Weight: 23 oz.
The Big Agnes Air Core Sleeping Pad is the first sleeping pad that I've ever personally owned, and the second one I've ever used. The first one I used was a big foam thing belonging to my husband: comfortable, but impractical for backpacking since it rolled up to about the size of a yoga mat. This is the first sleeping pad I've used that is meant to be rolled up into a storable size, though I do find it to be a bit on the chunky side.
Rolled size comparison to a gallon of milk. As I said, a bit on the chunky side. However, there is a LOT of air space inside that stuff sack. It could easily be squished down to a smaller size.
As it's name suggests, this sleeping pad requires inflation. There is no pump, so you have to do it the old fashioned way. I was a bit concerned about this at first because I tend to get light-headed when doing something as simple as blowing up a balloon, but it turns out this is really easy to inflate. Once it's inflated, it holds its shape very well throughout the night. I used it for three nights straight without having to re-inflate it. Only by the morning after that third night did I think it could use a little topping off. It does a fine job of insulating you against the ground on a warm night, and is rated for 35 degrees Fahrenheit and up. I certainly wouldn't use it for anything colder.
Fully inflated (pillow not included).
The real question, of course, is how comfortable it is. I would say that it's quite comfortable, but takes a little getting used to if you're not familiar with air pads. It sort of feels like a really comfortable pool raft. It certainly can't be called uncomfortable. I slept just fine with it, and I'm a very picky sleeper.
So, what are the cons? Well, the bigger size could be a drawback, and this is certainly not a winter sleeping pad. It's also a bit slippery. I found myself sliding off of it at night. It's also very skinny. I'm a small person, and even I had to be sure to concentrate so I wouldn't end up falling off the side of the mat. There is an extra wide option if you are concerned about this.
Overall, the Big Agnes Air Core Sleeping Pad is a nice, affordable pad that will give you a little extra comfort at night in the tent. And really, what more could you want? I give it four out of five stars.
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