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ALPS Mountaineering Ultra-Light Air Pad

rated 3.0 of 5 stars
photo: ALPS Mountaineering Ultra-Light Air Pad self-inflating sleeping pad

This pad can get you down to high teens with its R-value rated at 3.6 (I only used it in about low 20s). It's not the most packable pad but can be handled. I have not had any problems with durability and seems like it will last. This pad and its price is a great budget option for those that aren't concerned about packability and just want to keep off the ground.

Pros

  • Cheap
  • Durable
  • Fits in mummy sleeping bag

Cons

  • Not very packable
  • Slippery
  • Not good for side sleepers

The Alps Mountaineering Ultra-Light Air Pad self-inflating sleeping pad (say that five times fast) is a great budget option for those who are just starting out with backpacking, camping, or whatever your needs are. It weighs roughly 1lb 8oz for a regular size (20"x72"x1.5").

The pad has an R-value of 3.6 which I personally would qualify as a three-season getting me down to the low 20s with no problem. Self-inflating pads add a convenience to set up camp, just twist the nozzle and let it sit until full, giving you a few minutes to do other things. Being 1.5" thick side sleepers will run into some issues.

The overall build quality is good and has held up to several outings. The packability of this pad is not ideal, packing up to about 5"x20" which is not ideal for those with limited space in and around their packs. I end up stuffing the pad inside my sleeping bag because the pad does not have anything on it for abrasion to help the bag stay in place. If you place this on a tarp on a slight hill you will slide off.

Overall this pad is a good pad, but not exceptional, you get what you pay for.

Source: received it as a personal gift

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Specs

Price Historic Range: $28.00-$89.99
Product Details from ALPS Mountaineering »

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