EMS Basic Pad

Comments about Eastern Mountain Sports EMS Basic Pad:

It is the most basic of sleeping pads, but that's exactly what I was looking for. I've tried inflatable pads, air/foam hybrids, no pad at all, but was never able to get a good night of sleep. This guy definitely gave me the right level of comfort that I was looking for. This pad is so light that unless you're the type of person who strives to shave off ounces by cutting the bristles on your toothbrush in half, you won't even notice it on your back. It's bulkier than an inflatable pad would be, but that's the trade off for using foam. I just lash it on my pack with a few straps, and then don't think twice about it until it's time to make camp. At a price this inexpensive, you've really got nothing to lose if you just throw it in with your next order and give it a try.

Comments about Eastern Mountain Sports EMS Basic Pad:

This is a good pad for SUL backpacking. Its not as light as the Gossamer Gear Thinlite pads, but it is fairly comfortable. I cut mine down to torso-length and it only weighs 4 ounces. Plus, its nice to pull out of the pack to sit on if I'm taking a break for rest/lunch. If there's snow on the ground, I'll back it up underneath a full-length Ridge Rest for extra insulation. If I break an arm or a leg, the pad can pull double duty as an emergency splint. The price is good, too.

Comments about Eastern Mountain Sports EMS Basic Pad:

Bought another brand that was thinner and not as dense. This was dense and solid, ready for years of wear. It is exactly the same (except for color) as my 25 year old one I've had since college which got me through a month of sleeping in Alpine terrain. Bought these for my kids. Also, not smelly to begin with and no smell at all after one day in sun. I like lower toxin camping.

Comments about Eastern Mountain Sports EMS Basic Pad:

For [$] it does the job.

Comments about Eastern Mountain Sports EMS Basic Pad:

I would recommend trying something different.

Comments about Eastern Mountain Sports EMS Basic Pad:

Great pad! I cut mine down as well to save space and it gets the job done just fine. It is also very affordable.

Comments about Eastern Mountain Sports EMS Basic Pad:

I don't use this mat alone, (and neither should you,) but with a Thermarest Trail Regular. I'm not sure what the r-value is, but it does help to make a 4-season setup with a 0° down bag. I cut about a foot off the bottom for use as a seat, and at 5'8", still plenty of length to keep all of me off the cold ground.

I don't strap it to my pack, but instead roll it loosely and let it expand in my 50L pack, and then put my gear inside that. Makes for a good load balance.

This is a perfect way to expand the thermal rating of your winter sleep setup.

I like the removable straps. They're useful around the campsite for other things.

Comments about Eastern Mountain Sports EMS Basic Pad:

I purchased two of these for my kids in Boyscouts. Durable, budget conscious choice that truly works well. It is not collapsible - but offers great protection from the ground.