Check out the Thermarest NeoAir XTherm MAX.
What’s the scoop? I see it’s pricey. Are you using this pad, Jordan?
It’s about the highest R value for the weight, available. I own multiple pads and if I have space in my pack or I’m camping near the truck I love my Exped Downmat 9, but it’s bigger and heavier, so if weight and space are a concern the Neoair XTherm MAX cannot be beat. It’s a fantastic all around pad, and has proven very durable for me. The non-MAX version is cut in a mummy shape, and the MAX is rectangular. I find my bivy is less likely to slide off the MAX version.
The only downsides to the XTherm are the feeling and sound. It feels like plastic/rubber against the skin and crinkles a little bit when moved, so I recommend having a layer between your skin and the pad. The sound is minimal for me, so I wouldn’t worry about it. In contrast, the Exped has a soft, micro-fleece feeling, and doesn’t make noise when moved. I do think the XTherm is more durable and more easily repaired than the Downmat, from what I’ve seen.
