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Travis Smith photo
South Korea, Seoul
1 Level
717 Review
50 Karma

Review on WELLAX Ultralight Air Sleeping Pad: Inflatable Mattress For Backpacking, Traveling, Camping & Hiking - Includes Repair Kit & Carry Bag! by Travis Smith

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Really impressed (SO FAR)!

I received the Wellax Sleeping Pad four days ago. Even after reading many of the positive reviews from "big" men who claimed they could lie on the pad without feeling the ground underneath them, I admit was skeptical. I'm 5'10," 135 lbs., a full-on side sleeper with bony hips, and I toss and turn throughout the night. For me, the pad's length, width, thickness and insulation claims were all major factors when making my purchase. Here's what I discovered:I was really pleased with how light the pad was in the package. I purchased the pad as an option for my Colorado Trail thru-hike this summer, so lightweight is very important to me. I fully-inflated the pad with only six deep breaths of air (Impressive). The pad is longer and wider than I even expected, which is great. I placed it down on my hard laminate flooring and stretched out on my side. I was truly shocked that I could not feel the floor under any part of the side of my body. I tossed and turned and the pad stayed firmly underneath me without much movement, and it didn't lose any of its loft.The instructions suggested to keep the pad inflated and store overnight before using. I decided to hang my pad to keep it away from my curious kitties' claws. There is no hang loop on the pad (something I would recommend the manufacturers might consider for future versions). Instead, I gently attached a binder clip with round edges to the top of the pad and hung it from an over-the-door hook. The photo I posted was taken after it hung there for four days. The pad stayed fully-inflated, which is a really good sign of its construction and stability.All of the above factors earned this pad a five-star rating from me, SO FAR. I obviously need to test it out in the field and determine how it performs under real outdoor conditions. My biggest concern is how it will hold up under very cold temperatures. I purchased (from REI) a Mountain Hardwear Lamina Z Flame 22 Long Sleeping Bag for my thru-hike, so I want to see how warm I will be using my full "sleep system," which will include the pad, the bag and my bedtime garments (still being figured out). Once I've taken the pad for a real test-run, I'll update my review. I'm feeling pretty positive thus far. Stay tuned.

Pros
  • Lightweight and compact design makes this mattress easy to carry and transport on any outdoor excursion
Cons
  • May be susceptible to punctures from sharp objects