Therm-a-Rest RidgeRest

Summary

This keeps not only the rocks from poking me, but also keeps me insulated from the cold ground. This made my AT thru hike much more enjoyable.

During the cooler nights, it is always nice to have some sort of insulating pad to lay on to help keep you warm.

This pad is very warm and durable for the price and weight. It is not as comfortable as my self-inflating Thermarest, but it is much lighter, and at 20 bucks I can replace it if something catastrophic happens.

I like this pad because it can also be cut into splints for backwoods emergencies, which saves me weight in my first aid kit. It could probably also be used for a number of things I haven't considered.

It is more durable that I would expect for what it is and how much it costs. On a recent weekend bushwhack through some thick underbrush, it got a bit shredded on the edges while tied to my pack, but considering the crap I was climbing through, I was really impressed. Not to mention, it was still comfortable that night. Damaging an open cell Thermarest means you're sleeping on the ground.

This is 5/8 inch corrugated closed cell foam pad. I am reviewing the one that is called 3/4 length (and not the Deluxe model). It is 5/8" x 20" x 48" and weighs only 9 ounces. I have many pads but this is my favorite, except in winter when I use the 72" model from Cascade Designs.

It is 100% durable, can't puncture like inflated pads. It is light at 9 ounces and it provides adequate comfort.

I know that is somewhat subjective, but I should say that because of the corrugations, this is much better than the older "blue foam" closed cell foam pads we used to use. It is bulky, but that doesn't bother me at all, I simply strap it on the outside of my backpack. I have used in on frozen ground and it was (just) adequate.

COMFORT TIPS: You will need to inspect the area you sleep on and remove all sticks and stones. If it is quite cold put some clothing under your feet (inside the bag). For me it is the perfect compromise between comfort and weight.

I didn't give it a full 5 stars because inflatable pads are more comfortable, and flat closed cell foam pads can be lighter. For $15 you might want to try this out. I think you will like it if carry weight is of any concern to you.

It's like sleeping on a grill. It's so warm! At 9oz it couldn't be any warmer for the weight.

The bulk, however, is a little out of control. This thing does not compress for crap! I'm pretty quick to throw things out of the pack because they are too heavy OR too bulky, but this my one freebie super bulky item because it's so light, warm and comfortable. It's hard to beat the price.

You could also use it to make a splint or use it as a flotation device.

This pad is very comfortable (even on roots). My only complaint is the size. It was a little bit bigger than a professional football at the biggest point, no matter how tight I roll it. I assume it is because of the fact that it is closed-cell. Enjoy!

It's cheap and it works, but the bulk is just too much. I have switched to an Ensolight pad, which works just as well but packs down a wee bit smaller. Foam (non-inflatable) pads can always be depended upon, but they are a pain to carry.

In snow, the ridges tend to accumulate condensation. The Ensolight is smooth and sheds the wet stuff.

I have used a RidgeRest for years and have been completely satisfied. I have an older short pad for summer and a newer long wide one for colder nights. I have camped on the ice of a hockey rink with it and not been the slightest bit cold.

Overall you can't beat simple technology that won't fail you.

For $20 bucks you get a comfortable, lightweight and warm sleeping pad. I've used both the egg shell one and the Ridge-Rest and found that they are both equally comfortable. However the egg shell is not as warm as the Ridge-Rest during late fall/winter/early spring overnighters. Plus you’re paying less for a better product, Score!! 4 Thumbs

i have owned the same pad for over 10 years and it hasn't failed me yet. It is light and does the job. 0 deg f to 100 deg f and it always works.

Light, comfy, can't get leaks.

Mine only lasted me about three years, but I camp a lot. I really have no complaints.