Big Agnes - Rapide SL Insulated Sleeping Pad

same here! my partner and I love this pad so much. it's so comfortable, the friends we usually go camping with got the same one.

The sleeping bag is a fine choice, but it's 100% car camping only. If you ever plan on doing a backpacking trip or are in a situation where you might be tight on space, you'll need a new bag. But if you haven't camped in 20 years, I doubt you'll start thru hiking anytime soon. As for the mat, the Rapide SL is more geared towards backpacking. Pads that combine open cell foam and air are the most comfortable type of mattress outside of your bed at home. Basically they add both support and cush, while being less bouncy then 100% air sprung models. They can also be used year round, including winter conditions. Believe me, I've tried everything. They are huge though, and like your sleeping bag, car camping only. I recommend the REI Camp Dreamer which is currently on sale for less then the Rapide. They come in a single size or double if you are sharing. [https://www.rei.com/product/216296/rei-co-op-camp-dreamer-xl-self-inflating-deluxe-bed?sku=2162960001&store=221&CAWELAID=120217890016187252&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=113279951513&CATCI=pla-366418484527&cm\_mmc=PLA\_Google%7C21700000001700551\_2162960001%7C92700058208451648%7CBA%7C71700000074422505&gad\_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-4DR8p2TiAMVnqFaBR1XAR6OEAQYASABEgIAhPD\_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds](https://www.rei.com/product/216296/rei-co-op-camp-dreamer-xl-self-inflating-deluxe-bed?sku=2162960001&store=221&CAWELAID=120217890016187252&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=113279951513&CATCI=pla-366418484527&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C21700000001700551_2162960001%7C92700058208451648%7CBA%7C71700000074422505&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-4DR8p2TiAMVnqFaBR1XAR6OEAQYASABEgIAhPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds) PS. REI also sells the Marmot bag for the same price if you want to simplify your shopping.

I’ve tried both. Took the Rapide back to REI. I did not find it all that comfortable and not very warm. I tried and kept the Exped Ultra 5R mummy style. Comfy and warm. I also have a Neoair Xlite. The Exped is more comfortable, but the Xlite is a bit warmer. That said the Exped is my go to.

Big Agnes rapide sl, the wide long version is a great sleeping mat

I tried a half dozen different mummy bags before immediately returning them. I'm 6'3" 235lbs, pretty tight fit. Perfect solution for me was a Katabatic down quilt. Really good quality and versatile. Paired it with a Big Agnes Rapide pad. Most comfortable pad I've ever used.

I’ve used the Rapide down to about upper-20s and stayed ~relatively~ comfortable, but that probably was more so due to having a good sleeping bag/quilt. As others have said, you could get a thin closed cell foam sleeping pad to put underneath it. R values are generally additive. If weight is a concern, I’ve heard some people say they put one of those reflective emergency blankets (extremely lightweight) under their sleeping pads. Though, it’s debated if this actually does anything. It might be better used sandwiched between a foam pad and the rapide, or on top of the rapide itself (if you don’t mind the obnoxious crinkliness)

I second the Big Agnes Rapiide. Your arms don't fall off. It's not too sloppy. I love it.

I like my Big Agnes Rapiide. The sides Re a tiny bit high, so my arms don't fall off. I side sleep and back sleep.

I have the BA Rapide. I believe the outer edges are slightly larger, so your arms don't sink. They are raised just a bit and are more comfy. I find it pretty comfortable.

Im a big fan of the Big Agnes Rapide.

Big Agnes Rapide for me...100+ nights on one

Thicker is better for side sleepers, especially larger people. Insulation is very important for comfort even at 10-15C. I have both BA Rapide and Klymit pads. Both have been durable.

Side sleeper here. Thicker is better in my experience. You let out enough air so your hip and shoulder sink in a bit and more fully distribute your weight. I've used a BA Rapide for years comfortably.

BA replaced the pad when the insulation bunched up with no fuss

100+ nights on a Rapide. Love it as a side sleeper. If the insulation slips BA will replace it. If slips mid-trip (happened to me) you can inflate it and shake the insulation back in place more or less.

I slept on mine in the mid 20s or lower (water bottles froze) with a 20-degree quilt. Never felt cold from the pad.

Important to know from the start: I have scoliosis as well as a lingering low back/hip injury, and at home I sleep on a probably-too-soft mattress. But I don't have any of the problems I mention below even when I sleep in a different bed with a different firmness, such as while traveling for work or family. My setup as of last year's season is a Therm-A-Rest Z Lite Sol underneath the Big Agnes Rapide SL inflatable pad (standard length, wide width). In other words, I'm not laying flat on the ground by any means - there's plenty of cushion from uneven or firm ground, and I haven't had any temperature issues (I pair these two pads with a now-discontinued Sea to Summit down bag that's plenty cozy). The Big Agnes pad was new last year, after multiple seasons attempting and failing to make a thin Therm-A-Rest Trail Scout work with the Z-Lite (I would anti-recommend the Trail Scout for this and other reasons). But this current setup isn't working very well, either. On some nights I found myself waking up with a leg or two numb on some nights because of some position that had me cutting off circulation. (This happens at home occasionally when I'm sitting flat on the floor, but rarely when I'm sleeping or lying flat.) Even though I played around with the inflation level of the Big Agnes pad, as I was worried it was maybe too firm at full inflation, that didn't seem to help much. I also prefer to sleep on my stomach, and I haven't figured out a backcountry pillow option that's flat enough to keep my neck at a comfortable angle without being non-existent, as sleeping directly on my arms puts them numb too. Out of desperation, I tried bringing my flat-yet-not-paper pillow from home for a trip last year, which feels embarrassing to write because of the pillow's weight and bulk, lol. If it had worked, I would make adjustments to my kit to bring it every time, but it didn't really fix the setup (which is probably for the best for the rest of my packing list), so I'm back to the drawing board. Given all this, I'm feeling nervous about this season's upcoming trips, as I'm not someone who functions well on a lack of sleep. I'd prefer to try and adapt my current setup before I buy new stuff, too, as these are otherwise high-quality products that I think will last a while, if I can make them work for me. For folks who have finicky backs, or sleep in ways at home that are harder to comfortably do out on trail, how do you adjust your sleep setup for overnighters? What might I change here that will help me sleep better while on trail and thus have a better trip overall? I'm considering the Nemo Fillo Elite - can any stomach sleepers attest to this or other semi-inflatable pillows as being worth the buy?

I’m going to suggest you take another look at your comment in the original post about being past the lightweight stage of your life. That could be a very large part of the problem with your back when sleeping. Many people as they age end up going much more UL when backpacking, as the extra weight can be the leading issue with aches and pains after a day of hiking. My own main goal for going UL is to allow for more luxury items in terms of sleep. My base weight hovers around 11-12 pounds, and my total pack weight for a long weekend is around 20. I’m in my mid 40s, 6’3” 220, and if I have a heavier pack then my knees and lower back ache terribly by the end of the day, and no matter how comfortable my sleep setup is I’m in pain overnight. I’m a side sleeper, so I ended up with a BA Rapide SL in long/wide, a Zenbivy UL quilt/sheet setup, a Goosefeat Gear down pillow with a Big Sky Dreamsleeper pillow inside and a second pillow for between my knees. I also wear super comfy sleep clothes, and use Soundcore Sleep A20 headphones with sleep music to ensure outside noise doesn’t wake me. It’s a great setup. So, I recommend reassessing the idea of weight on your older back and joints for sleep comfort, and then looking at how you can maximize your comfort while you sleep as a benefit of going lighter weight. As someone else here mentioned, the new Thermarest Neoloft at about 2lbs looks to be amazing, and a great way to get a lot of comfort while maintaining a lightweight pack setup. I know you said you went with the Exped Megamat, but at 4.5lbs I think you’ll regret not fixing the root cause of your issue. Good luck though.

This. I believe the baffles running end-to-end instead of side-to-side also makes this more comfortable for active sleepers than the NeoAir. The Rapide is on the heavier side but totally worth the weight. I have the wide.

My wife and I have been using the Big Agnes Rapide SL doublewide with a Zenbivy Double Bed and absolutely love it for both hiking and car camping. If it's in your price range I strongly recommend it!

I had one, just sold it as it was comfortable but too cold for what they said it was.. With 13 years of observations and use, I think Big Agnes is not a totally trustworthy company. I stick with Thermarest because no company is ever going to beat thermarest's lightweight AND durable AND warm, due to their patented baffles design. Other companies will beat them on comfort but they just debuted a raised perimeter pad and I hope they basically make a raised perimeter Xlite. Once they make a raised perimeter xlite that's 30in wide. I'm done. That's the pad.

BA rapide SL is what ive settled on. Good weight for the comfort.

I'm a big fan of the Big Agnes Rapide SL. It's the most comfortable pad I've owned and packs down really small. It's expensive, but worth every penny. I've had it for a few years and taken it on a ton of trips and it hasn't failed me yet. And, if it does, it comes with a patch kit. One thing to think about when setting up camp is to make sure the ground you're putting your tent on is clean of any sticks or thorny weeds, and always use a footprint. This could be the cause of your flat pads, or it could be that you're using cheap pads made of low grade material. 

Love my big Agnes rapide SL

Most comfortable pad I’ve used is a Big Agnes Rapide SL. I have a bad back and sleep poorly in general. This pad is amazing for my needs. I’m 5’9” around 180 lbs with the regular length pad but 25 inches wide.

Everyone is recommending systems that work for them, which is amazing. There are so many good options. I use a rapide SL big Agnes pad for me with a Nemo rift bag. For my pup, she has a whyld river bag/bed (can be separated during warm weather) and a foam pad that slips into the bed sleeve. I went with whyld river because it packs down so well and has connection points that work well for me. My pup needs the ability to switch positions during the night and their snaps (one of 2 connection methods with the other being more secure) allows the quilt/top to separate before tension may create a tear. We sleep in a Nemo tracker tent. Pup is 85 lbs lab/pit mix.

I really like my Big Agnes Rapide SL. It’s 23 oz for the 25” version I’m but the comfort is well worth the weight.

Sometimes I overfill it, and let out just a tiniest bit of air and I’m like ahhhhhhhhh

I slept on it last night with nothing underneath. I think it’s pleasant, as sleeping pads go. Not crinkly. Better than my Nemo’s

As ultralight pads go, I really like the Rapide which I got this year. I have also heard great thing about the Exped Ultra.

I went into REI thinking I would walk out with a Xtherm NXT but after testing it out I felt like it was ballooning in my lower back and overall not that comfortable, granted it could’ve maybe used a bit more air. I tried the Nemo Quasar 3d however and I felt like it was the most comfortable pad I’ve tried, closest I could get to my bed at home. The only thing about this pad is the R value of 3.3 in comparison to the Thermarest whopping 7.3. Realistically I don’t think I’m going to do much winter camping, maybe the one off trip here and there but a warmer pad would be nice for the chilly nights in the shoulder season. Is R 3.3 enough or should I look elsewhere? Second pick would probably be the big Agnes Rapide SL, slept on it one night and it had a slow leak so I’m a bit reluctant to get another.

I had the rapide sl wide long for my PCT thru hike this year. It was so comfortable and I had no complaints aside from the weight but like you all my other gear was on the lighter side so I was ok with considering this as a “luxury item”. Try it out but everyone on trail that tried mine was so jealous and some even went out and got it to replace their current pad lol. Sleep is an essential part of recovery so the extra weight is easily worth it imo Edit: I’m also a side sleeper and the 4 inch raised sides were so nice when my campsite wasn’t perfectly flat

Few months ago I bought a rapide in the smallest size possible (I’m a pretty small person) and I sleep on my back and sometimes side. I genuinely find it more comfortable than my own bed at home sometimes. It’s always been reliable and kept me warm during chilly nights. Nothing but good things to say about it so far. But I am thinking about ditching the stuff bag it came with and just folding it up in my pack

I have the big Agnes rapid SL and absolutely love it. I've taken it camping in -10F and didn't feel any heat loss through the pad. It's one of the most highly recommended pads for side sleepers, and it keeps my hips/shoulders from hurting. Have used it 100+ days at this point.

Nope, I have never ever been cold using that pad. And I run SUPER cold. I'm pretty sure it's 100% insulated including the sides. I use the standard! I feel that it is plenty wide. I actually have 2 of them lol, one in the regular length, and one extra long. The extra long is super nice if you like to put your arms above your head at all when you sleep. But the normal length is plenty long, I actually got the long one on accident, but have kept it for camping on fires where weight doesn't matter (am a wildland firefighter).

I've got a BA Rapide SL for my daughter to sleep on, but since I primarily hammock camp, I went the cheaper route for myself and got the REI Helix. It's a decently comfortable pad, especially when I pair it with my CCF mat, but you've got my attention with the Light Tour. Even if it doesn't sleep as warm as it should at a rated 7.5, it's probably at least as warm as my Helix, and much cheaper, and lighter.

I would suggest the Rapide SL over the Zoom UL, just based on reviews about R-Value. If R-Value is not an issue, the Zoom is probably the better option. I use the Rapide on short trips and my Nemo All-Season any other time, which is comfy if you slightly deflate it.

I second this. I always grab my Rapide when I want to focus on sleep. My favorite pad by far.

Big Agnes Rapide for a relatively light air pad with pretty good R value.

You've tested *all* of them? You find the Nemo more comfortable than an Etherlite XT? An REI Helix? An Exped? A Rapide SL? That doesn't compute for me. The Nemo is more comfy than a Neoair but well below all of those.

big agnes rapide in wide, coming from a neoair is night and day difference for me

Big Agnes, my partner is a side sleeper and it doesn't bottom out, she went through 6 different pads before picking this one. Having your hips hit the ground all night is the worst Also Backpacking Light did a review/comparison on pads and this one got the best bang for your buck on money, insulation, weight, and comfort.

Bought the Rapide for my wife last spring because she kept stealing my score on trips we weren't together. She loves it.

I would check out big agnes rapide It is perfect for those who move a lot when they sleep because of the sides are higher so you can feel where the edge of the pad is.

Yeah it is heavier, but not that much. I think it might be worth it in this case.

This is a really nice pad. I chose it because the ultralight ones were not for me, probably because I'm not ultralight myself. This is a really good compromise between weight and comfort.

So I know more about pads than back injuries (*knock on wood*). But I find pads with a dimple design to be most comfortable because you can usually avoid pressure points on them. Think the REI Helix or the Zenbivy pads or the Big Agnes Rapide or Zoom, or the Sea to Summit Ether Light or Comfort Plus. However, it may be that a firmer pad is actually better for your back?

Couple of other questions… when you say side sleeper? Are you in one position the whole night, or do you flip from side to side? Do you ever wake up with sore shoulders or hips? The sensitive question would be, are you on the smaller or larger size? And lastly how tall? The Rapide is my favorite for larger or more side sleeper oriented? Especially the ones I like to call the alligators. (Like to roll as they sleep) I also suggest the wide for alligator side sleepers as it gives you room to move. The others are excellent pads, but I prefer the thickness of the Big Agnes. Also are you in a sleeping bag? What kind? Or are you a quilt person? We should be asking about your full sleep system when suggesting a pad… but without you here in front of me… I can’t sense some of the things that I would need to know? in the end… if comfort is more important than weight… and sleep is first aid… then you should consider the more comfortable pad… thickness is key. You will have more ability to change inflation firmness to match your sleeping comfort the further you are off the ground.

The Rapide by BA is a solid choice. Especially if you, as I do, consider sleep first aid? If you wake up bad, you begin bad…

I’m about 1.5 years in with my Rapide and it’s held up really well. Paired it with a padpal UL inflator, which also rocks and weighs 9 grams

My BA Rapide is pretty nice. I also have a Zenbivy with the 30x80 pad that I'm really digging.

Big Agnes Rapide SL 25x72 is my recommendation. It was super comfy, much quieter than the tensor, and kept me warm and stayed inflated throughout the night. I initially took a nemo tensor out to the southwest for 4 nights of camping - the pad was defective and deflated very slowly over the course of the night. Coupled with being as loud as a bag of sun chips whenever you move on it meant that my partner had to deal with the obnoxious rustling and sound of reinflating for 3/4 nights. Got fed up and bought a rapide SL and finally had one good night of camping rest.

This is great. Not least because it validates my decision in choosing the BA Rapide SL! Now can you do the same for sleeping bags?

I haven't used a lot of different pads but I'm also a side sleeper and had a lot of issues until I got the big Agnes rapide sl, there are a lot of different sizes available so get the one that fits you. I haven't found a good pillow though.

I have lower back pain as well and for me the thermarest self inflating mats were never as comfortable as newer pads. I've now settled on the Big Agnes Rapide wide as my pad of choice. Its 4" thick, wide and comfortable for me as a side sleeper. Those recommending you go to an REI and try some are right on the mark IMO.

I tried the Hikenature and ended up returning it due to how loud it was. Ended up with a BA Rapide SL.

There are LOTs of good thick inflatable pads. I'd recommend going to a store that has several to try as they each feel a bit different and what I like (Big Agnes Rapide) may not feel right to you. I'd suggest getting the wide models (25") and look into Flextale pumps to inflate them.

As a side sleeper I found my BA Rapide wide to be comfortable.

WM for sure for bags / quilts also Cumulus are good but import duty makes them expensive, Big Agnes Rapide SL is mega comfortable pad with a good R not light but bloody comfortable compared with any thermarest

Honestly your whole sleep system will make you cold unless it’s high summer. Those sleeping bags are no good for less than 12 degrees, if you really get into this awesome hobby get a down bag and a decent branded mat. Check out ebay for used mats, get a quality brand Thermarest, Exped Sea to Summit anything with more than 4 r value. Big Agnes Rapide SL is the king of mats that Ive tested, pricey but worth it you’ll sleep like a babe on it.

I have the Big Agnes Rapide SL and i can vouch for it. took it to yosemite for a 9 days of camping and woke up feeling amazing every morning. i’m 5’7” 160 pounds and side sleep for the most part. I do have the regular and would reccomend at minimum a regular wide, as long as the size and weight difference aren’t an issue. i know we are in the REI reddit, but if you go on sea to summit’s website, you can get up to 60% off on a sleeping pad right now

I have a big Agnes Rapide Wide/Long and I find it pretty comfortable both for side and back sleeping. Have camped with it down to 30 or so without issue.

Rapid SL is one of the best. But it's cold so in low 30° F I would take a foam pad as well. Zenbivy Flex Air is more comfortable. 

My wife and I have one BA Rapide and a Nemo Quasar and have switched on and off using both. The BA is lighter and has a better r value but the Nemo is more comfortable. I think it comes down to personal preference, but they're both really good options.

The Rapide SL is great. Just try to get one of the recent ones as Big Agnes changed to a better manufacturer. My original Rapide SL sprung micro leaks on almost every weld. Big Agnes sent a replacement new version and I've had no problems. The new version is also a little lighter than the previous one.

I bought a new BA Rapide SL last summer and used it on a snowy trip in October where it dropped to probably -3 or -5C at night. Had to put the pad on frozen ground as well. I would not use it in those conditions again. I kept waking up every 30 minutes because i could feel the cold creeping up from the ground through the sleeping pad. It was survivable but not comfortable by any means. Fantastic sleeping pad otherwise IMO, had no complaints using it even on a 2c night on non-frozen ground.

I bought the Big Agnes extra long about 7 years ago, when the pump was inside the head of the mattress. They're still going strong, and a great nights sleep with a seriously injured back and being a side sleeper. I kept one set up in my suv all through college, best naps I've ever had!

Nemo Tensor, Kilos Gear AeroCloud Elite, Big Agnes Rapide SL, Thermarest NeoLoft. The Sea To Summit Etherlight XT is also comfortable but heavy and bulky for a backpacking pad.

It is not for side sleepers. I kept rolling off of it. I went with the Big Agnes Rapide SL wide.

I have used that mattress for a few years. It is a great mattress.

Two inches isn't thick enough. Someone mentioned the Big Agnes Rapide (3.5" thick), and we've always been comfortable on the Rapide or its predecessors.

I know I'm a bit late, but for anyone else curious, I have the Rapide SL 25x72 and I don't think it's a quiet pad at all. I think in comparison to some other pads that have a "chip packet" crinkly sound, it doesn't make that sound, so maybe that's why people say it's quiet. But it makes a really loud sort of sound, kinda like rubbing two balloons together or something haha. It doesn't really bother me much, and I have sound sensitivity, but it's pretty loud and if I was doing a stealth camp or around other people they would definitely hear me a couple tents over

For car camping, an Exped MegaMat. REI Camp Dreamer and there is one Amazon by LostHorizon. They all are all self inflating and combine memory foam with air. Backpacking, the new Thermarest Neoloft, Big Agnes Rapide of Kilos Aero Cloud pad. You can also try a mattress topper and/or closed cell foam mattress over what you have now.

Second vote for the Rapide, I will take that extra weight for what feels like a night sleeping on clouds.

I wanted smaller and warmer pad and recently got the Big Agnes Rapide SL. Super comfy and packs down small. I love it.

I have the 1st version OG BA Rapide SL in wide and long. I used to have the air core insulated in also wide and long and the rapide is a super nice upgrade. The OG version is a tad heavier than the new version but it does not have the dropping foil insulation issue that some have experienced. Good luck and I hope you stay dry, warm, and comfortable out there.

I have the 1st version OG BA Rapide SL in wide and long. I used to have the air core insulated in also wide and long and the rapide is a super nice upgrade. The OG version is a tad heavier than the new version but it does not have the dropping foil insulation issue that some have experienced. Good luck and I hope you stay dry, warm, and comfortable out there.

I have the Big Agnes Rapide SL regular wide version and it's honestly a great sleeping pad. It's plenty warm and very comfortable, and packs small.

That would be a great combo for comfort, but not necessarily for staying warm at 30F. The Idlewilde is a generously roomy semi rectangular bag. You will have lots of room to toss and turn , side sleep, stomach sleep etc. The problem with bags that wide is they allow allow of trapped heat to escape.l and have allot of dead air space. Mummy bags are best for heat retention but are limited on room inside the bag. The Rapide is pretty comfortable but not the warmest pad. Big Agnes is a solid reputable manufacturer. I would recommend the Boundary Deluxe over the Rapide as it has a higher denier, more durable and a slightly higher R value. If you can afford the price and the physical space the best type of car camping pad will be a semi inflating foam core pad like the Exped MegaMat 10/15, Big Agnes Captain Comfort, Nemo Roamer 3,D, Thermarest MondoKing 3D, Sea To Summit Comfort Deluxe, Hest foam core, Domestic makes one, Stoic Lux etc. If you are open to a "spoon" or semi-rectangular mummy bag you will have better heat retention vs the Idlewilde. Quilts, like the Paria Outdoor Products Thermodown or the Hammock Gear Borrow series also work great for comfort and regulating heat.

Long wide is better. The extra 4 inches make a big difference.

Naturehike is not ASTM rated. Skip. The Rapide is a great pad but is a bit cold. If you want the direct replacement to this pad get the Boundary Deluxe, which is the new name for the Q Core Deluxe. However if you are going to go winter camping over snow go for a higher R value pad. Exped Ultra 5 Exped Ultra 7 Sea to Summit Etherlight XT Extreme Thermarest XTherm Nemo Tensor Extreme

BA Rapide here. Love it. I’m 5’2” 125 with curves, and a side sleeper, so I def need something that will fill in the spaces to keep my spine fairly level. The trick, as others mention, is underinflating. My pad seems only half inflated. I completely bottom out when I sit on it, but when I lay down, I float. There’s enough slack for the air to fill in the space under my waist, while keeping my hips and shoulders off the ground. Good luck!

Love the Rapide SL! I sleep on my side and have wide hips. With other pads I can feel the ground, but the Rapide has been great for comfort + warmth for me. 

I looked at the Rapide SL (I'm a side sleeper and the form factor suggested to me that I'm might roll off less), but found that the raised sides are less well insulated. I upgraded myself to the FlexAir, because it is really comfortable and \*quiet\* (I moved away from the NXT because, fuck, THE NOISE; I'd wake myself up every time I turned at night and people two tents over would ask about it). For me, I sleep extremely well on the FlexAir, much better than the NXT, and it is more comfy. As a side sleeper, the other important thing to invest in is a pillow that supports you on the side as well. Yes, that's not the most minimal/lightweight sleep setup. But I'm also an ultralight sleeper, and not sleeping well and a lot of exercise mesh less well than a few grams more on my back. I'd rather carry 100g less food.

I use a Big Agnes Rapdie SL Regular Wide, they do a Tall Wide version. Weighs about 650g and R value 4.2. I hike in the alps often. It comes with a lightweight pump bag, takes 4 or 5 squeezes to inflate. Very warm and reliable mat, very comfortable and thick. Another one could be the Nemo Tensor Insulated which some of my fellow hikers have liked too.

I use the Big Agnes Rapide SL and the non insulated sides don’t bother me much. It’s still plenty warm enough with the insulation in the middle esp if you get the wide version. The side rails are great for keeping you on the pad when the ground isn’t completely even, which is most of the time lol

Most of the negative reviews I’ve seen for the Rapide have been for the model that came out for 2024. I bought a used model for that reason, and so far so good, I’m sleeping much better than I did on my Thermarest Neoair. Taking it out next week for the first time with lows in the 30° range, fingers crossed. Also a side sleeper here.

I also just switched from a Neoair. I got a BA Rapide, but purposely went searching for a used one *not* the one they put out this year because I’d also heard the 2024 version had issues. Having said that, the difference is night and day. Highly recommend.

I have a wide Rapide that I bought this year after 2 seasons of renting a BA sleeping pad from REI. I’m a side and stomach sleeper and find it to very comfortable and warm.

Big Agnes is what I use. They are so much quieter than other inflatables.

Those are good choices. I use the SL Rapide.

Big Agnes SL Rapide Double Bonus points it doesn’t sound like a chip bag

The pump sack works well too. I feel like you get what you pay for with Big Agnes. I’m also a side sleeper.

I’ve been able to sleep on the Big Agnes SL Rapide

I have the double width, because I hate having my arms fall off the pad, and I car camp. I brought it to FloydFest and slept all 5 nights on it.

I have trouble sleeping and did five nights on a BA SL Rapide no problem

I LOVE my Rapide as a full time side sleeper. Paired with the Zen Bivy light bed system has me sleeping well. The Zoom UL is a slight bit less comfortable, but is built much more like the Rapide. OP, one thing to note. I find the insulation in the zoom to make noise while the rapide does not. the noise is like mylar crunching. Regardless, the shape/size is perfect for a side sleeper.

From my own experience, I was used Big Agnes pads for a while but had terrible luck with them. I had two of them get holes in them, could entirely be my fault but annoying nonetheless. I recently switched over to the Nemo Tensor and wow, it’s insanely comfortable and super warm. Packs nice and small too, so far, I’m really happy with it. I’m also a side sleeper and between that pad and a quilt, it was a nice nights sleep.

I have a Rapid SL and love it. It’s honestly not much bigger than the Klymit I used to use and so much more comfortable and warm. I was also able to find it on REI restock for $100 when none of the other fancy pads were even close to that price.

I just got a rapid SL from REI restock for $100. Used it the other weekend. I really like it, my only complaint is it barely fits in the bag.

I would get the thermarest. I have one and I've never been cold on it and slept under 30° multiple times. The big Agnes pad I had as well. I found that the side baffles elevated my arms a little that it made it uncomfortable.

The best option overall for the price is going to the the Rapide SL. Your money is not only buying a well reviewed quality product, but it’s also buying a product with a warranty that I would trust. And I do feel that’s important for products like inflatable pads. But, with that said, if cost is your biggest consideration and you need to consider a non major brand product, I would look at the Naturehike r 5.8 pad before I would consider the trekology pad. At least the ASTM R value of 5.8 has been tested for the Naturehike pad, and the reviews I’ve read about the warmth have been positive.

I bought the new Rapide SL and sent it back. Comfy and quiet, but didn’t sleep anywhere near its R-value rating unfortunately.

Wide 25 x 72. The main concern I had with it is the rails aren’t insulated and seemed to let a lot of cold air in. While I understand the concept of them cradling you to the centre of the pad, I actually found them a bit restrictive.

Thermarest NeoLoft is the thickest backpacking pad--comparable in size and comfort to a car camping pad. Big Agnes Rapide SL is plush. Neither is "ultra" light, but they are both legit backpacking pads that emphasize comfort. But I also generally use a hammock due to a fussy back.

I just picked it up and layed side by side on the rapide sl and the neoloft. Honestly, the rapide is still super impressive. If you like firmer mattresses I might say the rapide sl still wins. However if you like a softer mattress the neoloft is pretty amazing and would say it's more comfortable. It's definitely a contender for most comfortable. The stretch nit fabric is def better in every way compared to the plasticky nylon. Definitely glad I have it but if you expecting other worldly comfort compared to the rapide sl you might be slightly dissapointed.

I’ve only been into camping and backpacking for about a year but I’ve had a hammock setup pretty much from the start. I went camping with my daughter last month and slept on a big Agnes rapide. Compared to a hammock, it sucked. I’m a side sleeper too and my hip kept touching the ground. Was warm enough though (down to about 45 F I think).

I’ve got a Rapide SL am a side sleeper and agree it’s very comfortable, once I got the inflation right - I only inflate it enough to stop my hips bottoming out. Having the long and wide version makes a big difference. I’ve not slept in cold conditions so couldn’t attest to its warmth.

I’ve got a Big Agnes Rapide SL and it’s really comfortable for side sleeping - but I don’t put too much pressure n it, in fact it’s more partially deflated, so that my hips have plenty to sink into without touching the bottom of the mat. Maybe experiment with different pressures with your neotherm?

Definitely worth experimenting with different amounts of air - I’ve found a sweet spot that’s really comfy but the mat looks a little deflated when there’s nothing on it

Lots of options if you're okay losing the self-inflating aspect. Thermarest Neoloft or Topo Luxe are two that immediately come to mind. Big Agnes Rapide SL is 3.75"

This is the one i have, like it very much. [Rapide by BA](https://www.rei.com/product/229190/big-agnes-rapide-sl-insulated-sleeping-pad)

[Big Agnes Rapide](https://www.rei.com/product/229190/big-agnes-rapide-sl-insulated-sleeping-pad?sku=2291900001&store=97&CAWELAID=120217890017712452&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=147758267039&CATCI=pla-2023795263505&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C21700000001700551_2291900001%7C2023795263505%7CBA%7C71700000074421743&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=11437667263&gbraid=0AAAAAD_DTlzQwa1f5uMxrNy9BPKoLP3a3&gclid=Cj0KCQjwotDBBhCQARIsAG5pinOFRFLD0-bumx6rX426IpX-RPKra07lem39WY6jW8xGEl7kghCxrIcaAsN0EALw_wcB)

get the wider one, or the double wide. i use mine for bikepacking as well as car camping with the famdamily

I have recently changed over to a Big Agnes Rapide SL from a Sea to Summit Comfort plus, decent R value, amazingly comfy, deep and great for side sleeping. The sea to summit was good, but not as comfortable for me. It did however have two air chambers, so if you get a puncture you should still be ok, just less comfortable. I will probably be offloading the sea to summit if you're interested.... What tent is that you're using?

For me personally, getting the best night's sleep I can outdoors is important, so I'd save weight elsewhere, or just suck up the extra. I find the larger side tubes on the BA a good thing especially if you haven't managed to find an overly flat site - no sliding off the pad. With gear in general I wish it was possible to borrow an item for a while, to see if it works for you, it gets expensive quick if you end up going through 3 or 4 pads, packs or whatever to find what works for you, then when it eventually dies, it won't be produced any more so you have to start again!

Backpacking or a canoe trip? If canoeing you can fit a more robust pad. I backpack and in colder weather I like the combo of a cheap egg crate (High Sierra Ultralight Foam Sleeping Pad) and an insulated pad (Big Agnes Rapide SL), but with a good sleeping bag & warm clothes you can certainly get away with just the foam pad.

I had a rapide sl but now I have a Nemo tensor which I find more comfortable and it's lighter

I had back surgery 10 years ago and had two discs removed, so I'm held together with plates and pins. I'm 54 and have had a few sleeping pads and finally settled on the Nemo tensor, before that I had the big Agnes rapide sl and was still waking up sore. With the Nemo I wake up great. But it's a personal thing, try to borrow one before you commit and try a few

I've used my 2023 rapide SL (old version) down to 0°C and it has been outstanding. But -5°< and any snow/frozen ground I have felt cold creeping up from the ground, but in fairness I have had higher R-value with less comfort from Exped and felt the same. The nylon fabric of these pads gets so cold to the touch in freezing temps that as soon as you move you'll feel cold spots through your flattned down insulation regardless of R-Value in my opinion so I add a cellfoam on top or put my pad in a liner (often the S2S thermolite Reactor Extreme) when it's freezing. But I've also been looking for something similarily comfortable with a higher R-Value so I can leave the liner and cellfoam pad at home even in -5°> I think I will try the new Nemo Tensor All Season or even Extreme.

I have the rapide sl in regular x wide at 177cm/95kg. It is very comfy and I can recommend it. However I would not get a 53cm pad, made that mistake once and I am just too big for the narrow ones. If you’re a cold sleeper you might want to go with something closer to R6 at 30F but you can also just add a solid pad on top of the inflatable. My kids have marmot bags, no complaints so far and the quality seems good.

The Big Agnes pads are definitely comfortable. The Rapide is light, compact, and likely tough enough. Tougher than a Tensor probably (though Nemo updated it this past year). One of the most durable in this range is possibly the Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm, but they are not cheap, at all. [Reddit thread from 2 years ago. ](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/zn5jim/highly_durable_air_pad_for_heavy_use/)

Much more of a backpacking pad. OP looking for a camping pad. The Rapide is comfy though.

The Thermarest NeoAir is indeed lighter. At just 12 ounces the semi-mummy arguably the best quality sleeping pad in this range and weight. But it's also not cheap. The NeoAir Xtherm is the cold weather version, R 7.4, and 16 oz. The Nemo Tensor Extreme is rectangle, R 8.1, and 18 oz. Both the Thermarest and Nemos are quieter than they were in the past. Also, the more you use them, the more quiet they get. Agree the Thermarest pump sack is the worst of the bunch, no question, but I've gotten mine to work enough. The Rapide is usually warm enough for most people 3 seasons, and the reason to buy it is indeed it's thickness, and the sides being raised. Agree the Exped 5R is good for most people. It's a simple, comfortable, rectangle. R 4.8, and 1lb 4 oz. That's certainly heavier than the Thermarest but $50 cheaper.

The Rapide is a very nice backpacking pad for someone who needs comfort. And it's about a pound lighter. A great deal on it's own. But it's just not as comfortable. The NeoLoft is over an inch thicker, has a much nicer surface, and just feels more plush.

I have the Rapide and I've done one trip with it so far. I'm a side sleeper as well as overweight and I had no issues with comfort. The fill bag isn't so bad to use although I brought a flex tail to inflate with.

**Big Agnes Rapid Sl is solid. 19 oz isn't really ultralight but it's 4 inches thick, great for uneven terrain, and $150. I really like mine as a side sleeper.**

FWIW, I own these two: Exped Ultra 3R (wide, non-mummy) BA Rapid SL (old 4.2R version, Regular 539g) I find them both quite comftable as a side sleeper, no cold or ground contact for shoulder/hip. The BA feels slightly more comfy than the Exped and more durable. I have used the BA down to ap. 23f - I have not had the Exped in really cold conditions yet. Unfortunately there seems to be issues with insulation in the new version of the BA Rapid, so personally I would be a bit hesitant buying it.

I've used a few double sleep systems. At first I used a Klymit Double V and a Thermarest Vela. The quilt was great, but the pad kind of sucked. It was heavy, bulky, and not that comfortable. I have slept with that setup down to 0 and was fine. Then, I got an Exped Dura 5R. It's the same weight as the Kylmit, but much warmer and more comfortable. I also impulsively ordered a Big Agnes Rapide Sl Double, which I don't like quite as much as the Exped. Then I finally found a deal on the Exped Ultra 3r, which is so much smaller and lighter than the other options. We will probably keep the two Exped pads. Finally, I just recently got a UGQ tango duo and sold the Thermarest Vela. It's cheaper than the EE Accomplice, while being better made (in my opinion) and significantly more weight efficient than the Thermarest. The Thermarest really is quite nice though. If you have any specific questions, let me know.

The air pads are lighter and pack smaller which aside from comfort are the only things I care about. Mine came with a bag to inflate it which is super easy.

Big Agnes SL insulated

I bought it last summer. It’s only 4-something r value so not for winter camping, I don’t have a problem with being cold because I also use sleeping bags for colder conditions than I’m actually in.

20-something probably.

Had a couple of klymit static Vs and they weren’t great. I got a Big Agnes Rapide and it’s so good. Decent r value, nice and lofty and comfortable, pretty packable, and it came with a pump sac. It’s a little noisy when I move but I’m happy with it overall.

I don’t use one now because I’ve gotten a bit more comfortable sleeping on my back this past year. BUT back when I was a side sleeper I loved the Big Agnes Rapide SL Regular Wide. Quilted baffles were so comfy and it was THIQUE. Slightly weighty, but who gives a shit about UL if you can’t sleep and recover. Also wasn’t AS warm as Xlite, but not a big diff. Combined that with a similar two pillow method + sleep mask and ear plugs to Aromatic’s and I was OUT. Now I use a neo air xlite in shoulder season and a closed cell when things have thawed out because I sleep on my back more. I also second quilts. My Katabatibc 30 degree is toasty down into the 20’s and gives hella weight savings + roominess.

I love my Big Agnes Rapide SL. I have the wide version.

This is the way! #1 pad I recommend, get the 25x72

I gotta say having owned the rapide, REI Helix, and now the Xlite... I really think people claiming the baffles are significantly more comfortable are really exaggerating. I use the Xlite now and notice 0 discernable difference in sleeping between that and the others with a very noticeable reduction in weight. The new Xlites are now in line with all the others in terms of noise as well.

Great chart. Wish there was something like this when I was shopping. Currently use a Rapide, and it is wonderfull! 3bdrs and several other trips and I have been super happy and I sleep like a baby. If only I could find a decent sleeping bag....

I just got my Big Agnes Rapide SL delivered today and I'm stoked. Wide-long.

I have the Big Agnes Rapide SL and I adore the thing. I’ve been fine in temps in the teens (Fahrenheit) with a 0° rated bag and overquilt. Before that, I had backpacked with an old Klymit UL V from massdrop (anybody remember massdrop? I miss that) and it was decent, but I had no idea that I could be sleeping on a CLOUD. I can sleep on my side on the Rapide. I can sit up without my butt bones touching the ground through it! I love love love it and it’s so quiet compared to other sleeping pads. I share a tent with my SO and I toss and turn like crazy so I wanted something quiet. I haven’t tried the other pads and I normally wouldn’t give a rave review because I did get the sleeping pad for free full disclosure, but I really am SO happy with the sleeping pad. It is nearly impossible to get it back into the stuff sack tho. And it takes a LOT of pumps to fill it.

I liked the bumpered edges of the Rapide

I use a Big Agnes Q core deluxe insulated for winter and a Big Agnes SLX for summer. I’m a bigger guy and also a side sleeper, and it keeps me off the ground. I’ve tried using a hammock, but I just don’t sleep as well as being flat on the ground.

I use a BA Rapide SL regular wide. We have a couple of Big Agnes pads and I think they’re comfortable, but the R value is a little exaggerated. My 35# dog loves it too and has not punctured it yet. I now use a lightweight “picnic blanket” to keep my quilt and pad clean and safe from my dog. I was going to use Tyvek but found the sheet in the bargain bin at my local outdoor sports store. My dog sleeps on a well used cut down ZRest pad. During the day, it’s a sit pad and at night it’s her bed. When it’s chilly, I place a piece of fuzzy pile material from Walmart on her bed. I bought by the yard and placed it on her bed at home. She associates the fuzzy pile throw with her bed, so she tends to stay on that and off my pad.

I use a BA Rapide SL regular wide. We have a couple of Big Agnes pads and I think they’re comfortable, but the R value is a little exaggerated. My 35# dog loves it too and has not punctured it yet. I now use a lightweight “picnic blanket” to keep my quilt and pad clean and safe from my dog. I was going to use Tyvek but found the sheet in the bargain bin at my local outdoor sports store. My dog sleeps on a well used cut down ZRest pad. During the day, it’s a sit pad and at night it’s her bed. When it’s chilly, I place a piece of fuzzy pile material from Walmart on her bed. I bought by the yard and placed it on her bed at home. She associates the fuzzy pile throw with her bed, so she tends to stay on that and off my pad.

I suggest individual sleeping bags or quilts for colder weather. When I purchased sleep bags, I looked for a comfort rating that is the same or lower than lowest expected temperature. A 20f sleeping bag may have comfort rating of 30 or 40 degrees. To sleep well in 30 degrees, look for a 10 degree bag or quilt. A pad with R5 or better rating. The REI Helix is liked by many because it’s close to R5 and it’s lightweight. Big Agnes pads, I have 3, tend to sleep cold so I discount their R values. I have used a quilt plus an additional fiberfill blanket in colder weather. It worked well, but I first tried it car camping when I knew I had a back up system (more blankets) available. Recently I purchased a 10 degree quilt for temps down to mid-20s. It’s still in the teens at my house with lows in single digits. I like quilts but it did take some time to learn how to use mine well and stay warm. For the novice, a sleeping bag is a wise choice. Once you digest all the comments here, settle on a budget, and get a better idea of what conditions you will experience, consider making a new post over in r/backpacking with greater detail.

About the same height and weight I think Used to use a Big Agnes Rapide SL, mega comfy Switched to a Thermarest xlite nxt as it's lighter, it's about 90% as comfy but a fair bit lighter to carry Side sleeper also, if you're not worried about the weight the Big Agnes is the one to go for imo

I’m about the same height/weight as you, and also sleep in pretty much any position but prefer my side so a thicker pad was a must so my hips didn’t compress the pad to the ground. I ended up buying a Big Agnes Rapide SL, the wide version, and it’s been nothing but amazing. Highly recommended!

Yep. I know it’s not the lightest, but bad sleep is the quickest way to ruin a trip for me so I’ll take those extra ounces. If you have an REI or some other store that sells pads close by, swing by and try one out in the store. They should let you blow up any pad they have.

I think the R-value is like 4.8. That being said, I don’t do much super cold camping without my hot tent. I’ve definitely taken the Rapide when it was just below freezing out and never had an issue, to be fair I was probably over bagged for the weather though.

This. I’ll die on the Rapide SL wide hill. Damn the weight, that thing is comfy!

You’ll be very happy with that pad. I love mine, definitely get the wide. You would be surprised what five extra inches of width will do. Used mine for two nights this past weekend in just below freezing temps and was comfy as can be with a cheap 20° bag.

The Ultra is the only choice here if you care about warmth. Big Agnes failed at properly implementing reflective insulation into the newest version of the Rapide SL pad.

I second this. Got one last year and have taken it on a few backpacking trips now and it feels like absolute luxury.

The Rapide is fantastic but personally i don’t find it quite as warm as it claims to be. It’s very, very comfortable though.

The Rapide SL is really excellent. My partner and I have both been using them for quite a while now and I think it’s the comfiest pad out there. I’m also a side sleeper. I tend to agree it’s not quite as warm as it claims but I still use it during autumn and spring. However I do tend to sleep quite cold so that’s a factor to bear in mind with my opinion. I have the Sea to Summit Etherlite XT (my mid winter mat), which has a similar construction to the XR, and it’s also a very, very comfortable pad. The XR is the newer version of it and looks like an excellent pad and will be perfect for year round use. They are extremely lightweight for that kind of warmth. The Sea to Summit pads also come with little velcro stickers that keep your pillow in place, if your pillow is covered in fuzzy fabric (they’re made to lock Sea to Summit’s own pillows specifically but any fuzzy fabric pillow would work) which is a feature I really love. Broadly speaking, the pads with a “cushioned” build like the Rapide and the Etherlights, are the most comfortable for most sleepers, but they do weigh slightly more than horizontal or vertical baffle pads. For me, as an increasingly creaky 40 something, it’s worth the extra weight for a good night’s sleep.

I’ve slept on my Rapide up to about -5°C or so at which point I found I didn’t feel super cosy.

I love my Rapide SL too. Bought it to replace my NeoAir NXT after it failed (I sold the replacement Thermarest sent me). Fantastic mats!

The problem with the Rapide is that, despite being a brilliant mat, someone who sleeps in the recovery position may find themselves getting a bit of an unpleasant surprise when moving into that position because of the (odd) lack of insulation in the side baffles.

This should be a top comment. I have an old big Agnes 3.5 inch insulated and sleep on my side. My hip touches the ground for a second when I roll over, but then comes off when I get the rest of my body all the way down. I think that’s what you’re going for with air pressure.

I've had a neo air and it's light but noisy when turning. Just got a big Agnes (can't remember the model but the widest single insulated) and it's comfy and quieter when turning. Certainly heavier than the neoair though

I can vouch for the big Agnes mat, got the wide and long one and it's worth every penny. Got it on eBay from Australia price+ postage was still cheaper than most places.

I’m a fan of big Agnes pads for my inflatable ones the insulated versions, i find they have a good balance between weight and comfort. I like to bring a foam mat as well even when hammock camping cause it means i will always have some decent insulation, good use is to put under my mat to help prevent punctures and as a backup sleeping mat, also good for a sitpad. Exped makes good foam ones the zigzag ones are much easier to roll and unrolled and don’t try to curl up on themselves. if you’re on a budget go outdoors have a foam roll mat for £10 are a decent thickness and nice and wide. The colder the weather the more insulation from the ground you need. summer just inflatable mat or foam is good enough. in colder weather you want insulated sleeping mats or a regular mat and a foam and winter you want foam and a insulated pad.

We have a big Agnes double pad and a single pad that combined cover the floor of our tent. It works for the two of us + toddler + dog pretty well. In our big tent we put those two things on top of some folding cots from Walmart.

If you're thinking about switching your setup in the future (either to a roof top tent, hardshell cap or something else) I would recommend getting a standard inflatable camping sleeping pad. They have a small footprint and can be useful even after moving to a new setup. I have a Big Agnes pad but pretty much anything available at REI would good, but you'll probably want inflatable unless you put something flat down on the bed to cover the ridges.

The only pillow i've ever found comfortable was the REI Co-Op Trailmade pillow. It's a non-inflatable pillow stuffed with memory foam squares. So it's definitely heavier and takes up more span than inflatable pillows, but after trying several brands of inflatable I just needed something different. I don't see it for sale anymore, so not sure if they still make it. If you aren't hiking in, and size isn't an issue, I would just use your home pillow. For me the big thing for side sleeping/stomach sleeping is a good mattress. If space isn't an issue a foam mattress would be best, there are a bunch of \~$50 tri-fold 4" memory foam mattresses on amazon. But these take up a HUGE amount of space in a car to transport. For backpacking I use an inflatable Big Agnes insulated pad, but those are like $150. If you aren't backpacking, amazon has several options for cheap inflatable camping mattresses, but you will probably need to buy or borrow an air pump to fill them, as they don't come with them usually. For the sleeping bag I've found I can sleep in any style as a stomach sleeper. Mummy style bags just kind of stay with you, so when you curl your legs up, the bang stays mostly form fitted. If you are sleeping on your stomach, do you sleep in "tiger pose" where you have one leg bent up and the other straight? Mummy bags can make sleeping like that difficult. Big rectangle bags would let you sleep in "tiger pose" with one knee up and the other leg straight, which is how I sleep at home. If you are going with a non-down warm sleeping bag, you can always bring a secondary blanket too, so you don't have to splurge on a super expensive 20 degree bag or anything.

BA and Exped are the only two brands I've liked, unfortunately, the comfortable ones are NOT UL. sleep is worth it to me.

Big Agnes are the best

I have a big Agnes pad. Inflatable and not sure exactly what specs, but any inflatable pad is going to have some noise imo. I love mine. I’ve had it for 8 years, which feels kinda unreal for an inflable. Never had an issue with it and definitely put it through the gauntlet- camped in the desert a lot, cowboy camped, camped on rocky areas. Never had a leak. Love it and feel like it’s worth the price tag

I have at least 10 pads, and have returned for warranty probably half that amount. The most durable, comfortable, and beat insulted are thermarest self inflating. The smallest and lightest with descent insulation seem to be the big Agnes inflatable ones ( UT these are a PITA to fill up every night and will leak sooner than later. My recommendation is the thermarst self inflating pads. Find one with the rvalue you need and go with it.should last you many nights

Big Agnes is the best I’ve found. Pricey but well worth it.

Have you considered a camping cot? There are a lot of ultralight options now which are about the same price as a good sleeping pad for side sleepers. The only difference being is the weight, you’re looking at around 1.5kg for a cot bed which would be double the weight of a sleeping pad. For me, the extra weight is worth it for the comfort. For context I’ve tried Therm-a-Rest, Big Agnes and Nemo mats. If I’m going for comfort, the cot bed wins every time.

I’d recommend inflatable. Lighter and easier to pack to a very small size. I’m currently using a Neoair Xtherm NXT and I love it. It’s so well insulated, weighs barely anything, very comfortable and I’ve never had any issues with punctures. Depends how you treat it, I’m always sleeping in a tent with a ground sheet, but I’ve had the regular Neoair prior to this and never had an issue with that either. I only got the new one because it was stolen. Also the NXT does cut down the noise a LOT compared to the previous model. It doesn’t eliminate it, but it’s no longer an issue IMO as the older one was very loud. The NXT is no worse than a standard big Agnes pad I also have and no worse than basically any other inflatable now. Unless you’re a VERY light sleeper I don’t think there’s a problem any more.

I really like the big Agnes pads

Big Agnes and sea to summit checks all your boxes. Small/compact, uses vertical baffles to prevent that bouncy castle feeling and provide actual support

Plus one. I have a therm-a-rest Xtherm, two cheap Amazon pads (they didn’t last), a Big Agnes, and I’ve tried the foam pads (they’re not for me). Exped seems to have the best tech. Their pads are quiet, comfy, reliable, and I love the synthetic down on the inside

Big Agnes has valve issues, mine didn't even last 3 uses

I had a Big Agnes for a decade. It sprung a leak on a trip this time last year. I found the leak on a seam and called to ask about repairing it. They asked for a pic, which I sent as well as a pic of the valve cut off (per their instructions) and my new pad arrived in a few days. No charge. I’ll never buy a pad from a different manufacturer again. https://preview.redd.it/qcc2h29uz8ve1.jpeg?width=5712&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4a5db870df20331f504fddf587c14258a32a7250

Bought my Big Agnes pad for $100 at REI ten years ago and still going strong. Not a single leak. I’m a side sleeper and it’s pretty comfy. 

I've used my Exped for 500miles. I've never had a problem with it. Personally, I would only buy Exped or Big Agnes sleeping pads because they're the only ones I've never seen leak. Anything by thermarest is trash.

I'd say it's at the very least quieter than my Big Agnes that I used most recently. In all honesty at 390lbs every thing is noisy when I toss and turn, but I wouldn't say it's extra noisy or anything. As far as better than self inflating, I'd say yes by a large margin. That being said, I've also got to admit the last self inflating pad I regularly used was probably 10 years ago. I'd assume tech has come a long way since my last self inflating pad but I don't know for sure. I never had one that would ever keep me completely off the ground the entire night. there were always high and low spots and not much insulation back then. If you do go that route at the very least I'd try to find the thickest pad in your budget. Also on noise, maybe a pad cover like the Thermarest Synergy may help as well. I'm looking into that as a little extra protection from dog claws but I'm sure it would dampen noise too.

As I side sleeper, I have found some of the Big Agnes pads to be very comfortable, and quiet. I've been through several different types and brands of pads over the years (decades) I like that the sides are higher on the BA pads, which keep you from rolling off the mat. It's not that they are super high to physically prevent you from rolling off. It's the subconcious thing that when you feel that extra height, your brain does it, even when asleep. The 25 inch wide pads are much better for side sleepers. I'd go with a 30 inch wide, but they only make that width in a few long pads. For biking, you may not mind the extra ounces for the 30 inch wide, long pad. I have one, and wish I could cut it shorter, but afraid to do so, for fear of not being able to seal it properly. None of the name brand pads are inexpensive. The new Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft looks good, and has many good reviews. If I didn't already have a few BA pads, I'd be tempted to buy a NeoLoft. The next time I'm at REI, I may try one, just to see.

I also have one of these and loved it initially. After two months on the road it is now failing almost every night. I’ve exhausted the patches that came with the pad and it’s now covered with third party gear repair patches. I am ~75kgs and I don’t over-inflate it. I paid good money for this thing and it is absolutely not worth it.

Nemo or big Agnes pads!

Big Agnes. Im a side sleeper and also started with a Klymit like you and found it inadequate. My big agnes is only a little heavier but it's about four inches thick when fully inflated, which is great.

A big no on the BA pad from me. I hate that pad. I got it on a pro deal and it is the loudest pad I’ve yet used.  I took it and a klymit inertia ozone pad out on a trip and traded pads with a friend and by the end of the trip we were fighting over the klymit pad - not because it’s exceptional but because the BA pad was so awful. Go look up the klymit inertia pad if you want to have a laugh - not bad though, considering what it is.

Big Agnes by far for me. But alas not as warm

They all will die after a few years I had some of the interior fusing a few thermarests come undone, like yours, I suspect due to being in a very hot tent. I contacted the company and had them replaced. I have had a few big Agnes ones deflate after 10 year of use. I have a bunch of thermarests and expads that are fines. I typically get an extra one whenever one is on sale so I have an extra to borrow or use myself if one deflates. Also in car camping trips I bring an extra k. Case myself or someone has one deflate. Nothing sucks more than crappy sleep.

Having a family of 4 can confirm individuals is the way to go. We’re all rocking Big Agnes pads. The kids are using big Agnes bags which have a pocket for the pad and keeps them from wondering around at night.

So I spent alot of time sleeping outside after the army. And here's my 2c if got some cash spend the money on a Big Agnes pad yes they require inflation but man I'd rather sleep on that then my real bed some days. I have an older model Divide insulated pad. Folds down to the size of a Nalgene bottle. Yes they aren't camo or high speed colors but a poncho can fix that. 2nd option is the therma rest z fold. It's my quick and light option but I bring a klymit inflatable pillow with me so it makes up for it. Or the issued army therma rest pad. Not bad either.

Spend money. Get a good quality mattress, this is not the place to go cheap. Restful sleep is important for recovery. The most expensive air mattress is still cheaper than a hotel for a night. I use a Big Agnes. It's 4 in thick, 25 in wide, 76 in long. I can inflate it quickly with the included pump sack, it's gets firm and hold air throughout then night. It has a 4 R value so it insulates well. I sleep like I'm in a bed. This was the single biggest upgrade to my gear and the best value (although it wasn't cheap). Anything you find on Amazon will be crap quality. Buy from a reputable brand. Check out outdoorgearlab.com for reviews. They are the Consumer Reports for gear.

I absoluate hated this pad, bought this one at Academy last year, and my back hurt so badly after just one night. I've since moved to a Big Agnes and it made a world of difference!

I use a half one of these to insulate my upper body, while using my big agnes pad. This pad cut in half is the best hiking seat you'll ever have too.

I have been using a Big Agnes for a few years now, tent and lean-to use in the deep woods of northern New York and Vermont. I took it across the US this summer, using it to camp for three weeks. Zero problems. Even with my dog around, but I always put it in a sleeping bag liner.

I have a pretty basic Big Agnes sleeping pad that's probably R-3.5 or something like that. I've used it for several trips in Washington and Oregon in the summer. Being cold from below was not a a problem. I think R-1.5 would be OK in the summer, the ground warms up quite a bit during the summer. A more insulated pad would only be necessary if the ground is frozen during the day. What probably matters most for you is size, weight, and comfort - it needs to be thick enough so you don't feel the ground through the pad. I would also look at how difficult it is to inflate. The one I have has a terrible valve that seems to be designed to be as inconvenient as possible. You have to blow into it, but there's a bit of resistance to air coming in, and the valve is such that it's hard to tell if it's open or closed. I'm attaching a piece of an old bicycle inner tube to make it possible to use a bike pump. Some pads have a built-in hand pump and that would be useful. I can't offer a recommendation for a specific product since I haven't bought one recently, and the one I have doesn't seem to be available any more.

I use the big Agnes lost dog with my big Agnes pad. Because the lost dog attaches to the pad it keeps me from falling off the pad. I'm a bigger guy too and the first pad I bought was only 20 inches wide and my shoulders were wider than the pad. Ha. Right away I thought well this won't work.

Backing this up. I have two Expeds and love them. I really like Big Agnes as a company, but their pads are a disaster. Lots of leaking from those weird dimples they have. When you see a lot of bad reviews believe them, it doesn’t matter how much of a sale is going on.