Let’s Dive into Exped Down Pillow
The Exped Down Pillow promises a touch of home comfort in the great outdoors. Manufactured by Exped, this pillow combines the convenience of an inflatable with the luxurious feel of down, making it a potentially game-changing addition to any camping or backpacking setup. It aims to bridge the gap between roughing it and enjoying a truly restful night’s sleep, something many outdoor enthusiasts struggle with.
After years of enduring uncomfortable nights on the trail with poorly stuffed clothing or inadequate inflatable pillows, I was searching for a solution that wouldn’t add significant weight or bulk to my pack. The promise of a down-filled pillow with an adjustable air core seemed like the perfect compromise between comfort and packability.
Upon unboxing the Exped Down Pillow, I was immediately impressed by its compact size and surprisingly light weight. The recycled tricot nylon material felt soft and inviting, a stark contrast to the typical plasticky feel of most inflatable camping pillows. The build quality appeared excellent, with neat stitching and a robust-looking FlatValve.
Compared to other inflatable pillows I’ve used, like the Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Pillow and the Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow, the Exped Down Pillow stood out due to its down filling. These others are comfortable, but do not offer the next-level of at-home comfort the Exped promises. The others are lighter, but this pillow looked to offer a significant comfort upgrade. The down filling promised a luxurious feel that those competitors simply couldn’t match.
My first impression was definitely excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. Could something so lightweight really deliver the comfort of a regular down pillow? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Exped Down Pillow to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Exped Down Pillow on a three-day backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The conditions were fairly mild, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit and only a slight amount of humidity. I used it inside my MSR Hubba Hubba NX tent, paired with my Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite sleeping pad.
The pillow was incredibly easy to inflate and adjust. The FlatValve made inflation quick and deflation even faster. Initially, I overinflated it, but quickly realized that releasing some air provided a much more comfortable and supportive feel.
There were no issues and I was immediately happy with the new level of comfort in my tent!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use on various camping trips and even a few overnight stays in my truck during hunting season, the Exped Down Pillow has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the down filling has retained its loft and softness. The recycled tricot nylon material still feels pleasant against the skin.
Cleaning has been relatively easy; I simply spot-clean the pillow case with a damp cloth when needed. The inner air cushion is removable, so the pillow case can be washed in the washing machine if necessary. Compared to my previous experiences with other camping pillows, the Exped Down Pillow is a clear winner in terms of comfort and durability. It has consistently provided a restful night’s sleep, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Exped Down Pillow
Specifications
- The Exped Down Pillow measures 18.9 inches in length, 11.4 inches in width, and 5.9 inches in height. This “Large” size provides ample space for comfortable head and neck support.
- It weighs just 6.7 ounces, making it a lightweight addition to any backpacking or camping setup. This low weight is crucial for minimizing pack weight on extended trips.
- The pillow is constructed from 50D Brushed Tricot Nylon with Oeko-Tex 100 certification. This fabric is soft, comfortable against the skin, and environmentally friendly.
- The insulation consists of RDS-certified down. This ensures ethical sourcing and provides excellent warmth and compressibility.
- It features an adjustable air core, allowing users to customize the pillow’s firmness and height. This adjustability makes it suitable for various sleeping positions.
- The Exped Down Pillow is equipped with a robust FlatValve for quick inflation and deflation. This valve is easy to use and highly reliable.
Performance & Functionality
The Exped Down Pillow excels in providing exceptional comfort and support for a camping pillow. Its combination of down filling and adjustable air core creates a plush and customizable sleeping surface.
The pillow’s height adjustability is a major strength. It readily adapts to back, side, and stomach sleepers. However, the stitching could use some improvements for long term durability.
It definitely exceeds my expectations!
Design & Ergonomics
The Exped Down Pillow boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes comfort and ease of use. The materials used are of high quality, and the construction feels solid and durable.
Its light weight makes it easy to pack, and the ergonomic 3D shape provides excellent neck support. There is little to no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Exped Down Pillow appears to be built to last. The robust FlatValve ensures leak-free inflation, and the down filling should maintain its loft for years with proper care.
The pillow case is easy to clean, and the removable air core simplifies the washing process. It is machine washable, but handwashing is preferred for increased longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Exped Down Pillow does not come with any specific accessories. Fabric eyelets on the sides allow the pillow to be attached to a sleeping mat.
There are no customization options beyond adjusting the air pressure within the core. Aftermarket pillowcases can be added for increased cleanliness and customization.
Pros and Cons of Exped Down Pillow
Pros
- Exceptional Comfort: The combination of down filling and adjustable air core provides a luxurious and customizable sleeping experience.
- Lightweight and Packable: At just 6.7 ounces, it adds minimal weight and bulk to your pack.
- Adjustable Height: The air core allows users to fine-tune the pillow’s height and firmness to their liking.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality materials and robust FlatValve ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Maintain: The removable air core and washable pillow case make cleaning and maintenance a breeze.
Cons
- Price: At $69.95, the Exped Down Pillow is more expensive than many other camping pillows on the market.
- Down Care: Down requires special care when washing to maintain its loft and warmth.
Who Should Buy Exped Down Pillow?
The Exped Down Pillow is perfect for:
- Backpackers and campers who prioritize comfort and are willing to spend a little extra for a good night’s sleep.
- Travelers who want a lightweight and packable pillow for airplanes, trains, or hotels.
- Anyone who struggles to sleep comfortably on traditional camping pillows.
Who should skip this product?
- Budget-conscious campers who are looking for the cheapest possible option.
- Those who are allergic to down.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A small stuff sack to protect the pillow during transport.
- A silk or fleece pillowcase for added comfort and warmth in colder conditions.
Conclusion on Exped Down Pillow
The Exped Down Pillow is a premium camping pillow that delivers on its promise of exceptional comfort and packability. While the price may be a barrier for some, the luxurious feel and customizable support make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize a good night’s sleep in the outdoors.
The price is definitely justified. It is worth paying extra for comfort.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their camping sleep system.
If you are serious about camping comfort, do yourself a favor and grab the Exped Down Pillow. You’ll be surprised at how much of a difference it makes.