’ve had this product for the last year and used it several times backpacking. Worth every penny, worth the extra weight. I’m in Alaska and bought a more expensive Big Agnes AXL but returned it after THE COLDEST NIGHT of my life and bought this one instead. I do not regret this at all!
Used this pad for Mount Elbert overnight camping, temps in single digits and my tent was setup on snow. Pad did provide really good insulation and also good support for sleeping on side. It is well built and will stay in my overnight kit!
All in all great pad, it's warm, spacious (greatly prefer the rectangular rather than tapered shape), and light. Grips are that it is a little noisy (not bad comparatively for an insulated pad), and does not pack down very small. Compared to some Nemo's or Thermarests this is a bit bulk but as a package very happy with the purchase and still think it was the best pad for my purposes!
it does not pack down well. I ripped the bag the first time I tried putting it back in.
Kept me warm while camping in the snow on Mount Hood. Easy to set up and pack away.