⚙Gear Links⚙ -$40 Pad: amzn.to/42Z0hYZ -$40 Pad w/Pumpsack: amzn.to/3T8olV3 -$40 Pad Pumpsack: amzn.to/3IRcFRX -$100 Pad: shrsl.com/4bwl4 -$100 Pad Pumpsack: shrsl.com/4g9af -$150 Pad Amazon: amzn.to/49SQ0k4 -$150 Pad REI: bit.ly/3v5lUdJ -Go-to (budget) Inflatable Pillow: amzn.to/4a54PAy -Go-to (budget) Camp pillow: amzn.to/46Ho54b Thermodrop thermometer: bit.ly/ThermoDrop 🏕 👉 Help Support AND Shape Dose of Dirt through Patreon: www.patreon.com/DoseofDirt Some of the links above are affiliate links. Buying things with the links doesn’t change the amount you pay, but helps support the channel since Dose of Dirt would receive a percentage of the sale. Using the links is a free and easy way to support Dose of Dirt so I can continue bringing you great content!
Thanks, brother! Ya, it's crazy that one of the more popular sleeping pads costs more than most of the tents I own! I've shelled out for a few pieces of gear but I'm super selective about it because so often the budget option works great and you save tons of money!
Excellent. I got the Big Agnes Rapide SL Long & Wide last year with the REI 20% coupon and rewards membership and used it all last year and have the same consensus: its been great. I recently picked up a Flextail Zero Pump which comes with an adapter for even quicker inflates. Love the content, keep it up!
I bet that BA Rapide SL Long & Wide version is SUPER comfortable. 78x25 is A LOT of room, throw in the 4 inch thickness and quilted top and I don't know if I'd ever wake up! 😆
I have the rapide SL wide and LOVE IT! Buy once, cry once. So comfy and has been holding up extremely well in the last 18 months. You really might consider exchanging yours for the wide and tall version, which my husband has. It is rather heavy for backpacking, but in this case I think sleep comfort is more important for me.
Ya, I wish I had bought it at REI. If so, I would probably exchange it for the Long version. UnfortunatelyI got it off Amazon. 🤦♂ I still may get the long version as well if I catch a good sale. I often take a kid with me, so having two Rapides wouldn't be the worst thing! Glad to hear it's been holding up for 18months+. I"m excited to really put it through it's paces this year. I can already tell I'm going to love it! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences!
But...have you tried taping those white and blue Amazon bubble envelopes together? A truly budget friendly option. R value .25 (probably) I have done this... Although I have not tested it yet 😂 And I also truly enjoy that you understand what budget means. I just saw a video where a pack costing $289 was a steal.
I have or have had all of these and you're absolutely right! Can't go wrong with any of them. I've found all my BA pads to be the most comfortable insulated pads. A little info for those wanting a pump sack, but I don't want to pay for one or don't like the weight. I use a nylofume pack liner that doubles as my pump sack. I'm all for finding added uses for things I'm already carrying. Helps keep the weight down. Once you get used to using the pack liner as a pump sack, it becomes very easy, and man, can it pump up a pad quickly. As always, another great video with very valuable information!
Glad you've had similar experience on these pads! I would love to hear more about how you use a nylofume liner as a pump sack. I can't figure out in my head how that works, but sounds like an amazing idea!
@@DoseofDirt It's simple really. Once you get a bag full of air, close it up with one hand. With the thumb and pointer finger of the hand holding the bag closed, grip under the inlet valve tightly. Slowly loosen the grip your other 3 fingers have on the bag and squeeze the bag toward your pad using your chest. It takes a little practice but you can do it even with a normal household garbage bag. Once you get used to doing it, you will fill any pad in no time at all. I learned it from a local youtuber. I will see if I can find the video he showed this. If so, I will put the link here even though you will have to type it manually from there.
got the trekology for 28$ on sale on walmart online. Safe to say I am quite happy w the pad! (does take a hot second to blow up tho) but that's bc I used to just use closed cell foam
Great review! I've definitely bought my share of $35 Amazon pads that were not even worth blowing up. I did get a Big Agnes for $100, a budget pad compared to the $250 + and that $100 Big Agnes was worth every cent.
R-Values based on the ASTM standard are misleading, especially for the thicker-ended pads. The ASTM method does not account for advection/mixing of the air space within the pad when you move around resulting in cold spots. For example, I have the Sea-to-Summit Etherlight XT (R=3.2). While definitely a comfortable pad, I felt the R value was closer to a 2-2.5. The air inside and close to the sidewalls and exposed areas of the pad (outside of your bodyprint) will interact with the air in your tent and cool it down. Whenever I moved around, this cold air I found makes its way to under my body resulting in a cool down of the pad and sensation. This is where the Thermarest X-Lite/NXT has this covered I feel with their triangular matrix baffles really does minimize this problem. I think the X-Lite/NXT seems to be the standard every other manufacturer measures against especially when it comes to warmth/weight. It's expensive for a good reason. If you sleep like a log or sleep warm then maybe you'd be better off. I can only speak for myself; but restless folk like me (unfortunately) definitely notice.
Ok this is interesting! I hadn't thought about how the R value might not be as applicable for thicker pads. That makes sense though based on how they do the tests. I wonder if they've thought about changing the approach to the test to take this better into account. As you said, Thermarest (who I believe helped come up with the standard) would really shine based on their designs.
I bought BIG AGNES RAPIDE SL and used it last week for the first time - it was around 0 celsius outside and (very unpleasant surprise) I felt cold. It seemed like the pad is full of cold air and no insulation, it was cold at the pressure point where my body touched the pad. I did not see if the reflective film fell on to the ground, but it felt like that. I did a ton of research before buying one and nobody mentioned any warmth problems. Is the reflective film problem has ALL THE RAPID SL pads or just few, should I send it to warranty? What do you think? Thank you.
Dang! I hate to hear that you had this experience with this pad! If you got it from REI you can return it no questions asked. If you got it somewhere else, you could try contacting BA to see if they would do anything. It seems possible that it might be defective.
Thanks, Matthew! Too many videos out there pushing expensive gear when budget items will work just fine. I have no doubt a $250 sleeping pad is "better", but for so many of us a $40 pad will do everything we need/want!
“That range from budget to ‘claim you got it on sale, expensive’” I bursted out laughing at that 😂 I think we all know people who’ve done that (or we may have done it ourselves before 😅)
I love the way you actually utilized video to not just tell us what you were talking about, but showed us what you were talking about. Plus the quip about $200 "budget" suggestions from other youtubers, I couldn't help but like and subscribe. Keep it up!
You are the peoples champ my man, I completely agree that nothing for 200$ is really budget friendly hahaha! Thank you so much for all this info as im cramming for a trip ! So I need to get some stuff on amazon quickly !! Thanks again man (: !!!
Just bought the Trekology pad based on your video here. For as often as I camp, which is fairly rare unfortunately, I don't need a $1000 setup. I'm very much a budget conscious spender. "Camping, where you spend a fortune to live like a homeless person."
D of D, good stuff amigo !!! I'm not a big guy but i use a 27" wide, long , 6.5 pad uz not only am a side sleeper but i have tossed n turned since i was in mom waiting to exit n hit the ground :). Ps.. 4 me, Trekology also has great help and warranty service to customers 😊. ATB amino !!!
The editing and production quality on this video are excellent! Really great work! Also, for anyone tempted to scoff at the 5oz weight for the Trekology pump sack, it has a 30 liter capacity, has a roll top closure, and the valve opening can be sealed, so it does a very respectable job of doubling as a stuff sack/pack liner. Not waterproof though, so I wouldn't rely on it as your only method of keeping gear dry in sustained rain.
Hey! Thanks for the kind words! Much appreciated, brother! And thanks for the additional info about the Trekology pump sack. Always awesome when gear has multiple uses!
You definitely just sold me on the treckology pad! I currently have the Klemit Static V but it's not quite comfortable enough for me. I live in south Louisiana so R value is not a vactor since it rarely gets colder than 40° here.
I think UA-cam campers are drunk on the top gear koolaid. I bet some of the Amazon stuff would do just as well if the campers were blindfolded and didn’t know which was which.
Anybody have experience with both the Trekology UL80 and the Unigear Campfy 3P ?? Just wondering which is better.... both around same price & seem to get the best reviews for "budget" pads
I am 6’4”, 250. For the love of Jesus! Would somebody please tell me a brand/model that would not make me feel like the equivalent of a fat guy in a little coat of a sleeping pad!?
I never camp in the cold, California camping mostly. I am looking for comfort as I am finally saying bye to my air mattress for convenience. I saw trekology UL140, any info? I don’t need super light weight etc. most confirm in a sleeping pad at under $60
I rarely tent, but I've been very happy with this pad. It's used mostly when I sleep in my Jeep or in the summer in my hammock. I does have the bowling bumpers like on your UL80. When it comes time to replace, I would like to upgrade to a 30" wide pad as the 25" pad is not quite wide enough when sleeping on my back. This one is currently 3" but upgrading to 4" would be good too. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir® Camper Wavecore Sleeping Pad with Electric Pump R-Value: 2.5 Dimensions (LxWxH): 76x25x3" $69 (clearance) 32oz (pad, stuff sack, electric pump w/batt) 29.6oz w/out pump 28.3oz pad only
Nice! Those bowling bumpers make such a differnece for me! Also, I've never known what to call them until now. You nailed it! Every time you mention hammock camping I really want to try it. One of these days!
I got the Paria and love it. But interest in the Trekology pad for my scout troop. I think it would make and excellent budget friendly suggestion! Thanks so much.
NICE! So glad you love the Paria as well! I've got two and they BOTH see a lot of use! Trekology is perfect for scouts! Durable and comfortable and pretty light! And at $40 you won't be too made when they jump on it or accidentally sleep with their pocket knife open. lol!
Ya, there are a lot of pads out there that try to give a good estimate and many that I'm afraid just give a higher number to sell more. I always appreciate official ratings. Gives me confidence with out trial and error!
that air release stare lmao great stuff. and excellent review style here. simple, live action demos with important stats on sizing with a reference to your size to boot. super helpful stuff. and im 6'2" 185 and sleep fully stretched out so finding something that will work while i flop around all night is important. your size references were very helpful.
Nice one Jeff! I took advantage of the same REI sale and just nabbed the Exped 1R Ultra. Around 14ozs for $108 and the long/wide version. Horizontal baffles are the least comfortable for me. I have the prior version of the Trekology pad that's around the same size but only 19ozs. I think they went with a thicker denier nylon for the latest version. But it's not comfy for me. My Nemo Tensor or S2S Ether Lite XT (non-insulated) are the most comfortable with their waffle and quilted designs. The Exped will be my first time trying vertical baffles.
NICE! Looking forward to how you like th Exped. I know some people LOVE the vertical baffles/air chambers. I tried on pad with them and it wasn't for me, but I've got a buddy who loves them!
Looking get a new backpacking bag. I need three season preferably lighter bag as I pack a lot of fishing gear. Probably ~ a 30° bag. I would prefer sub 100$ but would entertain anything less than 150 if it’s “perfect” (light,compact, and the right temp rating). Any recommendations?
One I recently picked up and have been enjoying is the Hyke & Byke Kathadin 0 (the comfort rating is 32 degrees). It's about $100 and has worked well for me!
So if i wer to combine a ul80 with a sheet of refectix big bubble would i be good down to zero. Would the reflectix be better under the pad or under my sleeping bag?
I've used one of the foil survival blanket under my UL80 and it did help. I also bought a cheap closed cell mat with the silver reflective on one side. This adds around 2R-value which would be fine for three Seasons.
do you think putting a Mylar blanket or a another reflective pad under the UL40 would make it considerably warmer? im considering it but i would like to be able to do semi cold conditions around 35-50 and would like a possible way to maybe make it warmer
I have heard different things about using a space blanket under the pad. It seems like it should help, but I also think when it's directly on the ground it takes some of the effectiveness away because some of the heat gets sucked out by the ground rather than being reflected back to you. I've racking my brain trying to think of an objective way to test this approach, but haven't come up with anything yet.
Great review of the three options! Agree on the Trekology comfort, tried the recharge but too cold for me in the spring and fall and have the Rapide which is a favorite - sleeps much warmer IMO. I think the next REI sale is coming up this weekend. If it’s a good deal, would be curious to hear your take on the Helix. Cheers!
The Rapide is just so dang comfortable, right?! I'm definitely going to keep my eye out for sales. I'm interested in how the Helix compares to the Rapide. It's a big heavier, but has a different baffling structure and should also be a touch warmer.
I just discovered your channel and I can't thank you enough for focusing on quality AND budget friendly gear. It is really appreciated since I'm starting my backpacking journey. Have you ever tried Mountain Warehouse gear? I've seen really good comments about their sleeping bag and they are crazy cheap!
Purchased the trekology based on your earlier review. Definitely worth buying. Although I don’t use it for backpacking. It worked great for my car trip. Coupled with my military sleeping bag. I had some amazing sleep.
Thanks for the nice, quiet, laid-back review. I never sleep on anything less that 25" wide, so for me your prices don't work. The Rapide XL Wide Regular comes in at $194 on Amazon right now. The Trekology doesn't make a wide pad, and Paria's pad is also only 23". I'm sorry to see you "burned" REI's Helix sleeping pad. While the regular price is $169, it goes on sale often and you can apply your membership benefits to it to lower the price. All three of their sizes cost the same, BTW. At 3" thick and only 24" wide, it may not be quite as thick, but its R value of 4.9 is great, and the quilted design offers comfort. I think it fits in your "budget" concept as long as you get it on sale. (Full disclosure - I do NOT own one, but it's high on my list.)
NICE! I will definitley have to look into the Helix! If you watch the sales at REI then you can get some seriously good deals. I couldn't believe when I grabbed a screen shot of the RApide SL for the video and it was actually on sale for $105 (I pad $150 for mine on Amazon!). Part of me is afraid to try a 25 inch wide pad because I'm not sure I could ever go back to anything more narrow! 🤣
@@DoseofDirt REI Member Sale on now (3/15). Picked up the Helix pad for $135 plus tax. Looking forward to trying it out. And don't worry - the pad is only 24" wide, so you're safe!
Great video! (videos) looking to get into more adventurous stuff and you explain everything super clear and direct. Also do appreciate that you are sitting down talking about the subject instead of doing it while hiking and or switching clips of places on hikes the entire time, there is no way my adhd brain can take any information that way
Ive had my trekology for several years no regrets. I have upgraded to a larger car camping pad this year and am excited for better sleep when not on a trail
NICE! Ya, my trekology has seen some USE and I've never regretted buying it. I'll admit that like you I take something much bulkier when car camping (I have one of those 3 inch foam pads from home depot. Sometimes I even take two! ha!). But for backpacking, I just don't think you can get anything more comfortable than the Trekology for $40!
I hate it when I watch a video where they claim they are going to share a "budget" option and it ends up being absolutely NOT budget friendly. Disappointing every time!
I sleep cold and camping in high altitude I need more insulation also because I’m no spring chicken, don’t backpack, tent and sleep on a cot otherwise it’ll take me forever to get up from the ground lol. I have that Big Agnes and love it but out of curiosity and because I’m a camping gear junkie I purchased the Onetigris Obsidian, not as thick as the Big Agnes but with a higher R value, The price was $80 a few months ago, I haven’t tried it on the field but as mentioned in other video I’m getting ready to go to Yosemite in mid April, is going to be cold so I’ll be able to test it. As usual you made a great video and thanks for reviewing budget friendly gear.
I wish I could get my hand son a OneTigris Obsidian! They aren't on amazon and are currently only available for pre-order on the OneTigris site. Looking forward to hearing how the pad works for you!
@@DoseofDirt I got mine in Amazon, maybe they’re sold out now but hopefully they’ll get more at the same price I paid. I will definitely let you know, I’m looking forward to my trip since I haven’t been to Yosemite in about 4 years and is kind of my birthday present from me to me lol. I’ll be 67…..ouch.
Great vid Finally someone hits the nail: sleeping pads at 150,- oder backpacks at 200,- aren't budget friendly ! Thank you for that! 👍👍 What's your opinion about the Onetigris Obsidian? For me it looks like a good midrange pad with a great R-value but I'm still thinking bout buying the Trekology first 🤔
I haven't had a chance to test the Obsidian. I keep checking to see when I can actually order one (right now they are on pre-order). I'm excited to try it out! If the R value is as high as they say it is then that will be amazing for the price of $80. I'm interested to try sleeping on it because I worry about the dimple design sometimes. Maybe it's just because I'm a bigger guy and a side sleeper, but sometimes I can feel the ground under my hip or shoulder with that kind of design. So, I guess you could say I'm cautiously optimistic and looking forward to getting my hands on one! It's double the cost of the Trekology, but should also be double the warmth!
@@DoseofDirt Thanks for the quick response 🤘 And yes, that's exactly my guess: if it's really double the warmth, it should be worth that price (because it also has the pump sack included)
I bought the big Agnes and also bought the one you said was really comfortable Trekologhy My honest opinion both of them are as comfortable as sleeping on a hard piece of plywood. But then I bought a oneTigris Obsidian and it is not only comfortable it is as well really warm I love it!
I’m in the UK so it doesn’t get mega cold for long in winter..I use my UL80 for warm summer nights and flextail zero mummy for winter…and for £100 you simply cant beat it
Take hand warmers to make up for low r value. Use a bed sheet to cover the plasticy feeling. Put a nonsplip drawer mat between the mattress and the sleeping bag
Thanks to you I am introduced to the Paria brand. Still waiting for them to restock the Double wide Recharge XL. I did bought their Y Stakes the other and they are very high quality. As for the pillows I'm going to go with your link for the Teton. Been subscribed for a while.
Can't tell you how many times I've thought this about Trekology! I just wish they would make an insulated version! Maybe change to a 20D Nylon for the material to save some weight and then throw some insulation or reflective material in there for a higher R value pad. I would LOVE that! I wasn't aware Gear Doctors started making a bigger version. I'm intruiged!
I bought the trekology on your recommendation a year ago, and it didn't perform as I expected. I figured it was the pad, so I bought the big agnes rapide wide and long. To be completely honest, after a few times on both of these pads, they're actually much more similar than I thought they would be. The rapide is indeed more comfortable, and it's easier to dial in to get exactly what I want in terms of inflation comfort/warmth ratio. Really it came down to, I'm a big dude, and am a side sleeper. My hips almost always hurt. Now that I hike in with an ultralite cot, and a closed cell mat, I can finally get nights without hip pain, but the magic item was NOT the rapide, it was the whole kit together. From another un-biased person, the trekology is great for fit-ish / non-fat people, which is probably most of you.
Thanks for sharing your experience! Although I hate to hear that the Trekology didn't work for you (especially when you bought it at my recommendation. Sorry!). BUT I'm seriously glad you shared this hear to help others make a good purchase decision. Glad you got a system that works for you!
@@DoseofDirtThanks! I also want to be clear, I'm not disappointed in the purchase, after going out more, I appreciate your recommendation more and more, so I'll continue to go primarily with your recommendations above literally any other youtuber/reviewer :)
You should test out the Near Zero Insulated Pad . I'm curious about it because it seems like it has potential to be a better option than the the Paria Recharge at a similar price but I haven't seen much feedback about it yet.
My wife and I went with the Rapide SL, and it's insane how comfortable this thing is! We're coming from really cheap flat amazon pads. This is going to make sleeping so much better!
@@DoseofDirtOh yeah, we also caught them on sale for a little over $100 😎so it was even better, haha. Upgrading our tent next. 🤞Also, this is the first time I caught your channel. Liked and subscribed!
⚙Gear Links⚙
-$40 Pad: amzn.to/42Z0hYZ
-$40 Pad w/Pumpsack: amzn.to/3T8olV3
-$40 Pad Pumpsack: amzn.to/3IRcFRX
-$100 Pad: shrsl.com/4bwl4
-$100 Pad Pumpsack: shrsl.com/4g9af
-$150 Pad Amazon: amzn.to/49SQ0k4
-$150 Pad REI: bit.ly/3v5lUdJ
-Go-to (budget) Inflatable Pillow: amzn.to/4a54PAy
-Go-to (budget) Camp pillow: amzn.to/46Ho54b
Thermodrop thermometer: bit.ly/ThermoDrop
🏕 👉 Help Support AND Shape Dose of Dirt through Patreon: www.patreon.com/DoseofDirt
Some of the links above are affiliate links. Buying things with the links doesn’t change the amount you pay, but helps support the channel since Dose of Dirt would receive a percentage of the sale. Using the links is a free and easy way to support Dose of Dirt so I can continue bringing you great content!
Dude your gear reviews hit home so good with us peasants that can’t afford Nemo and hyperlite everything
Thanks, brother! Ya, it's crazy that one of the more popular sleeping pads costs more than most of the tents I own! I've shelled out for a few pieces of gear but I'm super selective about it because so often the budget option works great and you save tons of money!
“Peasant” lol seriously tho 🥲💀
Excellent. I got the Big Agnes Rapide SL Long & Wide last year with the REI 20% coupon and rewards membership and used it all last year and have the same consensus: its been great. I recently picked up a Flextail Zero Pump which comes with an adapter for even quicker inflates. Love the content, keep it up!
I bet that BA Rapide SL Long & Wide version is SUPER comfortable. 78x25 is A LOT of room, throw in the 4 inch thickness and quilted top and I don't know if I'd ever wake up! 😆
I have the rapide SL wide and LOVE IT! Buy once, cry once. So comfy and has been holding up extremely well in the last 18 months. You really might consider exchanging yours for the wide and tall version, which my husband has. It is rather heavy for backpacking, but in this case I think sleep comfort is more important for me.
Ya, I wish I had bought it at REI. If so, I would probably exchange it for the Long version. UnfortunatelyI got it off Amazon. 🤦♂
I still may get the long version as well if I catch a good sale. I often take a kid with me, so having two Rapides wouldn't be the worst thing!
Glad to hear it's been holding up for 18months+. I"m excited to really put it through it's paces this year. I can already tell I'm going to love it!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences!
I've had the UL80 since 2019 and it has never let me down. still use it to this day.
NICE! I've had mine almost as long and it has been through a lot! Love that pad!
But...have you tried taping those white and blue Amazon bubble envelopes together? A truly budget friendly option. R value .25 (probably) I have done this... Although I have not tested it yet 😂
And I also truly enjoy that you understand what budget means. I just saw a video where a pack costing $289 was a steal.
LOL! Ultralight AND budget friendly! 😂
I have or have had all of these and you're absolutely right! Can't go wrong with any of them. I've found all my BA pads to be the most comfortable insulated pads. A little info for those wanting a pump sack, but I don't want to pay for one or don't like the weight. I use a nylofume pack liner that doubles as my pump sack. I'm all for finding added uses for things I'm already carrying. Helps keep the weight down. Once you get used to using the pack liner as a pump sack, it becomes very easy, and man, can it pump up a pad quickly.
As always, another great video with very valuable information!
Glad you've had similar experience on these pads! I would love to hear more about how you use a nylofume liner as a pump sack. I can't figure out in my head how that works, but sounds like an amazing idea!
@@DoseofDirt It's simple really. Once you get a bag full of air, close it up with one hand. With the thumb and pointer finger of the hand holding the bag closed, grip under the inlet valve tightly. Slowly loosen the grip your other 3 fingers have on the bag and squeeze the bag toward your pad using your chest. It takes a little practice but you can do it even with a normal household garbage bag. Once you get used to doing it, you will fill any pad in no time at all. I learned it from a local youtuber. I will see if I can find the video he showed this. If so, I will put the link here even though you will have to type it manually from there.
@@DoseofDirt ua-cam.com/video/xud9BO9WUok/v-deo.htmlsi=UzDXwIUvU2tFhrYw
@@one2869 NICE! I'm stoked to try this!
I have last year’s model of this pad with a 4.2 R value and have taken it to 25F no problem. Very comfortable.
Nice! This makes me look forward to taking it into some cold weather even more!
Same experience with mine when taken down to the low teens, though i do sleep hot.
got the trekology for 28$ on sale on walmart online. Safe to say I am quite happy w the pad! (does take a hot second to blow up tho) but that's bc I used to just use closed cell foam
That's an awesome price! You're right that it takes a minute to blow up! haha! But the comfort is definitely worth it!
I have the Trekology pad as well and it is great!
Such a good pad for just $40. I almost can't believe it!
Great review! I've definitely bought my share of $35 Amazon pads that were not even worth blowing up. I did get a Big Agnes for $100, a budget pad compared to the $250 + and that $100 Big Agnes was worth every cent.
Thanks! Ya, finding the BA on sale for about $105 was awesome! Comfortable, warm, and light! Such an awesome combo!
I’m with you some people’s friendly budget is a lot more than mine. I’ll stick with the economy gear
Ya, "budget friendly" sure seems to be subjective these days!
R-Values based on the ASTM standard are misleading, especially for the thicker-ended pads. The ASTM method does not account for advection/mixing of the air space within the pad when you move around resulting in cold spots. For example, I have the Sea-to-Summit Etherlight XT (R=3.2). While definitely a comfortable pad, I felt the R value was closer to a 2-2.5. The air inside and close to the sidewalls and exposed areas of the pad (outside of your bodyprint) will interact with the air in your tent and cool it down. Whenever I moved around, this cold air I found makes its way to under my body resulting in a cool down of the pad and sensation. This is where the Thermarest X-Lite/NXT has this covered I feel with their triangular matrix baffles really does minimize this problem. I think the X-Lite/NXT seems to be the standard every other manufacturer measures against especially when it comes to warmth/weight. It's expensive for a good reason.
If you sleep like a log or sleep warm then maybe you'd be better off. I can only speak for myself; but restless folk like me (unfortunately) definitely notice.
Ok this is interesting! I hadn't thought about how the R value might not be as applicable for thicker pads. That makes sense though based on how they do the tests. I wonder if they've thought about changing the approach to the test to take this better into account. As you said, Thermarest (who I believe helped come up with the standard) would really shine based on their designs.
@@DoseofDirt Indeed, this is also something Justin Outdoors has noted as well (re large air-chambered pads).
this was a solid video and thank you.
Glad it was helpful! Thank you!
You should get a Exped Dura 8R. It's 123 right now.
Thanks for the tip!
@@DoseofDirt you're welcome!
I bought BIG AGNES RAPIDE SL and used it last week for the first time - it was around 0 celsius outside and (very unpleasant surprise) I felt cold. It seemed like the pad is full of cold air and no insulation, it was cold at the pressure point where my body touched the pad. I did not see if the reflective film fell on to the ground, but it felt like that. I did a ton of research before buying one and nobody mentioned any warmth problems. Is the reflective film problem has ALL THE RAPID SL pads or just few, should I send it to warranty? What do you think? Thank you.
Dang! I hate to hear that you had this experience with this pad! If you got it from REI you can return it no questions asked. If you got it somewhere else, you could try contacting BA to see if they would do anything. It seems possible that it might be defective.
TRUE budget gear… I appreciate your videos and the fact that you really do review budget gear
Thanks, Matthew! Too many videos out there pushing expensive gear when budget items will work just fine. I have no doubt a $250 sleeping pad is "better", but for so many of us a $40 pad will do everything we need/want!
“That range from budget to ‘claim you got it on sale, expensive’”
I bursted out laughing at that 😂 I think we all know people who’ve done that (or we may have done it ourselves before 😅)
haha! Guilty as charged!
I love the way you actually utilized video to not just tell us what you were talking about, but showed us what you were talking about. Plus the quip about $200 "budget" suggestions from other youtubers, I couldn't help but like and subscribe. Keep it up!
Thanks so much! I’m glad you liked the video! Thanks for subbing and being a part of Dose of Dirt!
You are the peoples champ my man, I completely agree that nothing for 200$ is really budget friendly hahaha! Thank you so much for all this info as im cramming for a trip ! So I need to get some stuff on amazon quickly !! Thanks again man (: !!!
Just bought the Trekology pad based on your video here. For as often as I camp, which is fairly rare unfortunately, I don't need a $1000 setup. I'm very much a budget conscious spender. "Camping, where you spend a fortune to live like a homeless person."
Hey hey! I hope the Trekology works out for you! I"ve loved mine and it has seen A LOT of use! No need to spend a fortune to enjoy the back country!
I grabbed the Trekology for bikepacking. I love it. I no longer bikepack in the winter so this one works perfectly for me.
Don’t forget that R value is additive. So you throw an R2 under an R4 pad and you get R6. I use that for budget winter camping.
Me too! I'll combine my CCF pad with my higher R-value inflatable for a nice warm sleep system in winter!
D of D, good stuff amigo !!! I'm not a big guy but i use a 27" wide, long , 6.5 pad uz not only am a side sleeper but i have tossed n turned since i was in mom waiting to exit n hit the ground :). Ps.. 4 me, Trekology also has great help and warranty service to customers 😊. ATB amino !!!
Great video. Was gonna go with the Paria but pulled the trigger on the Trekology based on this review. Couldn't pass up $40.
Hard to pass up a comfortable pad for $40!
Discussing actual budget gear!! $200 for a single item should not be the "cheap/budget" item at all!
totally agree!!
Excellent review. You've upped your production game. Well done.
Thanks, Garry! And thanks for noting the increased effort on production. It takes additional time, but I'm really happy with the result!
Any thoughts on the Big Agnes Divide pad? The insulated version is similar to the Rapide SL while a little less expensive
The editing and production quality on this video are excellent! Really great work!
Also, for anyone tempted to scoff at the 5oz weight for the Trekology pump sack, it has a 30 liter capacity, has a roll top closure, and the valve opening can be sealed, so it does a very respectable job of doubling as a stuff sack/pack liner. Not waterproof though, so I wouldn't rely on it as your only method of keeping gear dry in sustained rain.
Hey! Thanks for the kind words! Much appreciated, brother!
And thanks for the additional info about the Trekology pump sack. Always awesome when gear has multiple uses!
You definitely just sold me on the treckology pad! I currently have the Klemit Static V but it's not quite comfortable enough for me. I live in south Louisiana so R value is not a vactor since it rarely gets colder than 40° here.
I think UA-cam campers are drunk on the top gear koolaid. I bet some of the Amazon stuff would do just as well if the campers were blindfolded and didn’t know which was which.
Well said, when did 100-200 quid not eqate to a serious amount of money? Thanks for the review (for those of us who live in the real wolrd).
Anybody have experience with both the Trekology UL80 and the Unigear Campfy 3P ?? Just wondering which is better.... both around same price & seem to get the best reviews for "budget" pads
I am 6’4”, 250. For the love of Jesus! Would somebody please tell me a brand/model that would not make me feel like the equivalent of a fat guy in a little coat of a sleeping pad!?
Look into big agnes extra long extra wide models, they have larger baffles on the edges to keep you from rolling off
I never camp in the cold, California camping mostly. I am looking for comfort as I am finally saying bye to my air mattress for convenience.
I saw trekology UL140, any info? I don’t need super light weight etc. most confirm in a sleeping pad at under $60
just checking the reviews on the trekology ul80 pad and seen a review stating you reccoment that one lol
I rarely tent, but I've been very happy with this pad. It's used mostly when I sleep in my Jeep or in the summer in my hammock. I does have the bowling bumpers like on your UL80. When it comes time to replace, I would like to upgrade to a 30" wide pad as the 25" pad is not quite wide enough when sleeping on my back. This one is currently 3" but upgrading to 4" would be good too.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir® Camper Wavecore Sleeping Pad with Electric Pump
R-Value: 2.5
Dimensions (LxWxH): 76x25x3"
$69 (clearance)
32oz (pad, stuff sack, electric pump w/batt)
29.6oz w/out pump
28.3oz pad only
Nice! Those bowling bumpers make such a differnece for me! Also, I've never known what to call them until now. You nailed it!
Every time you mention hammock camping I really want to try it. One of these days!
Thank you for including Celsius in your videos.
Can't get the Paria Recharge XL in Germany, any other recs for ~100€/$?
I got the Paria and love it. But interest in the Trekology pad for my scout troop. I think it would make and excellent budget friendly suggestion! Thanks so much.
NICE! So glad you love the Paria as well! I've got two and they BOTH see a lot of use! Trekology is perfect for scouts! Durable and comfortable and pretty light! And at $40 you won't be too made when they jump on it or accidentally sleep with their pocket knife open. lol!
I appreciate you mentioning the ASTM rating. That’s the only rating I trust.
Ya, there are a lot of pads out there that try to give a good estimate and many that I'm afraid just give a higher number to sell more. I always appreciate official ratings. Gives me confidence with out trial and error!
Mid price but best i tryed is exped downmat lite 5 lw, i am a side sleeper with a dog in the bag
It's such a shame that Trekology doesn't have insulation
that air release stare lmao great stuff. and excellent review style here. simple, live action demos with important stats on sizing with a reference to your size to boot. super helpful stuff. and im 6'2" 185 and sleep fully stretched out so finding something that will work while i flop around all night is important. your size references were very helpful.
Nice one Jeff! I took advantage of the same REI sale and just nabbed the Exped 1R Ultra. Around 14ozs for $108 and the long/wide version. Horizontal baffles are the least comfortable for me. I have the prior version of the Trekology pad that's around the same size but only 19ozs. I think they went with a thicker denier nylon for the latest version. But it's not comfy for me. My Nemo Tensor or S2S Ether Lite XT (non-insulated) are the most comfortable with their waffle and quilted designs. The Exped will be my first time trying vertical baffles.
NICE! Looking forward to how you like th Exped. I know some people LOVE the vertical baffles/air chambers. I tried on pad with them and it wasn't for me, but I've got a buddy who loves them!
love you brother! saving me hours of research!
mellow, scientific, realistic. subscribed.
Looking get a new backpacking bag. I need three season preferably lighter bag as I pack a lot of fishing gear. Probably ~ a 30° bag. I would prefer sub 100$ but would entertain anything less than 150 if it’s “perfect” (light,compact, and the right temp rating). Any recommendations?
One I recently picked up and have been enjoying is the Hyke & Byke Kathadin 0 (the comfort rating is 32 degrees). It's about $100 and has worked well for me!
2:54 what about unigear Camfy P3?
WHY 57 cm wide, damn, why so narrow ?
So if i wer to combine a ul80 with a sheet of refectix big bubble would i be good down to zero. Would the reflectix be better under the pad or under my sleeping bag?
I've used one of the foil survival blanket under my UL80 and it did help. I also bought a cheap closed cell mat with the silver reflective on one side. This adds around 2R-value which would be fine for three Seasons.
do you think putting a Mylar blanket or a another reflective pad under the UL40 would make it considerably warmer? im considering it but i would like to be able to do semi cold conditions around 35-50 and would like a possible way to maybe make it warmer
I have heard different things about using a space blanket under the pad. It seems like it should help, but I also think when it's directly on the ground it takes some of the effectiveness away because some of the heat gets sucked out by the ground rather than being reflected back to you. I've racking my brain trying to think of an objective way to test this approach, but haven't come up with anything yet.
Great review of the three options! Agree on the Trekology comfort, tried the recharge but too cold for me in the spring and fall and have the Rapide which is a favorite - sleeps much warmer IMO. I think the next REI sale is coming up this weekend. If it’s a good deal, would be curious to hear your take on the Helix. Cheers!
The Rapide is just so dang comfortable, right?! I'm definitely going to keep my eye out for sales. I'm interested in how the Helix compares to the Rapide. It's a big heavier, but has a different baffling structure and should also be a touch warmer.
I just discovered your channel and I can't thank you enough for focusing on quality AND budget friendly gear. It is really appreciated since I'm starting my backpacking journey. Have you ever tried Mountain Warehouse gear? I've seen really good comments about their sleeping bag and they are crazy cheap!
Hey! So glad you found the channel! I unfortunately have not had a chance to try Mountain Warehouse gear, but have heard good things!
Purchased the trekology based on your earlier review. Definitely worth buying. Although I don’t use it for backpacking. It worked great for my car trip. Coupled with my military sleeping bag. I had some amazing sleep.
NICE! Ya, I use it for things other than backpacking as well. It's great!
Which would you use in fall on a cot
I love my exped megamat, but it is quite heavy for hiking. Thanks for making this video, will consider these alternatives.
Have heard good things about exped!
Thanks for the great Video. Finally a good review also for noch rich people.
Thank you!
Thanks for the nice, quiet, laid-back review. I never sleep on anything less that 25" wide, so for me your prices don't work. The Rapide XL Wide Regular comes in at $194 on Amazon right now. The Trekology doesn't make a wide pad, and Paria's pad is also only 23". I'm sorry to see you "burned" REI's Helix sleeping pad. While the regular price is $169, it goes on sale often and you can apply your membership benefits to it to lower the price. All three of their sizes cost the same, BTW. At 3" thick and only 24" wide, it may not be quite as thick, but its R value of 4.9 is great, and the quilted design offers comfort. I think it fits in your "budget" concept as long as you get it on sale. (Full disclosure - I do NOT own one, but it's high on my list.)
NICE! I will definitley have to look into the Helix! If you watch the sales at REI then you can get some seriously good deals. I couldn't believe when I grabbed a screen shot of the RApide SL for the video and it was actually on sale for $105 (I pad $150 for mine on Amazon!). Part of me is afraid to try a 25 inch wide pad because I'm not sure I could ever go back to anything more narrow! 🤣
@@DoseofDirt REI Member Sale on now (3/15). Picked up the Helix pad for $135 plus tax. Looking forward to trying it out. And don't worry - the pad is only 24" wide, so you're safe!
Great video! (videos) looking to get into more adventurous stuff and you explain everything super clear and direct. Also do appreciate that you are sitting down talking about the subject instead of doing it while hiking and or switching clips of places on hikes the entire time, there is no way my adhd brain can take any information that way
Thanks for the kind words! Exciting you're looking into getting more adventurous! Backpacking is my happy place, so I hope you enjoy it as well!
thank you so much! I'm sure I will, been craving more nature lately again@@DoseofDirt
Ive had my trekology for several years no regrets. I have upgraded to a larger car camping pad this year and am excited for better sleep when not on a trail
NICE! Ya, my trekology has seen some USE and I've never regretted buying it. I'll admit that like you I take something much bulkier when car camping (I have one of those 3 inch foam pads from home depot. Sometimes I even take two! ha!). But for backpacking, I just don't think you can get anything more comfortable than the Trekology for $40!
Its about time someone called out other gear channels calling things budget when they're not
I hate it when I watch a video where they claim they are going to share a "budget" option and it ends up being absolutely NOT budget friendly. Disappointing every time!
I sleep cold and camping in high altitude I need more insulation also because I’m no spring chicken, don’t backpack, tent and sleep on a cot otherwise it’ll take me forever to get up from the ground lol. I have that Big Agnes and love it but out of curiosity and because I’m a camping gear junkie I purchased the Onetigris Obsidian, not as thick as the Big Agnes but with a higher R value, The price was $80 a few months ago, I haven’t tried it on the field but as mentioned in other video I’m getting ready to go to Yosemite in mid April, is going to be cold so I’ll be able to test it. As usual you made a great video and thanks for reviewing budget friendly gear.
I wish I could get my hand son a OneTigris Obsidian! They aren't on amazon and are currently only available for pre-order on the OneTigris site. Looking forward to hearing how the pad works for you!
@@DoseofDirt I got mine in Amazon, maybe they’re sold out now but hopefully they’ll get more at the same price I paid. I will definitely let you know, I’m looking forward to my trip since I haven’t been to Yosemite in about 4 years and is kind of my birthday present from me to me lol. I’ll be 67…..ouch.
I have one and just looooove it! I totally agree with your description of it! 😉👍✨
So comfortable, right?!
Great video bro! I use the UL80 also and I can use that one all the way up to late fall!
Thank you! Ya, I use my UL80 pretty far into fall as well. I'm a warm sleeper and it's just so dang comfortable!
Great vid
Finally someone hits the nail: sleeping pads at 150,- oder backpacks at 200,- aren't budget friendly ! Thank you for that! 👍👍
What's your opinion about the Onetigris Obsidian?
For me it looks like a good midrange pad with a great R-value but I'm still thinking bout buying the Trekology first 🤔
I haven't had a chance to test the Obsidian. I keep checking to see when I can actually order one (right now they are on pre-order). I'm excited to try it out! If the R value is as high as they say it is then that will be amazing for the price of $80. I'm interested to try sleeping on it because I worry about the dimple design sometimes. Maybe it's just because I'm a bigger guy and a side sleeper, but sometimes I can feel the ground under my hip or shoulder with that kind of design. So, I guess you could say I'm cautiously optimistic and looking forward to getting my hands on one!
It's double the cost of the Trekology, but should also be double the warmth!
@@DoseofDirt Thanks for the quick response 🤘 And yes, that's exactly my guess: if it's really double the warmth, it should be worth that price (because it also has the pump sack included)
@@ArtaghVril yes! Hope I can test it out soon!
I bought the big Agnes and also bought the one you said was really comfortable Trekologhy My honest opinion both of them are as comfortable as sleeping on a hard piece of plywood. But then I bought a oneTigris Obsidian and it is not only comfortable it is as well really warm I love it!
I’m in the UK so it doesn’t get mega cold for long in winter..I use my UL80 for warm summer nights and flextail zero mummy for winter…and for £100 you simply cant beat it
Take hand warmers to make up for low r value. Use a bed sheet to cover the plasticy feeling. Put a nonsplip drawer mat between the mattress and the sleeping bag
Thanks to you I am introduced to the Paria brand. Still waiting for them to restock the Double wide Recharge XL. I did bought their Y Stakes the other and they are very high quality. As for the pillows I'm going to go with your link for the Teton. Been subscribed for a while.
That's odd, my UL80 is just over 19" wide, I wish it was 23! It would be comfortable if I could stay on it.
To bad Trekology doesn't have an insulated version.
I remember you tested the Gear Doctors pad, did you know they have a long/wide version now?
Can't tell you how many times I've thought this about Trekology! I just wish they would make an insulated version! Maybe change to a 20D Nylon for the material to save some weight and then throw some insulation or reflective material in there for a higher R value pad. I would LOVE that!
I wasn't aware Gear Doctors started making a bigger version. I'm intruiged!
@@DoseofDirt looks pretty much the same just bigger, was about 30% more $ on amazon last I checked.
It's currently on sale for $83 cad, don't know about USD.
I bought the trekology on your recommendation a year ago, and it didn't perform as I expected. I figured it was the pad, so I bought the big agnes rapide wide and long. To be completely honest, after a few times on both of these pads, they're actually much more similar than I thought they would be. The rapide is indeed more comfortable, and it's easier to dial in to get exactly what I want in terms of inflation comfort/warmth ratio. Really it came down to, I'm a big dude, and am a side sleeper. My hips almost always hurt. Now that I hike in with an ultralite cot, and a closed cell mat, I can finally get nights without hip pain, but the magic item was NOT the rapide, it was the whole kit together. From another un-biased person, the trekology is great for fit-ish / non-fat people, which is probably most of you.
Thanks for sharing your experience! Although I hate to hear that the Trekology didn't work for you (especially when you bought it at my recommendation. Sorry!). BUT I'm seriously glad you shared this hear to help others make a good purchase decision. Glad you got a system that works for you!
@@DoseofDirtThanks! I also want to be clear, I'm not disappointed in the purchase, after going out more, I appreciate your recommendation more and more, so I'll continue to go primarily with your recommendations above literally any other youtuber/reviewer :)
@@JRodosama Very kind of you! Can't tell you how grateful I am for your support!
Thanks for the review. I would love if you could add a small test about the noise it makes. Its one of the most annoying things while camping for me.
💪
You're going to have to do one of these videos covering the One Tigris Obsidian. Claims to have 5.2 R-value, 2lb, just shy of 25" wide, $80
Oh yeah, comes with a pump sack too
Such a great informative video. That's a lot of work for this video and appreciate the time and content.
Love my RECharge XL
So good, right?!
As a side sleeper who's poor, I thank you!
You should test out the Near Zero Insulated Pad . I'm curious about it because it seems like it has potential to be a better option than the the Paria Recharge at a similar price but I haven't seen much feedback about it yet.
Thanks for the recommendation. I'm not sure I was aware of this pad. I've added it to my list of potential gear to check out. Thanks again!
My wife and I went with the Rapide SL, and it's insane how comfortable this thing is! We're coming from really cheap flat amazon pads. This is going to make sleeping so much better!
AWESOME! Ya, the comfort of the Rapide is just so good! Between the thickness and the quilted construction, I love it!
@@DoseofDirtOh yeah, we also caught them on sale for a little over $100 😎so it was even better, haha. Upgrading our tent next. 🤞Also, this is the first time I caught your channel. Liked and subscribed!