The Good Bad and Ugly of Nemo's New Tensor Mattresses

[@melkerryberg]

In Sweden: summer is the best day of the year! Great video

[@AhmedK81]

🤣 🤣 🤣 Same in Norway

[@eric_hanson]

haha that's hilarious! Thanks!

Finland 😎🌅

[@OldNavajoTricks]

Just like Scotland 😂

[@thisbeem2714]

😂

[@maxinemead8918]

I have the older yellow Nemo Tensor Insulated (and also the orange "alpine" version, with a higher R rating.) A huge factor for me is how quiet an insulated air pad is -- I move around a lot when I sleep, and the "potato chip bag crunch" thing annoys the tar out of me, and will sometimes actually wake me up. These Tensors were the quietest pads I've ever tried, and they were sufficiently warm and comfortable and light, so I've stuck with them. Hopefully the "new and improved" versions have retained that relatively quiet feature.

[@markbenedict3279]

You made a common mistake gluing, I'm a truck driver and have to patch my tarps often. The right way is to apply the contact glue to both the patch and the other part then wait until both are dry then you contact the two parts, wait about another five min then paint the glue around the edges wait about 20 min and use.

[@eric_hanson]

Thanks for this! After my fail I did a little research and found I just needed to wait, like you say. But I thought I'd include my failure so others can learn too.

[@thisbeem2714]

Thank you. Because 8 have messed up the patching process way more times than I’d like to admit.

[@KirstenBayes]

I've had good luck with the old Nemo Tensor Insulated, so good to hear of these upgrades. I run cheap but good tent and sleeping bags, but have learnt with sleep mats it's really best to shop carefully and get the best you can, "buy once, cry once."

[@eric_hanson]

haha well said Kirsten!

[@wanderworm]

I think the point Justin Outdoors was trying to make in his video about the Nemo Tensor Extreme is that it needs to be reliable and if he’s out in extreme cold conditions he does not want to worry about shaking a mattress to get its layers correctly aligned.

[@mobilewintercamp7515]

Ya that seems ridiculous that the layers aren’t fixed

[@eric_hanson]

I definitely get that. A piece of equipment like this needs to be reliable in ultra cold conditions.

[@KaneDoesOutdoors]

@@eric_hanson When the temperature really drops the only thing that matters is reliability. I've pushed the TR Xtherms to below -35C and literally feel the warmth radiating on my back - it's crazy. If you feel a cold spot on your mattress at -20C (as an example), it's going to feel worse at -25C, bad at -30C, and downright miserable at -35C.

[@back40firstaidtraining53]

I’m so very disappointed in the Extreme. I’ve been sleeping in 3-5C (34F) temps over night. With a Zen 10 degree quilt. And I’m FEELING all the cold from the ground. I felt the same from my regular Tensor. So this Extreme is really disappointing…..and I’m concerned that Justin Outdoors was right.

[@Knilch58]

Everything is tested: Comfort, insulation, weight, pack size... But in the countless tests on the Internet, people almost never talk about the noise produced by the mattresses. For me, as a casual camper who is used to his bed, there would be nothing worse than a mattress that crackles and rustles with every movement.

[@kevinbleakley5069]

This was a Nemo review, not a Thermarest review lol

[@jwdundon]

If noise bothers you that you have been hiking very much when you're tired you'll be asleep when you count to 10 and you'll sleep all night long.... Sounds like you're looking for some confirmation bias to justify buying a different brand?

[@jon27d]

6:01 that shot of you holding both of those side by side is amazing. I will say, I don't like carrying my sleeping pads rolled up like that. I don't use a hydration bladder so I tend to fold my sleeping pad flat and slide it into the hydration bladder sleeve. Tends to take up very little room that way

[@SerenaBluee]

That's actually a great tip, I might have to try that myself.

[@bronwhite246]

That's an awesome idea, thanks

[@memathews]

Eric, you're more an expert than I, but there might be a chemical incompatibility between the Nemo patch fabric and the Gear Aid adhesive. Gear Aid puts out adhesives specifically for use with silicone-coated and non-silicone-coated fabrics, and the adhesives don't work if placed on the incorrect fabric. It's possible the Nemo patch fabric is silicone-coated on the "inside" and you need to use Seam Grip +Sil instead of Seam Grip +WP. Thanks for the solid sleeping pad application suggestions, I think the Extreme might reduce the weight of my sleeping on snow needs this spring and summer.

[@JarradShaw]

I love that you talked about Justin and Dev (great KZbin guys❤) You all have talked about in certain cases needing to REALLY inflate the pads to negate a person’s heavy hip area from compressing the air pads and making the insulation inside from falling or touching. I am sure Nemo has nailed it, but given it’s minimal design, in very cold situations you will need to blow it up to its stiffest to not have cold spot, but also making the pad a bit too firm. However sleeping in such cold temps and in such adverse conditions may have to be that compromise to have such a small and light weight pad. Zenbivy and BA (specifically the Rapide and the old blue Q-Core Deluxe are going to remain my go to for size, R value and comfort) [though very curious about Zen’s newest addition, 😉] ❤thanks Eric and everyone on KZbin making these videos and collaborating together. You are all great 😊

[@Jonsoh811]

Having the Q-core deluxe as first expensive (and compared to my first pad a light) pad, I love it. It’s comfortable, silent and just awesome. I just want it in a higher R-value. Preferably around near 6. If they would make the something like that with the same weight/bulk as the Q-core, I would buy it in an instant. I like their insulation a lot better than the “just” reflective layer style.

[@eric_hanson]

I think you're right about blowing the mattresses up as much as possible. Thoughts on the Zenbivy coming soon! Just got my first testing in on it!

[@TheNewGreenIsBlue]

That sounds perfect to me. I can't stand soft mattresses. I'll take a warm and stiff tatami mat over memory foam ANY day.

[@TheShoelaceBandit]

I just used the extreme pad in the long wide version, directly on 6 ft of snow. The temperature was 11°F (-11.6°C) and I was toasty warm. I'm very happy with the way it preformed.

[@davidcooper8390]

Eric, Thanks for comparing all these different pads. Sleeping pad innovation is where the camping industry has really changed over the last couple of years. I really want to try out the all weather Nemo Tensor pad. It was really nice to meet you and Devin in Escalante this weekend.

[@eric_hanson]

Great to meet you out there David!

[@pyronymph-868]

Gear aid makes great repair patches! They even make sheets of interestingly shaped fabric patches. The set I got has Bigfoot😂

[@cavemandancer]

I have the tensor Extreme and have been using it in New England winter 5 times and am very impressed. Size weight and R value is impressive. Granted I was in a double wall tent with a grand sheet and not directly on snow. But at 10° it kept me warm.

[@eric_hanson]

That's still a great scenario! Glad it worked for you. It should perform superbly in those conditions.

[@kristymoore7052]

Extremely helpful. Am happy to know your confidence in the zen Bivey mattress. I bought the light bed 25 degree last year for summer backpacking and LOVE it. Slips on fine to my xlite, but have been thinking about a square mattress for awhile and they may be my go to for that. I wish square mattress manufactures would come up with a women’s version as thermorest has. Not soooo long and better r value.

[@daveevans7151]

Good review…shocked that the Thermarest NeoAir NXT was not in this lineup. I have the old tensor and had a trail leak, with very limited use of the mat. For the life of me, could not find the hole. Had to sink it in the tub when I got home to find it and even then it was hard to locate. After that, and reading so many reviews of the same thing happening to others, I have moved on from the tensor. Just seems too fragile and don’t want to spend my time on the trail fixing mattress holes all the time. Have never had a Thermarest but just got the NXT in and am looking forward to giving it a go. Def not as quiet as the tensor but does not have the chip bag sound of old. Looking forward to spending time on it soon. Great weight and good r value at 4.5 (I live in Colorado and think this is a good 3 season value for up here). Again, thanks for the video.

[@chrismoore600]

Thanks for the review. The biggest reason I hold out on some of these mattresses is cost. I don't buy the cheap ones but I also can't justify the cost of some of the others. Cheers

Thinking same on tents. Cost per use.

[@ruraldragonfly]

I've had the older versions of the Tensor (both uninsulated and insulated) for years. Definitely one of the most comfortable mattresses I've used in my 30+ years of backcountry travel. The tensor got a small hole in it early on, but I field repaired it with one of the included self adhesive patches and it fixed the problem and the patch lasted well. Sadly this summer the valves in both mattresses failed. Nemo was terrific with their warranty and replaced them both. Replacement was a little slow due to supply. This weekend I was able to test the replacement I was sent, a Tensor All Season, out on a a quick little winter overnight trip. We slept in a cabin, so temperature wasn't really an issue, although I know the original uninsulated one would not have been warm enough. Everything was great with the All Season, except the fabric used is ridiculously slippery. As long as I did not move it was fine, but any kind of small adjustments or turning over had me slipping all over the place. The mat itself was also slipping all over the floor. I am not a particularly restless sleeper. I have never had a mattress of any brand that felt this slippery. Quite disappointed, but I will try it again on a trip next weekend and maybe figure out how to have better results.

[@eric_hanson]

Interesting. I haven't noticed the Tensors being slippery.

[@rockytopwrangler2069]

.... Also have a NEMO Tensor Alpine pad that is slippery ,, at least with my mummy bag ,, I roll around and would slide off ... .... I picked up an aerosol can of liquid rubber and sprayed a few feet above the pad creating a small dotted texture over the entire top surface ,, so far so good ....

[@Ltothe.G]

What did you think when you tried it again?

[@XavierRichard]

On big agnes website, they say the rapid sl 25" x 78" packed size is 11x 20cm while, the long wide tensor all season is 11.5 x 27 cm. Maybe you have an older version. But to me with those measures the rapid sl is definitely the one I would bring, knowing its comfort and the small difference in R value

[@Just4Gordon]

Hey Eric, your seem-seal is a lot like rubber cement ( inner-tube like patch glue). Place a small/thin layer on “mattress patch” let it almost dry. Then rub the patch FIRMLY with something solid (ie. Edge of a credit card) for 15-30 seconds. Inflate and test. Should work well with no CURLING edges. Have a great season!

[@eric_hanson]

Thanks! I should have done that!

[@Just4Gordon]

@@eric_hanson thank you !Look forward to your upcoming videos esp. with Dan.

[@hector5299]

I had the same issue with my old Tensor. You have to press down the patch until the glue settles. Thanks 4 the video.

[@IdRatherBeHiking]

I got the nemo extreme as a year round pad. It opens up your backcountry camping options if there is snow on the ground, unexpectedly or ice it won't matter and crushes through the winter.

[@eric_hanson]

It would probably be too warm in the summer for me, but I do love that it's completely reasonable to have it be a year round mattress!

[@jorisev]

is that a 2024 BA Rapide? Because I just got a new one and it packs down smaller than what you show here (also size 25x78)

[@woodchip2782]

That liquid glue is a contact cement. You have to apply the cement equally on both the patch and mattress ant WAIT until they evaporate the solvent for about 10 to 15 minutes. When you bring the two together they will stick and you can’t move the patch anymore.

[@MrTimmyGT]

I picked up a Rapide last year on sale for $160 and it is the most comfortable backpacking mattress I have used. I don't have nearly as much experience with the other mattress' like you, but I feel like the comfort far outweighs the drawbacks of the extra size and weight.

[@behind-the-gear]

Love my rapide sl and the updated 4.8 one packs as small as the Nemo pads 👍

[@KaraKirtley]

Another awesome video! The slow leak of the Nemo has been the bane of my existence lol. I went through *three* on the Appalachian Trail (on an older version)- and I baby my pads! I ultimately couldn't find the leaks even submerging them in water - believe they were in the baffles or seams. Even a brand new one had the same problem. However, I must be a glutton for punishment because I keep going back and I love these pads. I switched to a thermarest for about two nights outdoors and immediately switched back to Nemo, too uncomfortable. Was hoping the new versions didn't have the slow leak problem. Keep these great vids coming!

[@Davis2001r6]

I had a NEMO leak at a crease I couldn’t patch on AZT hike. It made it 2/3rds of the way. REI was out in Flagstaff and Nemo was OOS as well. They ended up refunding me on the pad. I finally got the new All Season one. First night out I got a leak worse than the other one. Tent and groundsheet in use as well. So frustrating. I haven’t had a chance find this leak yet. Love the pads but I don’t trust them any more. I have a few pads that are years old and never leaked. Just aren’t as light or comfortable. But waking up on the ground in 40° weather is not comfortable either.

[@KaraKirtley]

I wish they could figure out this design flaw because these pads really are the best otherwise. I actually talked to Nemo about it at a trail event last year. They basically told me, keep using the pads and we'll replace when you have issues, I think they have a lifetime warranty. But that doesn't help when it fails in the middle of a multi-day backpacking trip or thru hike. @@Davis2001r6

[@spencerfreitas209]

Hey Eric, do you have the older Rapide from Big Agnes or the new/updated version? I just ask because I’ve had both and the one you showed looked more bulky than the updated one. The older and bulkier one had an R Value of 4.2 and the newer version is less bulky and has the 4.8 R Value. Just curious!

[@SuperdutyExplorer]

I used that sea-to-summit, was so comfortable! But for the weight/size, I got cold spots while testing at 5F. Took so long to warm up in the house after going in at 5am... im thinking about the summer mat to pair against my thermarest xtherm.

[@agaperion]

I'm super skeptical of any complaints people have about sleeping pads since all I hear are complaints about the Uberlite while it's served me well for 5 years. (Similar story for many other items.) My observation is that many people just don't know how to take care of their gear and that user error explains away most critiques.

[@ggs0605]

Thanks for a honest assessment of these pads! ❤

[@henrypierce8010]

I am in the market. I just ordered a Big Agnes Lone Ranger 15 degree 3N1 ( found on sale at Enwild). So, I definitely need a pad and this video helps. I am torn between the Rapid SL and the Tensor All Season. But the lesser bulk of the Tensor has me thinking that is what I am going to get. Thanks for producing this.

[@nicksam5518]

i bought the same ZB 'light mattress' in 2020 and find I sleep AWESOME. Rather then a 'yellow curry' bag sound, it does make a plastic sound when i move(its not bad) I ended up getting a deal on the classic yellow insulated tensor (LW), and rotated that in during 2023. As positive and thick as the nemo is, i sleep better on the ZB. As it's spring, I have pulled out all my gear, and mix and matching backyard testing has begun. Due to weight in both the ZB & the nemo, i am now trying an uberlite(thermarest L).Jury is still out.

[@snoop2477]

Hey Eric. Do you use the Thermarest Xtherm and Neo Air XLite? They still outperform (real R value, weight; dimensions)the products you have reviewed here. Would love to see Thermarest produce these models in a slightly thicker size. To your point about sleeping mats failing Ive been using my old Neo Air for 6 years. Had to get a leak around the valve repaired last year, not bad going. Finally invested in a Exped foam under mat. So comfortable and protection

[@eric_hanson]

I haven't used the XTherm or any Thermarest for about two years. That's why I didn't talk about them. I do need to use them again as they have been in the biz since the beginning!

[@IanSebryk]

for Canadian's the prices are literally +$100 each. great review, VERY helpful. might actually migrate from my Thermarests for the first time in 30 years.

[@zacharybuffaloe1587]

What version of the Rapide SL do you have in this video? It looks bigger than mine. I have the new 2024 version - but I’ve heard that this new update it doesn’t seem to live up to its R Value. While in my opinion it is still the most comfortable mattress I’ve used, I am worried about R value on nights it gets into the 30 Degrees. I’m considering trading it for the new Nemo tensor all season. But the only thing holding me back is nemo tensor noise. And also the fact that Big Agnes has an exceptional warranty and often will give you credit back for defective gear.

[@justinw1765]

Tbh, I've gotten sick of air pads, so have decided to create a pad out of a composite of CCF foam, open celled foam, and kapok fiber. Yeah, it will be more bulky and weigh more, but I won't ever experience another "oh crap" night. The open celled foam and kapok fiber will only be placed in strategically placed "comfort" areas (like hips, shoulders, knees and ankles) to save on bulk/weight. It will be placed in a combo fabric of waterproof bottom, but breathable, water resistant, tough top fabric so it will be less likely to get wet and if it does, it can dry out well (top fabric will be black, so it can be warmed in the sun more).

[@teddinwiddie]

I have the new Tensor Extreme. Very comfy. Haven't used it on snow yet, but so far it's great. With a big exception, It is slippery as hell. My bag will not stay on the pad and the pad slides on my tent floor. Never had this problem with my ThermaRest stuff.

[@steveb6444]

Please let us know how the Zen Bivy ultralight works out. As comfort is my main priority, im very curious how that one compares to the light version. Looking online they are totally different designs.

[@imatkingTX]

Curious to know which of these is the quietest? I'm a tosser-turner and annoy my camp-mates by making too much racket when I sleep, so I'm looking for a quiet mattress

[@jjmcwill2007]

I had TERRIBLE luck with the old old Tensor Insulated (with the skinny valve), getting no less than five pinhole leaks in mine over 4-5 years. Not sure why. My previous mattress was an original NeoAir XLite mummy that has held up beautifully over time but is not comfortable. I always use a 1/8" GraniteGear thinlight pad under my inflatable. I currently have the Nemo Tensor Insulated that was on the market before these new mattresses were released (with the wider, flush-mount valve). Jury is still out, but dealing with pinhole leaks in the field is certainly a painful experience.

[@Guywhowatchestoomuchyoutube]

I had my heart set on the rapid sl because I’m looking for a good all arounder that’s comfortable. After seeing them side by side I’m thinking that Tensor might be a better choice…. Is the bulk worth the comfort?? Or will the tensor be at least comfortable enough to avoid regret?

[@JohnStreet-bu1pe]

My biggest concern on the Tensor all season is the 20d top fabric. 20d in my experience is too thin for mattress use. I kinda wish they went with 30d top and bottom like Thermarest but maybe they didn’t want to seem like they were copying. Either way, by the look of the tear it seems like a one off fail, rather then the systemic baffle fails and micro holes that plaque the previous versions. For their weight & comfort the All Season and Extreme are the two best lightweight pads on the market.

[@elizab1028]

what about the obvious comparison to the thermarest xtherm, which has kind of been the gold standard of high r-value pads?

[@KathrynHaslam]

had two tensors develop irreparable slow leaks around the valve and had to abandon the brand for a while, despite it being very comfortable. my Xtherm has been an absolute tank, even though it's not nearly as nice to sleep on. would love to see more comparisons between the nemo extreme and the thermarest before considering jumping ship again

[@rungavagairun]

So, in November 2023, I had the Nemo Tensor Insulated with me on, what was supposed to be a 12-15 day thru hike. My first night on the trail was going to be in the 20s F. It was the coldest overnight I had ever camped. I put my CNOC in my quilt with me. When I got up in the night to answer the call of nature, my leg pressed against the CNOC plastic clip and it punctured the pad. I tried to patch it, but no matter what I tried, it had a slow leak. I submitted a warranty claim to NEMO, and I explained on the form that I believed it was user error that caused the issue. I was just hoping they would help repair it. They had me ship it to them. They replaced it with a brand new Tensor All Season. I was impressed. I went through the same issue with that fabric patch curling up on my. I was able to resolve that problem by placing wax paper on it, then a book on top. I was also surprised that the NEMO repair kit does not include any adhesive. You'd think they would put a small single use tube in there.

[@markwilliams1680]

I have used the original insulated Tensor for the past 2 years and absolutely love it! I look forward to the chance to pick up the new all-season some day when it is on sale (probably when the third gen is introduced 🤣).

[@starflier]

"summertime" also known as "All year minus two weeks" out here in gulf coast Texas.

[@shaggyterrell8460]

Yeah, here in Houston we didn’t even get 2 weeks this year, I really miss those 2 weeks 😂

[@Mike_Blanda]

I’m super curious…. Is there good backpacking in South Texas?

[@Slidtesko]

That rapide you show- isn’t that the Old version? I just packed the new one in my pack- same packsize as my tensor Extreme- both RW.

[@67L48]

How do you like the new Rapide? I haven't seen many people talking about it, but I heard that BA eliminated the primaloft in favor of more reflective insulation. That makes me concerned about noise.

[@Slidtesko]

@@67L48i’m not noise sensitive- so i don’t Think it is an issue. Compared to my zoom ul it is more quiet :) Not as much sound as the xlite my daughter use

[@mikesalasek3603]

I have been using the Thermarest Neo Airs since 2010 and have never had an issue, I did have a pin hole which I couldn't find been in a bath tub. Thermarest replaced it without a problem. I did get a 25 in. pad a few years ago, I need more room at my age.😂 I use the Xtherm when snow caving and have never been cold.

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

If you were to pick one matures for a through hike of the PCT, which one would you pick? Thanks in advance for your advice

[@ethankutzscher]

great info. my Nemo Tensor Alpine pad failed last year - same slow leak as you on the top..they sent me a new Extreme and fingers crossed it is ok. off topic... who makes the beanie and hoodie you are wearing in this vid?

[@蘇柏榮-u6q]

Hello, I feel confused about the size of Zenbivy Ultralight mattress and Nemo tensor all season. Because according to the official website, the size of Zenbivy(20 x 8 cm dia) should be more smaller than Nemo(27 x 10.5 cm dia), but in your video Zenbivy is more taller than Nemo, how could it be possible?

[@AlaskanGeezer]

EXPED 's Dura 8 is quieter, warmer, does not leak (I used it nearly 3 months straight one Winter) and is quite lofty. No sound at all if you roll around all night either. It is a little bulky, but its close to bomb proof. No cold spots at all. I have the Tensor and the Tensor extreme but none reach the level of any EXPED air mattress. Tensor Extreme does not feel like an 8.5. R value. Its medium in its crunchy sound . I live in Alaska and I camp in the Winter without heat so a really good mattress is the most important thing. EXPED's discontinued Downmatt 9 was the best ,quietest, warmest mattress I have ever used. I lent it to my brother and he won't give it back. Its that good, apparently, because he has some really nice gear! The Ether Extreme by Sea to Summit was the loudest Winter mattress , even with ear plugs intact. I never used the Sea to Summit past early Autumn because the R value claim seems false to me. Sleep system is never a luxury purchase for me as sleeping at -20F with just my own body heat requires a reliable mattress.

[@VoicelessScream]

That's interesting as I'm in the market for the Nemo extreme following a catastrophic failure of my Exped R7 down pad (it literally exploded leaving me on the ground covered in down all night..) - Exped were very quick to replace the pad and couldn't figure out what happened (ruptured about a foot long following a baffle line) but yeah that was terrible and I treated it like a freakin porcelain doll with utter care. The second one (my wife's) now has a slow leak and will be completely deflated within 2-3 hours. Since we are using them for very occasional but colder nights (with the goal of doing extreme cold eventually) I've lost faith in the brand..

[@alexsavin3173]

Please give us a comparison between the new Zenbivy Ultralight Mattress and the Nemo All Season in terms of comfort and warmth!

[@eric_hanson]

Coming soon!

[@AdventureswithJeffandMeeka]

Good morning, Eric. For Christmas, I received a One Tigris R5 air mattress. I have used it several times in 0 to 10f overnight temps and have been perfectly warm and comfortable. Would you consider getting one and trying it out? Have fun and stay safe.

[@andreameigs1261]

That would probably be a conflict of interest for eric for lots of reasons- The "One Tigris" looks like it uses stolen technology...thermarest's patented, folded foil construction. Patents, as obnoxious as they can be in the drug market for example, serve to protect the investment of time, money, and energy put into a product by a developer. Say it took me 5 years and 25,000$ to make a mattress with the best warmth to weight ratio of any pad, and then someone else buys one for 250$ and makes their own. They can sell it for way less because they don't have to recover the cost of research and development. Also "A trading partner that fails to enforce basic protections for its workers can gain an unfair trade advantage, boosting its market competitiveness against countries with stronger labor safeguards."

[@kmichaelp4508]

@@andreameigs1261, and that’s a rap! Nailed it! That’s a big problem these days with Asian countries cutting out throats. This is why we Americans are loosing our jobs with the terrible trade agreements enacted. Sorry to say, but Trump was getting a handle on this before he left office.

[@JCrozier1]

great breakdown. thanks for the solid, honest review.

[@cordwhiteker97]

I just got the 2022 nemo tensor ultralight insulated and it failed first night. Could not find the leak anywhere. Thinking of returning it and getting the all season

[@jcoates53]

I had this exact same leak happen to me… impossible to fix in the dark. It was a rough night and glad it was my last night.

[@herenuriartesalvador9339]

Love the videos!!🤯 What camera do you use to film landscapes..?

[@kevinclark2346]

What low temps would you say the all season would be good down too with a 0 degree down bag?

[@Clutan]

hey I am about to go trippin almost all summer in Canada with a camp called Camp Wabun. Anyways I am deciding either between theBig Agnes Rapide SL or the Zenbivy Light Mattress. We will we going on two differnet trips, the first being 10 days and the second being about 32 days. The way we store our sleeping pads is we first have a tarp on the bottom and going up we have the pad, sleeping bag, and our clothes ontop, we then role the tarp and but it in a dry bag which goes in a duffle for portaging. It would mean a lot if you could suggest which one is best. I have also seen that the Zenbivy has had some reviews saying it punctures easily. Thank you!

[@jstgoalkeeping]

Comfort over pack size ten times out of ten, would 100% go for the Rapide sl

[@colesky33]

With the new Nemo pads releasing I picked up the old Nemo tensor ultralight regular wide (orange one) on sale from rei… paid 160 for it and I think that’s going to be more than enough for me ! I still have yet to backpack but I’m looking to take my first trip this summer to the pictured rocks (inspired by Dan and fact that the trail is not super far away lol)

[@larryl7836]

Hi Eric. The new Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT MAX Ultralight has an 7 R value and weighs 1.4 lbs. Surprised that it wasn't mentioned in the video. Expensive, but It's a great mattress.

[@Strychninex]

No where near as comfortable as the Nemo though.

[@sandycultofthesun]

comfort levels aren't remotely comparable

[@67L48]

Big Agnes just re-released the Rapide mattress. I heard that it ditched the primaloft and went with more reflective material. The R-rating went up ... but did the noise also go up? I'm really interested in what this update did to a market-leading mattress. Did a great mattress get better, or did BA screw up by fixing what wasn't broke?

[@davehumpleby3440]

Very informative, thank you. I just received my new Nemo Tensor All Season Ultralight pad in the post today, and will be christening it tonight. Having been using the same Therm-a-rest pad for 30+ years (how's that for longevity and value?) the Nemo appears fragile by comparison. Hopefully it's just my initial impression, and the newer, lighter fabrics will prove just as durable and win me over. Time will tell. You can't knock the lightness and compact size though. Very nice indeed!

[@eric_hanson]

Enjoy the new mattress! Only time will tell how truly durable these updated materials are.

[@TheRichtaber]

Question: What with the high r value of the tensor extreme, should you still take along a hard foam mat for underneath, sort of as an insurance policy?

[@brittniwait6406]

I have loved many tensor air mattress but they have all developed leaks I couldn’t find the source of. My 5th had been patched 9x, I was loathed to let it go but couldn’t find the source even after bringing it with me into the pool several times.

[@minemetsa]

FYI Seam Grip WP will not work on silicone-treated fabrics or sil-nylon. For sil there is Seam Grip+SIL. Not sure what you used. most repair glues are contact glues but seamgrip seems not to be? There are many brands out there so not sure here.

[@thewaterwarrior9817]

I just got a Big Agnes Rapide SL. It’s my first sleeping pad other than the $30 one I got off of Amazon. Should I have gotten a Nemo instead?

[@eric_hanson]

Do you know if you got the newly released version of the Rapide? Or an older model? Newer ones are supposedly trimmed down.

[@thewaterwarrior9817]

@@eric_hanson the packed size of the regular version says its 3.5 x 7, so I’m guessing that’s the trimmed down model?

[@DiabloOutdoors]

That was a good video. I liked it, well done!

[@LMay64]

I'm looking forward to the review of the new zen bivy UL mattress. I have the Xtherm NXT and want to hold off spending more money on the Nemo since my winter camping is less frequent. I do like the comfort of my current Nemo Tensor, an older model and lower R value. Nemo is certainly doing great and innovative things lately.

[@eric_hanson]

More coming on the Zenbivy UL. Quick answer is it's not as warm but it is very comfortable. Pretty cool innovation. Lots to like about sleeping mattress innovation these days!

[@TekingDirt]

I would like to know your feedback on the Nemo Astro, Have you tried that one?

[@robynroamsoutdoors]

Great video. Are you planning on doing one for the recall of the MSR stoves?

[@Olan...]

Great video Eric. I have never had any cold spots or sensations using my Nemo Tensor Extreme Conditions and like you i think it's the warmest mattress out of any others in its class . I have however experienced the inner lining being displaced on the Thermarest Xlite and when holding it up to the light i could see that it was displaced in a few places and this happened after only a few camps which was very disappointing because comfort wise i really liked it. To be fair to Thermarest they changed it with no questions asked but i lost confidence with that model and bought an Exped R7 Ultra which was then replaced by the Nemo which is definitely a keeper.

[@elxakiltse8773]

great and complete video, thanks!

[@Jay09889]

Hi Eric! Just a heads up, looks like you're holding the old version of the Rapide SL there, which uses Primaloft and has the blue pump sack. The new version uses reflective film instead of Primaloft, which cuts weight (652g vs 680g) and bulk, and increases R-value from 4.2 to 4.8. The stats you put on the screen are correct for the new Regular Wide version. The new version also comes with a way lighter and voluminous pump sack. I have no idea why Big Agnes so quietly made these changes without indicating that the product has been updated. Might be interesting to look at the new one.

[@BigBeardedOutdoors]

Thanks for the heads up. I ordered the Rapide a couple months ago and checked, it was the old one. Just found the updated one on REI for cheaper than the old one. Returned it and got the new one and saved $20.

[@Case16710]

Which Gear Aid tape is that? Is it a fabric backed one, or a plastic backed one? These new Tensors look really promising. I have used one of the old yellow ones for the last 3 years (about 50 uses) and I love it. I’ve woken up on backpacking trips thinking I was in bed at home.

[@Rudy2k5]

I know it might sounds silly but I have to change my sleeping pad and next winter I'll try winter camping so I was thinking about buying the tensor extreme as a four season sleeping pad. It's so small that as a summer sleeping pad I probably won't notice it in my backpack. If I can avoid paying for two sleeping pads, that would be great. The thing is, could it be too hot? If so, do you think it's possible to turn it upside down to reduce the R value?

[@thisbeem2714]

I’m interested to know the answer to this question as well.

[@davewinterburn3195]

Are the 4 season one noisy when sleeping?

[@kristianrobles6163]

How do the two Zenbivy Pads compare now that you have used the ultralight version?

[@eric_hanson]

The Nemo is still really good but I personally prefer both the new Zenbivy mattresses as they’re more comfortable.

[@martinmilks9691]

have you ear about the recall of pots and stove from MSR?

[@pizzatimecomedy3403]

I'm stuck between the extreme and the all season. I want to have the flexibility to use the pad year round with a top quilt and will likely take it out to temps no lower than 15° F. Do you think the all season would be a better choice? From the video, it seems that the extreme would be overkill.

[@checkerspotfarm3927]

Depends not just on the temperature outside, but also how cold a sleeper you are! I am always cold when I sleep so I went with the extreme personally.

[@jeremiahcep]

I would think some green slime bike tube patches would work just as well.

[@eric_hanson]

hmmm. maybe? Someone should run a test!

[@danielatkins4786]

The Rapide SL just got an update the makes it less bulky and warmer. You should take a took.

[@guilleliss]

@eric_hanson any remarks on the noise using these?

[@not_the_david]

Hello there! Does anyone knows the name of the song at the beginning of the video?

[@toddkanhai3164]

Thanks Eric. Good vid. I like how you're not afraid to refer to other KZbinrs.

[@anthonyrstrawbridge]

Still thinking about last epic-sode with the magnificent view. 👍🏻

[@ashleyrathwell8407]

I’m looking to get a new sleeping pad for my seasonal work as a treeplanter. I’m looking at the extreme conditions nemo pad as one of my options as I know it can reach colder temperatures sometimes where I work and I will live out of my tent for three or more months. Sometimes I could be on soft grassy land or abit more bumpy and rocky, and in the past I’ve also had to set up on pavement. I know this pad is known to be a lot more durable than the all season or just insulated version of the pad but I’m still not sure it’s the best option of pads for durability. I don’t want to invest unless I’m sure it will hold up. Does anyone who has this pad have any thoughts on the durability for my situation?

[@thewaterwarrior9817]

Damn I just ordered the rapide sl!! It looks huge next to the nemos. Do you think I should swap it out for a tensor??? Please help 🤠

[@eric_hanson]

Hey! The one I'm holding is a few years old and a few people have chimed in that the new ones have slimmed down and will be competitive with the Nemos. So probably just sit tight, but I haven't seen the updated ones yet. I hope it works out well though!

[@thewaterwarrior9817]

@@eric_hanson Okay gotcha 😂 i panicked for a second there it looked huge hahah. I’ll wait for it to show up then hopefully it’s nice and compact (although i did order the long wide, but that’s the price you pay when you’re tall ahah). Thanks for the response!!

[@odysseusreturns9133]

I looked at the specifications of both the Big Agnes Rapide SL and the Nemo Tensor in regular wide, as I narrowed my search to these two. The Rapide has a smaller pack size but slightly lower R value. As I do not intend to camp in freezing conditions, the Big Agnes may suffice and the cradling effect is also a plus.

[@29028ft]

took the nemo tensor extreme on a denali climb (west butt) and it was awesome.

[@eric_hanson]

Sweet! Good to hear.

[@paulgale4454]

Perhaps I missed something but why does Eric think that the Nemo Tensor Extreme is _not_ be suitable for all seasons (excluding cost considerations)? If anyone could point out what I missed I'd appreciate it.

[@justinw1765]

I think it was subtly implied that it was too much pad for summer type conditions, whereas a lighter and less bulky pad would be better for summer type conditions.

[@markodabrowski1040]

Hey man! I live up in Canada near the rockies and im introducing my girlfriend to trekking, scrambling and backcountry camping this summer. Looking for a 3p UL free-standing tent. Any recommendations? Wondering if you still like the Tungsten 3p UL?

[@kellym3531]

Do those repair kits work in cold weather?

[@JV-ko6ov]

I just got the all season, live in canada and need something good. Ill make sure i bring some repair glue

[@jiblyjably]

I have a Tensor wide and my little sister has the Rapide SL. I wish I had gotten the Rapide. It is SO much more comfortable than the Tensor its not even funny. I wish I had gotten a Rapide.

[@0Helzie0]

Hi I'm in the market for a mat and been tossing up between the two. May I ask what makes the rapide so much more comfy? Thanks :)

[@jiblyjably]

@@0Helzie0 the baffles on it are bigger and rounder

[@itsbeertimenow]

The weight given for the Rapide is for 25x72 but you appear to be holding and comparing the size of the 25x78??

[@stigfloberghagenphotography]

Nice video 👍🙂

[@chillipphi]

I wish you included some info about the inflation bags that come with these. I have the new Tensor as well and the inflation bag is not a good design. It instructs you to blow into the bag then use that to inflate the pad. This defeats the purpose of having an inflation bag in the first place. If they had just left the back end open it would be much more effective

[@Mike_Blanda]

Man Eric always good info and videos good sir 🫡