I bought a Nemo Tensor last summer, the non insulated version and it's the least slippery sleeping pad I've used. I wonder if there is a different top layer. The big agnes I used previously was so slippery it was like they did it on purpose.
It's subjective. I just upgraded from a klymit static v. My top 2 choices were the nemo tensor or the thermorest neoloft. I went with the tensor. I've used it on 11 nights in the last month. Absolutely love it. My buddy preferred the neoloft but hasn't bought it yet. I also got the nemo filo pillow. Huge upgrade from the sea to summit air pillow I had before.
My husband and I have the Nemo extra wide single but you buy 2 and they attach. We went with 2 because together they are the size of a queen size bed and they connect perfectly. Also we don't always came together so we can just take 1 if need be. The hey are ohhh so comfortable!!!! We love it. We've used it year round all over the place.
I've been using the Nemo you're looking at (the wide version) for a few months now, including nights that got below 0°C and cannot fault it. Using with a -8 quilt as I'm a front and side sleeper and I can honestly say I've never slept better in the field.
No worries. I forgot to mention the Nemo is fairly quiet, too - not as crinkly if you toss and turn a bit (I'm a restless sleeper, so it makes a difference for me)
Seconded! Regular tensor will be fine fine in most conditions. Maybe one of the Nemo bags? I've got the Disco.
Friend of my mine recommends the Durston X-Mid, but I think it's not freestanding. The Sea to summit Alto 2 was highly recommended, as well.
Start looking at your use case. If you’re interested in going over 8 miles it could be difficult unless you are really fit. Unless you sleep really cold I would get the regular tensor. I have used my regular down to around 20 degrees and I’ve been fine.
Try to find a better sleeping bag that is a little lighter. Let me know if you want a recommendation. You should try to find a comfort rating for 20 degrees in the sierras. Someone from the area can check that though.
Freestanding tents make a lot of sense, but I would encourage you to try out a trekking pole tent. They are lighter and trekking poles help more than you think when you have a pack (especially uphill and more so downhill).
If there was one thing I regretted when I started backpacking it was getting a tent that was too big and too heavy as I never wanted to spend time in it. I could have saved a lot of money just grabbing a trekking pole tent off the rip.
Obviously all of this goes out the window if you want to hike 0-8 miles per trip.
bear843
