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Three things: 1) Nemo Tensor UL insulated comes in a wide regular. 2) I'm a side sleeper but occasionally end up on my back. I find that, unless they're soaking wet, I can put my shoes (toes pointed toward head) beside my pad where my elbows end up, and that typically is good enough, though I don't think I'd like this option if I were a full-time back sleeper. 3) I typically use a NeoAir Xlite short, and the solution to the butt overspill problem for me has been to turn it upside down, so that the widest part is where my hips are, not my head.
I don't use a sleeping pad. I take some wine and NyQuil. Admittedly, it's a fine line between a good night's sleep and accidental suicide, but if you get it just right, you'll sleep like a baby!
I got a short version of the Neoair Xlite recently, and as im used to a wide sleeping pad, the short X-lite felt very narrow. However - after placing my backpack at the foot end, i felt like i could fall asleep on it pretty easily (im a side sleeper). This being said; i was a bit tired when i tested it (indoors), but im usually similarly tired at the end of the day after a long hike, so my first impression of this pad is actually KINDA good. A full size pad is obviously a bit better, but i still think im gonna use the short one considering it saves so much space and weight, and is much quicker to inflate. People who toss and turn during the night should probably go for a wider sleeping pad though...
Going from a 20” wide to 25” made a world of difference in comfort for me! I’m a side sleeper and toss from side to side. Love the Thermarest NeoAir XLite regular length wide pad. It has the comfort and warmth for most conditions. In late season when it’s colder or when pitching a tent on cold rock slabs I will also bring my Thermarest Z Lite Pad (1/2 Pad) to put under my inflatable at my torso. It increases the R factor and dramatically improves warmth. Makes a huge difference!
I use the 25” wide REI Flash Reg/Wide air mattress at 19 ounces and am happy. I’m a 50/50 back/side sleeper and LOVE the width. I also use a Reg/Wide Enlightened Equipment quilt. Big Agnes also offers 25” wide pads in regular 72” length. For instance, see their new AXL pads.
I'm just not that sensitive, and rather enjoy taking a bit extra concern in planning where I set up. That's just me though... you have great videos, thanks for all the info.
we need cottage companies making UL sleeping pads. they would be able to handle custom orders. I realize how hard it is to compete with something as technically difficult to manufacture as the Thermarest Neoair Xlite
Always used a Ridgerest. The older I get the more I’m looking at inflatable pads though. Wide/regular just seems like a no brainer. I thought there were more to be had than what you mentioned. The new Big Agnes and I thought you could get a wide/regular Xlite too
I make do with the Neoair Xlite regular, I just won’t carry the extra weight. Since I use a quilt, I sleep kind of half way between my side and back, alternating left and right. Seems to work OK.
In your "the perfect backpacking rain shell" video you just mentioned that you are 5' 11" (me too!) which I was fortunate enough to be watching right after I watched this video. I've been uncertain on whether to get a regular 72" pad or to go longer. One reviewer was 5' 9" and he said that he really regretted getting a regular length XTherm. That has stuck with me. What are your thoughts?
Bungzy’s Ultralight Good to know. I’m also a side sleeper, but I have a tendency to curl up. I’ll take your advice and try out a regular sized pad at a retail location.
