Details
- Aluminized surface reflects heat, returning it back to your body; increases overall warmth from previous model by nearly 20%
- Pad is engineered for extreme alpine climbing, adventure racing and long-distance backpacking when reducing weight is paramount
- Egg-carton pattern increases softness and adds insulation by trapping warm air under your sleeping bag
- Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol mattress uses an accordion-style design that lies flat instantly and folds up into a small package quickly and easily
- Closed-cell foam withstands years of use and abuse
Made in USA.
Specs
| Best Use | Backpacking |
|---|---|
| Sleeping Pad Type | Closed-cell Foam Pad |
| Sleeping Pad Shape | Rectangular |
| Sleeping Capacity | 1-person |
| Insulated | Yes |
| Insulation Type | Closed-cell Foam |
| R-Value | 2.6 |
| Packed Size |
|
| Ultralight | Yes |
| Pad Thickness (in.) |
|
| Dimensions |
|
| Weight |
|
| Gender | Unisex |
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Ben.Zef from
Good VALUE and works okay!!
I have this pad. It folds easily but requires lots of space. To make this 4 season, wrap in a micro fleece blanket or a space blanket or sac. This offers you further insul properties.
Even when you lie on it, and compress "it" by virtue of "dead" weight, it insulates well enough to leave you impressed with its' propeties.
Unlike closed cell foam, you don't have to fight to get the pad to lie flat out.
I've used this with a Hennessey Hammock, double bottom, and several different tents I own. In addition, I own three bivy sacks - different types, and it fits inside perfect.
A good deal all the way around! You can't go wrong with this one.
Date published: 2012-02-25
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Danoworld from
Great pad for its class
I am not comparing this pad to expensive inflatables. This pad is what it is. It is a great choice if you want to sacrafice a little on comfort and compactness for weight savings. It straps on the the back of your pack easily and the rain cover still fits if needed. I chose it because I got tired of buying a new expensive inflatable every couple years. They always get slow leaks in them eventually and I end up on the ground in the morning regardless. So why not spend half as much and save a little weight for my thru hikes? I have a nice durable (heavy) car camping pad for when I am not on the trail. I find it is a good balance for me.
Date published: 2013-08-15
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Tactical Bacon from
being square has become cool
I use it for camping in all seasons and its not only warm and soft but if you put it on some annoying rocks or roots it really soaks them up. I have even used this as a substitute for my own bed in a few cases where my back was out of wack and it did the trick. and apparently it doubles as an exercise/yoga mat according to the way my girlfriend was using it one day.
I bought a self inflating previous to this and didnt like it. take too long to set up and tear down and not nearly as consistently comfortable.
overall an excellent product that is quick and easy to pack, smaller and lighter than the competition and is as comfortable as it gets.
Date published: 2012-03-01
Rated 5 out of
5
by
UpperLeftGal from
Does The Job
As previous reviews put it, this pad is what it is. It is not a cushy, cloud-like experience but it does give you some extra comfort on the trail. I am a side and back sleeper and this works well for me overall. On my back I put my pack under my knees to take pressure off the lower back, on my side I use a sturdy camping pillow or full stuff-sack.
What I LOVE: super light, easy peasy set up/take down, and it keeps you warm! I could feel the warmth coming from it.
I am a 5'7" female and the S was good for me. The pad covered head to knee and not having the extra length did not affect my sleep or comfort at all.
Date published: 2016-06-27
Rated 5 out of
5
by
GeologyGSU from
A decade of use!
I bought the original Z Lite over 10 years ago, have used it countless times, and it's still going strong. Sure, it's bulky. But that is the ONLY drawback of this pad. Durability and weight are unparalleled, insulation and comfort are more than adequate. I've used mine in below-freezing temps without any major discomfort, and the newer Sol model has an even higher R-value. I also use this for hammock camping, and the naturally grippy foam keeps the pad in place on a nylon hammock (a serious issue with other pads). I'm in the market for a more compact pad to fly with, but anytime I drive to the campsite or trailhead I'll be using my trusty Z Lite. You need this pad!
Date published: 2015-01-24
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Fly-in-Fly-out from
Replaced an inflatable pad
I had an insualted inflatable pad (not self-inflating) that packed down very small and light, and found that (a) it deflated a bit overnight, sometimes more, sometimes less (b) it took a really long time to deflate and roll up completely, and (c) it was rather "slippery."
I was skeptical that I would be comfortable enough on the Z-Lite, but now I recommend it frequently. It's nearly indestructible and plenty soft and insulating for my purposes (down to the 20s).
And, best of all: setup and teardown take about 10 seconds.
It can be tricky to pack because it takes up a lot of space, but because it's light and durable, this isn't a big problem.
I've had this pad for about five months.
Date published: 2013-08-19
Rated 4 out of
5
by
DylanMichel from
Keep It Simple, Stupid!
I bought this after having an older coleman self inflating pad. I am a large guy and had trouble with the inflatable pad "bottoming out" on my back. It was the cold that bothered me, not the comfort (I can sleep on a bare rock if it is not cold).
What really sold me is that it insulates well, it cant pop, and it is SUPER easy to pack/unpack. I bought two adjustable straps to attach it to the outside of my pack and keep it from unfolding. Only takes a minute to pack up! I even bought a 2nd for my girlfriend.
I have used this for two nights on the Ruby-Horsetheif stretch of the Colorado River, dozens of nights in the Colorado mountains, and even a night in Southern Utah on pavement in the open.
Date published: 2013-07-16
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Luke Hoeft from
Perfect for a hammock.
I bought this pad to solve the insulation issue faced by anyone who camps in a hammock. I got the smaller size so that it straps onto the outside of my pack without sticking way out where it will snag trees and what not. You DON'T need to pay more for the larger size, the pad only needs to insulate your core (mid-thigh to shoulders/head). The z-lite solved the insulation problem, I don't get chills at night anymore, not even in the winter. It got down to 17 degrees on my last backpacking trip and I slept fine in my hammock with this as an insulator... It's also indestructible and can be used as a seat, wind break for a fire/stove, etc. I love multi-tools and this pad has several uses. Worth the buy for sure.
Date published: 2013-12-27
How would I attach this to a pack?
I actually pack it inside of my Osprey Variant 52 (this probably means that I could downgrade to a smaller pack). I unfold the two middle panels and put these across the back of the inside of the pack (against the frame sheet). This leaves the rest of the panels bunched together in two "wings" that I let out along the sides of my pack. I stuff my sleeping bag and other gear down between the wings.
Date published: 2015-09-20
When I got this mat I saw that it had a warning that a material in the mat could cause cancer and/or birth defects. Is there any validity in this? Should I be worried?
Just don't eat it. California has some crazy warnings and restrictions. Paint has the same warning. Some compounds that off-gas (like drying paint) could be harmful until they're completely dry. Same with plastics.
Date published: 2017-04-23
Is this pad a good choice for thru hiking the AT?
​This sleeping pad is a good choice for thru-hiking on the AT. One thing to keep in mind is that this pad is only .75 inches thick.
Date published: 2017-03-22
Can/should the thermarest z lite sol be rolled up?
No, we don't recommend trying to roll the Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad up. It is designed to be folded accordion-style.
Date published: 2017-06-01
If I'm 5'2, should I get the small or the regular? I'm not looking for comfort so much as warmth.
A size small in the Z Lite Sol would save weight, however, your feet would not be on the pad. For ultimate warmth we recommend the regular size.
Date published: 2017-06-02
How do I clean my pad? spray it down? dust it? damp cloth? not sure how to get into all of the grooves... :)
The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad is made of closed cell foam. This material is extremely tough and can be washed with basic hot water and soap.
Date published: 2017-01-25
I am 5' 3" and tend to sleep cold. Can I cut a panel or two off of Regular size to keep my feet off the ground?
​The Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad can be cut if you choose.
Date published: 2017-01-25
Could this be used as bottom insulation for a Hammock shelter in colder temperatures?
This sleeping pad could be used with a hammock to provide a layer of insulation.
Date published: 2017-06-25
Reviews
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Ben.Zef from
Good VALUE and works okay!!
I have this pad. It folds easily but requires lots of space. To make this 4 season, wrap in a micro fleece blanket or a space blanket or sac. This offers you further insul properties.
Even when you lie on it, and compress "it" by virtue of "dead" weight, it insulates well enough to leave you impressed with its' propeties.
Unlike closed cell foam, you don't have to fight to get the pad to lie flat out.
I've used this with a Hennessey Hammock, double bottom, and several different tents I own. In addition, I own three bivy sacks - different types, and it fits inside perfect.
A good deal all the way around! You can't go wrong with this one.
Date published: 2012-02-25
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Danoworld from
Great pad for its class
I am not comparing this pad to expensive inflatables. This pad is what it is. It is a great choice if you want to sacrafice a little on comfort and compactness for weight savings. It straps on the the back of your pack easily and the rain cover still fits if needed. I chose it because I got tired of buying a new expensive inflatable every couple years. They always get slow leaks in them eventually and I end up on the ground in the morning regardless. So why not spend half as much and save a little weight for my thru hikes? I have a nice durable (heavy) car camping pad for when I am not on the trail. I find it is a good balance for me.
Date published: 2013-08-15
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Tactical Bacon from
being square has become cool
I use it for camping in all seasons and its not only warm and soft but if you put it on some annoying rocks or roots it really soaks them up. I have even used this as a substitute for my own bed in a few cases where my back was out of wack and it did the trick. and apparently it doubles as an exercise/yoga mat according to the way my girlfriend was using it one day.
I bought a self inflating previous to this and didnt like it. take too long to set up and tear down and not nearly as consistently comfortable.
overall an excellent product that is quick and easy to pack, smaller and lighter than the competition and is as comfortable as it gets.
Date published: 2012-03-01
Rated 5 out of
5
by
UpperLeftGal from
Does The Job
As previous reviews put it, this pad is what it is. It is not a cushy, cloud-like experience but it does give you some extra comfort on the trail. I am a side and back sleeper and this works well for me overall. On my back I put my pack under my knees to take pressure off the lower back, on my side I use a sturdy camping pillow or full stuff-sack.
What I LOVE: super light, easy peasy set up/take down, and it keeps you warm! I could feel the warmth coming from it.
I am a 5'7" female and the S was good for me. The pad covered head to knee and not having the extra length did not affect my sleep or comfort at all.
Date published: 2016-06-27
Rated 5 out of
5
by
GeologyGSU from
A decade of use!
I bought the original Z Lite over 10 years ago, have used it countless times, and it's still going strong. Sure, it's bulky. But that is the ONLY drawback of this pad. Durability and weight are unparalleled, insulation and comfort are more than adequate. I've used mine in below-freezing temps without any major discomfort, and the newer Sol model has an even higher R-value. I also use this for hammock camping, and the naturally grippy foam keeps the pad in place on a nylon hammock (a serious issue with other pads). I'm in the market for a more compact pad to fly with, but anytime I drive to the campsite or trailhead I'll be using my trusty Z Lite. You need this pad!
Date published: 2015-01-24
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Fly-in-Fly-out from
Replaced an inflatable pad
I had an insualted inflatable pad (not self-inflating) that packed down very small and light, and found that (a) it deflated a bit overnight, sometimes more, sometimes less (b) it took a really long time to deflate and roll up completely, and (c) it was rather "slippery."
I was skeptical that I would be comfortable enough on the Z-Lite, but now I recommend it frequently. It's nearly indestructible and plenty soft and insulating for my purposes (down to the 20s).
And, best of all: setup and teardown take about 10 seconds.
It can be tricky to pack because it takes up a lot of space, but because it's light and durable, this isn't a big problem.
I've had this pad for about five months.
Date published: 2013-08-19
Rated 4 out of
5
by
DylanMichel from
Keep It Simple, Stupid!
I bought this after having an older coleman self inflating pad. I am a large guy and had trouble with the inflatable pad "bottoming out" on my back. It was the cold that bothered me, not the comfort (I can sleep on a bare rock if it is not cold).
What really sold me is that it insulates well, it cant pop, and it is SUPER easy to pack/unpack. I bought two adjustable straps to attach it to the outside of my pack and keep it from unfolding. Only takes a minute to pack up! I even bought a 2nd for my girlfriend.
I have used this for two nights on the Ruby-Horsetheif stretch of the Colorado River, dozens of nights in the Colorado mountains, and even a night in Southern Utah on pavement in the open.
Date published: 2013-07-16
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Luke Hoeft from
Perfect for a hammock.
I bought this pad to solve the insulation issue faced by anyone who camps in a hammock. I got the smaller size so that it straps onto the outside of my pack without sticking way out where it will snag trees and what not. You DON'T need to pay more for the larger size, the pad only needs to insulate your core (mid-thigh to shoulders/head). The z-lite solved the insulation problem, I don't get chills at night anymore, not even in the winter. It got down to 17 degrees on my last backpacking trip and I slept fine in my hammock with this as an insulator... It's also indestructible and can be used as a seat, wind break for a fire/stove, etc. I love multi-tools and this pad has several uses. Worth the buy for sure.
Date published: 2013-12-27
Questions & Answers
How would I attach this to a pack?
I actually pack it inside of my Osprey Variant 52 (this probably means that I could downgrade to a smaller pack). I unfold the two middle panels and put these across the back of the inside of the pack (against the frame sheet). This leaves the rest of the panels bunched together in two "wings" that I let out along the sides of my pack. I stuff my sleeping bag and other gear down between the wings.
Date published: 2015-09-20
When I got this mat I saw that it had a warning that a material in the mat could cause cancer and/or birth defects. Is there any validity in this? Should I be worried?
Just don't eat it. California has some crazy warnings and restrictions. Paint has the same warning. Some compounds that off-gas (like drying paint) could be harmful until they're completely dry. Same with plastics.
Date published: 2017-04-23
Is this pad a good choice for thru hiking the AT?
​This sleeping pad is a good choice for thru-hiking on the AT. One thing to keep in mind is that this pad is only .75 inches thick.
Date published: 2017-03-22
Can/should the thermarest z lite sol be rolled up?
No, we don't recommend trying to roll the Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad up. It is designed to be folded accordion-style.
Date published: 2017-06-01
If I'm 5'2, should I get the small or the regular? I'm not looking for comfort so much as warmth.
A size small in the Z Lite Sol would save weight, however, your feet would not be on the pad. For ultimate warmth we recommend the regular size.
Date published: 2017-06-02
How do I clean my pad? spray it down? dust it? damp cloth? not sure how to get into all of the grooves... :)
The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad is made of closed cell foam. This material is extremely tough and can be washed with basic hot water and soap.
Date published: 2017-01-25
I am 5' 3" and tend to sleep cold. Can I cut a panel or two off of Regular size to keep my feet off the ground?
​The Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad can be cut if you choose.
Date published: 2017-01-25
Could this be used as bottom insulation for a Hammock shelter in colder temperatures?
This sleeping pad could be used with a hammock to provide a layer of insulation.
Date published: 2017-06-25
