This review dives into the ALPS Mountaineering Outback self-inflating sleeping pad, examining its performance across key areas vital for comfortable and enjoyable outdoor adventures. We'll explore its dimensions and packability, assessing how this balance impacts portability on backpacking trips. Comfort levels after extended use, including the efficiency of the self-inflation feature and the overall sleep experience, will be thoroughly discussed. Finally, we'll delve into the pad's warmth rating (R-value) and its effectiveness in cold weather conditions, comparing it to alternative options. Price and value for money will also be considered, culminating in a comprehensive assessment of this self-inflating sleeping pad.This in-depth review covers the key features of the ALPS Mountaineering Outback sleeping pad, offering insights into its practicality and performance. We evaluate its size and packability for both backpacking and general camping, analyzing the comfort it provides during sleep. The sleeping pad's ability to retain heat and provide insulation from cold ground is assessed based on real-world usage, alongside a comparison to other similar products. Ultimately, this review aims to help you decide if the ALPS Mountaineering Outback is the right self-inflating sleeping pad for your needs and budget.
Pros And Cons
- Comfortable
- Packs down fairly small for its size
- Dual valves
- Self-inflates
- R-value of approximately 9.5, making it warm for cold nights
Read more: Thermarest vs Sea to Summit Winter Sleeping Pads: A Detailed Comparison
Size and Packability
The ALPS Mountaineering Outback self-inflating sleeping pad measures 80 inches by 32 inches by 4 inches. While it's a generous size for comfortable sleeping, its 4-inch thickness allows for surprisingly compact packing. I've found it packs down to a manageable size, probably around 10 by 32 inches, making it easy to transport on backpacking trips.
Despite its bulk, the pad packs down to a reasonable size for its thickness. This makes it a good balance between comfort and portability for various outdoor adventures. This is a key advantage for those valuing both comfort and ease of carrying.
Comfort and Features
After using this pad for about a year, I can confirm its comfort. The self-inflating feature is a significant time-saver, although it does take a minute or two to fully inflate. The dual valves on the end make inflation and deflation quick and easy.
The pad's comfort is a major plus. It provides excellent support, eliminating pressure points and ensuring a restful night's sleep, even on uneven terrain. The dual valves are a convenient and practical design feature.
Warmth and R-Value
The ALPS Mountaineering Outback sleeping pad boasts an R-value of approximately 9.5. This makes it incredibly warm and suitable for cold-weather camping. I've used it on chilly nights and found it to provide excellent insulation from the ground.
Compared to my previous Mega Mat (which unfortunately popped), I find this pad much more durable and reliable. The higher R-value ensures warmth, which is crucial for comfortable sleep in cold conditions.
Value and Final Verdict
At around $130, this pad offers excellent value for its comfort, packability, and warmth. Considering its features and performance, I believe it's a great option for those seeking a durable and comfortable self-inflating sleeping pad.
Overall, the ALPS Mountaineering Outback self-inflating sleeping pad is a highly recommended product. Its combination of comfort, packability, warmth, and affordability makes it an excellent choice for various camping and backpacking situations.
