User Review: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir

I have been eyeing reviews of the NeoAir mattress for a while, and decided to give it a try with the help of a gift certificate waiting to be used. I got a medium length pad (I'm a 5'9" male, 175lbs). I used it for the first time this week over three days in the high country of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington State.

I must say I was very impressed! Much more comfortable than my Prolite 3 pad. Some folks have thought the Neo fabric was 'noisy,' but that was not my reaction, especially when laying on it.

It took me about 20 puffs to blow up fully. Then, it held volume without any reduction for two consecutive nights in camp. Very nice cushioning. Whatever they coat the surface with is very effective at controlling slippage, yet isn't too sticky either.

All in all, while avoiding the expense for a while, it was a welcome surprise, at least for my 50-something bod.