Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat Review

Let’s Dive into Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat

The Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat promises a comfortable night’s sleep in the backcountry without breaking the bank or your back. Sea to Summit has a reputation for quality outdoor gear, and this mat aims to deliver on that promise for the ultralight crowd. It boasts a clever design, lightweight materials, and self-inflating convenience, all at a competitive price point of $65.10.

My search for a lightweight, packable sleeping pad led me to the Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat. I was tired of bulky, uncomfortable closed-cell foam pads that took up too much space in my pack. I needed something that wouldn’t weigh me down on multi-day treks but still provided adequate cushioning and insulation for a decent night’s rest.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was how compact and lightweight the mat was. The orange fabric felt surprisingly durable despite its thinness. The self-inflating valve seemed well-designed, and the silicone grip print on the surface hinted at a thoughtful approach to preventing slippage.

I considered several alternatives, including the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol (a closed-cell foam pad known for its durability), and the NEMO Tensor Insulated (an air pad with a higher R-value but also a higher price). I chose the Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat for its balance of weight, comfort, and price. The self-inflating feature also appealed to me, as it eliminated the need for a separate pump or lung power.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The mat seemed well-made and lived up to its ultralight billing. I was eager to put it to the test in the field and see if it could deliver on its promise of comfortable, lightweight sleep.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat was a three-day backpacking trip in the Lost Coast of Northern California. The terrain was varied, ranging from sandy beaches to rocky bluffs, and the weather was predictably unpredictable, with cool nights and occasional coastal fog. I used the pad inside my lightweight, single-person tent.

The mat performed surprisingly well in these conditions. Inflation was quick and easy; simply opening the valve allowed it to self-inflate to about 80% capacity, and a few breaths topped it off. The 1-inch thickness provided adequate cushioning on the uneven ground, and the silicone grip print kept my sleeping bag from sliding around during the night.

The only initial issue I encountered was a slight learning curve with the multi-function valve. Figuring out the optimal setting for inflation, deflation, and fine-tuning air pressure took a few tries.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use on various backpacking and camping trips, the Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of punctures or leaks, and the fabric shows minimal wear and tear. I’ve used it on everything from soft forest floors to rough granite slabs, and it has consistently provided a comfortable sleeping surface.

The 30D Polyester fabric has proven surprisingly durable. It cleans easily with a damp cloth and mild soap. The mat has consistently outperformed my expectations for such a lightweight and packable sleeping pad. It’s far more comfortable and convenient than my old closed-cell foam pad.

Breaking Down the Features of Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat

Specifications

The Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:

• Fabric/Material: 30D Polyester and Delta Core-V vertical coring. The lightweight polyester provides durability, while the Delta Core-V technology removes foam to reduce weight and bulk without sacrificing too much comfort.
• Sleeping Pad Type: Self Inflating Pads. This offers a blend of convenience and comfort, as the pad partially inflates on its own.
• Thickness: 1 in. This is a relatively thin profile, aimed at minimizing weight and bulk.
• Application: Backpacking. The Ultralight SI Mat is designed specifically for backpacking, where weight and packability are paramount.
• Weight: 1.6 lb. This falls within the “ultralight” category, making it a good choice for weight-conscious backpackers.
• R Value Range: 2-2.9. The R-value indicates the pad’s insulation capacity. This rating is sufficient for late spring to early fall camping.

These specifications work together to create a sleeping pad that is both lightweight and reasonably comfortable. The Delta Core-V technology is particularly noteworthy, as it strikes a balance between weight reduction and support.

Performance & Functionality

The Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat performs its primary job – providing a comfortable sleeping surface – quite well. It offers good cushioning and insulation for its weight.

Its strengths lie in its lightweight design, compact pack size, and ease of use. The main weakness is its relatively low R-value, which may not be sufficient for colder conditions. It meets my expectations for a lightweight backpacking pad, offering a good balance of comfort and packability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ultralight SI Mat features a streamlined design that prioritizes weight savings. The rectangular shape maximizes usable sleeping area, while the Delta Core-V technology minimizes bulk.

The mat is relatively user-friendly, although the multi-function valve takes a bit of getting used to. Overall, the design is well-executed, considering the product’s intended use.

Durability & Maintenance

The 30D Polyester fabric seems reasonably durable. Proper care, such as storing the mat unrolled and away from sharp objects, should extend its lifespan.

Cleaning is simple – wiping it down with a damp cloth. Repairs would likely require a patch kit specific to inflatable sleeping pads.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat comes with a stuff sack for storage and PillowLock patches designed to keep Sea to Summit pillows attached to the mat.

There aren’t many customization options available for this type of product. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited to pillows and potentially a repair kit.

Pros and Cons of Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat

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Who Should Buy Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat?

The Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat is perfect for:

• Ultralight backpackers who prioritize weight and packability.
• Thru-hikers looking to minimize their gear weight.
• Campers who primarily camp in late spring, summer, and early fall.

This product is not ideal for:

• Cold-weather campers who need a high R-value for insulation.
• Side sleepers or those who prefer a thicker, more luxurious sleeping surface.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• A repair kit for inflatable sleeping pads.
• A Sea to Summit pillow (or similar lightweight pillow) to complement the mat.

Conclusion on Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat

The Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat is a solid choice for weight-conscious backpackers seeking a balance of comfort, packability, and price. It’s not the warmest or most luxurious sleeping pad on the market, but it delivers on its promise of lightweight convenience.

At $65.10, the price is justified, considering the mat’s features and performance. It’s a good value for backpackers on a budget.

I would personally recommend the Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable ultralight sleeping pad. If you’re tired of bulky, uncomfortable closed-cell foam pads, give this one a try. You might be surprised at how much better you sleep in the backcountry! Ditch the bulk, embrace the light, and hit the trail with the Sea to Summit Ultralight SI Mat!