Let’s Dive into Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat
The Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat isn’t just another sleeping pad; it’s a meticulously engineered sleep system designed to deliver unparalleled comfort and warmth in the backcountry. Sea to Summit has carved a niche for themselves by pushing the boundaries of outdoor gear innovation, and the Comfort Plus Insulated Mat is a prime example of that commitment. With its innovative Air Sprung Cell technology, Exkin Platinum insulation, and Thermolite insulation, this mat promises a restful night’s sleep, even when the ground is far from inviting.
I was constantly waking up cold and stiff during my fall backpacking trips in the Adirondacks. I needed a pad that offered both superior insulation and comfort, without adding significant weight to my pack.
Unboxing the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat, my initial impression was one of quality and thoughtful design. The 30D/40D nylon fabric felt durable yet surprisingly soft to the touch, and the included stuff sack with integrated Airstream pump was a welcome addition. It felt more substantial than some of the ultralight pads I’ve used, but the weight still seemed reasonable for the level of insulation promised.
Compared to my old Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite and a friend’s Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra, the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat seemed to prioritize comfort over pure weight savings. I chose it because of the dual-layer Air Sprung Cell design which I hoped would eliminate the “hammock effect” of other air pads. I also needed a higher R-value for colder weather.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. Could an air mattress truly deliver the kind of comfort and warmth I was seeking? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat on a three-day backpacking trip in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The weather was unpredictable, with daytime temperatures in the mid-50s and nighttime lows dipping into the upper 30s, and some rain. I set up my tent on a relatively flat, but rocky, patch of ground near a stream.
The mat performed exceptionally well in the mixed conditions. Even on the uneven terrain, the Air Sprung Cells conformed to my body, providing excellent support and preventing pressure points. The insulation kept me noticeably warmer than my previous pad, even when the temperature dropped overnight, and the rain wasn’t an issue as the tent floor kept it dry.
The ease of use was a pleasant surprise. The multi-function valve made inflation and deflation quick and simple. Initially, I over-inflated it and felt like I was sleeping on a basketball, but quickly learned to dial in the perfect pressure.
The only minor issue was the initial squeakiness of the material when I moved around. Fortunately, that dissipated after the first night.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use on various camping and backpacking trips, the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat has proven to be a reliable and comfortable sleep companion. It consistently delivers a warm and supportive sleeping surface, regardless of the terrain.
The durability has been impressive. Despite being subjected to rocks, roots, and the occasional clumsy foot, the mat shows no signs of wear and tear. I have been careful to store it properly, but it seems robust enough to handle the rigors of backcountry use.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep the mat clean. The anti-microbial treatment is a nice touch, preventing any unpleasant odors from developing inside the mat.
Compared to my old NeoAir, the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat is significantly more comfortable and warmer. While it might not be the absolute lightest option on the market, the trade-off in comfort and insulation is well worth it for me. My friend with the Big Agnes pad also agreed that the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat was more comfortable!
Breaking Down the Features of Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat
Specifications
- Manufacturer: **Sea to Summit
- Color: Red. It’s a vibrant red which is easy to spot in my pack and in the tent.
- Fabric/Material: 30D/40 D Nylon w/Anti-microbial Liquid-extruded TPU Lamination, 40D rip-stop nylon. This combination of materials provides a good balance of durability, weight, and comfort.
- Sleeping Pad Type: Insulated. The insulation is critical for maintaining warmth in colder conditions.
- Thickness: 2.5 in. This thickness is ideal for providing cushioning and support without adding excessive weight.
- Application: Backpacking. It’s designed to be lightweight and packable for backpacking adventures.
- Seasonal/Temperature Use: 3 Season. While suitable for most conditions, I might consider a dedicated winter pad for extreme cold.
- Included Accessories: Stuff Sack w/Integrated Airstream Pump. This is a very practical addition which simplifies inflation and deflation.
- Weight: 25.5 oz. This is a good balance between comfort and portability.
- R Value Range: 5-5.9. This R-value provides excellent insulation for 3-season use.
- Minimum Weight: 25.5 lb. There appears to be a typo here. The weight is 25.5 oz, not pounds.
- Weight Range: 1 – 1.9 lb. This is consistent with the listed weight of 25.5 oz (approx. 1.6 lbs).
- Exkin Platinum fabric: Exkin Platinum technology reflects radiant heat back to the user, minimizing heat loss. This is crucial for staying warm in colder conditions.
- Thermolite insulation: Thermolite insulation prevents convective heat loss, further enhancing warmth. This works in conjunction with the Exkin Platinum to provide comprehensive insulation.
- Air Sprung Cell technology: This unique design features hundreds of interconnected air chambers that conform to the body, providing excellent support and comfort. It’s a key differentiator for this mat.
- Multi-function valve: The multi-function valve allows for fast and easy inflation, deflation, and fine-tuning of air pressure. This enhances the user experience.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the mat’s comfort, warmth, weight, and durability. The combination of high-quality materials, innovative design, and practical features makes it a standout product in its category.
Performance & Functionality
The Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function is to provide a comfortable and warm sleeping surface, and it excels in both areas.
The Air Sprung Cell technology truly lives up to its promise, conforming to my body and providing excellent support. The R-value of 5.0 effectively blocks cold from the ground, keeping me warm and comfortable even on chilly nights.
The only minor weakness is the initial squeakiness, which thankfully dissipates after a few uses. Otherwise, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a backpacking sleeping pad.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes comfort and usability. The 30D/40D nylon fabric feels soft against the skin, and the 2.5-inch thickness provides ample cushioning.
The included stuff sack with integrated Airstream pump is a clever and practical addition. It makes inflation quick and easy, and the pack-down size is reasonable for a pad of this thickness and insulation.
There’s no real learning curve involved in using this mat. The multi-function valve is intuitive, and the Air Sprung Cell technology provides instant comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat appears to be built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction inspire confidence.
The liquid extrusion TPU lamination is designed to prevent delamination, a common issue with other air mats. The included repair kit provides peace of mind in case of punctures.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the mat clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat comes with a stuff sack with an integrated Airstream pump and a repair kit. These are essential accessories that enhance the user experience and provide peace of mind.
There aren’t any specific customization options for this mat. However, it’s compatible with most standard sleeping bag liners and pillows.
Pros and Cons of Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat
Pros
- Excellent comfort thanks to the Air Sprung Cell technology. This is a game-changer for side sleepers like me.
- Superior insulation with an R-value of 5.0, keeping you warm in 3-season conditions. No more shivering on cold nights!
- Durable construction with high-quality materials. Built to withstand the rigors of backpacking.
- Easy to inflate and deflate with the multi-function valve and included Airstream pump. No more huffing and puffing!
- Anti-microbial treatment prevents odor buildup. Keeps your mat fresh and clean.
Cons
- Price is relatively high compared to some other sleeping pads. But the comfort and performance justify the cost for serious backpackers.
- Some users may find it slightly squeaky initially. This usually dissipates with use.
Who Should Buy Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat?
The Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat is perfect for backpackers, campers, and anyone who values a comfortable and warm night’s sleep in the outdoors. It’s especially well-suited for side sleepers and those who find traditional air mattresses uncomfortable. This is a great choice for 3-season use, and the high R-value makes it a good option for cooler climates.
Those who are extremely weight-conscious and prioritize minimizing pack weight above all else might want to consider a lighter (but less comfortable and insulated) option. If you mostly camp in warm weather, you might not need the high R-value this pad offers.
A must-have accessory would be a good sleeping bag liner to further enhance warmth and keep the mat clean.
Conclusion on Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat
The Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat is a top-tier sleeping pad that delivers exceptional comfort, warmth, and durability. While the price is higher than some of its competitors, the performance and features justify the investment. The Air Sprung Cell technology provides unparalleled support, and the high R-value keeps you warm in a variety of conditions.
I personally recommend the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat to anyone who prioritizes a good night’s sleep in the backcountry. It’s a game-changer that will transform your camping experience.
If you’re tired of waking up cold and stiff, do yourself a favor and give the Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Mat a try. You won’t be disappointed!