NEMO - Tensor Series

This inherently does not answer your question, because it is only R2.4, but I've been using the new Tensor Elite which packs to the size of my fist and weighs 7oz. I've used it on multiple 32F nights on shaded ground. I have used my torso-length 1/8" pad to supplement sometimes, but not all the time, and have not perceived a difference in warmth. I've mostly used it for grip. In summary, I've been impressed by it and would currently not consider anything else for a sub-20L pack system Edit: meant to say Elite, not Extreme

Yeah I'm kind of in the same position. It's about what you'd expect, it's comfortable within the limits of a short, regular width pad. It's very slippery. I've used it for about 10 nights, mostly in Grand Canyon, and it hasn't leaked yet. I'm pretty good at fixing sleeping pads, so I bought it knowing that if a leak is fixable I can handle it in the field, and if it's not fixable they will warranty it for me and I could ask for something different. Like I said I've used it in combo with 1/8 ccf because that's part of my pack but I don't think that's necessary. So, in summary, I'm skeptical of it but I have yet to be given a reason to believe it's a stupid product. It's a huge gain in comfort:weight ratio compared to my Xlite.

I have about 10 nights on one. It's comfortable and hasn't failed yet. It's very easy to use compared to Neoair because of the valves. It is definitely slippery and I sometimes use a 1/8" foam under it to mitigate this. I have yet to be cold on it, even with a few nights around freezing on shaded ground. I have a similar philosophy about its durability. I'm pretty good at fixing pads in the field so if occasional leaks are fixable I'm okay with that. If something stupid fails that's not fixable, I'll be asking for a different one when I warranty it. They are pretty great at customer service and if they are going to launch a product like this I'm not ashamed to hold them accountable

It's the quietest pad I've used, except for occasional little squeaks against the CCF I use under it

The Tensor Elite has thinner material than the Uberlite

Slightly more comfortable and completely silent unless you put it on something squeaky in my 10 nights of experience

I agree but also more slippery, and obviously less durable

10 nights here so I'll help -It is not noisy at all unless you put it on top of something squeaky. -It is quite slippery, moreso than a Neoair. I often struggle to decide between putting my 1/8" foam below (protection and grip) or above (body grip). I think ultimately I will stick to below and put some Seam Grip on top for body/sleeping bag grip -It's the easiest pad to inflate and deflate in existence IMO. This is because the valves are excellent, mine is the short version so it just doesn't take much lung time, the dump valve is wide open, and the material is so supple so you don't have to be careful about folding it nicely. I was actually struck right away by how all of these things contribute to its ease of use

I mostly agree with you. I was already carrying a Thinlight on 98% of trips even with a heavier inflatable. So that's actually why I decided to try the Elite. I personally got it for less than 200 as well.

Nemo Tensor Alpine is what I run it's good

This! I started buying tensors because they were the only reg/wide rectangle pads at the time.  They work great and are comfy enough for side sleeping for me. 

I also recommend the Tensor All Season. It’s the best mix of comfort and weight. I found the older Thermarest pads less comfortable and noisy, I’m not sure about the current models, maybe they’ve gotten better.

This pad is worlds more comfortable than the fully inflatables and it has a good r-value (5.1). I returned the Nemo tensor everyone loves so much and replaced it with this and I think it was well worth it. Yes, the weight and packability are worse, but I just can’t find an inflatable that is comfortable enough for me to think the weight/size savings are worth it.

Tensor Elite Short Mummy is 7.6 oz. With the stuff sack and patch kit it's 8.04 oz. With the included pad inflator that I doubt literally anyone will use, it's 10 oz. Source: I own it.

The released specs are exactly the same. Your assumption that "most" people will use all the extras that come with pads is flawed. At best I would include both minimum and full weights when available.

I've only slept on it for one night with a Thinlight underneath, where it got down to 35F and I felt the cold under the pad for sure but it was fine. A coworker that also bought the pad who is going on the PCT soon slept on it for a month indoors to test it out and had his rip open. He claims he just rolled over and heard it pop. [Here's a video of the damage.](https://imgur.com/a/lGLgBd3) I would *never* use it without a Thinlight.

Feels the same, except quieter.

I only use pads that are too short for me. I currently use an XLite Womens (66") and a Tensor Elite (63"). I like having my feet hang off the edge after a long day of hiking, it feels better. If I'm on a longer pad or in a bed, I will do the same thing.

This Nemo, which I owned for less than 12 hours, I got in wide and it did not seem wide at all, so I can imagine the regular seeming tiny. It might be the height effect too; the Nemo regular is the same width as my self-inflatable Thermarest, but since the latter is only 1 inch off the ground, it's not the same effect, you're basically already at ground level (lol) - and yet much more comfortable (+ extra weight + extra bulk...).

Everyone said the Nemo was "nearly silent" lolol

It seems like the Tensor All Season is not sqeaking but is chip-packeting, so I presume it's the insulation rustling inside, not the actual exterior material in this case.

Amusingly, Nemo do claim directly on their website for the All Season: "The layers’ clever floating construction eliminates the crinkling, crunchy sound that many insulated air pads are known for." If that's not a lie, I don't know what is.

I sent it back. It was more the volume saving than the weight saving which would have been amazing!

I own a nemo tensor Al season regular . I find it very quiet. My only complaint is that it is 20 inches wide. Laying flat on my back my arms tend to lay on the ground. I do find that comfortable enough though. I can side sleep also. But it's tight. But on the issue of noise that was the least noticeable for me. I found my sea to summit all season louder.

Nemo tensor reg/wide. I am 250lbs, and I’ve never touched the ground through it. I think the tiny bit of extra thickness beats out the thermarest.

I think it is. I always clear my chosen tent spot of rocks, twigs, debris and such before I set anything up. My tensor lasted my hike over the span of two years and is still going strong. It definitely never hurts to have something under it for extra protection and piece of mind though. An added bonus is that it’ll stop your pad from sliding around in your tent if you’re not on a totally flat spot. I used a lightweight microfiber towel (my luxury item, I swam a lot) for that.

Love my tensor all season. It checks all the boxes. Very comfortable

I’m a side sleeper as well and I stopped using my Nemo tensor so much because of the potato chip bag noise effects heh. This past winter, I’ve used the Sea to Summit comfort plus. It is easily the most comfortable pad I’ve ever used for side sleeping. And inflates and deflates easily. Highly recommend!

Is it noisy? The tensor I bought a couple of years ago is still going strong but man it’s like sleeping on top of a potato chip bag. I’m a guy that moves from side to side so it can be a problem some nights.

Nemo tensor all season has a 5.4 r value, packs quite small, and weighs 16 oz which I think is certainly pretty light for that level of warmth

25 inches wide a must for me, ounces be damned.

It’s subjective, of course. While I’d agree the Tensor is no where near the most comfortable, I’ve found it to hit the sweet spot in terms of being comfortable *enough*, light *enough*, warm *enough*, etc. Every other pad I’ve tried excels at one thing while falling far short in another. (Etherlite: comfy but cold. Xlite: warm and light but uncomfortable and loud. Etc.) Tensor is good *enough* in my experience.

25 inch wide + short is something I’d be interested in. (Paired w/ 1/8 inch ccf)

I would probably not pick MEC products anymore, they have dropped in quality. So MH or Nemo for a sleeping bag. And since you’re a fellow Canadian, go for the higher R value, especially since your bag only goes to -9. The Nemo tensor is a good option here.

I swear by the Nemo Tensor large. The 25 inch one. I also have 2 pillows, a cheap gear doctor one from amazon that straps to the pad, and a Nemo fillo. I need these as a side sleeper to avoid having my neck cricked. I am also a fan of quilts. I have 2 from Zen Bivy. With this setup, I have had night on the trial that were better than nights at home. I move a lot when I sleep, and switch between sides and my back. This is the only way for me to get rest. Combine with an eye mask and ear plugs!

I hope the latest versions deliver on their promised improvements. My Nemo Tensor from ~2020 hasn't shown to be very durable, though it is comfortable.

My wife recently got me the ampex long/wide ultralight camping pad for backpacking. It's like $60 from the cabelas website. I was borrowing a nemo tensor insulated pad before (the orange one), and I was able to compare both side by side in my house. I haven't used the ampex one while backpacking yet. However, I noticed that it holds air better than the nemo, and feels like it's made of a stronger ripstop. I've babied the nemo while using it because it seems thin and I'm afraid to cause a leak, but I feel better about the ampex. It is also thicker and has a higher r-value, and the same size as the nemo. All first impressions are super positive. One concern is that it's 5oz heavier. That may matter to more hardcore ultralight backpackers, but for me it's basically negligible. Super happy with it and I'm excited to take it backpacking next weekend.

Also a side sleeper, Nemo Tensor insulted and a sea to summit pillow worked for me! The trick for me was putting the pillow between my knees, and using a stuff sack of my puffy and hiking clothes as a pillow for my head. Hope you get it figured out! Keep trekking!!

If I ever buy another inflatable pad, it'll be a [Nemo Tensor Trail](https://www.nemoequipment.eu/collections/sleeping-pads/products/tensor-trail-insulated-ultralight-sleeping-pad). Of all the inflatable options, it's simply the best blend of comfort/weight (assuming you avoid cold temps like I do) The horizontal baffles on the XLite are nowhere near as comfortable

I've had a broken spine and pelvis so I researched and tested a lot for a sleeping pad. Any thick self inflating pad was either WAY too heavy, bulky, or had bad reviews... So I ended up with a Nemo Tensor. I know you prefer self inflating but I'd give this pad a try, maybe go to a store and lay on it. I find it quiet, warm, and supportive. I sleep all night and no body aches.

Nemo Tensor insulated wide ultralight, very comfortable, quieter than some others, packs light and small

Same. Love the 3R (not slippery, not noisy, vertical baffles and “rails”) but really jealous of the Tensor Elite weight. Now, if Tensor made the Elite in a 25”, I’d buy it in a heartbeat.

I second this! I recently switched to a zenbivy ultralight mattress, and I slept so comfortably, especially as a side sleeper. I previously owned a Nemo Tensor. It was okay, but I should have gotten it wide. I don't toss and turn, but my mind is more at ease if there's a little extra space, lol. That's a great idea using the nemo pad pump sack because the zenbivy pump sack does suck. I personally use a flextail pump for an extra 4.3oz, but I'll use the nemo pump sack next time!

Been very happy with my Nemo Tensor Extreme in long/wide. Have had it for several years now, no durability issues.

I've had great luck with the Nemo Tensor Ultralight and Fillo pillow. 100% game changer for me

I just spent my first night sleeping on a tensor elite. Loved it! 40F was the nighttime low temp and I was fine. It is comfortable but slippery. More comfortable than either an xlite or an uberlite for sure. I got the short version which weighed 7.5 oz on my scale. I added pillow attachment loops at a point that my Big Sky Dream Nation pillow slightly cantilevered off the head end and that worked great. The net effect is that it worked like a full length and I am 5’-10” — I wasn’t expecting that. A pleasant surprise all around.

Just make sure whatever you buy is actually ASTM tested for the R-value. So avoid Klymit for example. If it’s not ASTM tested, they can make up any number they want to. It’s night and day between my Nemo Tensor all-season and my Klymit Static-V Insulated

Love my Exped 5R but learned the expensive way, 1st bought a Klymit Static V for $60 on sale (r rating is not real and the valve broke after 1 year) then Nemo Tensor (love it unless I’m camping with my partner in which case the crinkling chip bag sound kept them awake all night) and finally tried the Exped and now I don’t use anything else!

Nemo tensor wide + CCF underneath for me. With the pad a little bit under inflated. I like to sleep side ways and this is the pad that keep my top leg supported on pad instead of dropping on to ground uncomfortably

I think most of it been mentioned already, but I'd nevertheless like to put all my thoughts here: - Depending on the ground, the Nemo Tensor Insulated can be on the edge for cold sleepers, and my personal experience is that the dotted baffle structure is a bit more draft prone than linear baffles. Upgradding to at least the All Season model or, better, either the Extreme or an XTherm, is going to add a bunch of degrees of comfort. - Exhaustion makes you incredibly susceptible to the cold. Plan for that. Stop earlier if possible. If you cut your dialy mileage short by a few miles, those will be easily made in the morning if you get an early start after a night with good sleep. - Not eating makes you even more susceptible to the cold. No matter how exhausted you are, have dinner. This should be a non-negotiable thing. If you absolutely cannot eat for some reason, counter-balance that by preparing a hot (though not boiling hot) water bottle. - Sweaty clothes make it harder to get warm. Get into dry clothes. - By pulling up your legs, you're making it harder to get warm all over, seeing that the foot box is the best insulated part. You're also stretching the quilt, which compresses the down and makes them ineffective. So you need to find a way to get warm by working on the points mentioned above. - As others have mentioned, camp site selection can be pretty important. Pine needles and dry leaves give you good insulation from the bottom. Trees hold warmth. Cold air from the mountains tends to flow down slopes in the night, and beeing in that flow or not can sometimes make a difference of nearly 10°F. Considering all these points, I think the quilt could be warm enough for that temperature. Calculating from loft height, it gives me a comfort limit of 23°F for the average female, which should leave enough wiggle room. I'd even hazard the guess that with good bottom insulation und heeding (most of) the points above, you should be toasty in the same circumstances. UL is part equipment and part skills so your gear is used efficiently. You could of course upgrade to a good 10°F or 0°F sleeping bag, but you'd be limiting yourself to a smaller temperature range that way as you may find yourself being too warm in higher temperatures.

+1 for the Nemo Tensor. After trying 5 or 6 different pads, I tried a Tensor. Within 3 seconds of laying on it, I knew my search was finally over

I also recommend the Nemo Tensor 25". I've tried half a dozen expensive pads and the Nemo Tensor is better, by far. A good quality pillow goes a long way to increasing sleep comfort. I can't remember the brand I have, I've had it for 4 or 5 years, but it's got a soft microfiber cover and an elastic strap that goes around your pad to keep it in place. This is much more comfortable than a stuff sack with a pants and shirt in it. Or your backpack, which is what I used to use. It's well worth the little bit of extra weight IMO

I've been using my Nemo Tensor for 6 years. I had to patch a small pinhole (it was entirely my fault that the hole got there) 3 years ago. It's still going strong

I had the RAB ionosphere (4,8?), the yellow one of the same line. After about 40 nights of use, it would not stay inflated for longer than 2 hrs, checked it for leaks etc.  Got my money back and am now rocking Nemo tensor 4 season (we're now 4 nights in, we'll see!)

Tensor has failed me too many times. They’re comfortable but not very durable it seems. Or I’m just unlucky.

Agreed. I’m definitely a side sleeper and this one supports me very well. I would get the regular-wide size a second time around so that my arms don’t fall down beside me when I happen to be on my back at times.

Any of the Nemo Tensor line is great and not loud and Zen Bivy also makes really good pads as well. That will likely be the next one I buy.

I just layed in the helix yesterday at REI lol, it felt like a normal pad imo. Nothing crazy but not terrible. I use the Nemo Tensor and love it

+1 for Nemo tensor, I have the insulated version. Fantastic.

I have an xlite and an all-season. I personally think the xlite is a little quieter. I also think the noise from both is so negligible that this should hardly be a sticking point for anyone unless you are VERY VERY sensitive to noise- in which case I have no idea how you sleep in the backcountry anyway. So far I prefer my all-season because a fully inflated all-season feels a little less “stiff” than my fully inflated xlite. I think the baffle design on the all-season is a little more comfortable. The biggest drawback to my all-season is that the pad surface can be quite slippery.

Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated and Nemo Tensor are both widely regarded as The most comfortable pads. I have or tried both and they're great.

The Nemo tensor in wide will be my next pad. I’ve been on thermarests since ‘97 ish

Nemo Disco!!! I describe my sleeping style as rotisserie chicken—constantly turning. I had an REI Magma. Hated it. Swapped for Nemo Disco after the Smokies and never looked back. Okay. I just saw that this is about sleeping PADS, not bags. Leaving that top part because I’m lazy. Nemo Tensor Wide. Must must must get the wide. I started with the regular and it was too narrow for all my turning. Wide was a game changer.

Nemo Tensor did the trick for me. Comes in multiple sizes. Had multiple hip surgeries and never thought I could sleep outside and on my side again, and this proved me wrong.

For the same weight at the BA pad you could get almost 2x the insulation with the Nemo Tensor Extreme Conditions UL pad. It clocks in at R-8.5 and weighs 17 oz for the regular mummy version. The catch is that you would be paying as much as you would for the Thermarest neoair xtherm. Once you get to freezing temps the extra insulation in the pad is quite welcome. Above 40 though, you could be fine with much less. I get very warm when I'm active but at night when I'm sleeping in the cold I get just as cold as the next guy.

I like my nemo tensor

If you’re looking for an inflatable, Nemo Tensor All Season or Therma-Rest Uber Lite? They’re more expensive but comfortable, light, and warm/comfy.

Nemo Tensor All-Season. I brought it on a 3 month tour over the summer and it worked great. Very comfortable, no holes, packs small.

Yes, regular wide is the one I have. Wouldn't go back to 20" pads.

Nemo tensor with a classic foam pad underneath. The tensor has a micro adjust valve to that allows you to adjust the pressure to what works for your body. I think most people think pads should always been fully inflated (myself included for years). Using that micro adjust valve to release some air while you’re laying on the pad is a serious game changer. Allows the pad to contour to your body versus feeling like a hard bed.

Been running a Nemo tensor for years. Not sure the exact thickness, but I’m a side sleeper and it’s always treated me right. They come in all sorts of sizes online. The micro pressure release valve really comes in handy because you can lay on it while you adjust the pressure down to what works for your body. BUT the real side sleeping game changer I’ve discovered in the last year is a sleeping bag that attaches to the pad. It’s made a huge difference in my sleep quality. When rolling from side to side you don’t get twisted in the bag. It all just floats over you as you rearrange. Also seems to prevent drifting off the pad when you’re on uneven ground. Got a backless version of a 10 degree Big Agnes bag at a used gear store and it’s been great. Mesh pillow holder included. Highly recommend it.

This is great advice on the inflation level of the pad. I am a hammock camper and sleep with a Tensor pad inflated to about 70% when in the hammock. I sleep with the Tensor pad instead of an underquilt so I have the option to sleep in a shelter if the weather is especially bad of if I am coming into camp later than normal. The deflation of the pad when sleeping in the shelter greatly improved my sleep comfort.

All season pad was comfy and considerably warmer than other 3R pads I have had. Glad I upgraded.

Also a woman who sleeps very cold and used to freeze anytime it went below 40. A few things that have really helped me: - Get a sleeping bag as close to your height as possible (sounds like you might already be doing this? I have a bag that's just 1" taller than me for reference) - Upgraded from the Tensor Insulated to the Neoair Xtherm - Eat warm food right before (eating protein in particular seems to help) - Go to sleep earlier (don't wait until I get super cold) - Sleep in wool base layers (basically always) - Sleep in a puffer jacket (when it's extra cold) - When possible, share a tent (this makes the biggest difference to me) Not gear related, but gaining a bit of weight has really helped me feel less cold. If you're at the edge of being underweight that might also be a factor for you.

I thruhiked with a veteran who had his spine reassembled after an incident with an ied. He used a very thick self-inflating pad that was bed-comfortable and weighed about 2.5lbs. If it were my back I'd look for comfort first and damn the weight. Of the UL pads, the Sea To Summit Aether Lite XT insulated is the most comfortable, followed by the nemo tensor and pads from Exped. If you can find the aether lite in women's mummy, the weight is in spitting distance of the neoair xlite.

The x-therm is definitely as comfortable as some others. If you really inflate it, it can stiff as a board. But, if you under inflate it, it doesn't insulate as well. But what inflated to nearly full, it will be one of the warmer pads. I use my x-therm for shoulder and winter seasons only. For three season use I am currently using an REI Helix pad which is pretty warm and very comfy. The most comfortable pad I've used. Prior to the REI Helix I was using a Nemo Tensor Insulated. That was also a comfy pad but not as comfy as the REI Helix. And its not as warm as the REI Helix. I gave the Tensor to my son who sleeps warmer than I do. And he really likes it.

Rapide for comfort, Tensor All-Season for overall value and light comfort, xlite for UL and durability. IMO

I love the nemo tensor. Started out with the short mummy version to save on weight (and it was discounted). Now I use the regular wide for that extra comfort, I'm a big guy and a side sleeper, foam and self inflating pads cause too much hip pain.

I love the nemo tensor. Started out with the short mummy version to save on weight (and it was discounted). Now I use the regular wide for that extra comfort, I'm a big guy and a side sleeper, foam and self inflating pads cause too much hip pain.

It's all relative man. The new versions of both the Xlite and the Tensor are miles quieter than they used to be. They are quiet enough for me as a light sleeper that my own tossing and turning doesn't wake me up, nor does the tossing and turning of my hiking partners sleeping near me. You're not going to get better from an inflatable pad. My advice is either just tough it out until you get used to it or bail it. Maybe with time they will become quieter still but at some point you have to be willing to acclimate given that you're coming from a self-inflating pad. Even being sensitive to noise I would never sacrifice the weight savings for the quietness of a self-inflating pad.

6' 2" and a bit heavier, also side sleeper. I have a Nemo tensor and REI mahma quilt and love them. 

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.

My Tensor squeaked loudly on my tent's floor I came up with a super light fix, the lightest gauge poly tarp painters drop sheet, cut to size. It's only 23g, \~ 1/3 the weight of a thinlight

The Nemo Tensor is a great choice. Especially if you're a side sleeper. I recommend supporting geartrade.ca too, they're a distributor out of Okotoks that carry a lot of speciality ultralight gear.

Nemo Tensor Wide. I think the All Season would suffice, it has a R value of 5.4. I have the past season's "insulated" version which I think is analogous to the new All Season. It works great, especially for side sleeping.

Oh yeah? I thought it was around 5 but I guess I was making that up. I've taken it down to -5 and had no issues. So yeah, the new version should be good at -10 I reckon.

The Nemo Elite pads have been discussed on this sub as a potential (even lighter) successor to the Uberlite. All the weights referenced are pad-only. [https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/1hwnj25/nemo\_tensor\_elite\_lightest\_pad\_ever/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/1hwnj25/nemo_tensor_elite_lightest_pad_ever/) [https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/1dv0yrp/nemo\_tensor\_elite\_2025\_a\_potential\_uberlite/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultralight/comments/1dv0yrp/nemo_tensor_elite_2025_a_potential_uberlite/) Your tables, your rules. Just thought I'd let you know.

Look also at the Nemo Tensor All Season - great pad, super comfortable. I have mine in regular wide. R5.4 I believe.

Nemo Tensor All Season. I have the regular wide, fantastic light and warm pad. If you read around, the BA isn't as warm as it says and the flextail (which I had) is cold on the sides as there's no insulation there.

Buy once cry once. Get a nemo Tensor all season or a Thermarest Neoair - you can find both used on ebay for less than rrp.

Just got my regular mummy Nemo tensor all season and fully agree. 22" at the shoulder that tapers down to the same size as currently at the feet or even slightly smaller would be ideal for me

Counterpoint: my Nemo Tensor failed 2 days into the JMT. I had about 20 previous nights on it. It developed a leak in a seam between baffles on the underside. I switched to a zlite out of necessity after a few too many cold nights on the ground. I think I’m back on the foam pad train after years of inflatables. The stress and discomfort of dealing with a (relatively) quickly deflating pad every night was not pleasant and I’m not eager to relive it. I get foam pads aren’t for everyone, but since I don’t do many cold weather trips I think I’m (re)converted.

I’m a side sleeper and went from the Tensor to the Thermarest neo air. The tensor is crazy noisy and if you flip from side to side like I do it’ll wake you and anyone you sleep near up. It’s really loud to me. The Thermarest is way quieter, has a higher r value and I’ve been pretty comfortable side sleeping on it in a zenbivy quilt and sheet. Seems a bit counter intuitive, but sometimes I find that I’ve made it too firm after a few hours and I just reach up and let a bit of air out if I’m feeling any discomfort and go right back to sleep.

I used a Nemo Tensor previously for weight savings which sure works great in the back woods. Took it car camping once and was just miserable knowing I didn’t need the weight savings. Bought the megamat and it was a game changer for car camping. Never slept so good in a tent.

I have this same pad. While not silent it is definitely more quiet than many pads out there. I'd call it mid-range in terms of noise. My favorite pad in my fleet is surprisingly (to me) the REI Helix. Most comfortable pad for my sleep style and real quiet.

I'm a side sleeper and I've never had an issue with inflatable pads of at least 3 inches. The tensor is my main pad and I sleep rather comfortably. Another surprisingly good option is the flextail air mattress. Good height from the ground and tall side rails. Comes standard with r value over 5. Weighs in at less than 520 grams (for the mummy style pad, rectangle is a bit heavier) but had a height of 3.9 inches. They're x-Large pillow paired with that mattress was fantastic as a side sleeper. Even if you go with another pad, I recommend checking out their pillow. Plus I think it's on sale right now.

I used a Nemo Tensor extreme and it kept me very warm. Others with just the foam pad complained of cold but I had sleeping bag open like a quilt and was warm all trip. Folds down to the size of a water bottle and has a bag system to inflate so you’re not hyper ventilating trying to blow the thing up at altitude. The one thing I’d recommend anyone take (that or a pee bottle)

For backpacking, I have had a Nemo Tensor (I got it for $125) for a few years now. It's WAY warmer than cheaper pads, packs down to the size of a Nalgene, super light (~14oz). Even getting a good, actually insulated, inflatable mattress is better for car camping. I picked up a cheap queen size from Sierra Designs for like $60, and my butt is finally warm.

If you have one nearby, REI has sleeping pads blown up you can lay on and test out. Everyones body and sleeping preferences are different. Once you figure out what kind of baffles you prefer, finding a sleeping pad will come easier as there are so many options. Especially if weight isn't an issue. I have a Nemo Tensor. It has quilted baffles. Everyone loves it, and it hurts my back and hips so bad. I also have an Exped pad and one from Zenbivy with vertical baffles. I love these. They cradle my body better. Thermarest is super popular. Most are horizontal baffles. They don't look comfy to me but it seems like people sleep well on them. Sea to Summit and Big Agnes are other popular sleeping pad brands. What kind of temps are you expecting? You'll want to choose a pad with an R value appropriate to your camping needs. Most choose a 3 season with an R value between 2-4. I would stick on the upper end if you're a cold sleeper.

Haven't slept on many different mats. I have a Nemo Tensor and hate it. I also have a Zenbivy light mat, the one with vertical baffles, and I sleep better on it. It has like matting in it instead of the reflective film and it just feels more cushion-y to me. Very warm. 24 oz for the 25 inch

I'm in the exact same boat! I've been very happy with the tensor insulated and finally realized I needed a taller pillow. Like others have remarked I usually end up putting a bottle or something under my pad to add some additional height.

I use a Nemo Tensor insulated regular wide (from around 2021? When it was R4.2). Very stable and quiet, much better than the NeoAir Xlite I once tried and quickly returned. I also sleep in every position. If I didn’t already own two of these I would buy the current Nemo Tensor All-Season Insulated which is R5.4 for the same weight.

I have 2 winter setups. Lightweight is a nemo Tensor insulated with a thermarest z fold under it. With a 0 degree down bag I've been cozy into the teens. It comes in under 5lbs so it works in the backcountry or if space in the car is at a premium. My no restrictions set up is an exped megamat with a 0 degree bag and a patagonia macro puff quilt. The quilt over the down bag keeps all the condensation out of the down and in the synthetic insulation and gives me a warmed place to put stuff like layers or my water bottle that isn't in my bag with me. The down side is that it weighs over 10lbs and takes up a lot of space.

Nemo Tensor All Season, wide version. I'm a side sleeper and it trumps most therm-a-rest pads that I've tried, including the xlite. I've not tried their NeoLoft yet, it's undoubtedly more comfortable, but you will pay a warmth and weight penalty over the Nemo.

Nemo Tensor All Season ftw. Waaay more comfy thank Xlite. Not tried Exped mats but I have heard their warmth ratings can be a bit ambitious.

I have used my nemo tensor allseason 2024 this whole summer. No issues. I like the pad.

I was sceptical but my tensor extreme has held up really well

Sleeping bag won't do anything for comfort while laying down. A good pad is what you want. Sea to Summit Ether XT Light, followed by Nemo Tensor, are my recommendations. Pillows are more forgiving. Wife and I use the Therm-a-rest ones.

I think any of the inflation pads will be pretty similar (as opposed to self inflating that are typically thinner). So Thermarest NeoAir NXT, Nemo Tensor, plus those already listed. Circa 3 inches thick to allow the hip to stay off the ground, and a square shape rather than mummy.

Have you tried any of them? Your local REI would at least have the Helix. I too had that on my shortlist and when I tried it I didn’t like it, I found I bottomed out too easily when moving and side sleeping. Like when I laid flat I’d be a couple mm off the ground, but then shifting too much weight to my hips would have me touch the ground. Again, it was fine and pretty comfy when my weight was fully distributed. My point is go and try them. I ended up going with a Nemo Tensor.

I read somewhere that the 2024 models were redesigned to address the durability issues of recent models. I have one and haven't had any problems.

My 6 ft husband is happy with his Long Wide Tensor Insulated. He has not had any problems with leaks or seams, and it's large enough for him.

I sleep very comfortably on my XLite (old model). I would rate my husband's Nemo Tensor Insulated slightly more comfortable than the XLite, but the difference is not much. If I want to sleep as comfortably as possible, I switch to a hammock. I have never found any ground system as comfortable as a properly hung and adjusted 11 ft hammock.

I had durability issues with multiple attempts at the Tensor, but that was before they upgraded the materials somewhat. I kinda wanna try the new Elite just because of the insane weight.

I had a Nemo Tensor straight POP with a one-inch tear from a extremely tiny burr on the edge of my quilt pad strap!

Same. Great pad.

I have the Nemo all season tensor. I enjoy it more than my thermarest and will be taking it despite the extra weight on my pct hike

Sorry, I meant as a comparison to a foam pad (since there’s a ton of suggestions for that). Love my tensor though as a big side sleeper and would recommend! 

Yes it's a concern. It's filling a niche formerly occupied by the thermarest uberlite, which was recently discontinued presumably because of the prevalence of durability issues. It feels a bit more substantial than the uberlite. But if I were going to rely on it, I would make sure I had a patch kit and knew how to use it, and be more careful with site selection than normal.

15D vs 10D on the Nemo💀 (And they admit it got pinholes during testing)

I’ve been sleeping on the Nemo Tensor All-Season for a month straight and it doesn’t give me the garbage bag feeling. I’ve had other pads that do, including the previous Tensor generations. I do wear sleep clothing to keep the pad and my quilt cleaner for longer. See if you can find it somewhere and check if the fabric seems right for you. It seems(?) different from the previous gen. of Tensors, beyond just colour.

insulated nemo tensor long/wide. 5.4 R value

I'm a "rotisserie" side sleeper, too, and the winners for me at the S2S Ether Light XT and the Nemo Tensor lines. I can't really tell the difference in comfort between them since they're similar designs. Just as another note, I'd suggest incorporating good sleep practices into your hiking, too! I'm in my 40s, so it's tougher to get a good night's sleep than it used to be. My body needs time to relax, so I need 3-4 hours after hiking to decompress. Make a bit of decaf tea, watch some videos or journal. Then eat dinner, take electrolyte supplements & low-dose THC edibles, and put on compression socks (I wear Vim & Vigr and like their designs). It's a whole ritual that helps calm my body down and prepare me for sleep.

I have a Nemo Tensor, Thermarest NeoAir X-Lite, and an Exped Ultra. My favorite of the 3 is the Exped. I haven't used the Rapide, but I'd put it in the same class as the ones I have. At that point, they are all so similar, buy the one that is the most comfortable for you. $20-30 less or more at that price point isn't huge, and is 100% worth it for more comfort.

I use mine with a GG 1/8 “ pad below and haven had a problem I came off a tensor wide long all season so it was a bit to get use to the narrow width (I am a big guy @ 6’2” 265lbs) It gets the job done and doesn’t weigh shit.

To be fair I use if for my fast packing trips if I am just backpacking at a normal pace I go with the bigger tensor I’m doing the foothill trail in may 77 miles in 5 days and I am taking the big one… still at a 9.5 base weight but my fast packing weight is 8.5. In September I am going 110 miles also in five days and that will be the lighter setup.

Nemo tensor all season wide long has been my friend for a while now. 6’2”. 280lb side sleeper/roller

Co-sign on the tensor and the disco From a 6’2 280 lb I’m more a rotisserie hog lol.

Hi All! I’m taking my wife on her first backpacking adventure and looking to put together a duo sleep system to make her time more enjoyable. We’ll spend a multi-day excursion traveling between a few backcountry campsites in the Alberta Rockies, so alpine temperatures are a significant consideration. I already have and love my single sleep system, but I’d prefer to use duo/doubles gear (vs. just slapping two separate pads together with a strap) to help it feel more comfortable for her. As there are two of us, we can also split up the gear so the weight hit from doubles equipment is more manageable. I love my Nemo Tensor All-Season, so I’ve been eyeing the NEMO Quasar Insulated 3D Double as an option. From my experience with Nemo, their R-value is pretty accurate to how the pads sleep, so the 3.3R should be more than sufficient, and 1.45kg for a 50” wide pad is acceptable. That said, my wife tends to sleep colder than I do, and the MEC VectAir Insulated Double was recommended to me by a hiking buddy because of its 4.8R rating. There is a +0.45Kg weight penalty with this pad, and it’s a bit thinner (\~3.1” thick vs. Nemo’s 3.5”), but it’s also \~$90 cheaper. Does anyone have any experience with the MEC VectAir Insulated pads? Lastly, I prefer a double/duo quilt to a sleeping bag. [GearTrade.ca](http://GearTrade.ca) has the Enlighted Equipment Accomplice 950-fill 2-person (20F/-6C), but at over $950, it’s a bit above what I’d like to spend until I’m sure she’s likely to make more trips with me. Based on reviews, I’ve been eyeing the Therm-a-Rest Vela (20F/-6C) as a more affordable alternative, but I have minimal experience with Therm-a-Rest quilts. The coldest I expect it to get is around 2C-3C (0C in an absolute worst-case scenario), and the Vela is \~$500 cheaper. Does anyone have experience with these or know of another good alternative that won’t break the bank?

I have the Tensor All Season and my wife uses the Tensor Extreme conditions. We both love our pads, and for the size / weight I feel like it’s the best balance between R Value and weight/ size. I’m a pretty warm sleeper and have used the all season year round (we live in Alaska) with a quilt and some good merino wool base layers. It’s durable and I have yet to find a better value personally.

I used the Nemo Tensor year around 110° to 25° for a long time. I’ll throw a 1/8” gossamer pad under it during the winter though. I find it comfy and it’s pretty quiet. Just swapped to Zenbivy and will never buy another sleeping pad.

I typed this out initially but it seems like it got deleted. I have a nemo tensor that is similar comfort but way smaller and lighter so people naturally give me crap for rolling out something akin to a home mattress at camp. But hey I sleep great on it.

Nemo Tensor pads are good for side sleeper. I am 190cm and use the long/wide version.

Agree with this, I got a Nemo Tensor Insulated and I'm a side sleeper. I sleep very, very comfortably.

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.

I got myself and my husband NEMO Tensor Ultralight ones, R5.4 model. For us they are perfect. Feels surprisingly soft and I'm picky about it. I sleep on side and on stomach. Husband sleeps in side and in back. We always fall asleep on side. Very comfy, don't make much noise either. Can recommend

I've now put over 80 days on my Tensor All-Season (bought this year) and it's been great. I've always used it on a CC pad and a groundsheet, but it hasn't been babied otherwise. I just bought the Extreme Conditions for work this winter, so we'll see about that one.

My tensor all season just sprung a leak through my gg 1/8th foam pad. The leak is so slow I haven’t been able to find it.

Wide is good unless you’re cold camping with a quilt. My cacoon gets breezy when I move with my wider pads

I love the etherlight, I’m a side sleeper and it really helps prevent my arm from falling asleep. The only downside is the bulk. It takes up a lot of space in my pack. When I’m out for long hauls I don’t have the room for it and switch to the Tensor All-Season.

I just finished spending a week on a Nemo Tensor and it’s cool so far. I got it on Marketplace used like new for $100. I came from a Sleepingo off Amazon and the Tensor definitely retains heat better and has much better support. It feels air mattress thick coming from the cheap ultralight pad. It’s crinkly. There’s survival blanket type material in there. That said I’m happy. Definitely not looking for a new pad.

I would go this route then... NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad. You should get the 4 seasons for just a little more weight. Plus it is 20% off at REI until tomorrow.

I have a Nemo Tensor Insulated (Reg rectangle) and absolutely love it. It's super comfortable, I haven't found it to be noisy at all, and it's quite light.

I can’t comment on the others but I have had a Tensor Insulated for a few years and absolutely love it. I’m a side sleeper and I’ve used it down to 30F and it gets the job done but that’s about its limit. If I were going to be in temps consistently that low I’d put foam under it.

No it has a good baffle structure. Amazing for its weight. I inflate it, then let bits of air out so that my shoulder is about an inch off the ground when I’m on my side and then it’s perfect for the night.

Nemo tensor

Me too

I foundmy nemo doing this.

I love my Nemo Tensor and use it year round. As for bag I have a zenbivy light quilt that is great for temperature flexibility. Mine is rated for 25F and works for me late spring through early fall. The new 2025 ones have a 10F option which will extend the usability. In the summer you can just use it as a light blanket and then sinch it up like a bag when the weather cools.

I spent one night on mine in a shakeout last weekend. I used a 10° ZPacks regular bag. I wore Marino base layers AND down pants. AND a ghost whisperer down puffy. I’m female. I sleep cold. It went down to 25° F. I got the 5’3” version of the Elite. My impressions: * Not more or less comfortable than my thermarest xlite. * Slippery AF. Like an eel slippery. I was already prepared for this from the reviews and had put a bit of seam sealer on the bottom side. It definitely helped. I was on a cushy flat spot so unsure how this will handle real world slanted tent spots. I’ve added a bit more to the underside of my pillow. (It slid right off despite having a strap.) * I was FREEZING. It went down to 25° F. I brought a thermarest CCF pad and a second puffy as a “just in case”. A few hours in, I added pad under the elite and put on the puffy, I was still cold. I kinda don’t blame this pad. It was just a super cold night and there had been snow on the ground only 48 hours before. * the flat valve is a pain. I use the zero pump and getting everything connected properly took longer than blowing up the pad. I assume I’ll get better at this but I definitely prefer thermarest’s valve which is a no brainer. * the size is PERFECT!!!! I’m 5’5”. I like my feet to hang off the end slightly. I wish all the other companies would make this size. Why is it only a choice between 6 feet or something that doesn’t even support the knees??!? * I’d previously been using the regular xlite (pre NFT but with the fancy valve the introduced in 2020) which I’d manually shortened to 60 inches. **The Elite saved me 3 oz** over that. To me, that makes the Elite worth taking a risk on. * I’m obviously worried about its durability. However, I used the torso length uberlite for about a month on the PCT. It held up just fine. I only ditched it because it was just too short for comfort. So, I’m pretty nice to my pads. I’m going to give the Elite a go on the CDT. Fingers crossed. 🤞

The Nemo Tensor has been a game changer for me. It wasn't cheap but it is light, easy to inflate with the inflation sack, and the most comfortable pad I've slept on and it doesn't lose air. I think sleeping pads are really specific to the person though in terms of what feels best and holds up best as there is a lot of variety in sleeping position, body sizes and relative tossy-turniness.

I also love the nemo tensor insulated. My wife in the other hand absolutely hates it. She has tried multiple inflation levels and just not happy with it. Planning to take her to REI at some point to try several different models (hopefully they still have some inflated, last time we were in one was right before our Uinta high line thru). Definitely a situation where your body and sleep style play a role.

I'm really skeptical of the advertised R-Value on these pads from Chinese brands. I think they have found a way to get a pad to test to a really high value, but doubt it will actually perform in the real world to that value (like the Zoom UL). The setup of the R-Value test is a little different than actual real-world use. JustinOutdoors tested a bunch of new cheap mid-to-high R-Value pads and I believe he reported that most seemed to perform below what was advertised. Do you even need R9 in the winter? I've never heard of anyone cold on an X-Therm and it's R7.3. Personally, I'm always carrying an R2 foam pad in the winter anyway, so I'd rather take the weight penalty and combine it with my Nemo Tensor AS for a total of R7.5, and the foam pad serves multiple functions (sit pad, pad to stand on when changing clothes or shoes, safety backup if the inflatable has a leak, etc).

I sleep like a rotisserie starfish, and definietely second the Tensor Wide (and long, if you're tall. Me? My 5'6" frame wishes they made a short wide version.) 

Took my tensor to the desert and was not careful enough and got holes within two nights. I realized in desert where likelihood of cactus needles being everywhere is high, just need to bring ccf and pair together. I used a tyvek ground sheet for a while then recently made switch to adding a thin light pad and ditching tyvek. Just picked up this new pad and will give my son the tensor. Ive had no issues with the tensor in the 3 years since After being careful while setting up camp. But I also am a weekend warrior and spend more time looking at my lighter pack than actually backpacking 🤷🏻‍♂️

I used mine for 40 nights, and it developed a leak around the valve. A support ticket, and two weeks later and they shipped a brand new one to me with no cost to myself.

Nemo Tensor. Not self inflating, but they blow up fast with the bag included. I'm a side sleeping and need the 3" it provides.

Yup, I'm 62 and it is wonderful.

Oh me too. I love the Nemo Tensor. As a side sleeper, that thick mattress is the only thing that works. I have the 25 inch as well. Wide enough for a side sleeper too.

I have previous generation NeoAir Xlite and XTherm pads (with the older valve that looks like a small black cylinder protruding from the pad. The XLite has a bit of that "potato chip bag" crinkle which I think has gotten better in the newer models. In terms of comfort, my Nemo Tensor is WAY more comfortable, but my first Nemo Tensor failed when it kept getting little holes where the dimples are located. The NeoAir XTherm is AWESOME for warmth. I took mine on my Mt Baker climbing/mountaineering class in mid July 2024 and it was great there, and I didn't seem to mind the comfort as much. Maybe I was just tired at the end of each day and didn't care! I have a Kilos AeroCloud Ultra on the way to try and compare, which will probably be my wife's pad when we go to Iceland this summer to hike the Laugavegeur. She has lower back issues and keeping her on a comfortable pad is very important. We're always trying to strike a balance between comfort and weight for her gear. I think the Rapide SL is another good pick. Hard to know which of all these options are the best.

If the other recommendations don't help, try hammock camping for a night, even if it's just in your back yard or car camping somewhere. I'm still 99% a tent camper and I toss and turn too. I use a Nemo Tensor Insulated, and it's been significantly better than other pads I've tried. But, some of the best sleeps I've ever had have been in my hammock. Yes, going "full time" as a hammock backpacker may not be feasible in some areas (Alpine camps above or near tree line), and a UL setup would take some investment, but it may still be worth considering.

Current best on market imo is the Nemo Tensor. 3.5 thick 5.4 r value and still only weighs 15oz. Uses 20D nylon and has been very durable for me

I do a fair amount of camping and have a Nemo tensor all season that packs down to the size of a nalgene bottle. Super light as well. It was a lil spendy at $200, but Nemo has a lifetime warranty and it's comfy when I side sleep. 10/10 recommend.

I really like my Nemo tensor. I side sleep and it doesn't bottom out on me. Good warranty too

Dude. I purchased a tensor from REI. The VERY first night I had it camping it was leaking. Had to top it off every 2 hours. SHITE. On a side note, my terribly annoying and crinkly-sounding Therm-a-rest NeoAir Uberlight lasted 2 years before a terminal leak at the seam.

I slept on a neoair it was uncomfortable and noisy I switched to a Nemo tensor not even in the same realm of comfort. I also have a sea to summit ether light xt and it's heavy but best pad comfort I have slept on.

Tensor is better for sound Neo Air sounded like sleeping on a empty bag of chips. I hear the newer versions are better. Comfort Neo air has horizontal baffles that are nice but collapse if any weight near edge Nemo Tensor has a box baffle I like much more. Weight Neo Air wins but not by a landslide unless we talk about the Neo Air Uberlite I have not purchased due to my bad experiences with Neo Air and my base weight being around 7 Lbs I can give a little room to comfort.

I have backpacked with my daughter since she could walk. My old setup was I just grabbed a wide pad and wide katabatic Alsek tucked her in with me not synthetic. I am planning a 2025 JMT with her and ordered her a Gossamer gear minimalist for her she already has GG LT5 poles she loves she will be carrying my old Nemo tensor short insulated pad and my regular size Alsek from my 2016 PCT I will take the wide. She will carry the pad and sleeping bag and her pstyle/kula cloth some odds and ends and I grabbed a GG bumpster a fanny pack I am fashioning into her hipbelt for snacks. Look into dividing up the gear/bulk her total weight will be sub 5-6lb even with her own bottle rocket with water a jacket and rain gear sub 30deg setup. If the GG minimalist 19L turns out to be too big like my wife thinks when it shows up I will push it out to future setup and order a Deuter 8L Kikki kids backpack to use until she is big enuff found one looks like a dinosaur and she started watching dino Dana so win. *Forgot to mention her age she is also 6 will be 7 for JMT 2025*

I know it’s more than your stated price range, but a Nemo Tensor insulated pad is warm, comfortable, and packs down to the size of a Nalgene bottle. Highly recommend

I’m heavyset and getting old with back injuries to boot. I sleep really well on the tensor, better than I thought possible in the woods.

Personally then I would go and splurge for once on a Nemo All Season sleeping mat. I just slept on one this night and omg…… you are doing yourself injustice by not sleeping on one. Comfiest and cosiest night I had in a long time!

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

I used the Nemo Tensor and then switched to Big Agnes Divide. Thicker and got better sleep (side and back sleeper).

I switched to this last year and second this suggestion.

I wouldn't touch a Helix with a 10-foot pole. The thermal welds throughout the pad are a poor design carried over from the REI Flash pads. Sometimes from the pressure created by body weight these welds peel apart slightly creating a micro-tear that of course leaks. The Nemo Tensor has similar welds. I just repaired a friend's Nemo pad that had a difficult-to-find small leak at a micro-tear at one of these welds. That is these leaks do not happen because something sharp poked a hole. Here is a photo of my old REI Flash pad with some repairs shown: https://i.imgur.com/imj5JYy.jpg

if sleeping on the tent floor was the best sleep of your life consider a closed cell foam pad or even the gossamer gear thinlight pad for ultimate UL you might not need an inflatable at all. i love my tensor i have the all weather one but its VERY warm and noisy but very comfortable if you need that support but you might not need all that.

For -5C and durability I would personally take the Thermarest X-Therm mummy. R7.3, 440gr (although mine weighs 460gr in reality), and a 70D material on the underside. Anecdotally, I can feel the cold seep through my Nemo Tensor Insulated (R4.2) from around freezing.

Same here - Tensor Insulated down to about freezing when I can start to feel the cold seep through. The Tensor Insulated has been replaced by the significantly warmer Tensor All Seasons, and that would be my recommendation.

Same here - Tensor Insulated down to about freezing when I can start to feel the cold seep through. The Tensor Insulated has been replaced by the significantly warmer Tensor All Seasons, and that would be my recommendation.

After reading a lot of advise like this, I bought a rectangular wide pad for my thru hike (Nemo Tensor Insulated). When my partner joined for a bit with an X-Lite regular mummy, it turned out that she (5ft) much prefers the wide pad, while I (6ft side sleeper) sleep just as well on the regular mummy (even though I, too, often kick a knee up). Obviously she took the Nemo back home to save me some weight for the remainder of the trip. Just goes to show how personal these things are.

I have both pads, notice no difference in comfort, and sleep equally well on either one. Guess I’m just an easy sleeper - certainly after a long hike!

I have been sleeping on the tensor all season every night since may 24th got it on sale from rei while i wait on a TR warranty. It feels more comfortable to me no edge caving like the neoair and the only noise is the sound of sliding across the fabric when you roll. Not any noisier than the other pads around me.

I have not had any issues with cold spots with the Tensor Extreme. Super comfortable and warm pad. I highly suggest it.

I tried the Exped Ultra 3R at some point and especially for a side sleeper it is not a good choice. The outer tubes are thicker, meaning if you stick your arm out it feels weird. I owned the StS Ether Light (Insulated) and it was so far the most comfortable pads I had. Unfortunately it is not light. At the moment I use the Nemo Tensor (Insulated) and it is comfortable enough for me. No experience with the other pads.

I have the new Nemo Extreme Conditions pad and I assume it's similar in quietness to the All Season since they were released at the same time, and I find it to be very quiet.

I use a nemo tensor all season for most of the year & find it very comfortable (am also a side sleeper). Only negative is it doesn't work well with my Flextail pump. I've spoken to a few different owners of the Rapide in the past & the consensus was that the older version with the Primaloft insulation was warmer in practise, even though it's R value was lower. The new version swapped Primaloft for reflective foil, which made it lighter & more packable (& probably cheaper to make if I'm being cynical) but also colder in real world conditions. Of course everyone sleeps different & YMMV. Personally I'd see if I could find the old version on sale, if not I'd look elsewhere.

I'm a hot sleeper fyi and I've stuck with my trusty NEMO Tensor non-insulated in regular wide (an older version at this point). They never let me down and they're fairly quiet if you roll around much. Ive used them for 3 season use in Florida (which for me is reversed; I used these in Fall, Winter, and Spring lol) And there are different r-value versions out now in 2025. But I've gotta admit the sleeping pad market has gotten much more competitive as of recently.

Best pad I’ve ever slept on. Returned a tensor after it failed on first use. The extra weight is well worth the higher durability and extra comfort IMO.

Insulated pads will also work well during summer, but an uninsulated pad, even a short pad that just covers your upper body, will be sufficient in summer. But in summer, you might want to use a lighter sleeping bag. If your sleeping bag is too warm, you can also open it and use it as a blanket. If you use an inflatable pad, check the ground for sharp objects (e.g. rocks), use a ground sheet, and carry a repair kit. What are you using for cover? Consider using a bivy and tarp. Edit: A couple of suggestions (what I and my kids are using); Summer - Platatac Gonk Sleeping Mat 3/4 from army surplus store Low temperature - Nemo Tensor insulated pad

Bought this 3 months ago and it was leaking out of the box. I took that as a sign and got my money back instead of exchanging it for a new one.

I'm not a hammocker, so I can't personally speak to it. But to my knowledge a lot of your points are solved by an actual sleeping hammock setup. Longer, diagonal-sleep  hammocks or flat hammocks solve the curved sleeping position (and maybe the side sleeping one?), underquilts solve the warmth and mosquito issues, and a full coverage tarp plus proper tree selection solves the rain issues. Worth a try imo, especially if you find someone who will lend you their gear for a test. For sleeping pads, I love my new Nemo Tensor All-Season, but in general pads are fairly personal for comfort. I recommend going to an REI or equivalent and laying on several pads to see what works best for you. Big Anges, Nemo, Thermarest, REI Helix, and occasionally Sea to Summit are the biggies. In addition, CCF could be the way to go for you, especially with careful site selection.

The Nemo Tensor is quite comfortable imo. The real answer is that comfort is pretty subjective, and the best route is for you to go to REI or similar and lay on a bunch of different pads.

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.

To quiet down my Nemo, I put my rain coat and pants between my pad and the tent floor.

Don’t go self inflating if you want that much height. Car camping, yes, any of the massive, tough, heavy self inflating mats will be fine.   Go to a camping/bushwalking shop and try a Nemo tensor insulated (wide). Fill it up then let out juuuust a bit of air. You can put a closed cell foam mat underneath if you can’t get a balance between a comfortable shape and your hips touching the ground.  Sea to summit are also comfortable but don’t insulate as well.   Also - I know you know this - it’s easier if you can lose a bit of weight. I find it much less comfortable sleeping on the ground after gaining weight. 

just switched from an old Nemo Tensor for a similar reason - i was never able to deflate it to a comfortable point without my butt touching the ground below; instead i always slept on it "overfilled" which led to lower back pain almost every night. recently switched to the S2S Ether Lite XT Insulated and it's a great option! not only is the extra thickness very comfy, but the "quilted" design really seemed to minimize pressure points unlike other pads' architectures (e.g. horizontal baffles of Nemo, Thermarest, and similar)

I used the S2S Ultralight Insulated for years, just recently switched to the Nemo Tensor and it’s awesome! So much comfier and I saved weight going from a S2S long wide to a regular wide in the tensor. They also have the same valve system as S2S and it comes with an inflating pump sack.

They're all good pads. I find them all comfortable in their own ways. Exped has the nicest fabric, but it's also the thickest which I don't really like. The Nemo tensor is the overall most comfortable, no nonsense, best of all worlds. The Xlite is my favorite however. I like the horizontal baffles. The new NXT version isn't as loud as its predecessors. The mummy shape is tapered in the perfect places unlike Expeds mummy pads, I prefer it over rectangular ones.

I'm a side sleeper and I picked up a nemo tensor insulated. I've found it to be everything I need. My issue is pillow. I need something to prop my head up so I don't kink my neck all night. Small air pillows typically aren't big enough (I'm 6 feet and reasonably broad shoulders). I actually sleep most comfortably with my S2S pillow vertical under my head.

have you used an air mattress before? its different and of course you have the worry that you could pop it during your trip. i dont find it that long to deflate and roll up that said i use a nemo tensor and have been happy with it. whichver way you go consider getting a wider one like 25" for more comfort.

I love my NEMO Tensor.

How do yall keep your inflatable pads when going to bed while backpacking??? I have a Nemo tensor wide ultralight. I have found that when I keep it stiff if feels nice to lay down flat on my back but I’m normally a side sleeper. I will let out a little air to make it more “squishy” to be able to sleep on my side but then my back starts hurting in the morning… :/ How do yall keep your inflatable pads? Stuff and full of air OR let some air out for a more squishy pad?

Yeah my first was thermarest. Didn’t like. I do enjoy my Nemo tensor and I just ordered a switchback closed foam from Nemo now! Are you a side sleeper??

Not self-inflating and won't accommodate your dog width-wise but hear me out. I'm the side sleepers of side sleepers. If it's not paramount that it can accommodate your dog width-wise and you're ok with taking 5 deep breaths - I know you're a big guy so I understand if that's not a possibility - look into the Nemo Tensor. They come in different lengths for bigger people. I'm a bigger guy (250 pounds) and a side sleeper as I said and the Nemo Tensor is amazing for me. It won't accommodate your dog width-wise but he could probably sleep between your legs if you really wanted him to. It comes with this "vortex" bag that will inflate the pad really quickly. I'm amazed at how well it works. 5 or so breaths and it's filled. It's extremely light and compact, basically the size and weight of a water bottle. It is the most comfortable inflatable mat I've ever slept on. We have frequent "yard camping" trips in our bumpy front lawn and I honestly get as good a night's sleep on this as I do on my bed, side sleeping and all. It's a bit more expensive but if you're an REI member (and if you're not and one is near you sign up if only for this purchase, I think it's $20) get this. If you sign up you can return it no questions asked. As a side sleeper I was searching for the best mat and this is it.

Looking to upgrade my sleeping pad in a 12L 3-season overnighter kit, so optimizing for packed size. I know about therm-a-rest 3/4 pads, but I've had issues with nerve compression due to the baffle design, making it really hard to sleep. If there's nothing better out there, I can try to make it work. Its specs are hard to beat... I've been eyeballing the new S2S XR pad. Seems to pack even smaller than their shortest UltraLite pad (the orange one.) Weirdly the small and regular have the same packed size listed on the S2S site. Heavier than the x-lite but pretty packable, comparable r-value and I could actually sleep on it. Any other pads people would recommend? Really aiming for >3 R-value minimum so I can get 3 season usage. Thanks Edit: Ordered the Tensor Elite Short to couple with a torso-length GG thinlight. Technically that's two pads and not one, but being able to just throw the thinlight on the outside of the pack makes that a non-issue, plus I get the various uses it provides. We'll see if I regret my decision...

this is probably what I'm going to end up going with. ordered the tensor elite short and an S2S XR short to compare. S2S is heavier and bulkier but still pretty small with a better r value and durability. although at 12L it probably won't win out over the tensor

I do have an Xtherm NXT for my bigger 4 season setup. but the tensor elite looks pretty cool at a ridiculous 7oz and tiny packed size. but it's pretty low R-value at sub 3

I had a Nemo tensor, but it popped on me.  Now I use the klymit static V

I really like my tensor all season pad. for backpacking you want a light bag. down is generally lighter, more packable, and more expensive than synthetic. for those temps I'd get a 25f rated bag and bring an extra blanket and hand warmers / hot water bottle if you're at the low end.

I second this. also putting my vote in for the tensor all season. very comfortable as a side sleeper myself. pretty lightweight, good r value.

I side sleep and am getting older. I love my nemo tensor all season. get the wide version and make sure you inflate it all the way. I'm 6'1" 205 lbs and don't sink through it.

I have a NEMO tensor and would second this, totally reliable.

Have multiple inflatables and multiple foam including a foam self inflating. I prefer the foam for both comfort and reliability. Not sure why but I just don't sleep good on the inflatables despite the hype. I still frequently used my Nemo Tensor because it was so space efficient until it let me down in a big way and I spent 3 nights freezing my ass off this April. It was too slow of a leak to locate and patch. I now carry a thermarest z-light and couldn't be happier.

I’m going to add that bringing some kind of repair kit for an inflatable mattress is something I wish that I had done. I had a nemo tensor that has popped twice, once a complete unrepairable blow out because I over inflated, and the other time I’m going to blame my dog for (but mostly myself because I used an inflatable with a dog in my tent.) I did carry the included patch kit with my mattress, but it came with 2 patches and I had 3 holes. My brother suggested wrapping some gorilla glue tape around my trekking pole for emergencies like this, I’m going to test it out with my busted pad just to see if it would work. Side note, if anybody reads this and has a suggestion for an indestructible sleeping pad that gives more cushion than egg shell foam, I’d love to hear it. I’m a side sleeper and a princess, so if there’s a unicorn pad out there, let me know. If someone invited an inflatable/hybrid foam, I would give you my money immediately. Like right now, I would skip my mortgage payment and give that money to you.

I've been trying different sleeping pads the last few years and still haven't found one that works. I've tried the Nemo tensor, thermarest neoair xlite nxt, and REI helix. I always end up switching between side sleeping and back sleeping multiple times during the night. I've noticed the nxt (my current pad) has been giving me lower back sores. I can reduce it a little by deflating the bag. But I've deflated it to the point my shoulder touches the ground during side sleep. Anybody else have this issue with another pad recommendation? I would like to keep it around 20 oz or less for a wide version. Thanks!

Currently heading Nobo in Julian. I have both the 1/8 foam pad and my Nemo Tensor All Season pad. The 1/8 pad provides protection against numerous sharp objects in the desert and is fantastic for siestas in the middle of a hot day. Take both.

Nemo tensor. I went with the alpine long wide.

I have a very similar question, but with a slightly different twist. I'm also a side sleeper, I'm pretty active in my sleep and I've found that I'm a cold sleeper while on the trail these days. Does anyone have advice for an inflatable that is on the warmer side? As a point of reference, I have a Nemo Tensor regular wide (non insulated) and I am comfortable on the pad but I've found myself getting cold even in spring/summer/fall conditions that don't warrant that. Has anyone here compared the Thermarest NeoAir XTherm NXT (Regular Wide) and the Nemo Extreme Conditions (Regular Wide)? I realize these aren't exactly considered UL options, but since I'm a cold sleeper I think they're worth considering. If you get a crappy night's sleep it ruins your whole trip IMO. Apologies for hijacking the tread, but I think our topics are very close.

I’ve had the Nemo tensor for a couple years. Love it. And I think they’ve even made some slight improvements since then. It uses an inflator bag and inflates easily/quickly. Packs small, light weight. And pretty quiet. And down the road you can grab a FlexTail Zero inflator, if you prefer. It’s really nice just pushing a button and coming back a couple minutes later to fully inflated pad. Like others have said, recommend getting the wide version for comfort. Really makes a difference. It comes with some patches but I’ve never needed them. Just be careful with it and it’ll last a long time.

I did that with my couple year old Nemo Tensor on my ‘22 hike. The Tensor of that era had a reputation for being a bit fragile. I did over 1800 miles with it on the GG ⅛” pad and had no leak issues. I’ve used it for a few years since then and only developed a slow leak this summer. I really think the ⅛” pad helped!

what others said already - I would look into Nemo Xtreme or Therm-a-rest Neo-Air/NXT, and look only at 25" (wide) options for comfort and better sleep at only a nominal weight increase. Uberlite (now discontinued) is the only lighter option really and otherwise Nemo and Thermarest are pretty comparable in their lineups, it comes down to shape of the pad (I prefer square, some like mummy) and shape of baffles. CCF is just not thick enough for warmth/comfort, and self-inflatable are heavier and not as warm. I am also surprised nobody really makes a R value =3-4 but much lighter than 1lb wide pad, I think it must meant that the thermal reflective foil inside doesn't weigh much and most of the weight is related to durability of the outer shell, once the company can figure out the reflective foil matrix, they can sell that product at a better margin for similar weight/durability as the same model without the thermal foil inside. Hence the death of Uberlight (?) Here's a recently updated article from Backpacking Light: [https://backpackinglight.com/inflatable-sleeping-pads-backpacking-ultralight-lightweight/](https://backpackinglight.com/inflatable-sleeping-pads-backpacking-ultralight-lightweight/)

Big fan of my Nemo Tensor UL. I’m a side sleeper as well but 5’9” 160lbs. How much is pack weight a concern for you?

Just recieved my tensor elite today. Pretty impressed. It feels way more durable than uberlite. But it's slippery as hell. That is my only gripe. For 8.5 oz though I'm not complaining. The pack size is also pretty remarkable. It's literally the size of a coffee cup.

My best advice then would be to go ahead and invest in a decent insulated inflatable pad. Most are very sturdy and if something were to happen I’ve always found that the brands who make them will happily replace them (as long as it’s a manufacturing failure). The reason I recommend an insulated pad is because there is no penalty to using one in the summer, but they are a necessity in the winter. Sleeping on a low r-value pad in the winter is like sleeping without a bag. You simply can’t get warm. The ground pulls all of the heat out of you. You can find either a thermarest Xtherm or a Nemo tensor extreme heavily discounted online (I usually buy used stuff still in the box or that still has tags for a hefty discount). Basically, either plan on buying a high r-value pad now or plan on buying a second pad in the winter when you’re summer pad doesn’t keep you warm.

My Tensor All Season 2024 is good after 12 nights

There is a product between Tensor Extreme and Tensor Trail: Tensor All-Season. I used it for couple of nights this year between 30F and 70F, nothing to complain about.

That's the 2022 version of Tensor, the 2024 ones seem working fine, for now.

Pinhole is actually better than tearing off of internal baffles since it's much easier to repair. I worry more about the leaking point you cannot easily figure out and cannot be patched in wilderness.

That's the 2022 version of Tensor, the 2024 ones seem working fine, for now.

We use a normal.air mattress about 11" tall I think. And then we put a foam mattress topper on it. It's not thick like memory foam (not hot like memory foam either) it's not Anton of cushion. But it's enough to not feel like a plastic airbed. I find it quite comfortable, and I'm a 6'4" guy over 40, which usually means normal people gear is under-engineered for me. I have nice Nemo tensor sleeping pads, but I'd take this setup way over any sleeping pad I've ever tried. With the right inflation (just enough give) I sleep about as well as an average non-luxury mattress. Definitely need to bring decent pillows from home though. Pillows are most important for me as a side sleeper.

I'm also a big guy and side sleeper and I like the Nemo Tensor as well, but just so you're aware OP, it is very noisy.

The ones with the old valves were usually well below advertised weight too. My old one was 208 grams. I do think the extra length on this Nemo one would be a pretty big improvement to sleep quality over the short xlite.

I bought one last black friday and it immediately started leaking. I didn't want another one so I have the credit with nemo. Not sure what I will do with it but I'm going to stick with the Xtherm. However, I have had a nemo tensor insulated for years and have had no issues.

I bought one last black friday and it immediately started leaking. I didn't want another one so I have the credit with nemo. Not sure what I will do with it but I'm going to stick with the Xtherm. However, I have had a nemo tensor insulated for years and have had no issues.

I have a Thermarest Pro trail Lite that seems to work well. I have probably 2000 miles on it. I use a close foam mat under it too. I have a Nemo Tensor that I am going to try this season. I got it out of the discount / return bin at REI for like half price.

ccf pad cut down to size for the doggo, and an inflatable pad (xlite or tensor) for you next to it -- or get used to sleeping on ccf pads too if that wouldn't be good enough and she couldn't be taught to accept it

I'm actually a stomach sleeper and find the xlite very comfortable for that, although the noise is definitely an issue when sleeping without a thin pillow. I do think the tensor is slightly more comfortable, but I have to get the air pressure just right, more-so than the xlite. Interesting we have different experiences like that!

I had the same problem with the rapide so switched to a Nemo Tensor and as long as I don't over inflate it I sleep like a baby

Nemo Tensor. If you're willing to sacrifice a little R value, the Tensor Elite is tiny (and comes in small mummy so even smaller) with R-2.4. Otherwise the all-season or extreme conditions one. I use the extreme conditions most of the time and can get away with an ultralight quilt

Nemo Tensor. If you're willing to sacrifice a little R value, the Tensor Elite is tiny (and comes in small mummy so even smaller) with R-2.4. Otherwise the all-season or extreme conditions one. I use the extreme conditions most of the time and can get away with an ultralight quilt

I am 6ft tall 220lb. I use a nemo tensor all season pad long and wide model. I am a side sleeping swapping from one to the other often. I find it works well for me.

I've been using the nemo tensor all season pad. It has an r value of 5.4. I've used it on below freezing nights and it has worked well for me. It also packs down really small.

In November I went to a store and blew one up new and laid on it on the showroom floor. It was comfortable but sounded like a loud squeaky balloon. Every time I shifted weight or switched sides it was loud. Even someone walking by looked at me and said “that’s really noisy”. Because of this I bought the Nemo Tensor which is much quieter than the Sea to Summit.

I never ever regret spending decent sums of cash on my camping gear - it’s an investment in my hobby and it lasts me years to decades cause I take care of it. If I’m backpacking my primary concerns for a sleeping pad are weight, pack size, R-Value and comfort. A pool float isn’t going to be as insulating light or pack down as small as my Nemo Tensor so it would be an automatic no for me. But if it works for you then go for it.

I had a Nemo inflatable Cosmo Lite pad from 2015 that was leagues better than my old thermarest self inflating foam pad. But that Nemo pad was only the 20R rectangular version which was fine but I prefer wider. This year I upgraded to a 2024 Nemo Tensor Regualr wide 25” pad - only used it in the house a few nights and think it’ll be great. I had a whole excel file going and the Nemo Tensor kept coming back as the sweet spot on price, weight, pack size and R value no matter how I sliced it.

I got the Tensor Extreme and have no regrets. It makes a huge difference even without upgrading my top quilt. I do also normally sleep in my puffy and/or alpha direct hoodie. My secret weapon though, especially for shorter trips is handwarmers. Just a single one in the footbox super helps when you aren't generating enough heat to warm your feet up.

If packed space is that much of a premium, I would go with the Nemo tensor elite (packed inside the 12L), with a 1/8” thinlight CCF pad on the outside. The Nemo elite is ridiculously small when packed down. The addition of the CCF gets you to right around 3 r value and adds in some protection for the pad and some flexibility if the pad ever happens to bust.

I go Nemo Tensor, its the most comfy sleeping pad in existence (my opinion) but ive done SAR and backpacked since I was 15. On snow you use a foam pad underneath the inflatable

I'm 54 and I sleep great on a RW Nemo tensor.

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

They do 3 versions. The one I've got is 4.2 r value which is great for 3 seasons. They do a winter one as well+ a 2 season one

I'm a 54 year old male who's got pins and a plate in his back and side sleep on a Nemo Tensor perfectly

I have the older version that isn't as thick, so the new ones are probably even more comfier. I've used mine on multi day hikes and always had a good night's sleep

Mine was the old version called tensor insulated with a r-value of 4.2. They now make 3 versions, Tensor trail, all season and extreme. The all season version is the best for all year round unless you plan on using it in minus 5 and under, then you'd want the extreme. Hope this helps

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

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.

I’m a backpacker, but I’m also a pilot flying with a USFS Rappel crew this season. Most of them are carrying some flavor of Big Agnes air mattress style sleeping pads. If you wanted some extra protection for underneath, you could get a GG thinlight pad for underneath, or cut yourself a piece of Tyvek to use as a ground sheet. Personally I use a Nemo tensor. I’ve never put anything under it other than my tent floor, but I’ve also never cowboy camped with it, so I can’t comment on its durability over bare ground.

nemo tensor ul insulated, I sleep on it any way I want and It's always comfortable, I also like it more than my therm-a-rest because my arms keep falling off the pad on the therm-a-rest when I'm not using a bag.

Nemo tensor insulated pad is what I use, sure there might be lighter pads but sleeping comfortably is were I drew the line

My first one had a pinhole leak but replaced it and my new one has been super solid the last three years

It's not quiet, but I don't mind it. Kind of annoying if you're rolling over in the middle of the night, but it doesn't bother me.  The slipperiness is what bothers me. But it's comfortable and the insulation is nice.

I would add an inflatable pad on top of your closed cell. Honestly, any of the common ones are going to be fine temperature-wise with the right bag and appropriate clothes, but I upgraded to Nemo's [Tensor Extreme](https://www.rei.com/product/228437/nemo-tensor-extreme-conditions-ultralight-insulated-sleeping-pad) a season ago and have been a big fan of the warmth.

I was not hot. Rainier June 2024. 15 is good for the other peaks you mentioned, but if you go with a 15 for rainier I'd get a high R value inflatable pad (like the Tensor Extreme I mentioned in another comment) to compensate.

The durability issues in the past years didn't really have to do with the thickness of the material, it was the points where the top and bottom were attached to each other that started leaking. One got a leak and you knew the rest in that row across the pad would leak soon too. I think the machine that punched the attachment had too much variance or something. Hopefully they fixed that issue too (it sounds like they've at least improved from general online comments and this thread).

Ah, I hadn't heard about that. I had two fail at the seams on top (the second from warranty) and the second failed to unfixable on trail so I had to buy the nearest replacement and didn't want to carry it around for another warrant.

I love my Nemo Tensor insulated. Though it’s too warm for anything over 40°F for me. I think you can’t go wrong with Nemo, as long as it’s comfortable for you

I’ve had Thermarest, BA, Exped and Nemo Tensor and the Tensor is the best for me. Not as light as a NeoAir Xlite, but still respectable- I have a regular wide, more comfortable and I think warmer than any you mentioned. The REI Helix is also worth trying. Maybe buy both online and return the one you don’t like. If you don’t take it outside it would be considered a new return with tags and original packaging.

I have a Zenbivy Light 30 bed and I really like it - best sleep I have had in the backcountry. I usually pair it with a Nemo Tensor insulated pad. It's not the most UL system possible but it is very comfortable. The bottom sheet keeps me from sticking to the pad. The quilt clips to the sides of the sheet to help keep out drafts when it's windy (basically keeps me from opening up the system to the wind when I toss and turn at night). I also use a sleeping bag liner so I don't need to wash it much. I have slept with it down to 0C (32F) and it was warm enough for me with my baselayer on. It is too warm in summer. I also have an Enlightened Equipment 50 degree synthetic quilt for warmer trips. I don't really go camping when it's below freezing any more but you could combine these two systems (synthetic on top) for additional insulation. Enlightened Equipment makes some great gear too so they are worth a look, depending on your needs.

Tensor Insulated Wide for me (can't stand narrow pads) and yeah, it's a bit noisy, but the insulation is worth it and it's so comfy!

I recently did a 65 mile trip in the Grand Canyon Tuolumne/PCT. The night it dropped to 32 degrees, I was freezing. I was testing a quilt (Kataic Sawatch 15 degree regular width, short length, 900 fill) on my 25 inch Nemo Tensor Insulated Pad (R4.2) and had very thin foam pad underneath. The quilt width can be annoying when I had my knees pulled up to my chest (because I was freezing), the collar also let in quite a draft. I was wearing a sun hoodie, fleece and a Tincup Katabatic, Activator 3.0 pants from REI, beanie and socks. I was wearing all the clothes I brought, as I was trying to pack ultralight In colder weather, when car camping, I usually put two 15 degree sleeping bags inside each other and stay warm that way with a hot Nalgene.  * Hike and byke antero 15F - comfort 30F, survival 15F (2.2lbs) * Big Agnes Hazel SL 15 - comfort \~25F (2.6 lbs) I have always run very cold, yet I’m not sure how to approach ultralight backpacking without adding more weight for a heavier sleeping bag or quilt. Any suggestions? 

Good to know I'm not alone feeling cold on my tensor. I'll try moving my 1/8 inch thin pad on top next time too. Thank you!

Same here! Did a quick indoor test and I like it. Tomorrow I try it on the trail.

Hi there! Thought I'd come back to you with my results over the Labor Day weekend. The pad packs incredibly small and easily inflates with the pump sack. That took me a couple tries to get the hang of since I'm just used to blowing up my Klymit pad like a balloon. A bit awkward to do in my 2-person tent since it was raining, but nothing too crazy. Very comfortable and warm when first inflated. Slept like a dream with that and my quilt. Unfortunately, by morning I had lost a lot of air and was bottoming out when sleeping on my side. I know a little air loss overnight can be expected, but this was too much. I just contacted Nemo about this and they were quick to honor the warranty for me, but I think returning to the retailer will be faster. I'll ask for a replacement in the hopes I just got a bad one, as I loved everything else about it. Hope your experience is much better!

I'm still not used to using the pump sack, but probably about 2-3 minutes to inflate. No need to use it for deflation. You just pop out the valve and squeeze the air out like any other sleeping pad.

I'd say two minutes approximately. Depends if you want to fold it back up exactly as it came from the store, or if you're willing to get close enough.

I'm a back sleeper and find that the dimpled baffling systems on the Helix and S2S pads tend to be the most comfortable. Nemo Tensor is the next most comfy, and Thermarest horizontal baffles are the least comfortable for me. Can't comment on the Expeds as I haven't tried them.

My Tensor Elite weighs 9.1oz by itself on my scale. Is yours 8.5?

Love my ultralight Nemo pad, and when I ultimately punctured it, the company sent me a new one no questions asked.

[Similiar] I've been car camping for the last month using NEMO tensor EXTREME. I've REI replaced once and am now (again) chasing a slow leak. Seems to make it half way through the night 🌙 before my winds needs to 😮‍💨 blow. Soapy spray down check ...&can't find the slow leak. 🐌 i don't know what sharp object is in my VW TDI wagon to have repeat problem. Used sundry other pads. Would also love to hear of one that lasts as long as Darwin's

I had a back surgery about a year ago as well for a herniated disc in my lower back and now use either my BA zoom or Nemo Tensor. Both are the largest sizes and seem to give me enough support to not wake up in pain. I make sure they are at the max inflation as well. For a pillow I use a large S2S Aeros down pillow and stick it onto the pad with those free velcro pieces S2S will send you if you ask customer service. Another thing I have been experimenting with is using a running vest style pack with no hip belt. I found that the hip belt would transfer the weight right into my injured area and just make it all worse. I'm currently using an Ultimate Direction Fastpack 40L bag. I'll also be carrying a 1lb chair to help destress my back during the day. The nature of back injuries are so personal that idk if this will help you but this has been my approach to stay on the trails. Best of luck!

Ha, same. Started with the 'ol cheapo Klymit Static V, moved to the small mummy Therm-a-Rest XLite NeoAir for a couple years, then figured I'd get a wide to see if that helped with side sleep comfort so my butt and knees weren't off the edges (& went extra warm because may as well eliminate redundancies) with the Therm-a-Rest XTherm in reg wide. No dice. Tried a friend's Nemo Tensor, and wasn't for me. Tried the large women's Sea to Summit Comfort Light Insulated air - dimples felt odd and was too thin; no better than my old mummy xlite for overall comfort even with the wider shape. Running out of budget to throw in for the S2S Ether Light XT test and given my experience with the Comfort Light, wasn't convinced it was the move. Still haven't tried vertical baffles like the Expeds, and maybe that'd do fine, but instead just went all in on the reg wide chonky Neoloft... and good god. With that soft knit stretch top, slept a like the coziest dreamy log for 8.5 hours first time I took it out (and then 6 the next, but only thanks to a disruptive woodpecker. Nature!) I hesitate to mention/recommend it here as it kinda undermines the whole forum topic (ultralight) with its extremely-not-ultralight weight. But packs just as small as my reg-wide XTherm and as a bike camper, pack size matters more than strictly weight so I'm sticking with it.

I recently upgraded from the Klymit thermal to the Nemo Tensor All Season. It’s amazing and the biggest camping gear game changer. Expensive for sure, but no regrets here.

I started with Nemo tensor insulated pads and the BAs are definitely more quiet. I find they’re more comfortable as well.

Tensor is nice and quiet, and for me at least quite comfy with a little air let out. Between my wife and I we have three versions, and if you’re really going to go down to 30F I’d say get the xtreme version. The summer and all season version will help down that low, but are noticeably colder sleeping at those temps.

If you like your tensor then the obvious solution is the tensor extreme. You could also try getting a more robust accordion ccf pad and placing that on top of your tensor. If you're using something like a 1/8" pad today it's maybe giving you an extra .5 r value but nothing more. 

Mine lasted the entire AZT this past Spring and I'll be taking it on the CDT this upcoming Spring, and I'm not concerned about the durability. Never had any leaks or issues, although I'm sure they happen. It's worth getting one and taking it out a few times locally to make sure there's no defects, that way if there are Nemo can take care of you before you're stuck in the middle of nowhere.

I am a side sleeper so using only a foam pad is out for me, so I usually run a 3” inflatable pad. That being said, I have never had issues with leaks and I spend a decent amount of time on them. I think there’s a few reasons for this. First I always have something between the ground and my pad like a tarp, rope, or my foam sleeping pad if it’s cold, and I am very careful about prepping where I’m going to sleep and removing sharp rocks, sticks, glass, thorns etc. Another thing to give credit to is buying high quality sleeping pads. I had my Thermarest Neoair x therm for probably the better part of 6 years and never had a problem with it. I recently switched to the Nemo Tensor Extreme because I got a super good deal and was able to trade in my old pad, and I have been happy with it so far.

I've had various Nemo Pads for the last 12 years. All of them are solid. I recently got the Tensor Extreme with an R-value of 8.5 and super happy with it. Doesn't even crinkle like the Thermarest ones. Nemo has an amazing warranty program as well. I've not had to use it on any of the pads, but did on a pillow. Replaced immediately. [https://www.reddit.com/r/TheBackpackingList/](https://www.reddit.com/r/TheBackpackingList/)

Honestly just ball out and get the Nemo Tensor Extreme. A sleeping pad can’t really be too warm considering you can just vent from the top, so higher R value will be more versatile for Canadian weather.

NEMO all season. Comfy. Warm. Quiet enough. I like the wide, but not really "ultralight" then, but that's my extra luxury ounces. I'm a side sleeper. Use down to 25'.

I have the tensor and the REI higher R value version. The tensor rolls up smaller than a 32 oz Nalgene- they're both great for comfort, warmth, and space in pack.

Are you super confident in its durability? I’ve had 2 nights with it and love it, but every time I roll it up I get just a little worried lol

I have the nemo tensor insulated ultralight pad and I love it. I’ve taken it on a few trips and it’s warm, light, comfy, and I haven’t had any issues with popping or tears. I like to move around a lot when I seep and it always seems to be comfortable in whatever position I’m in (as much as a pad can). I highly recommend it. For colder trips I put a $30 foam pad underneath it. I think buying the $30 foamer and tossing it under an inflatable pad is the way to go. It increases the r value. Makes your sleeping system more modular. And protects your sleeping pad from sharp rocks or sticks.

Expensive just gets you better r rating and lighter weights. Not so much durability IMO. I like the Nemo Tensor All Season pad in regular wide. I’m in the 100KG+ club and side sleeper as well.

As both my Nemo Tensors already leak, I definitely don’t want a thinner material. And no wide version. I’m out on the Elite.

have you tried NEMO Tensors? Trail, Trail Ultralight, or Extreme Conditions - all pack down to 10x4in, 1lb 1oz to 1lb 4oz. 3.5in thick so very comfy for me as a restless side sleeper with hip problems! smaller/lighter than the sea to summit Ether Light XT Extreme i was using.

have you tried NEMO Tensors? Trail, Trail Ultralight, or Extreme Conditions - all pack down to 10x4in, 1lb 1oz to 1lb 4oz. 3.5in thick so very comfy for me as a restless side sleeper with hip problems! smaller/lighter than the sea to summit Ether Light XT Extreme i was using.

have you tried NEMO Tensors? Trail, Trail Ultralight, or Extreme Conditions - all pack down to 10x4in, 1lb 1oz to 1lb 4oz. 3.5in thick so very comfy for me as a restless side sleeper with hip problems! smaller/lighter than the sea to summit Ether Light XT Extreme i was using.

I’ll second this. While a bit on the heavy side if you are backpacking, it isn’t prohibitively so. I’m old now and I value comfort/sleep over a few ounces. The spoon shaped bags by Nemo are comfortable and perform in the cold, and the price is decent for a quality bag. I also view the Nemo Tensor All-Season as the best all around sleeping pad on the market. There are a couple options considered a bit more comfortable (namely Rapide SL and Neoloft) but they can’t hold a candle to the warmth, packability, and weight of the Tensor. It checks all the boxes (except inexpensive I guess).

I’ve only used mine twice but I felt like it’s pretty quiet. Maybe it can vary or get worse over time? Just a thought. I truly don’t notice much sound even when I flop around at night. Edit: what I’m getting at is perhaps there is a defect. Maybe check with Nemo before you do anything else.

Nemo tensor all season or extreme. Just got the all season myself today.

Do you have a max budget? Do you have a good sleeping bag to pair it with? Any of the modern inflatable pads will fit in your bag unless you've brought enough other stuff to cross the continent on foot, lol Here's our experiences, though not a comprehensive review of everything on the market. TLDR probably get you an Exped Ultra 5R. Nemo Tensor: I am a flopper and tended to roll onto the edges, which made them collapse and dumped me onto the ground. Pad is comfortable otherwise. It does make quite the crinkly sound when moving. Exped Ultra 3R: probably a bit cold when temps are approaching the lower end of your range. Large side baffles (like the Big Agnes you linked, I think) keeps you from flinging yourself off the pad. Thick and comfortable. Fantatsic pump sack inflates the thing in like 20 seconds. Was entirely too cold for us where it gets colder than your range. Side note, it was paired with a Big Agnes sleeping bag which was horrible. Terrible bag. Exped Ultra 5R: all the pros of the 3R but warm enough! Great pad, my wife's current go-to. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite MAX: or whatever the yellow rectangle \~5R one is. Lacks the side bolsters of the Exped and is thinner, but is very comfortable and IIRC lighter. Another great pad, my current go-to. Pump sack is beyond useless, too porous and leaks air instead of blowing into pad. I just blow it up by mouth. Generally, I've found we prefer rectangular pads. If you're with someone else and you both have rectangular pads - make sure they fit in your tent! Many tents are tapered and your feet will overlap which is super annoying

The Tensor has a slightly higher tendency to squash at the edges and dump you off if you flop over there, at least in my experience with a different Tensor. Both are great though!

Used mine on an arctic expedition without problems. And many nights since that.

Nemo for the baffles! I tried a TR but find the horizontal baffles uncomfortable… feel like rolling off.

For me, only the S2S Ether Lt XT and the Nemo Tensor work. Horizontal baffles are a nightmare with the "slipping off" feeling and movement! I sleep on my side and stomach and sometimes back, and those two work great.

For me the S2S works where others don’t work. I find horizontal baffles extremely uncomfortable … it feels as if anything closer to the edge falls down and doesn’t give any support. So for me the S2S works for longer trips and for shorter I use a short version of the Nemo Tensor.

Agree. I have Nemo tensor and S2S Ether Lt xt because I find horizontal baffles very uncomfortable.

Loving my WM Ultralite (rated to -7°C) and my NEMO tensor all-season mat (r-value of 5.4) set up. The bag is a bit warm for me / needs to be unzipped above 20°C, and I found my set up to be a bit chilly one -25°C night when sleeping in a very drafty kitchen shelter once our fire died back. I’m not sure I’d recommend this exact set up for consistent -10°C trips, but I’ve appreciated the quality and low weights of both products and, as others have commented, I would encourage you to check out other products by both WM and NEMO.

I haven't had any durability issues with the Tensor XV (\~20 nights on it over the last year). My v2 Tensor Insulated failed at the weld points after about that amount of time though. New materials and new welds with new versions of the Tensor line and the Extreme Conditions has different welds than the All-Season or Trail. If camping in below -25C conditions, get the Xtherm. The Xtherm sleeps warmer than the Tensor XC.

The Tensor AS and Ultra 5R are great pads for the canadian rockies. Both might be slightly cold depending on where you're going in mid-may as there can still be snow on the ground or the ground could still be frozen even if the snow has melted. I find frozen spring ground as cold as snow in the middle of winter. I'd look at a Neve Waratah quilt. The Waratah -8C is $353 CAD.

I've spent 5 nights on the Tensor Elite and wanted to share some initial thoughts since there isn't much information out there and my testing yielded some results I found interesting. Here are my thoughts in no particular order but numbered in case someone has a question/comment about a specific point. 1. My size regular pad came in 14g over spec at 254g compared to the 240g advertised (no stuff sack or dodads). 2. I did not feel any heat-loss through the pad down to 2C/35.6F (with a 30f zpacks solo quilt, boxers, and an OR echo t-shirt). 3. The 20in width was noticeably narrow after spending most of the last couple of years on 25in wide pads. That being said, it wasn't as big of an issue as I thought it would be due to the next point. 4. Comfort is really good for the pad. It is more comfortable than I expected by quite a bit. I only woke up a couple of times to shift positions each night I used it. Two reasons for the comfort: 1) slightly dimpled horizontal baffling helps with pressure relief and 2) the lightweight materials have quite a bit of stretch/give to them which helps with pressure relief too. 5. Durability will be a question mark until more pads are used for more nights. The shell material is thin and the TPU to hold air in is thin, which is what led to issues with the Uberlite. But maybe Nemo did some magic to make the materials more durable than the Uberlite.

What is noisy for you with the All-Season? Generally, pads are noisy from internal insulation or from the shell material. It's hard to get away from shell material noise and mylar film is the best warmth to weight ratio insulation. For a lot of people, weight, warmth, and comfort are higher priorities than noise, which is why some of the noisier pads are the most popular. That being said, the Exped Ultra pads are pretty light, warm, and some of the least noisy. I also find them more comfortable than the Xlite or All-Season. I can confirm that companies pay millions of dollars so reviewers will lie and break the trust of their audience. /s

It was really cool to see Steven test this. There are not many people outside of the big companies with resources to be doing this. It reinforces observations I have had with pads since the new ASTM standard first came out. I think the big takeaway was that the tests reinforce how much the current r-value testing system gets completely messed up by convective heat transfer. Because rvalue testing happens at room temperature, pads without methods to reduce convective heat transfer potentially perform better than if they had methods to reduce convective heat transfer. The room temp air is helping the pads "combat" the cold plate underneath the pads. This is made more of a factor by the fact the plates that sandwich the pads usually only take up a fraction of the pads surface area. Stevens testing reinforces what I have also been seeing in the field while testing dozens of pads in every temperature possible. Pads like the Xtherm (with good convective heat loss mechanisms) outperform pads like the Tensor XC (minimal convectove eat loss mechanisms) even though the Tensor XC has a higher tested rvalue. I think a good quick and dirty method for testing convective heat transfer is the deflation test. Open a fully inflated pads dump valve and see how quickly it deflates. You could start trying to push air out too by rolling it. You'll notice pads like the Xtherm are a lot harder to get air out of. Companies are designing pads for the testing standard, which is going to bite them in the butt since it's essentially wasted R&D with more info coming out about how rvalue can be a good place to start but is kind of garbage. edit: To answer your question, you will sleep warmer on a CCF pad of an equal ASTM tested r-value inflatable pad due to the issues with the testing standard. CCF does phenomenally at reducing convective heat transfer.

Nemo tensor extreme regular wide, best pad ever.

Side sleeper checking in... In my search for something more comfortable, I tried the Zenbivy Ultralight mattress and I've been super happy with it however I sleep but mostly on my side. It's quiet too. My previous pad was the Nemo Tensor and it works pretty well too but I feel the zenbivy is easily more comfortable for me. Only negative is the pump sack that comes with it. It's surely convenient also being the stuff sack but it's small and I don't use a stuff sack for my pad anyway so I just use the pump sack I got with the tensor.

I have the same pad and only sleep on my side. I fill it then lay down and let out tiny amounts of air until it’s soft enough it doesn’t hurt my hip but still firm enough that it’s supported. Never had any pain issues but I also use a pillow which helps keep the spine strait. 

I had previously only used my z-lite pad and finally decided to get something kore comfortable. I got the non-extreme Tensor and it’s super comfortable and noticeably warmer than just the foam pad. I’ve also stacked the two to protect the tensor from pops and add more insulation. If i decide to do hardcore winter camping I’ll def get the extreme. I also tried a bunch of inflatables at multiple stores and found the tensor to be one of the most comfy in it’s weight class.

The 2022 tensor insulated is R 4.2, so the all season should be a good bit warmer. I have the og insulated, which is about R 3.5, and it's. . . Sleepable at -5°, I put on a sweater and pants to get comfortable.

The 2022 tensor insulated is R 4.2, so the all season should be a good bit warmer. I have the og insulated, which is about R 3.5, and it's. . . Sleepable at -5°, I put on a sweater and pants to get comfortable.

Closed cell foam pads like that are awesome but they unfortunately dont work too well for side sleepers (i mean they can but not nearly as comfy as a inflatable pad). I personally use a nemo tensor elite and a 1/8” foam pad combo and even together its only about 10 ounces which is still less than a switchback and vastly more comfortable.

Nemo fillo pillow (lifetime warranty), Nemo all season pad (lifetime warranty), I used to use thermarest air mattresses but switched i still like them too , I have mediocre mec zero sleeping bag i use atm which i need to upgrade too a smaller lighter quilt,...

Contrarian view - had a Tensor, it leaked out of the box. Had a standard Neo air - it leaked after a handful of weekends, wasn't quite plush enough for me. I used an XTherm for the last 1,000 miles of the AT in overnight temps from 25 to 85F and slept fine. Have had it out on snow and slept fine. Heavier, sure, but sturdier. Arguably quieter than the Neoair.

The nemo tensor extreme has done me very well as a side sleeper. Edited to add: didn’t pay attention to see this is the ul sub and obv at 1lb 6oz this is NOT an ul suggestion

A friend of mine and I have been very happy with our Tensor Extreme Conditions pads. They doubled the denier (from 20D to 40D) on the bottom of the pad for this newest generation of pads. I find it more comfortable than the XTherm NXT but its not entirely fair given that the Nemo pad is newer and thicker than the Xtherm. The pump sack on the XTherm is just okay compared to the excellent pump sack on the Nemo pads. I can easily inflate my wide pad in 5-6 breaths. If you're worried about durability the XTherm is 70D and has an incredibly robust valve. I agree with u/Cautious_Cheek5093 about bringing a CCF pad just in case (and to bump the R-Value). If you have an REI near you, I'd recommend trying them in store.

Most of the failures that I heard of speaking with AT hikers were pinhole leaks on the bottom of the pad. Unfortunately this would fall under wear and tear. Thankfully seam failures are a more obvious manufacturing defect and would be warrantable. I had an older tensor fail at the seam near the valve personally. 

Absolutely massive fan of the Nemo Tensor All-Season pad. I personally have the Extreme Conditions variant that is totally overkill for most hikers. Save a few oz and dollars by going with the All-Season. I can inflate it in 3 breaths with the included pump-sack and at 3.5 inches thick it is a lovely sleep experience backed by Nemo's lifetime warranty. I'd recommend the wide.

I’ve loved my Nemo tensor for the end of my trip. Ridiculously small, and has survived many nights so far.

I can't speak to that exact model, but my Nemo Tensor Insulated was absolutely fine on the JMT this summer, and I believe the construction process is basically the same. Inflatable pad failure from manufacturing defects is generally statistical- you either get a bad one that fails right away (which you then exchange via warranty), or you get a good one that lasts the normal amount of time. The rate of defects is different for every product run, and it's not something they usually advertise. "Durability" is harder to quantify because, at the end of the day, it's a balloon that can be punctured and you're laying it on the ground and putting weight on it. You can't get a clear idea of how durable something is just by reading a bunch of one-off reviews, because you can't control for conditions or expectations, and you don't know if it's a representative sample. I'd just go lay on both pads in the store and buy the one you find most comfortable and that fits your weight and money budget.

I would personally recommend an R-value of at least 6 for -10C. More is better. Most people underestimate the effect the pad has on the overall warmth of their sleep systems, and don't get the most out of their quilt because of it. It's better to go with a warmer pad and a lighter quilt than vice versa, because you can always supplement your top insulation with clothing, but that stuff all compresses under you, leaving the pad as basically your only bottom insulation no matter how much you wear. R-6 would be a solid CCF foam pad approximately 4cm thick, weighing about 880g, and it would be extremely bulky. [Oware](https://bivysack.com/shop/ols/products/foam-1-slash-2-thick-closed-cell-ultralight-sleeping-pads-white) sells some 1/2" CCF pads as a starting point. (If you're not in the US, you can probably find the same stuff from another retailer.) You could theoretically stack 3 Switchbacks, but pads with the "open egg crate" design don't add warmth quite as well when stacked as a solid foam pad does, because when they nest, you don't triple the benefit of the air pockets they're designed to create. Or you could just by a Nemo Tensor Extreme at R-8.5, which is 472g in the mummy version, and be all set even if the temp drops below what you're expecting. This is probably the cheapest, lightest, and warmest option. tl;dr- inflatables are just better for very cold weather

A pad cannot really make you "too hot", because warm air rises. You can always dump extra heat by venting or hanging a leg out of your top insulation. For reference, the mattress/box spring combo you sleep on at home is like R30+, and you're sleeping in a 68-74F room. If a mattress could be "too warm" you'd be getting heat stroke in your bedroom every night. (Giggity!) The Nemo Tensor Extreme is R 8.5 and 17oz in a regular mummy. I thought it was overkill too, until my wife bought one and I tried it out. It's 2oz heavier than my Tensor, for a 100% R value increase. Best pad on the market.

It's pretty simple: Your pad can't really be "too warm". Heat rises, so you can always use a lighter top layer (or less coverage with a heavy top layer) to regulate your sleeping temperature. You never want conductive heat loss to the ground to be the thing keeping you cool, and it's very much not weight-efficient to go thin on your pad and heavy on your down. You're generally also carrying down clothing in winter, which can be used to supplement top insulation, but, very importantly, NOT bottom insulation. A high R-value (R-7 to R-9) inflatable pad is only an ounce or two heavier than a 3-season, so if you plan to hike in cold weather (freezing or below) get a Nemo Tensor Extreme, (or something similar from one of the other manufacturers) and save weight on your quilt. Every 10-degree step in high-end UL quilt insulation is about 3 oz, so: \- a 17oz R-8.5 pad with a 30F degree quilt and \- a 14oz R-2.8 pad, with a 20F quilt are pretty much the exact the same trail weight, but you'll sleep warm *much* more reliably with the first setup, and you can easily supplement the quilt with the puffy you're already carrying if you need to. >!*(If you care where I'm getting these numbers, I'm comparing the Nemo Tensor line in reg/mummy, and using Hammock Gear's Burrow UL in the standard size, width and fill as benchmarks. Yes, you can get lighter than each of these options if you have deep pockets, but the relative tradeoff is going to be the same)*!< A CCF pad for cold weather would need to be so thick that it would be ridiculously bulky, and also much heavier. (For example, an R-6 CCF pad in regular 72 in. length would be approximately 1.5 inches thick, and would weigh about 31oz. It would be over 18 inches wide when rolled up in a spiral. If you're only hiking at times and places where you're sleeping at 40F and above, run whatever you're most comfortable on. Inflatables and CCF are about the same weight between R-2 and R-3 (what I would consider 2.5-season), and if you can stand having less cushion, you can save a lot of weight in the summer with a Thinlite CCF under the R-2 mark. What a lot of people suggest (and that *doesn't* actually make sense unless you've already invested in gear and just want to keep it cheap) is supplementing a 2-3 season inflatable with CCF for the winter. You're basically using each style of pad in the worst way possible. You'd be lighter and more comfortable just buying the warm inflatable, because you'll get more out of your down in all situations with it, and having a separate, cheap, super light CCF pad for the summer. tl;dr- if you hike in winter, get a high R-Value inflatable. If you don't, it doesn't much matter whether you go inflatable or foam. Get whatever you sleep best on.

Have not had to use the warranty knock on wood, but have been really happy with my tensor as well. I too side sleep part of the night, and it's great not waking up with a sore shoulder from being direct on the ground in the past with my therma rest lite.

Definitely try deflating a little bit first, but it's hard to sleep on any of these inflatable pads. Did you get the wide mummy version or max version so you can rest your arms a bit? I personally found the Nemo Tensor to be the most comfortable but don't trust them for quality at all. The Exped 5R is pretty comfortable with vertical baffles but it's quite heavy at over 20oz for the 72x20 model. (The NeoAir NXT mummy wide is bigger and only 16oz)

Nemo tensor was def my most comfortable pad, but I don't trust them for reliability at all. Just so many field failures that I've seen on here and other places.

Agreed, and it doesn't take up much space when rolled up