The Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm is a premium ultralight sleeping pad designed for cold-weather camping and backpacking enthusiasts. This review delves into the performance and features of this popular four-season pad, examining its build quality, inflation/deflation mechanism, and overall comfort during use. We'll explore its impressive R-value of 6.9, crucial for maintaining warmth in sub-freezing temperatures, and assess the effectiveness of Thermarest's innovative insulation technologies. We'll also discuss the pad's weight, packability, and durability, considering its suitability for various backpacking styles and adventures.This in-depth analysis will weigh the pros and cons of the NeoAir Xtherm, acknowledging its high price point while considering the value offered by its lifetime warranty. We'll discuss the user experience, focusing on factors like sleep stability, noise levels, and the ease of use of the WingLock valve system. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive assessment to help you decide if the Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm is the right ultralight sleeping pad for your needs and budget.
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm arrived in a compact box. Inside, I found the inflatable sleeping pad itself, a pump sack, and the instructions. The pad's size was surprisingly small for a pad designed for cold weather camping, slightly shorter and wider than a standard 32-ounce water bottle.
Initial impressions were positive. The pad felt durable and well-made. The lightweight nature was immediately apparent, highlighting its suitability for backpacking and ultralight adventures.
Inflation and Deflation
Inflation is achieved using the included pump sack and Thermarest's WingLock valve system. While functional, the valve system proved somewhat clunky. One-way inflation is enabled by turning the blue valve counter-clockwise.
Deflation involves turning the orange tabs counter-clockwise. Interestingly, a pre-roll is necessary to fully deflate the pad, potentially due to the insulation. Although not the quickest deflation process, it was manageable.
Features and Specifications
The regular NeoAir Xtherm retails for $229.95 and is manufactured in the United States using globally sourced materials. It weighs 15 ounces (425 grams), is 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) thick, and boasts an impressive R-value of 6.9, suitable for four-season use. This high R-value is due to ThermaCapture technology (reflective film) and a Triangular Core Matrix (minimizes air mixing).
It's available in regular, wide, and large sizes. The regular size is 72 inches (183 cm) long and 20 inches (51 cm) wide. The pad features 70D ripstop nylon for puncture resistance. The higher denier number indicates stronger fabric. Despite this, proper care is advised to avoid punctures.
Comfort and Performance
The pad's horizontal baffling provides excellent stability in the center, offering a comfortable night's sleep. However, towards the edges, stability diminishes, which might be an issue for active sleepers. The somewhat slippery material can cause sleeping bags or the pad itself to slide on inclined surfaces.
Despite the noisy “chip bag” sound, the pad's warmth is exceptional. The combination of insulation technologies keeps the user remarkably warm, a feature particularly beneficial in cold weather. The 2-inch thickness provided sufficient comfort without any bottoming out.
Overall Conclusion
The Thermarest NeoAir Xtherm is an excellent ultralight sleeping pad, especially for cold-weather camping and winter adventurers. Its warmth-to-weight ratio is impressive, providing a comfortable and warm sleep. While the price point is high, the lifetime warranty provides peace of mind.
However, the slippery material, edge instability, and noisy texture are drawbacks to consider. The WingLock valve is functional, but not ideal. For those prioritizing warmth above all else and willing to pay a premium, this pad is a strong contender. For summer campers or those on a tighter budget, alternative options might be more suitable.