Review: NEMO Tensor Sleeping Pad

Across the board, sleeping pads aren’t the sexiest piece of gear, but forget a pad once and the necessity because apparent—usually in the form of a sore back. For years, I rocked a classic folding foam pad and called it good. I didn’t realize what I was missing until I upgraded to the NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad. First off, the thing is a feather. At only 440 grams, it is damn near negligible in the pack. Next, 3.5 inches of cushioned loft keeps me well off the ground for exceptional comfort. Finally, a 5.4 R-value makes it a true all-season sleeping pad. Together, those features add up to a solid night of sleep. From fast and light summer treks, to backcountry ski trips, and everything in between, I know I'm going to be comfortable and warm when I lay down for those precious hours of rest. Now only if my backcountry partner wasn’t sawing logs all night…

Available at nemoequipment.com; $200.