Short Inflatable Sleeping Pads?

[Mr. Coffee]

I normally backpack with a cut down Z-lite pad, which if I purchase the full-length I can divide into two pads that are just fine (they pad me from shoulders to hips). However, for bicycle touring this isn't optimal as the Z-lite pads are pretty bulky and will not fit comfortably in a pannier, much less bikepacking bags.

So I looked at inflatable pads. After getting over the price shock, I was distressed to observe that there are very few (to none) short length inflatable pads and all of the full length pads I looked at are unreasonably heavy and bulky.

Right now about the only thing I found that **might** work for me is the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad (short length). Hopefully that will be a success story...

 

[Rome]

@fooferdoggie bought the last one.

 

[PatriciaK]

Have you looked at this:

Static V Sleeping Pad

The Static V™ lightweight packable sleeping pad provides the ultimate comfort. Sleep better on your side, back, and stomach on a comfortably inflated bed.

klymit.com

They pack down to about the size of a water bottle. We've used them for years (not bike camping, but other travels).

 

[PatriciaK]

Wait - they DO make a short version:

Static V Short

MADE FOR COMFORT: Our patented V-shaped design delivers support and comfort no matter how you sleep – on your side, stomach or back. STAY CENTERED: Integrated into the patterning and construction, they provide a secure, comfortable sleep by centering you on the pad and inhibiting air movement...

klymit.com

 

[Mr. Coffee]

Thanks! That looks promising and is also quite reasonably priced.

I have a hard time paying $200 for an air mattress.

 

[BurroBabe]

I normally backpack with a cut down Z-lite pad, which if I purchase the full-length I can divide into two pads that are just fine (they pad me from shoulders to hips). However, for bicycle touring this isn't optimal as the Z-lite pads are pretty bulky and will not fit comfortably in a pannier, much less bikepacking bags.

So I looked at inflatable pads. After getting over the price shock, I was distressed to observe that there are very few (to none) short length inflatable pads and all of the full length pads I looked at are unreasonably heavy and bulky.

Right now about the only thing I found that **might** work for me is the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad (short length). Hopefully that will be a success story...

I checked out your link to the Big Agnes but it was OOS. However, they did have the Big Agnes Divide insulated pad in a short. A bit heavier but an R value of 4.5. Sounds comfy. Have you tried that brand? I'm thinking it could work for me too.

 

[Mr. Coffee]

I checked out your link to the Big Agnes but it was OOS. However, they did have the Big Agnes Divide insulated pad in a short. A bit heavier but an R value of 4.5. Sounds comfy. Have you tried that brand? I'm thinking it could work for me too.

Yes, I have a Big Agnes pad and it is working fine for me.

I might switch over to this thinner and lighter Gossamer Gear pad but need to figure out how to pack it:

Thinlight Foam Pad - 1/8"

The Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Insulation Pad can be rolled and placed either inside the pack or on top (where it can be held under the closure for instance). The 1/8" pad will fold up to fit into the back of our larger packs, providing a super-minimalist pad.

www.gossamergear.com

I'd recommend one of the little electric pumps over the included inflation bag. They will inflate your pad more quickly and they weigh less and are less bulky. They are reasonably priced. This Flextail Pump is representative:

TINY PUMP X 2024 - 3-in-1 Rechargeable Mini Air Pump

FLEXTAIL TINY PUMP X 2024 is mini as an egg and ultralight. Portable to carry, this air mattress pump can be attached to the backpack or put in your pocket.

www.flextail.com