by Alteknacker » Thu Mar 11, 2021 1:43 pm
I think your review shows that we all have slightly different priorities when we weigh up what sleeping pad to go for.
For me weight and size is a key consideration if I have to carry it on my (frail) shoulders, so I went for a small (= 3/4 size) Xlite, and have been very satisfied with it (though I haven't had to use it in really cold weather). It has a quoted R-value of 4.2, and it certainly feels very warm. It packs to a really small size, and weighs only 230gm, which seems pretty good to me.
If I don't have to carry my pad, then I have an Exped Synmat UL Winter, which is bigger and therefore a bit more comfortable, has a claimed R-value of 5.0 (and has proven to be very warm camping in winter), but weighs about 600gm.
I'm a side sleeper, and find both work well for me in this regards.
You mention bad memories of air beds, but these mats have a fine cellular construction, which means that in contrast to the traditional air bed, they insulate very well. So I don't feel the need for foam. If one wants to protect the mat against puncture or have a fall-back in case one gets a puncture when one isn't in a position to repair it, one can take a 10mm thick foam pad, which costs peanuts and doesn't really weigh anything either.
PS what's the winter bag you have?