First Impressions of Exped DeepSleep Pillow
The Exped DeepSleep Pillow promises a taste of home comfort in the great outdoors. From Exped, a company known for its quality outdoor gear, this pillow deviates from their usual air-core designs, opting instead for a plush, foam-filled construction. It aims to cater to campers and van dwellers who prioritize a softer, more familiar feel under their heads.
I needed a camping pillow that actually felt like a real pillow. Inflatable pillows are often too firm or crinkly, while down pillows are bulky and difficult to clean. The Exped DeepSleep Pillow seemed to offer the perfect middle ground: a packable, comfortable, and easy-to-maintain solution for a good night’s sleep.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the pillow’s softness. The recycled tricot nylon outer material felt cozy and inviting, far from the typical plasticky feel of many camping pillows. It felt well-made and the upcycled foam chip filling felt like a premium material.
Compared to the Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow (an inflatable) and a generic down-filled travel pillow, the Exped DeepSleep Pillow felt significantly more like a regular bed pillow. The Sea to Summit was too firm and the down pillow was too large for backpacking. The Exped DeepSleep Pillow seemed like the best compromise between comfort and packability.
I was excited! It genuinely felt like something I’d be happy to rest my head on after a long day of hiking. The initial feel suggested a comfortable and supportive sleeping experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Exped DeepSleep Pillow to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Exped DeepSleep Pillow on a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The conditions were relatively dry, with temperatures hovering around 50°F at night. I used it inside my lightweight backpacking tent, paired with my regular sleeping bag and pad.
The pillow performed admirably. It provided excellent support and cushioning, allowing me to sleep comfortably on my side without my neck feeling strained. The soft fabric was pleasant against my skin, even after sweating from a day of hiking.
The only minor issue I encountered was its size. While packable, it still takes up a bit more room than an inflatable pillow, so I had to carefully pack my bag. The Exped DeepSleep Pillow was, however, far more comfortable than any inflatable I’ve used.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use on various camping trips and even a few overnight stays in my van, the Exped DeepSleep Pillow has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, even after being compressed in my backpack multiple times. The stitching remains intact and the foam filling hasn’t lost its loft.
Cleaning has been surprisingly easy. A quick spot clean with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I even threw it in the washing machine (on a delicate cycle) once and it came out looking as good as new.
Compared to my previous inflatable pillow, the Exped DeepSleep Pillow is a clear winner in terms of comfort and durability. The inflatable felt flimsy and always seemed on the verge of popping. The Exped DeepSleep Pillow feels robust and reliable.
Breaking Down the Features of Exped DeepSleep Pillow
Specifications
The Exped DeepSleep Pillow boasts the following specifications:
- Manufacturer: Exped
- Application: Camping
- Length: 28 cm (11 inches)
- Width: 13 cm (5.1 inches)
- Height: 38 cm (15 inches)
- Size: Medium
- Age Group: Adults
- Fabric/Material: Recycled Tricot Polyester
- Weight: 180 g (6.3 oz)
These specifications are important because they directly impact the pillow’s comfort, packability, and overall usability. The size dictates how much support it provides, while the weight determines how much it will add to your pack. The recycled tricot polyester is a key feature, demonstrating Exped’s commitment to sustainability and providing a soft, comfortable sleeping surface.
Performance & Functionality
The Exped DeepSleep Pillow excels at providing a comfortable and supportive sleeping experience while camping. Its plush foam filling contours to the head and neck, providing excellent cushioning. It’s a vast improvement over many other camp pillow options.
Its strengths lie in its comfort, packability (for a foam pillow), and durability. The only real weakness is its size compared to inflatable options. The Exped DeepSleep Pillow definitely exceeds my expectations for a camping pillow.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel durable and well-stitched. The recycled tricot polyester is soft and comfortable against the skin. It feels sturdy and the size is perfect for side-sleeping.
The pillow is very user-friendly. There’s no inflation or deflation required, just simply place it under your head and enjoy. The ergonomic 3D form contributes to the comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Exped DeepSleep Pillow appears to be quite durable. After months of use, there are no signs of wear and tear. The fabric is resistant to abrasion and the foam filling retains its loft.
Maintenance is easy. Spot cleaning is usually sufficient and the pillow can be machine washed on a delicate cycle. It’s designed for outdoor use, so the pillow can withstand some use and abuse.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Exped DeepSleep Pillow does not come with any specific accessories. However, it features practical fabric eyelets on the sides, allowing it to be attached to a sleeping mat. This can prevent the pillow from slipping off the mat during the night.
There are no specific customization options available for the pillow itself. However, users can choose to use different pillowcases or add a thin layer of padding for added comfort. The eyelets are a useful inclusion for use with sleeping mats and quilts.
Pros and Cons of Exped DeepSleep Pillow
Pros
- Exceptional comfort thanks to the plush upcycled foam chip core and soft recycled face fabric.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance even with frequent use.
- Easy to maintain: Spot cleaning or machine washing makes it simple to keep clean.
- Ergonomic 3D form provides excellent support for the head and neck.
- Includes fabric eyelets for securing to a sleeping mat.
Cons
- Larger packed size compared to inflatable pillows.
- May be too soft for some users who prefer a firmer pillow.
Who Should Buy Exped DeepSleep Pillow?
The Exped DeepSleep Pillow is perfect for campers, van dwellers, and anyone who prioritizes comfort over absolute minimum pack size. Those who are side sleepers or prefer a softer pillow will especially appreciate its plush cushioning and ergonomic design. People who want an easy-to-clean and reliable camp pillow will also appreciate this pillow.
Those who should skip this product are ultralight backpackers who are extremely weight-conscious and space-constrained. Those who prefer a very firm pillow might also find the Exped DeepSleep Pillow too soft.
A compatible sleeping mat with attachment points would be a must-have accessory to fully utilize the pillow’s fabric eyelets and prevent slippage during sleep.
Conclusion on Exped DeepSleep Pillow
The Exped DeepSleep Pillow delivers on its promise of providing a comfortable and familiar sleeping experience in the outdoors. Its plush foam filling, soft recycled fabric, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who values a good night’s rest while camping. It is an excellent compromise between convenience and comfort.
The price is justified by the pillow’s superior comfort and durability compared to cheaper alternatives. While it may not be the lightest or most compact option, the added comfort is well worth the trade-off for many users.
I would definitely recommend the Exped DeepSleep Pillow to anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable camping pillow. If you value a good night’s sleep in the outdoors, this pillow is worth considering. Upgrade your camping sleep system today and experience the difference a truly comfortable pillow can make!