View Full Version : Regular vs 3/4 sleeping pad
Stonewall
02-26-2007, 09:35
What is the benifit or down fall in owning one or the other.
Footslogger
02-26-2007, 09:44
It's all about weight and pack size. I own both lengths in both self inflator (thermarest) and Z-rest. I switched to the 3/4 length size going into my thru in 2003 and will never go back to a full length pad for backpacking. There is a difference in comfort between the inflator and egg crate foam mats and that is the key decision.
'Slogger
What is the benifit or down fall in owning one or the other.
For my purposes, the main reason for using the "3/4" is the weight savings. You can always find something to throw under your feet. The 3/4 length Thermarest Prolite 3 is 13 oz. I used one of the old/original Thermarests for many years. It's still fine but is several oz. heavier.
Stonewall
02-26-2007, 10:00
lol sorry looking at the ridge rest. I have a pro-lite 4 long which i won't be taking.
3/4 is usually plenty, and is, of course, lighter...unless you're going to be out in very cold weather and need the insulation.
Marta/Five-Leaf
The type of pack you choose may also impact the 3/4 vs full length decision, since many of the light weight frameless packs that use a sleeping pad against the backpanel (like my ULA Conduit) will only accept a 3/4 pad. But I suppose someone who has decided on such a lightweight pack has probably also decided on a 3/4 (or less) pad. I decided to purchase a full size Thermarest z-lite pad, cut off a few folding sections to make it a 3/4 and then I can always take the 1/4 piece along if I decide I need full coverage insulation for cold weather. (Let's see you self-inflator pad owners try that trick!:D )
soulrebel
02-26-2007, 12:43
no benefit or downfall--all of them are woefully inadequate when compared to a box spring mattress. hehe
Choose your poison. :) easier hiking vs. "more" comfortable sleeping. 3/4 length foam pad at 9oz is a decent compromise.
the goat
02-26-2007, 13:14
stonewall- i always use a 3/4 & i'm by no stretch an ultralighter. you olnly need it to go to your shoulders and there's always something you can throw under your feet (crocs, sandals, pack, etc.)
Stonewall
02-26-2007, 20:54
Thanks all going w/ the 3/4 Ridge rest found for $14.97
the goat
02-26-2007, 22:24
Thanks all going w/ the 3/4 Ridge rest found for $14.97
where the hell did you find that price!?!
Stonewall
02-26-2007, 22:34
at www.altrec.com (http://www.altrec.com/shop/detail/16778/?sch=clk) sale ends the 28th
downfall if your using a hammock and a down bag i found that out after one damp night using my down bag with a 3/4 length pad your legs will get cold... but as i found out later all you gotta do is chuck your backpack into the hammock with you and put it under your legs...