Testing High-Tech Comfort: New Backpacking Sleeping Pads
AI-generated image · US National Wire
Wired reviews the latest inflatable options from Nemo, Therm-a-Rest, and Exped to see if they deliver on backcountry sleep quality.
Wired recently tested a variety of high-tech sleeping pads to determine which models provide the best insulation and cushioning for outdoor enthusiasts. According to reporting from Wired, the Nemo Equipment Tensor All-Season was named the best all-around backpacking pad, retailing for $240 at REI. For those prioritizing weight, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT was cited as the best ultralight option at $209 via Amazon.
Wired's testing also highlighted the Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft ($250 at REI) for maximum backcountry comfort and the Exped Ultra 6.5R ($200 at REI) as the top choice for side sleepers.
Wired notes that while the outdoor industry has moved toward standardized R-values (identified by the ASTM or ASTM FF3340 acronym) to measure heat flow resistance, these numbers do not guarantee warmth for every individual. The publication suggests that inflatable or self-inflating pads generally offer superior cushioning compared to traditional closed-cell foam, though some users may still pair an inflatable pad with a thin foam layer for added warmth and a non-slip surface.