Review: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Sleeping Pad
As I get older, warmth and comfort and are high on my priority list in almost everything I do, and it’s no different when it comes to sleeping outdoors. My recent upgrade to the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Pad offers the same ultralight weight and packability desired in a backcountry pad, but with the added bonus of superior warmth and comfort.
Over the years, my family has owned a handful of Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads, all of them still in our camping gear arsenal. One did fall victim to the shenanigans of a very rambunctious chocolate lab, however a patch kit came to the rescue in that particular instance. The NeoAir XTherm NXT is a step up from its predecessors. The mattress is thicker than previous pads, offering added cushion and durability while outdoors in the elements. The new and improved WingLock valve system also allows for the sleeping pad to deflate quicker. Plus, it keeps air from escaping during the inflation process— a lung-burning, vertigo-inducing pet peeve I have with some other air pads. Between the WingLock valves and the included pump sack, the inflation time and effort is noticeably reduced.
Overall, the pad is comparable in both size and weight to other ultralight pads. However, it has the added bonus of a 7.3 R-Value, giving it one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios available. Offered in multiple sizes for customized comfort, this made-to-last pad is a reliable choice for a restful night’s sleep under the stars.
$240; thermarest.com.
