View Full Version : Sleeping pad
Just wonder do you guys still use a sleeping pad in the warmer month on the trail
it would still be good when it rainging but i do have a lite weight tart i made it is
a 6 x 8 what to you think.
:confused:
I would still use a pad. This is light and comfortable:
http://www.gossamergear.com/cgi-bin/gossamergear/nightlight_torso.html?id=uTwsjygE:76.226.122.193
warraghiyagey
03-06-2009, 15:42
It's all in your comfort level dude. Most hikers I've seen have one regardless of the time of year, mine is one of the green foam, corrugated kind (I'm so NOT a gear guru) but I did hike with a guy this past summer that had an inflatable that was the same weight and gave a good three inches of air cushion. I'll look it up.:sun
warraghiyagey
03-06-2009, 15:44
This is a Big Agnes. . . about 6 oz. more than mine but looks similar to what the dude was carrying. I'll take those extra six ounces for the comfort and make up the difference by not carrying any pants. . .
http://content.backcountry.com/images/items/medium/BAG/BAG0011.jpg (http://www.backcountry.com/store/BAG0011/Big-Agnes-Air-Core-Sleeping-Pad.html#)
Chance09
03-06-2009, 15:51
I'll take those extra six ounces for the comfort and make up the difference by not carrying any pants. . .
pants aren't quite as multifunctional. Just think with a BA pad you also have a great lounger for floating around on in creeks while enjoying a nice cold brew.
warraghiyagey
03-06-2009, 15:53
pants aren't quite as multifunctional. Just think with a BA pad you also have a great lounger for floating around on in creeks while enjoying a nice cold brew.
Good point. . . nice signature btw. . .:sun
Hi yet i got the Therm-a-Rest Pro LE it weight in at 1lbs 6oz. still trying to cut a little more weight. now that i have to wait till May 4. do you bring a light weight pair of long underwear with you just in case it get a little cold at night. Right now with ever thing
incl. 5 days worth of food & water 2 liters my pack weight 38lbs. could cut the food down to 4 days i am petty sure i can make it to neel's in 3 days i walk petty fast ever with a pack and i been walking everwhere the past year to get ready for this hike. I can cover a mile in about 7 to 8 mins. that with out a pack. Thank
garlic08
03-06-2009, 16:01
I only met one hiker on the AT who was NOT using a pad. You don't have to, but most do.
chrishowe11
03-06-2009, 16:09
you would be surprised how much heat the ground will suck right out of you.
warraghiyagey
03-06-2009, 17:03
you would be surprised how much heat the ground will suck right out of you.
. . . and not in the good way . . .
I use a blue foam pad year round, but no ground sheet.
On day-hikes I bring a wool blanket and poncho/tarp instead, but on overnights always a foam pad.
For comfort I just try and find a good spot for my butt and put something under my knees.
The main thing is insulation from the ground, to stop heat loss and condensation.
warraghiyagey
03-06-2009, 17:16
The main thing is insulation from the ground, to stop heat loss and condensation.
How does that help protect one from the very negative effects of wind chill??
I meant the main function of a sleeping pad is to stop heat loss and condensation, not comfort.
High Life
03-06-2009, 17:37
you would be surprised how much heat the ground will suck right out of you.
that is the key .. even in warmer months the ground will steal your warmth
maxpatch67
03-06-2009, 17:42
Man, its gonna get old after a few nights with no pad. You'll be glad you're carring the pound.
I'm thinking you're a young man - old farts wouldn't even dream of going without a pad. My pad of choice has gotten thicker over the years - now I carry a BigAgnes insulated aircore, 2.5" thick. I still save weight by using the shortie pad.
Blissful
03-06-2009, 21:12
I only met one hiker on the AT who was NOT using a pad. You don't have to, but most do.
Yeah I met a vet who didn't either. Vets are tough stuff.
My son was happy with his z rest all the way through.
Me - BA insulated pad all the way.
Billygoatbritt
03-06-2009, 21:24
carry a pad. it will be well worth the small amount of weight for the comfort it provides.