Any lighter alternatives to foam-core pads?

Okay, so don’t roast me, but I’m hanging onto my foam-filled sleeping pad despite knowing it’s definitely on the heavier side. My pack is pretty light otherwise, so I’m fine with this one indulgence. I’m using the REI Trailbreak 3.5 right now (R-value is solid), but I wouldn’t mind finding something with a little more insulation without adding weight. It’s 1lb 8oz, so does anyone know of a foam-core inflatable pad that might be a bit lighter?

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I don’t think there’s much out there that’s significantly lighter and foam-filled, but I recently picked up the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus SI, and while it’s not much lighter, I think it’s more durable than the REI one.

Honestly, if the R-value is working for you, I wouldn’t worry too much about shaving a couple of ounces. That foam is comfy, and as long as the rest of your kit is light, what’s a few more grams, right? Maybe just stick with what you’ve got unless you’re planning some hardcore ultralight thru-hike.

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Have you considered the Exped SynMat UL Winter? It’s not foam, but it has an R-value around 5.0, so it’ll keep you warm for sure. It’s slightly lighter than your REI pad, but more of a cold-weather pad.

Yeah, I guess you’re right about the weight trade-off. I just get gear envy when I see people rocking those ultralight setups. But foam is life for me, :joy: :joy: :joy:.

You should also check out the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm. It’s super light (like 15 oz), and the R-value is 6.9. No foam, but that warmth-to-weight ratio is crazy good. You could save a bunch of weight with that switch.

Big Agnes Insulated Q-Core SLX is an inflatable option that’s pretty light and decently insulated, though it doesn’t have foam inside. It’s super comfortable though.

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I’ve actually looked at the Big Agnes stuff before but never pulled the trigger. Maybe I’ll give it a second guess. I’m stuck between foam and weight right now, but comfort is huge for me.