Sleeping Pads

Sleeping Pads
Though the NeoAir R value has been improved since I bought mine, circa 2009, the weight has not decreased. Seeking to lower pad weight below 66" NeoAir (14 oz) , I auditioned two "pretzel" pads on a fall trip in the Panamint Mountains of Eastern California. Pretzel pads have the advantage of allowing the loft from sleeping bag to billow out and down into the pretzel gaps, instead of being compressed against a sleeping pad surface.
I tried:
Klymit Inertia X-Lite (42" x 18" x 1.5") with manufacturer quoted weight of 6.1 oz (7.9 oz with pump, stuff sack, and patch kit).
Klymit Inertia X-Frame (72" x 18" x 1.5") with manufacturer quoted weight of 9.1 oz (10.6 oz with pump, stuff sack, and patch kit).

Sleeping warmth was barely adequate for the temps encountered at 6300' MSL, when combined with lightweight sleeping bag (MontBell U.L. Super Stretch Down Hugger #7), Thermolite bivvy, and polypro long johns, plus light down jacket, and hat. With 6 oz more bag loft, or a warmer jacket, there would have been no need for the bivvy sack. I did not carry or use the pump in either trial, as I was able to adequately top-up the pads by lung power . Both pads are significantly smaller when deflated than NeoAir.

More at:  
Klymit.com
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The sleeping pad Ihave used for 5+ years (with no leaks) is Thermarest NeoAir.

I was driven to improve my pad due to lack of comfort with other systems. Besides improved comfort, benefits to this pad include smaller rolled size, lighter weight, and less need to "groom" sleeping site for lumps.

It is just such a shame that an item (sleeping pad) used for only one purpose, and for less than 1/3 the time has to be so heavy! So the NeoAir is an important innovation *if* one can take the risk of non-repairable rip. (This is why I carry two pads - the inflatable, plus a closed cell foam 0.25" or 0.375" thick pad. The closed cell foam pad only adds 4-5 oz, and is useful for sitting on during meal stops, plus substitutes for the ground sheet under a tent.

I have below embedded loosely organized reviews of technology and specs. It contains comparative R values and weights and patch kit discussion. (No patch kit or stuff sack is included with NeoAir)

I made a container for NeoAir from slicing the tops off clear poly bottles (one liter soda bottles), and making a torpedo-style case by fitting the two bottom sections together. This protects the NeoAir far better than any stuff sack can, is lighter, cheaper, and can serve as a cup.

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I have decided to replace my 48" NeoAir with their 66" or 72" NeoAir, for reasons of better neck / pillow alignment; I am willing to carry the incremental +4 or 5 oz.

48" NeoAir list price is: $119
66" NeoAir list price is: $139
72" NeoAir list price is: $149

In the late May 2009, I looked at a few vendors for the 66" or 72" NeoAir at prices below list, and found no bargains. But I haven't made an exhaustive search, so if you find a vendor with stock and attractive pricing, please let me know!!

I got an excellent price from the following vendor when I purchased in early May 2009
http://www.backcountry.com/store/CAS0503/Therm-a-Rest-Neoair-Sleeping-Pad.html
the 20% off coupon that worked then: coupon code "475-7-YZRKU" @ CHECKOUT

These vendors seem to have some sizes in stock at list price (there may be coupons that work, but I don't know where they are):
http://www.rei.com/search?query=neoair
http://www.intermountaintraders.com/outdoors/sleeping-pads/thermarest-neoair-sleeping-pad/
http://www.backcountryedge.com/therm_a_rest-neoair.aspx?

Here are some pillow ideas:
http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/forums/thread_display.html?forum_thread_id=20906

Here is an additional patching method idea:
http://www.mcnett.com/Tenacious-Tape-Repair-Tape-P139.aspx
http://www.rei.com/product/783045

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NeoAir Dimensions:
[S] 20 x 47in (51 x 119cm); [M] 20 x 66in (51 x 168cm); [R] 20 x 72in (51 x 183cm); [L] 25 x 77in (63 x 196cm)
Rolled Size:
[S] 9 x 3.3in (23 x 9cm); [M, R] 9 x 4in (23 x 10cm); [L] 11 x 4.5in (28 x 11cm)
Weight:
[S] 9oz (260g); [M] 13oz (370g); [R] 14oz (410g); [L] 1lb 3oz (550g)
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Date: Thu, 09 Apr 2009 11:55:21 -0700

Looks like everyone wants NeoAir, and everyone is out of stock. Just as well, because I need to prove the comfort of such a system to myself. This I can do with field tests using what I already have. When I have proved that 2.5" tube-inflatable is more comfortable for me than other systems, then I can reduce the weight of 2.5" tube-inflatable system by replacing Insul Mat Max Thermo 3/4 ( 17 oz ) with NeoAir Small ( 9 oz ), which will be a ratio of $20 / oz

I think I will soldier fwd with
Insul Mat Max Thermo 3/4 ( 17 oz) supplanted with 1/8" foam ( 2 oz )
perhaps improved to
Insul Mat Max Thermo 3/4 ( 17 oz) supplanted with 1/4" foam ( 4 oz )

I like the more compact size of rolled NeoAir

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Date: Wed, 8 Apr 2009 21:33:16 -0700

http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/forums/thread_display.html?forum_thread_id=15373&skip_to_post=160237#160237

NeoAir vs BA Aircore, good pics, first-hand knowledge.

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On Tue, Apr 7, 2009 at 10:50 AM, Nick wrote:
It is just such a shame that an item (sleeping pad) used for only one purpose, and for less than 1/3 the time has to be so heavy!

Choking on the $120 price for Thermarest NeoAir, I set out to find our the R value of the Insul Mat Max Thermo 3/4 x 20" x 48" x 2.5" ( 17 oz) that I already own. R Value ain't published anywhere. It is certainly less than the NeoAir (R 2.5 ), but at least that of Big Agnes Air Core ( R 1.0 ) . I did find some info (but not R value) here:
http://www.pacoutdoor.com/
http://www.trailspace.com/gear/pacific-outdoor-equipment/insulmat-max-thermo/

From the large adobe.pdf downloaded from pacoutdoor.com, I find their current product line includes this model Ether Thermo 6, which is slightly warmer than the Max Thermo 3/4 that I own, due to addition of some fuzz on the inside of the tubes:

Ether Thermo 6
2.5 inches of air cushioning and a layer of Air Loft Thermo insulation provide maximum thickness and comfort in a package that folds and rolls to almost disappear in your pack. 50D top and 70D bottom fabrics provide durability and lightweight protection from the little things that can puncture and abrade.
Item No. Size (in) Size (cm) Weight Color
ET678 20 x 78 x 2.5 51 x 198 x 6.0 675 g (24 oz) Carrot Long Regular 2/3
ET672 20 x 72 x 2.5 51 x 183 x 6.0 623 g (22 oz) Carrot
ET648 20 x 48 x 2.5 51 x 122 x 6.0 416 g (15 oz) Carrot

I think the NeoAir is probably superior in R value to Ether Thermo 6, because the tubes are shorter *, are subdivided internally, and there is some sort of heat reflective barrier in there (* Air inside tubes moving due to thermal differential, simply has less tube distance to roll around in). I don't believe ThermaRest's claim that the NeoAir is "3 times warmer than an un-insulated air mattress" Ref:
http://www.getoutdoors.com/goblog/uploads/neo_air.jpg,

9 oz NeoAir can be supplanted with 1/8 foam (2 oz)
But being a bit frugal, the combo I try next will be: Insul Mat Max Thermo 3/4 ( 17 oz) supplanted with 1/8 foam (2 oz) as compared to 32 oz combo [ Z rest and REI Core Light ] I carried this past w/e.
If that ain't enough, I may go with Big Agnes Insulated Air core (R 4.1, 22 oz) supplanted with 1/8 foam (2 oz)
http://www.bigagnes.com/Products/Specs/Pad

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NeoAir(tm)
Comparison Guide
AVAILABLE APRIL 2009: The NeoAir mattress represents the world's most advanced engineering in ultralight comfort. Beyond being the lightest air mattress available, we've utilized two patent-pending internal technologies, making it up to three times warmer and far more stable than any other uninsulated air mattress available. And when it comes to space in your pack, you'll appreciate that it's no bigger than a one-liter water bottle. Revolutionary by design, the gossamer NeoAir mattress makes comfort one less thing you'll need to compromise when traveling Fast & Light.
° Ultralight & Compact: Weighs just 14oz. and packs down to the size of a 1-liter water bottle.
° Unrivaled Warmth: Our patent-pending reflective barrier returns warmth to your body and reduces heat loss to the ground, keeping you three times warmer than any other uninsulated air mattress
° Sleep Stable: When inflated, patent-pending Triangular Core Matrix technology creates an internal truss system, resulting in the most stable non-self-inflating air mattresses.
° Lasting Performance: Achieving thermal efficiency without down or fiber insulation means the NeoAir can be inflated directly without the added weight of a pump, or worrying about exhaled moisture wetting insulation and decreasing performance.

Large Regular Medium Small
Weight 1 lbs 3 oz/550 g 14 oz/410 g 13 oz/370 g 9 oz/260 g
Inflated size 25 x 77 in 20 x 72 in 20 x 66 in 20 x 47 in
Rolled Size 11 x 4.5 in/28 x 11 cm 9 x 4.0 in/23 x 10 cm 9 x 4.0 in/23 x 10 cm 9 x 3.3 in/23 x 9 cm
R-Value 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5
Thickness 2.5 in/6.3 cm 2.5 in/6.3 cm 2.5 in/6.3 cm 2.5 in/6.3 cm
Suggested
Price (U.S.) $169.95 $149.95 $139.95 $119.95

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We all need better, softer sleeping pads...

I was carrying a Z Rest waffle foam pad (16 oz) and a 1.5" x 48" REI Foam Core inflatable pad ( 14 oz) which up to 28 oz, and I am warm enough, but the combo is still not soft enough, even on sand!
http://www.bigagnes.com/Products/Specs/Pad
nothing more than 1.5" in foam, 66" or shorter
http://thermarest.com/product_selection.aspx?cID=1
nothing more than 1.5" in foam, 66" or shorter
NeoAir tubular mattress has tubes 2.5" thick, transverse (probably more comfortable than longitudinal) but still only 2.5 R value
http://thermarest.com/product_detail.aspx?pID=88&cID=1
Note that this mattress, though only 1.5" thick, has far higher (claimed) R value than other 1.5" mattresses.


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PATCH KITS

Patch kit musings (No patch kit or stuff sack is included with NeoAir):

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Duct tape for single trip repair. Before you say" ya, right" I will add that I purposely deflated my AeroVest ( flimsy metalized mylar as is found in emergency blankets) by puncturing it with a knife which left a 3" gash. I then taped it together with regular ol' duct tape and re-inflated. Then I put it on, lay down on the ground for 1/2 hour with no leak. Then took it off, put a stack of books on it and left it overnight. In the morning it was still inflated the same. A more aesthetic repair would best be had from Thermarest.

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McNett Tenacious Tape uses real tent fabric to provide nearly invisible, permanent repairs.  Clean Adhesive Technology allows Tenacious Tape to be removed without leaving duct tape's ugly glue mess behind. Ideal for repairs on tents, tarps, mosquito netting, rain gear, backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, seat cushions, soft coolers, boat covers and more!

Tenacious Brand repair tape is ideal for fast in-field repairs on tents, tarps, rain gear, fishing gear and more.  Instantly seals leaking seams, tears and pinholes, stops rips from spreading and acts as an abrasion-resistant shield on high-wear areas.

Can be used in conjunction with McNett Urethane Adhesives for ultra strong repairs. Includes one 3" x 20" (50cm x 7.5cm) strip of tape, 60 sq. inches (375 sq. cm).
• High Strength Adhesive for Long Lasting Repairs
• Clean Adhesive Technology - Leaves No Sticky, Ugly Residue
• Lightweight and Compact - Easy to Carry in the Field
• Clear Adhesive - Nearly Invisible

http://www.mcnett.com/Tenacious-Tape-Repair-Tape-P139.aspx

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On Fri, Apr 17, 2009 at 5:57 PM, Nick wrote:
Unbelievably, a patch kit is not included with the product!#!%$**#!!!
http://www.thermarest.com/product_detail.aspx?pID=134&cID=1
The fabric feels very different from other mattresses, so I am unsure that Therm-a-Rest Hot Bond Repair Kit will work. It is a dumb kit, anyhow, because it requires heat (stove) and is apparently, single-use for the hot bond goo.
http://www.backcountry.com/store/CAS0517/Therm-a-Rest-Fast-And-Lite-Repair-Kit.html
http://www.rei.com/product/668524

REI salesperson claimed the REI kit # 729817 will work, and is superior in that it supports more repair sessions (recloseable tube vs tear-open packets), so I guess I will buy one in Berkeley.
http://www.rei.com/product/729817

I am not completely convinced that a traditional bicycle-type glue (or the glues in the kits above) will stick to this slinky new fabric...

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Turns out the link to repair given in the NeoAir paper product literature is a dead end. Elsewhere on the web site is a FAQ that offers some hints:
http://www.thermarest.com/faqs.aspx#3
to wit:

When repairing my Therm-a-Rest, do I always have to use HotBond(tm)?
That depends on the size of the leak. HotBond needs to be used with a patch; tests have proven that HotBond alone will not stop a leak. If you have a small leak that does not require a patch, a urethane-based glue should be used. Some popular brands are SeamGrip, SeamSeal, AquaSeal, and the glue that comes with a bicycle repair kit. These all work well. Allow 24 hours for drying.
Here are their instructions for Hot Bond repair:
http://www.thermarest.com/RepairKit_Instructions2.doc
to wit:

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MATTRESS REPAIR
Read through all instructions completely before attempting a repair.
What You Will Need to Repair Your Therm-a-Rest(r)
- The Therm-a-Rest Mattress Repair Kit
- Camp stove and pot or pan
- Spoon or similar tool
- Scrap plastic bag (optional)
- Cylindrical object (water bottle)
- A way to mark the leak (tape)
Locating a Pinhole Leak - Inflate the mattress as firmly as possible by mouth and close the valve. Fold the mattress in half to increase air pressure, then immerse the mattress in water or rub soapy water on surface. Small escaping bubbles will indicate the leak; mark the leak.

Repairing Your Therm-a-Rest
NOTE: Each HotBond(tm) pouch is designed for one repair. Discard pouches after use. Very large repairs may require two pouches.
1. Boil approximately one-half quart (one-half liter) of water in a pot or pan.
2. When water boils, place HotBond pouch in water and heat for three minutes. (In the unlikely event that the pouch leaks into your pan, HotBond is designed to quickly turn into a harmless rubbery mass that can easily be removed. There are no solvents or harmful by-products.)
3. The Therm-a-Rest valve must be open, and the mattress should be on a flat surface
4. Make sure the area to be repaired is clean and free of dirt, oil, moisture, and loose debris.
5. Select a pre-cut patch or cut a well-rounded patch from supplied material. Patch should extend 1/2" to 3/4" (1 to 2 cm) beyond puncture/tear in all directions.
6. Carefully remove HotBond from boiling water (use spoon or similar item) and wait a few seconds before handling. Tear off the end of the pouch at the notch. NOTE: HotBond will cool and harden quickly once removed from hot water. You have about one minute to apply and spread HotBond at 20° F, less time in cooler temperatures.
7. For pre-cut patches, apply a drop of HotBond, approximately the diameter of a dime­5/8" (17 mm)­and about 1/8" thick (2.5-3 mm), directly on the puncture/tear.
8. Using the supplied applicator (or similar item), thoroughly work the HotBond into the fabric with circular motions. A thin, continuous layer of HotBond should be spread outward from the puncture/tear evenly in all directions, about the same size and shape of the patch.
9. Center patch over puncture/tear, shiny side down, and apply patch. Place a layer of plastic bag over the patch to prevent excess HotBond from sticking to bottom of pan. Firmly press on patch to assure a wrinkle-free surface.
10. Carefully place hot pan of water directly on top of plastic bag/patch for 60 seconds. Placing a heated pan of water on your Therm-a-Rest will not harm your mattress if the valve is OPEN.
11. Remove pan and immediately roll over patch 2-3 times with a smooth cylindrical object (such as a water bottle).
12. Allow mattress to remain undisturbed for 10-15 minutes. It is now ready for use.