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Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads for Women of 2023
This post was last updated on December 06, 2023.
We've also got a unisex version of this post that you might be interested in: Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads of 2023

If you're a female backpacker preparing for your next grand adventure, the right sleeping pad can significantly enhance the quality of your rest. Choosing the perfect match is more than just grabbing the first pad you see; there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure you get the one that best suits your needs, from the warmth it provides to how well it packs and the comfort it offers. In this post, we'll shed light on the best backpacking sleeping pads for women currently on the market.
The queen of the show is the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated. This reliable pad combines excellent warmth, light weight, and remarkable comfort into one user-friendly package that's perfect for just about any backpacking adventure. Whether you're heading to the mountains or going on a quick weekend trip, this sleeping pad will definitely enhance your camping experience.
We'll also be discussing a couple of other worthy contenders, as well as singling out the ideal choices for different situations such as winter backpacking and ultralight adventures. Plus, we'll be highlighting the best budget sleeping pad and evaluating foam options. To help you equip yourself for your excursions, check out these related posts: Best Long Underwear for Women, Best Hiking Boots for Women, and Best Hiking Socks for Women. Get those boots on, ladies; adventure awaits!
Our Top Recommendations
Our Top Pick

Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated
The Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated snags the top spot due to rave user reviews appreciating its lightweight construction and superior comfort, which are further complimented by its effective insulation for chilly nights - making it a luxury room on the trails.
Runner Up #1

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite has quickly become a top pick amongst female backpackers, due to its impressively light weight and rave reviews about the unexpected comfort it provides even on rocky terrains.
Runner Up #2

Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated
Highly praised by users for its incredibly light weight and impressive insulation, the Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated pad provides women backpackers with the perfect blend of portability and comfort not found in many other pads on the market.
What you should look for
(and what we test for)
Comfort
Look for a sleeping pad with a high R-value rating - that's the measure of warmth they'll provide - and one that's thick enough to cushion you from the hard ground once inflated.
Durability
Since you'll be sleeping on a variety of surfaces, your sleeping pad needs to be durable, puncture-resistant and waterproof to handle any rough or damp grounds you may encounter during your adventure.
Ease of Use
Consider a self-inflating pad or one with a reliable, efficient pump system - the less time and effort you have to spend on setting up your bed, the more time you can spend enjoying your outdoor activities.
Weight and Packability
As a backpacker, it’s all about balancing comfort with weight - so opt for a lightweight, compact sleeping pad that won't add much load to your pack or take up too much space.
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated
$209.00The Best Women's Backpacking Sleeping Pad
Based on our research and testing, we think the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated is the best Women's Backpacking Sleeping Pad on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside.

Reasons to Buy
- Extra thick and plush for side sleepers
- Great insulation against cold ground
- Includes pump for easy inflation
- Compact and easy to pack
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly heavier than other pads
- Cost is on the higher side
- Slightly noisy when shifting weight
The Important Specs
- Size: Regular - 72” x 21.5”
- R Value: 3.2
- Inflation: Airstream Pumpsack
- Materials: 30D / 40D Nylon
- Thickness: 4 inches
Review Roundup
Outdoor enthusiasts have been consistently praising the performance and comfort of the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated sleeping pad. It's designed with the female backpacking audience in mind, which proves to be a winner among users who appreciate its thoughtfully engineered features.
A standout feature of the Ether Light XT Insulated is its insulating properties. Many users have expressed their delight about how well it holds up in cold temperatures. This is due to the Exkin Platinum fabric and THERMOLITE insulation, which work together to prevent heat loss. Users also nodded positively towards its R-value of 3.5, saying it does a great job at providing warmth on chilly nights.
In terms of comfort, backpackers have been nothing but impressed. The pad's Air Sprung Cells, which operate in a manner similar to a pocket sprung mattress, have gained commendable reviews. These cells individually adjust as you move in your sleep, providing a comfortable and supportive sleeping surface- quite a few folks have described it as 'sleeping on a cloud'.
There's been a whole lot of love for this pad’s small pack size and light weight. Considering it’s an insulated pad, many backpackers have remarked that it's surprisingly lightweight (at just 425 grams) and easy to pack, a great companion for those looking to save on space and reduce their travel weight.
But the sea isn’t always calm! Some users spoke of the necessity to get used to the inflation and deflation process. It's not the most intuitive and can take a bit of practice. Once mastered, though, people found it to be quick and easy using the stuff sack pump that comes with it.
Another issue raised by a few customers pertained to the sleeping pad's surface. They found it a bit slippery when using with a sleeping bag. However, the majority didn't seem to find this an obstacle to a good night's sleep.
On the whole, the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated makes for a feature-packed sleeping pad that holds high regard among its users, providing warmth, comfort, and packing convenience on their backpacking trips.
Comfort & Thickness
At 4 inches thick, it's one of the plushiest models around – a dream come true for side sleepers. Many reviews highlight the outstanding comfort, attributing it to the Air Sprung Cell technology that spreads out your weight evenly across the mat.
Durability
The use of 30D / 40D rip-stop Nylon increases its resilience against sharp objects and rough terrains. Buyers have praised its durability, with few reports of leaks or punctures.
Ease of Inflation & Deflation
The integrated Airstream Pumpsack makes inflation and deflation an easy task, requiring fewer breaths and eliminating moisture buildup inside the pad. Users have lauded the effectiveness and convenience of this feature.
Material
Not only is the 30D / 40D rip-stop Nylon durable, but users have also noted that it feels soft and comfortable against the skin.
Packability
Despite its thicker design, this pad packs down relatively small, fitting comfortably into a backpack without eating up too much space. Users have commented positively on its packability, comparing it to the size of a water bottle when packed down.
Size & Shape
Measuring 72” x 21.5”, several reviewers have loved its wider and longer design that accommodates different sleep positions without worry of rolling off the pad.
Value
While it is pricier than some of its counterparts, users agree that the exceptional comfort, warmth, and other added features justify the higher cost, making it a worthwhile long-term investment for serious backpackers.
Warmth & R-Value
The Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated offers an impressive R-Value of 3.2, making it a great choice for three-season camping. The Exkin Platinum fabric and Thermolite insulation work in tandem to provide a barrier against the cold ground.
Weight
Weighing 425g, it is slightly heavier than its competitors, but users frequently mention that the added comfort and warmth more than make up for the extra grams.
Prices
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
$209.95Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite is a great choice if you're looking for a women's backpacking sleeping pad to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Reasons to Buy
- Superior warmth to weight ratio
- Compact and light design makes it perfect for backpacking
- Responsive-to-weight air pockets offer exceptional comfort
- Resilient material for rugged terrains
- Impressive R-value for adequate insulation
- Easy to inflate and deflate
Reasons to Avoid
- The high-end price tag may not suit all budgets
- Can be noisy when you move around
- Doesn't come with a pump or inflation sack
- Not ideal for those who prefer a wider sleeping pad
The Important Specs
- R Value: 4.2
- Material: 30D rip HT Nylon
- Thickness: 2.5 inches
- Dimensions: 66 x 20 x 2.5 inches
- Packed Size: 9 x 4.0 inches
Review Roundup
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite is no stranger to the backpacking world. This sleeping pad is a popular choice for women backpackers, primarily due to its impressive blend of comfort, compactness, and insulation. For many, it's like carrying a slice of home comfort right into the wilderness.
Starting with the weight, the NeoAir XLite shines. Weighing in at just 12 ounces, this pad is perfect for backpackers who are conscious about pack weight. It easily rolls up into a small pack size, making it hassle-free to carry around.
As for comfort, this pad features a 2.5-inch thickness when fully inflated, providing a plush cushioning against the hard, uneven ground. This comfort is further enhanced by the use of a baffled internal structure, which offers admirable support and stability.
The NeoAir XLite also scores high in terms of warmth. Its high R-value of 4.2 makes it suitable for three-season use, shielding you from the cold ground during chilly nights in the outdoors. The innovative usage of reflective ThermaCapture technology helps retain radiant heat, ensuring a cozy sleep.
However, some customers have pointed out a few drawbacks. The most common one is the noise. When you shift your weight or change sleeping positions, the pad tends to make a crinkling noise that might wake light sleepers. Another gripe is about the material being somewhat slippery; there's a chance you could slide off during the night if you're not on entirely level ground.
Lastly, this pad might not be the ideal choice for those looking for a budget friendly option. But on the bright side, it's worth noting that many users have praised the pad's exceptional durability, despite its ultralight construction, potentially making it a worthy long-term investment.
Comfort & Thickness
Reviewers mention the comfort provided by the 2.5-inch thick pad, especially worth noting are the sensitive pressure points that are well cushioned. The tapered design, however, has received mixed reviews from those who prefer a wider sleeping area.
Durability
The 30D rip HT Nylon fabric, while lightweight, is considerably durable and can withstand rugged terrains. However, some customers have raised concerns over long-term durability and suggest using a groundsheet or tent to prevent damage.
Ease of Inflation & Deflation
Most users found the inflation and deflation process to be straightforward and easy to manage. However, the lack of an included pump or inflation sack was a disappointment for some.
Material
The material was praised for its comfort against the skin, but some users found it to be a bit noisy, especially for those who tend to move around in their sleep.
Packability
Many users praise the pad’s compactness and how little space it takes up in a backpack. It folds down to the size of a water bottle, which is a major tick for space-conscious hikers.
Size & Shape
The pad’s length and narrow shape have proven to work well for women and smaller framed backpackers, with positive reviews in this regard. But, a few mention preferring a wider design.
Value
Customers agree that the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite, despite its higher-end price tag, provides excellent value for money considering its combination of warmth, comfort, and packability.
Warmth & R-Value
The high R-value of 4.2 allows the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite to provide superior insulation even on colder nights. Customers have noted its ability to retain warmth and resist heat loss, making it ideal for three-season backpacking trips.
Weight
Though we're not focusing on weight, it's worth noting that it's remarkably light considering the warmth and comfort it provides. Therefore, it's a favorite among the backpacking community.
Prices
Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated
$159.00Runner Up
Based on our research and testing, we think the Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated is a great choice if you're looking for a women's backpacking sleeping pad to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Reasons to Buy
- Excellent insulation
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Compact design for travel convenience
Reasons to Avoid
- May be a bit narrow for some users
- Thinness could be uncomfortable for side sleepers
The Important Specs
- Dimensions: 72 x 21.5 inches
- Insulation: Exkin Platinum & Thermolite
- Packed Size: 4 x 9 inches
- Inflation Method: Multi-functional valve system
Review Roundup
The Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated sleeping pad is a favorite among campers and backpackers alike, thanks to its impressive blend of lightweight portability and impressive comfort. Even the most meticulous packing queen will appreciate the fact it packs down quite small, yet doesn't compromise on comfort when inflated.
It's more than evident that Sea to Summit has given due diligence to the design. The air-filled design is supportive, tracing the contours of your body without being overly soft. It adapts to uneven surfaces well, which is exactly what you need when you're roughing it out there in the great outdoors. The multi-function valve's included inflator sack made for a swift setup, vide reviews online.
Buyers have praised the insulation, rightly so. The Exkin Platinum and Thermolite insulation provide warmth, while the air spring cells seem to add that bit of 'bounce' under you. The pad offers an R-value of 3.1, making it suitable for camping across different seasons.
However, it's not all sparkles and rainbows as some users did express issues regarding durability. It becomes apparent that while this pad offers an impressive size-to-comfort-to-weight ratio, the tradeoff seems to be durability. Some users mentioned leaks after a few uses, while others found small punctures hard to repair due to the material. Yet, most purchasers found that with the right care, this pad remained reliable and strong.
Another critique is the noise. Yes, we get it, this isn't your regular double mattress, but per the reviews, some users found this pad noisier than its counterparts on the market. It's something that's worth considering if you're a sound-sensitive sleeper.
People love the Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated for its packing size, comfort, and warmth. Despite minor drawbacks, the key takeaway is how well it performs overall, marrying lightweight compactness with a decent level of comfort and warmth. Users recommend it for camping, backpacking or hiking trips.
Comfort & Thickness
Although the sleeping pad is thin, it provides a fair bit of comfort. However, side sleepers will want to note that the thinness could make sleeping a bit uncomfortable.
Durability
With a 40D rip-stop nylon face fabric, this pad is definitely built to last. It can handle rough surfaces and resist tears quite effectively.
Ease of Inflation & Deflation
With its multi-function valve system, inflation and deflation are a breeze. Users find that they can get it ready to sleep or packed away in just minutes.
Material
The use of lightweight yet strong 40D rip-stop nylon fabric ensures the pad's durability while keeping it light. The Exkin Platinum and Thermolite materials used for insulation offer excellent warmth capabilities.
Packability
Thanks to its compact design and small packed size, it fits into your backpack with ease. It's definitley a space saver.
Size & Shape
With dimensions of 72 x 21.5 inches, the pad is amply sized for most female users. However, some might find it a bit narrow. The rectangular shape covers a good surface area.
Value
While priced higher than some of the other options in the market, users agree that the features offered, and the quality of this pad makes it worth the investment.
Warmth & R-Value
The pad holds its own in terms of warmth, thanks to the combination of Exkin Platinum and Thermolite insulation. These materials reflect heat back to the user and keep her warm even on cold nights.
Weight
Despite being heavy on features, this sleeping pad is surprisingly light. You'll hardly notice it in your backpack.
Prices
Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite
$114.95Best Budget Women's Backpacking Sleeping Pad
Based on our research and testing, we think the Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite is a great pick if you're looking for a women's backpacking sleeping pad that is more budget friendly, without sacrificing too much in quality.

Reasons to Buy
- Great value for the price
- Durable material and construction
- Comfortable for side sleepers
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Compact size when packed
Reasons to Avoid
- Not the lightest option on the market
- May not be comfortable for all body types
- Not as warm as some other options
The Important Specs
- R Value: 3.2
- Material: Polyester
- Thickness: 1.5 inches
- Dimensions: 20 x 72 inches
Review Roundup
The Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite is a likable backpacking sleeping pad that has garnered attention as a cool budget option. Ladies who love adventuring, this one might be for you! The Trail Lite combines comfort, durability, and a female-specific design wrapped up in a cost-friendly package.
One of the chief praises that users have for the Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite is its comfort. Its full rectangular shape and semi-inflated structure give you a plush place to rest your weary body after a big day outdoors. It effectively evens out rocky surfaces and offers a snug sleep zone in any tent.
Durability-wise , it’s a tough little number. Therm-a-Rest has a reputation for products that can take a bit of rough and tumble, and the Trail Lite is no different. Reviewers appreciated its robustness and said it held up well in various terrain; from soft woodland floor to the uneven grounds of a mountain plateau.
Better yet, this sleeping pad is designed with women in mind; it's a big thumbs-up from us! The Trail Lite uses different amounts of padding at different parts of the pad to offer extra insulation where you need it more – the upper body and feet. Actual users found this feature helpful and appreciated the added warmth it provided during those chilly night camping experiences.
However, no product is without flaws. Although the pad is relatively lightweight (considering its budget price), some users noted it might not be the best choice for longer treks due to its packed size. The Trail Lite is slightly bulky when packed down which could be a minor hiccup for those with already overloaded backpacks.
Also, a few folks mentioned that inflation and deflation could take a minute or two longer than other similar pads on the market. If you're the kind of camper who likes to hit the trail at the crack of dawn, you might find this a bit inconvenient.
All in all, most folks who bought the Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite agree it's excellent value for money. With a blend of comfort, warmth, and durability, not to mention its female-friendly design, this budget-friendly sleeping pad emerges as a solid choice for summer camping or short backpacking trips.
Comfort & Thickness
Extremely comfortable with its 1.5 inches of thickness, especially for side sleepers who often struggle with hip discomfort on thinner pads. It provides a good cushion between you and the rocky ground.
Durability
Made from sturdy Polyester material, this pad is built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors, and can handle a few scrapes and bumps without any trouble.
Ease of Inflation & Deflation
Inflation and deflation are simple tasks with the Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite, which means you can set it up quickly when you arrive at camp, and pack it back down with ease in the morning.
Material
The pad's Polyester material is solid and resistant to wear and tear, though it's not the most luxury touch. Some users found it a little sticky, especially when the weather is hot.
Packability
Despite its slightly thicker design, once deflated, it rolls up fairly compactly, making it easy to pack and carry around in your backpack with your other camping gear.
Size & Shape
Measuring 20 x 72 inches, it's a good standard size sleeping pad that accommodates most body types. Some buyers, especially taller users, found it a bit narrow at the shoulder area.
Value
Given its durability, comfort and features, this pad represents good value for money, especially for beginner backpackers or those on a tighter budget.
Warmth & R-Value
The Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite has an R-Value of 3.2, which means it's capable of insulating you from the cold ground to a certain extent. However, compared to some other options in the market, it could be a bit warmer.
Weight
Though the Therm-a-Rest Trail Lite isn't the lightest option out there, it hits a decent balance between weight and comfort. For backpackers into long distance who don't mind a bit extra weight for a snug sleep, this pad could be a good pick.
Prices
Therm-a-Rest UberLite
$229.95Best Ultralight Women's Backpacking Sleeping Pad
Based on our research and testing, we think the Therm-a-Rest UberLite is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight women's backpacking sleeping pad option to go play hard outside with.

Reasons to Buy
- Completely affordable for its value
- Extremely comfortable
- Excellent packability
- Great warmth-to-weight ratio
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly less durable than other pads
- Takes a bit longer to deflate
The Important Specs
- R Value: 2.3
- Material: 15D Nylon
- Dimensions: 72 x 20 x 2.5 inches
- Packaged Dimensions: 6.1 x 3.3 inches
Review Roundup
The Therm-a-Rest UberLite is a game changer in the backpacking sleeping pads domain, especially for women with its emphasis on being ultra-lightweight. It's like a breath of fresh air for ladies who love hiking and camping, but dread having to lug around heavy equipment.
The UberLite sure does live up to its name. It weighs just a hair over half a pound (about the same as half a water bottle). This is definitely a standout feature as it helps in minimizing the overall weight you need to carry on your backpacking excursions.
But the really impressive thing is, despite being so light, the UberLite doesn't compromise on comfort. It has been designed with a smart layout of internal baffles that promote stability and even distribution of weight. And let's not forget about the 2.5 inches of cushioning, which work wonders in providing you a comfortable rest after a long day of hiking.
Moreover, the material and construction are top-notch as can be expected from Therm-a-Rest. The UberLite features an ultra-durable and high-quality nylon exterior which has been reported to withstand rugged use and resist punctures effectively.
The UberLite inflates and deflates smoothly and quickly, with users raving about its intuitive valve system. The deflation process, in particular, is hassle-free and the packing is a breeze, which majorly adds to the whole user-friendly aspect.
However, potential buyers should note that while the UberLite is phenomenal for those who camp in warmer climates, it's not designed for cold weather camping. It has a low R-Value (2.3) which indicates low insulation. Some users have reported feeling the cold ground underneath when temperatures dropped.
Also, some buyers have mentioned that there's a trade-off in durability for the ultra-lightweight feature. In a handful of reviews, users reported that the material, while of high quality, is thin and susceptible to wear and tear over time.
Still, for those who mainly venture out in warmer months and prioritize weight savings and comfort over hardcore durability, the Therm-a-Rest UberLite is definitely a top contender in the ultralight sleeping pad niche.
Comfort & Thickness
Measuring in at 2.5 inches thick when fully inflated, users found the pad provides ample cushioning. However, some side sleepers reported needing extra firmness to prevent feeling the ground below. Everyone loved the smooth and quiet material, allowing them a peaceful night's sleep.
Durability
The 15D Nylon is extremely lightweight but slightly less robust when compared to material used in other sleeping pads. Some users reported minor punctures. The good news is a repair kit is included in the package which seems easy to use as reported by users.
Ease of Inflation & Deflation
Users found the UberLite easy to inflate with around 10-15 breaths. Deflation took a bit longer than comparable models, though users didn't feel it significantly impacted their pack-up-and-go time.
Material
The pad is made from a 15D Nylon material, which is soft to the touch and quiet. Users appreciated the fabric's low noise level compared to other crinkly pads on the market.
Packability
The UberLite compacts down to the size of a water bottle, a real plus for backpackers trying to save on space. Users found it fit easily into their backpacks without taking up too much room.
Size & Shape
At 72 inches long and 20 inches wide, it comfortably fits most women. The mummy shape perfectly fulfilled the needs of those looking for efficient warmth and lower pack weight.
Value
Given the pad's light weight, compact pack size and overall comfort, many users thought the UberLite offers excellent value for the price. Some felt the slightly compromised durability is a fair tradeoff for such an ultralight and functional pad.
Warmth & R-Value
The Therm-a-Rest UberLite is rated with an R-Value of 2.3, making it suitable for 3-season usage. Users found it kept them surprisingly toasty in colder conditions, though for winter camping it may require adding an additional thermal layer.
Weight
At just 8.8 ounces, this sleeping pad is impressively lightweight. Despite its minimal weight, many users reported feeling fully supported all night long.
Prices
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
$47.95Best Women's Backpacking Sleeping Pad for Foam
Based on our research and testing, we think the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is a solid choice if you want a women's backpacking sleeping pad that's really well suited to Foam.

Reasons to Buy
- Excellent insulation properties
- Durable construction
- Provides a good amount of cushioning
- Easy to carry and store
- Affordably priced
Reasons to Avoid
- Not best suited for extremely cold weather
- Could be bulky for some tastes
- Some users find the surface a bit slippery
The Important Specs
- Length: 72 inches
- R Value: 2.6
- Material: Crosslinked Polyethylene
- Thickness: 0.75 inches
- Packed Dimensions: 20 x 5 x 5.5 inches
Review Roundup
The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is a real winner in the foam sleeping pad niche. This wonder from Therm-a-Rest has been making rounds for its exceptional comfort, durability and convenience in backpacking scenarios. It's designed to cater to a woman's body frame, offering additional comfort where it's needed most.
One of the main things buyers rave about is the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol's excellent insulation. Regardless of the surface or how icy the cold ground may be underneath, this pad makes sure you stay cozy, thanks to its reflective ThermaCapture coating that traps radiant heat while the dimpled surface bounces heat back to your body.
Another feature that users find handy is its lightweight design, which makes it easy to carry in your backpack. It folds up accordion-style, which might take up a bit more space than your traditional roll-up pad, but its low weight and ease of carry largely outweigh this.
On the durability front, the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is nothing short of impressive. The closed-cell foam is sturdy and can withstand a decent amount of wear and tear. Users have taken it to rocky surfaces and still vouch for its long-lasting performance. However, some users pointed out that it's less comfortable than air or self-inflating pads, which is a tradeoff you might need to consider.
When it comes to versatility, users made special mentions. The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol isn't just for sleeping; it also doubles up as a sit pad while cooking or resting during the daytime.
Despite some minor drawbacks reported by a few users, such as slight bulkiness compared to other pads and decreased comfort over rough terrains, the majority of reviews attest to the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol's excellent performance. They recommend it as a practical, reliable foam pad that offers great value for your money.
Comfort & Thickness
Despite its lean form, Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol provides ample cushioning. The 0.75-inch thickness is comfortable enough to sleep on, though some might prefer a thicker pad for rough terrains.
Durability
Constructed from crosslinked polyethylene, the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is impressively durable. The foam pad can take on rocky and uneven surfaces without tearing or wearing down, ensuring its longevity, even with frequent use.
Ease of Inflation & Deflation
As a foam pad, there’s no inflation or deflation needed, which takes off the hassle associated with self-inflating or air pads. This saves time during setup and pack up.
Material
Made from dense and durable crosslinked polyethylene, this pad can withstand the elements. The reflective layer on top helps in retaining body heat, enhancing its thermal properties.
Packability
Due to its accordion-style design, the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is easy to pack and carry. While it might seem slightly bulky compared to inflatable pads, it can be fastened to the outside of a backpack without any problem.
Size & Shape
Measuring 72 inches in length, this pad accommodates most average height women. The width of 20 inches may feel a bit narrow for some, especially active sleepers, but remains within the standard range for sleeping pads.
Value
Suitably priced, the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol offers good value for money considering its performance, durability, and ease of use. It's a good investment for any camper or backpacker looking for a reliable and long-lasting sleeping pad.
Warmth & R-Value
With an R-value of 2.6, the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol ensures good insulation when camping in relatively cool climates. It can keep you cozy and warm even on the bare ground. However, it may not be adequate if the temperature drops too low or if you’re an exceptionally cold sleeper.
Weight
This pad weighs less than a pound, so it won't add too much load to your backpack. Although it's not the lightest pad on the market, it strikes a good balance between comfort and weight.
Prices
Sea to Summit Ether Lite XT Xtreme
$229.00Best Women's Backpacking Sleeping Pad for Winter Backpacking
Based on our research and testing, we think the Sea to Summit Ether Lite XT Xtreme is a solid choice if you want a women's backpacking sleeping pad that's really well suited to Winter Backpacking.

Reasons to Buy
- Impressive warmth and insulation
- Highly comfortable due to its thickness
- Durable and well-constructed
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Good value for the features offered
Reasons to Avoid
- May be slightly larger when packed compared to other models
- The material could be slick for some users
The Important Specs
- Size: 72" x 21.5"
- R Value: 6.2
- Material: 40D Nylon
- Thickness: 4 inches
Review Roundup
If you're planning a winter backpacking trip, gear that offers comfort without sacrificing weight is a top priority. Enter the Sea to Summit Ether Lite XT Xtreme - a sleeping pad that has been turning heads and garnering great reviews.
People who've hit the trails with this sleeping pad have a lot to rave about - starting with the impressive warmth. This piece of gear boasts a high R-value (6.2), signifying excellent insulation properties crucial for winter jaunts. Users have reported it kept them cozy on subzero nights, a reassuring bit of feedback for any woman set to face the elements.
Comfort runs a close second to warmth. This is where the Ether Lite XT Xtreme shines, thanks to its Air Sprung Cells technology. Think of sleeping on a bed of air bubbles that adapt to your body, reducing pressure points. This tech has garnered praise from users for delivering a night of quality sleep on uneven or hard ground.
Its lightweight and packability resonated with customers. The medium size weighs 545g, and when packed, occupies as much space as a water bottle. Backpacking enthusiasts love how it enables shedding off extra pounds - because every ounce matters on the trail!
Sea to Summit's Ether Lite XT Xtreme holds air reliably. Users have applauded the two-way valve system that allows quick inflation and deflation. It also includes a repair kit that reassures customers of worry-free nights in the case of unexpected punctures.
Criticism? It’s not invincible. The most common complaint from online reviews revolves around the mat's durability. Some users experienced leaks after a few uses, which raises questions about its longevity. On the flip side, customer service was often praised for being responsive in these situations.
In terms of noise, reviews were mixed. Some customers found it notably quiet for an inflatable pad. Others, though, reported it being a bit crinkly and noisy when adjusting positions during the night.
Lastly, the Ether Lite XT Xtreme has a higher price tag. Some adventures may find the cost a barrier. However, others who've invested in it have justified the expense, arguing that the warmth, comfort, and weight savings are worth every penny.
Comfort & Thickness
At an impressive 4 inches thick, it provides superior comfort compared to many other models. It has been praised for making sleeping on uneven ground feel almost as good as a bed.
Durability
The 40D nylon material makes it durable and able to withstand harsh conditions while still maintaining its top-notch functionality and performance.
Ease of Inflation & Deflation
Users appreciate how easy this pad is to inflate and deflate. This can be a real game changer at the end of a long day's hike where the last thing you want to do is wrestle with your sleeping pad.
Material
Though made from durable nylon, some users have noted that it might be a tad slippery. Nothing a sleep liner or good sleeping bag can't fix, but it's something to note.
Packability
Despite being slightly larger when packed compared to ultralight models, users have found it easy enough to attach onto or inside most backpacks without issue.
Size & Shape
With a generous and accommodating size of 72" x 21.5", it provides plenty of space for a comfortable night's sleep while still maintaining a compact nature when deflated and rolled up.
Value
Considering its impressive warmth, comfort and durability, users find the Sea to Summit Ether Lite XT Xtreme well worth the investment for winter hiking and camping.
Warmth & R-Value
The Sea to Summit Ether Lite XT Xtreme provides exemplary warmth thanks to its high R-value of 6.2, making it a great choice for winter backpacking.
Weight
While not the lightest on the market, its weight is competitive with other sleeping pads designed for cold weather use. It proves a good balance of warmth, comfort and packability, which are more critical for winter use.
Prices
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