New sleeping pad

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oldranger
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Re: New sleeping pad

Post by oldranger »

Dave.

From my perspective the Expeds are the best alternative for old folks (farts like me included). My wife insists on the 9LW that does not come in the UL version but is much more durable--no leaks after several years but she has as many nights since purchase as I get in one year on mine. The UL version 7LW is still my mattress of choice though even with great care over 40 nights tends to develop a "micro" leak or two. This means it will deflate so slowly that while noticeably softer in the AM (more than just temp caused pressure reduction) you do not hit the ground. I can never find these leaks so I end up sending it in to Exped and the repair cost the price of shipping from my end. The snozzel bag that comes with the 7ul is an incredibly efficient means of inflating the mattress. I really wish the makers of inflatables such as mattresses, pillows and pack rafts would come up with a standard system of valves. Each of my pack rafts have different valve systems and they are both different from my Exped. Exped has 3 different inflation systems for their mattresses! So when my wife and I go together she requires a different inflation bag than I do, and hers is really heavy.

Mike
Mike

Who can't do everything he used to and what he can do takes a hell of a lot longer!
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mschnaidt
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Re: New sleeping pad

Post by mschnaidt »

I just picked up a Big Agnes Double Z. Great pad for Summer. 4 inches thick with an internal stabilizing system. Very comfortable and quiet. R rating of 1.5, weighs 16oz and goes for $80. In shoulder season I will use it with a Gossamer Gear Thinlight pad for some extra R value.

I've been using an original Neo-Air for the last 3 years and have been happy with it. I wasn't really looking to replace it but had a gift card and an REI dividend that was burning a hole in my pocket. After reading the Backpacker mag article I thought I'd give it a try.

I haven't had it out in the Sierra yet (soon) but 1st impressions and a side by side comparison with the Neo-Air have me thinking this is a solid choice.

http://www.backpacker.com/editors-choic ... wsletter02" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

http://www.rei.com/product/873463/big-a ... eeping-pad

http://gossamergear.com/sleeping/1-8.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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