By so cool, So. Cal from Greenwich, CT on 2/20/2008

Takes a few minutes to self-inflate then "top off" with a few breaths of your own.

By Icy from Boston, MA on 2/6/2007

This is the lightweight standard. It dosen't get any lighter than this before you start to sacrifice a good night's sleep. It's well designed, [...] It's durable where it's needed with the tougher non-slip back and the ripstop nylon on top. I can't say this is the pad for everyone, many would find it not comfortable enough[...] But for those who already know this product is for them, here's another happy camper.

By _HEW_ from Westfield, MA on 1/3/2007

While this pad was quite a novelty, for the few backpacking trips I will do, the cost doesn't justify the means. For starters, the "self-inflating" pad did not do so when opening and unrolling the pad,etc. The instructions were no help, so the 800# tech let me know that this was "normal" because of packaging.

Now, once I got this thing situated, and tried to get it back in the package-forget about it! Ha! There was no conceivable way to get this thing back into it's package by any human means. I have heard this story from other Therma-Rest users as well- and they bought the "special storage bag".

Now, if I'm only going to be using this two or three times a year, I am going to have the same problem with self-inflation due to the pad being compressed for an extended period of time. THEN the instructions state not to self-inflate under circumstances A, B, and C. How can I win?

I would say that if you have a particular love of trying to roll things into impossibly small-sized parcels, and you don't mind paying $$ for a self-inflating pad that may not do such a thing, than go for it, I say! Otherwise, a thin yoga pad for $5 may do.

By Charlotte from Woonsocket, RI on 1/2/2007

This was a gift for my son who backpacks in NE all year long. This pad replaces one he has had for 5 years. He is extemely happy with the improvements made in comfort and ease in packing.

By Tubs from Flagstaff, AZ on 12/4/2006

Use mine in summer to winter (NOT ITS INTENDED USE!!!) backpacking. Still, warm enough. Although I do like cold more than many people. No leaks after twigs, sand, rocks, prickly alpine plants. Small size is worth the price. Wicks away SMALL amounts of moisture.

By Thomas from Athens, OH on 11/9/2006

The pad is pretty durable and packs surprisingly small. The full length pad is best if your feet tend to get cold, but if you are a ultra-light packer try the 3/4 length one.

[0 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

By scoutmaster from marlboro, ma on 9/25/2006

After years of dreading the 'sleeping' part of backpacking finally a product that actually lets me sleep on my side.