NEMO - Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad (2022)

nemo tensor. buy it on amazon.

I’ve got 2 BA pads for my kids but haven’t had any issues with them at all, but they don’t seem anywhere as nice as my Nemo Tensors. A buddy has an BA pad and did get it replaced via warranty.  With that said, my Nemo Tensors have been amazing and one of them lasted over 7 years. Got it replaced very easily with Nemo, too!

This pad is worlds more comfortable than the fully inflatables and it has a good r-value (5.1). I returned the Nemo tensor everyone loves so much and replaced it with this and I think it was well worth it. Yes, the weight and packability are worse, but I just can’t find an inflatable that is comfortable enough for me to think the weight/size savings are worth it.

I had a Tensor and it was uncomfortable for me as well. I’ve found Exped inflatable pads comfortable. My favorite right now though is the Neoloft.

I’m a side sleeper as well and I stopped using my Nemo tensor so much because of the potato chip bag noise effects heh. This past winter, I’ve used the Sea to Summit comfort plus. It is easily the most comfortable pad I’ve ever used for side sleeping. And inflates and deflates easily. Highly recommend!

Have you considered a camping cot? There are a lot of ultralight options now which are about the same price as a good sleeping pad for side sleepers. The only difference being is the weight, you’re looking at around 1.5kg for a cot bed which would be double the weight of a sleeping pad. For me, the extra weight is worth it for the comfort. For context I’ve tried Therm-a-Rest, Big Agnes and Nemo mats. If I’m going for comfort, the cot bed wins every time.

My Nemo pad is more comfortable than my Purple bed 😂

I've had a broken spine and pelvis so I researched and tested a lot for a sleeping pad. Any thick self inflating pad was either WAY too heavy, bulky, or had bad reviews... So I ended up with a Nemo Tensor. I know you prefer self inflating but I'd give this pad a try, maybe go to a store and lay on it. I find it quiet, warm, and supportive. I sleep all night and no body aches.

Looking at this one as well - although just the regular 25” wide version. I have a Nemo tensor and I’m not totally in love with it. For the size and weight, sure. But my wife and I just got back from a pretty short 3 day backpacking trip and I just couldn’t get comfortable on the tensor. I probably have 15-20 nights on the tensor and I’m just not sold. Typically a UL believer, but I’m really considering ponying up for the bulk and weight of this ultra mat - if it would result in better sleep. We have a mega mat queen size for our car camping kit, and it’s a dream. Haven’t used any other Exped mattresses yet, though

How much weight is too much for you, though? I’m a larger guy (230lbs) and find the tensor uncomfortable. It’s usable, but I don’t sleep great on it. My wife has the quasar and it’s way more comfy for me. Recently, I said screw it and tried an Exped Ultra mat. It’s quite large, and has some weight to it. BUT I sleep better than I ever have in the backcountry. So it’s my luxury item - and I’ll gladly carry the extra weight for the improved sleep I get.

I totally recommend the quasar. I think it’s a great balance of size, weight, and comfort. My wife is a side sleeper and loves it. The extra thickness definitely helps if you are a side sleeper. She’s small. Loves the quasar. Hates my tensor - just for the side sleeping. For what it’s worth!