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Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping Pad Review
Searching for the lightest gear possible without sacrificing comfort entirely? In this Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping Pad review, we explore why this pad is a go-to for ultralight backpackers who still want a touch of insulation and a solid night’s sleep.
The Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping Pad is designed with fast-and-light missions in mind. At just 15 oz for the regular size, this pad uses Air Sprung Cell™ construction for an impressive combination of minimal weight and comfort. It also features Thermolite® insulation and Exkin Platinum® reflective layers to reduce radiant and convective heat loss, making it suitable for cool-weather trips with an R-value of 3.1.
At 2 inches thick, the pad provides moderate cushioning, best suited for back sleepers or those who don’t need a plush mattress-like feel. The 30D/40D nylon face fabric is durable for its weight class, and the included Airstream™ pump sack allows quick inflation while minimizing moisture inside the pad.
Key Specifications
| Weight | 15 oz (Regular) |
| R-Value | 3.1 |
| Thickness | 2 inches |
| Packed Size | 3.3 x 6.5 inches |
| Material | 30D/40D nylon with Exkin Platinum® & Thermolite® |
| Sizes Available | Small, Regular, Large, Women’s Regular |
Comparisons
Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated vs. NEMO Astro Lightweight Insulated
The NEMO Astro Lightweight Insulated Sleeping Pad is thicker and more comfort-focused at 3.5 inches, with an integrated pillow baffle for head support. While it weighs more (1 lb 9 oz) and has a slightly lower R-value (2.6), it provides a more cushioned and forgiving sleep surface, especially for side sleepers. In contrast, the Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping pad is significantly lighter and packs down smaller, making it ideal for ultralight missions where every ounce matters. Comfort or weight: that’s the trade-off.
Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated vs. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT is warmer (R-value 4.5) and slightly thicker (3 inches), yet still incredibly light at around 13 oz. However, it has a crinklier surface and tends to be noisier. The Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping pad wins out in quietness and comfort-to-weight ratio for back sleepers. If you’re after a quieter pad and don’t mind slightly less warmth, Sea to Summit has the edge. But if you need a true shoulder-season performer, the NeoAir might be the better fit.
Pros & Cons Summary
| Feature | S2S UltraLight Insulated | NEMO Astro Lightweight | Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | ✅ Ultralight (15 oz) | ❌ Heavier (1 lb 9 oz) | ✅ Ultralight (13 oz) |
| R-Value | ✅ Good (3.1) | ✅ Fair (2.6) | ✅ Higher (4.5) |
| Comfort | ✅ Stable, springy feel | ✅ Plush & thick (3.5″) | ❌ Narrower & noisier |
| Packed Size | ✅ Extremely compact | ✅ Compact | ✅ Compact |
| Best For | Ultralight 3-season trips | Comfort-oriented backpackers | High-performance ultralight use |
Looking for a different sleeping pad for your trip? View our Best Sleeping Pads guide for more options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this pad good for side sleepers?
It depends. The 2-inch thickness may feel too firm for some side sleepers. Back sleepers fare better.
Is the UltraLight Insulated warm enough for shoulder seasons?
Yes, the R-value of 3.1 is sufficient for most 3-season backpacking trips.
Does it make noise?
No, it’s noticeably quieter than other reflective-layer pads like the NeoAir.
Does it include a pump sack?
Yes, the pad comes with an integrated Airstream pump sack for quick inflation.
Is it durable?
Yes, especially for its weight. The 30D/40D nylon strikes a good balance.
Final Thoughts
The Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Sleeping Pad is one of the best ultralight air pads available for minimalist backpackers who want to stay warm without hauling extra ounces. It’s not the thickest or most luxurious, but its comfort-to-weight ratio and thoughtful design make it a reliable go-to for fast-and-light adventures. If you’re looking for an ultralight pad that’s quiet, warm, and durable enough for repeated backcountry use, this one should be at the top of your list.
