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Therm-a-rest NeoAir XLite - Gear Review

Backpacking Camping Gear Review

Some of the best nights of sleep i've had in the backcountry this season thanks to this wonder of a pad. I recently returned from a multi day backpacking trip in southern Utah. I've spent a lot of nights in the backcountry this year and these most recent were my first with the NeoAir XLite. What an amazing pad Therm-a-rest has put together. Not only is the pad incredibly light and small, but it blows up quickly and is incredibly comfortable. 

The NeoAir XLite is one of the warmest ultralight pads that i've slept on. I had my worries about sleeping in a pad like this with 25 to 30 degree nights in the desert. I never got cold and in fact, I feel like I slept warmer because of this pad vs others i've slept on that are closer to the ground. 

What I love about this pad:

- Ultralight and super small (Regular = 12oz)

- Horizontal baffles - I feel like this is more comfortable and makes your back much happier.

- Blows up quick - It takes only a minute or so, and you don't get light headed. 

- Great stuff sack and patch kit included.

For an ultralight pad this is really the way to go. I've read places that it can be loud when moving around on it, but for me that wasn't really an issue. It was a little noisy, but what do you expect from nylon fabrics? The XLite for some people might be a little too narrow if you are really broad in the shoulders. The XLite is designed for the ultralight setup, so if you are bigger in some areas it may not be the best pad, in that case i'd recommend the NeoAir Trekker to get a wider base. If you are also a side sleeper, then the XLite may take some getting used to. But honestly, I love this pad, and slipping it into a bivy is a piece of cake. The three nights I had on it were awesome, and recommend it for anyone looking for an ultralight pad that will keep you warm and comfortable.

FYI - I am 5'9" and about 145lbs. The regular size is perfect for me. I also do not have really wide shoulders. I would not recommend the size small. I can see legs and feet falling asleep from hanging off the edge if you do not put anything under your feet. The extra 4oz of weight for the regular is worth the comfort and money.

Buy this pad from Backcountry.com

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad Radiant Yellow, Reg You are gearing up for week-long sprint down the Pacific Crest Trail. You need an ultra-light sleeping pad that won't weigh you down or take up precious cargo space in your pack. But, you also realize that if you don't make your sleeping time count, you'll be exhausted and your pace will suffer. The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad incorporates next-generation materials and a smart design so your pack stays feather-light and you get a good night's rest.