Let’s Talk About Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat
The Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat promises a comfortable night’s sleep in the backcountry without the bulk. Manufactured by Mountain Equipment, this mat stands out with its combination of down insulation and an inflatable air chamber, aiming to provide both warmth and support. Its compact pack size and included inflation sack make it appealing to weight-conscious adventurers.
My search for the ultimate sleeping mat has been long and arduous. I needed a mat that offered exceptional insulation for cold weather camping, yet remained lightweight and packable for backpacking trips.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the mat’s compact size and the quality of the materials. The 30D ripstop polyester felt durable and the included windsock/stuff sack seemed like a clever addition. My initial impression was definitely excitement and anticipation to test its capabilities in the field.
Compared to other mats I’ve used, such as the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm and the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated, the Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat seemed to offer a compelling balance of warmth, weight, and price. I chose this mat primarily due to the promise of down insulation at a relatively accessible price point, hoping to find a warmer alternative to my current synthetic fill mat.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat was on a late fall backpacking trip in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Temperatures dipped into the low 30s Fahrenheit overnight, providing a solid test for the mat’s insulation.
The mat performed exceptionally well, keeping me noticeably warmer than my previous uninsulated air mattress. The ease of inflation with the included windsock was also a pleasant surprise, making setup quick and efficient. I was particularly impressed by the mat’s ability to retain warmth even when exposed to cold ground.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a week-long winter camping trip in Maine and numerous weekend backpacking excursions, the Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat has proven to be a reliable companion. The 30D ripstop polyester has held up admirably, showing no signs of tears or punctures despite being used on rough terrain.
Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous mat, the Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat has exceeded my expectations in terms of both warmth and durability. It has consistently delivered a comfortable and insulated sleeping surface in a variety of conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat
Specifications
- Fabric/Material: 30D Ripstop Polyester: The 30D ripstop polyester provides a good balance of lightweight and durability, resisting tears and abrasions. This matters because it ensures the mat can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without adding unnecessary weight.
- Sleeping Pad Type: Air Mat: Being an air mat, it offers superior comfort and packability compared to closed-cell foam mats. An air mat is crucial for distributing weight evenly and providing a more comfortable sleeping surface on uneven terrain.
- Bag Shape: Square: The square shape offers maximum useable surface area. This allows for more freedom of movement and prevents the feeling of being constricted during sleep.
- 180 g of 90-10 Pure Duck Down with a minimum fill power of 700: The down fill provides exceptional insulation for its weight, trapping warm air and preventing heat loss to the ground. A high fill power indicates the down’s ability to loft and trap more air, resulting in better insulation.
- Vertically aligned baffles with Helix technology to reduce down migration: This design minimizes cold spots and ensures even distribution of insulation. Preventing down migration is essential for maintaining consistent warmth across the entire mat.
- 2-way self-sealing Gas Mask valve for inflation and deflation: The valve allows for quick and easy inflation and deflation without air leakage. This is a significant convenience, especially when setting up or packing up camp in challenging conditions.
- Supplied Windsock inflates mat easily and doubles as lightweight stuff sack: This clever design minimizes the need for lung power and reduces moisture entering the mat. Using a windsock prevents moisture buildup inside the mat, which can compromise the down’s insulation properties.
- Supplied with repair kit: Having a repair kit readily available allows for quick fixes in the field, extending the life of the mat. Being able to repair minor punctures or tears ensures that a small mishap doesn’t ruin a trip.
- R Value: 5.0, tested to ASTM F3340: The R-value indicates the mat’s ability to resist heat flow; a higher R-value means better insulation. An R-value of 5.0 makes this mat suitable for use in cold weather conditions, down to well below freezing.
Performance & Functionality
The Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat performs its job admirably, providing a comfortable and well-insulated sleeping surface. Its R-value of 5.0 is genuinely noticeable in colder temperatures.
A key strength is its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. The primary weakness is the potential for punctures, which is inherent to all air mats, but the included repair kit mitigates this concern. The mat exceeds expectations for its combination of packability, insulation, and user-friendliness.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat boasts a well-thought-out design. The ripstop polyester is durable yet comfortable against the skin, and the vertical baffles provide good support.
The mat is relatively user-friendly, with a simple inflation system. There’s minimal learning curve involved in using the windsock and valve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat should last for several years of regular use. Regular cleaning and careful handling are essential.
The mat is easy to maintain. Field repairs are also relatively simple with the included repair kit.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat comes with a windsock/stuff sack and a repair kit. There aren’t really any customization options beyond choosing a different stuff sack.
The mat is compatible with most standard sleeping bags and can be used with a variety of ground cloths for added protection. No specific 3rd party accessories are particularly necessary.
Pros and Cons of Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat
Pros
- Exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio: Provides excellent insulation without excessive weight, making it ideal for backpacking.
- Compact pack size: Packs down small for easy transport and storage.
- Durable construction: The 30D ripstop polyester is resistant to tears and abrasions.
- Easy inflation with windsock: The included windsock simplifies inflation and reduces moisture buildup inside the mat.
- High R-value (5.0): Suitable for use in cold weather conditions.
Cons
- Potential for punctures (inherent to air mats): Requires careful handling and a ground cloth to avoid damage.
- Down insulation requires careful drying if it gets wet: Although unlikely with proper use, wet down loses its insulating properties.
Who Should Buy Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat?
Perfect for: Backpackers, campers, and mountaineers seeking a lightweight and warm sleeping mat. Anyone who values packability and comfort will appreciate the Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat.
Who should skip this product? Those primarily car camping and prioritizing durability over weight may find a thicker, self-inflating mat more suitable. Those extremely rough with gear and unwilling to take the time to repair the mat may not find this is the correct option.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A ground cloth or footprint is highly recommended to protect the mat from punctures.
Conclusion on Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat
The Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat is a well-designed and high-performing sleeping mat that offers an excellent balance of warmth, weight, and packability. The R-value and down insulation provide exceptional warmth for its weight, making it a great choice for backpacking and camping in cold weather.
The price is justified by the mat’s performance, durability, and included accessories. I would personally recommend the Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat to anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable sleeping mat for their outdoor adventures.
Don’t let another cold night ruin your trip. Get your Mountain Equipment Aerostat Down 7.0 Sleeping Mat today and experience the difference!