L.L.Bean Pathfinder Sleeping Pad XL

[best features]

This three-season mattress uses smart features to elevate the basic air pad: Like the Klymit Static V (left), the Flash uses extra-big baffles on the perimeter to keep sleepers from rolling off. “I’m tossy-turny, but the guard rails kept me from slipping onto the tent floor, and even my pillow stayed put,” says one tester after a week of camping in Tasmania. She also issues props for the separate deflation valve, which releases air in a hurry to make packing up easier.

The 2.5-inch thickness proved sufficient for smoothing out lumpy sandstone in Arizona’s Havasu Canyon. PrimaLoft Infinity synthetic insulation and a 3.2 R-value kept testers warm down to 30°F, and the 30-denier ripstop polyester held strong against sharp rocks and grasses. But comfort doesn’t come fast: Blowing it up takes several minutes and plenty of lung power. $119; 1 lb.; 72” x 20.5” x 2.5”; rei.com

Our core Pathfinder Sleeping Pads have been updated to a 2″ thick pad and have been upgraded with a Microstretch top for increased comfort.