Military Self-Inflating Sleep Pad

There was a recent discussion about this type of pad and it’s R values here: https://www.reddit.com/r/CampingGear/s/AcsRlx09DN I use those olive green military surplus Thermarest ultralite pads for car camping with achesp closed cell foam pad underneath for my kids. I usually use something beefier for me. The pads can be found online and budget prices (~$15 new old stock), but shipping $ will get you. It’s a good budget combo For backpacking, I prefer the lighter weight closed cell foam pads in conjunction with a newer version of inflatable pad like the Xtherm or in summer the Neo air Uber light.

I've used them, was not impressed. Holds moisture, stows poorly, is uncomfortable.

I have that one, at least the model from 30 years ago when I got it. It’s narrow, long and kind of thin. Been just fine for me.

it's fine for summer use, but will leave you feeling cold in the winter. I would avoid sleeping on snow with it if you can help it. I used it in everything from hot humid summers to sub zero winters. it's similar to all the other heavier self inflating pads you'll find on the market. The self-inflating feature might not work anymore and you may have to blow them up (easy). They don't provide a lot of cushion but it's a lot better than the ground. If you want something smaller and lighter, the market has many options when you're ready. TIL: I used a therm a rest product 20 years ago in the army. Recently, I went camping with a friend who had a therm a rest self inflating, and I was surprised at how similar it was to my old army issue. Now I know why. they don't list R value since it's for a government issued item, but I've seen 3.2-4.8 listed on websites. For reference, an average three/all season pad is around 3-4 and a winter pad is closer to 6-8. Here's the specs: * Shell Material: 100% Nylon * Self-inflating to approximately 1.5" thick * Compact and lightweight (21" x 72" x 3/4" and 1 lb. 14oz) * Genuine US Military Issue * Made in USA * NSN: 8465-01-393-6515

As a jarhead I have intimate knowledge of these, isomats suck. Look at gear trade.com, you should be able to find inexpensive second hand inflating sleeping pads. Look at Facebook marketplace and Craigslist.