When it comes to backpacking and camping, a good sleeping pad is essential for a comfortable night’s sleep. The Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus is a highly-regarded option in the world of ultralight sleeping pads, known for its exceptional comfort, durability, and value. In this review, we’ll delve into the features, performance, and technical specifications of the ProLite Plus to see if it lives up to its reputation.

Design and Construction

The Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus is a rectangular-shaped sleeping pad made from high-quality materials that prioritize both comfort and durability. The pad’s surface features a smooth, comfortable texture that provides excellent insulation and support for your body. Weighing in at just 12 ounces (340 grams), the ProLite Plus is an ultralight option that won’t weigh you down on long hikes.

The sleeping pad’s construction includes a robust nylon fabric with a durable ripstop weave, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of backpacking and camping. Reinforced seams and stress points add to its durability, while the inclusion of Therm-a-Rest’s proprietary Comfort Foam provides exceptional comfort and insulation.

Insulation and R-Value

The ProLite Plus features Therm-a-Rest’s proprietary Comfort Foam, which provides excellent insulation and support for your body. This foam is designed to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the night, ensuring you stay warm in cold conditions or cool in warmer temperatures. The pad also boasts an impressive R-value of 2.0, making it suitable for three-season camping.

Inflating and Deflating

One of the standout features of the ProLite Plus is its quick and easy inflation system. Simply attach the included pump to a valve located on the side of the pad, and you’ll be inflated in no time. The deflation process is equally simple, making it easy to pack up and store your sleeping pad when not in use.

Weight and Packed Size

As mentioned earlier, the ProLite Plus weighs just 12 ounces (340 grams), making it an ultralight option for backpackers and campers. When packed away, the sleeping pad measures a compact 3 x 7 inches (7.5 x 17.8 cm), making it easy to stash in your backpack or store in a tent.

Comparison to Competitors

The Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus faces stiff competition from other top-rated ultralight sleeping pads on the market. Some notable competitors include:

• Big Agnes Q-Core SL 15: Weighs 13 ounces (369 grams), R-value of 3.5
• Sea to Summit Ether Light XT: Weighs 11 ounces (310 grams), R-value of 2.8
• Exped SynMat HyperLite SW: Weighs 12 ounces (340 grams), R-value of 4.0

Conclusion

The Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus is an exceptional ultralight sleeping pad that offers a perfect balance of comfort, durability, and value. Its impressive insulation, quick inflation system, and compact packed size make it an excellent choice for backpackers and campers who prioritize a comfortable night’s sleep.

While the ProLite Plus may not be the lightest or warmest option available, its exceptional comfort and durability make it a top pick in the ultralight sleeping pad market. With a price point of around $60-$70, it’s an affordable option that won’t break the bank.

Technical Specifications:

• Weight: 12 ounces (340 grams)
• Packed Size: 3 x 7 inches (7.5 x 17.8 cm)
• R-Value: 2.0
• Insulation: Therm-a-Rest’s proprietary Comfort Foam
• Inflation System: Quick and easy inflation via included pump
• Deflation System: Simple deflation process for easy packing