You can now directly compare the R-value of mats rated using the ASTM F3340-18 with confidence that is a fair and accurate comparison between mats. In simple terms, the higher the R-value, the warmer the mat. After reinflation, I easily adjusted pressure in small increments. Accessing the adjuster without deflating the pad is a two-handed operation, a slight inconvenience compared to other valve designs. Our mummy-shaped, regular-length sample measures 72 inches long and 20 inches wide and has a verified weight of 14.9 ounces. Insulated models leverage 2 layers of suspended Thermal Mirror™ metallized film for a lighter and remarkably quiet sleep when compared to the competition.

This is a unique example, but my climb allowed me to view and appreciate this pad from different angles. It proved the Tensor EC’s durability in harsher conditions than a generic camping trip. Spacious– Even with a six-foot frame, I found this pad to have plenty of space. This is awesome for anyone who likes to splay out and has plenty of room for most people in general.A fancy valve that lets you inflate and deflate easier than other twist and pull valves. More on sleeping pad valve types in our Guide. Unique construction silences and stabilizes the new NEMO Tensor sleeping pad, which we review here. Improved zero-profile, multifunctional, microadjustable Laylow™ valve offers customized inflation control, even at -20° F and below. The NEMO proprietary Spaceframe™ baffle construction offers quiet, supportive comfort along with excellent stability and weight distribution. The low-stretch, die-cut trusses help to eliminate ‘springiness’ meaning that you feel solidly settled when laying down on the pad and avoid the “waterbed” feeling that you get with a lot of pads. In creating such a lightweight monster insulator, Nemo did have to cut some corners — namely in the comfort and useability departments. Warmth and an ultralight profile are prioritized here.

The NEMO dual valve system. The bottom valve only lets air in unless you put a little pressure on it, which allows the user to dial in the air pressure. NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Pad Cons The valve works well, but it’s on the top of the pad, rather than the edge. This is awkward when rolling around in the night.There’s no arguing this is an extremely comfortable pad. It’s warm, the baffle pattern nestles well, and the splay room is awesome. The hold-up factors are weight, maintenance requirements, and maybe price. Even if the Long/Wide and/or Insulated versions aren’t the best fit, NEMO’s Tensor line is absolutely a top-tier pad. As a founding member of the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) Climate Action Corps, NEMO has set aggressive goals for making more climate-friendly materials choices. The Tensor now uses Bluesign-approved, 100% recycled, luxury polyester on the top and bottom. The thermometer on my watch read 25 degrees Fahrenheit for most of the night. My sleeping bag was rated to 20 degrees, but the Tensor is only rated for 30-40 degrees. (NEMO doesn’t use R-Values, but general temperature ranges). My legs were cold, and my frustration grew as I realized I had misjudged the weather.