What Makes Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat Stand Out?
The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat promises a comfortable and weight-conscious sleep solution for adventurers. Manufactured by Sea to Summit, this self-inflating mat boasts a 2-inch thickness, recycled materials, and horizontal coring, all designed to offer a restful night in the backcountry. Is it just another sleeping pad, or does it truly deliver on its promises of comfort and sustainability?
I needed a lightweight and comfortable sleeping solution for extended backpacking trips where pack weight is critical. I also wanted a pad that was environmentally conscious. The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat seemed to strike a good balance between these factors, promising both comfort and sustainability.
Unboxing the mat, I was immediately impressed with the soft feel of the recycled fabric and the manageable packed size. The Bombay Brown color is understated and appealing, and the overall construction felt solid and well-made. Its weight also felt lighter than other self-inflating mats I’ve used.
Compared to my old Therm-a-Rest ProLite and a friend’s Exped SynMat HL Winter, the Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat seemed to offer a better compromise between weight, packability, and comfort. The Therm-a-Rest was lighter, but less comfortable, and the Exped was more comfortable, but bulkier. I was hoping for a “Goldilocks” solution, and the Pursuit SI seemed promising.
My initial impression was positive and hopeful. I was excited to test the mat in the field and see if it could live up to the hype. The soft fabric and ample thickness gave me confidence that I would sleep well, even on uneven ground.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was a three-day backpacking trip in the Lost Coast Trail in Northern California. This area is known for its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. I set up camp on a sandy beach, a surface that can be surprisingly unforgiving without adequate padding.
The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat performed admirably, providing a comfortable and supportive sleeping surface despite the uneven ground. The 2-inch thickness cushioned my hips and shoulders effectively. The horizontal coring seemed to distribute weight evenly. The temperature was around 50°F (10°C), and I experienced no cold spots.
Inflation was quick and easy using the XPEL valve, requiring only a few breaths to reach full firmness. Deflation was similarly straightforward. There were no issues to report after this first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and multiple backpacking trips, the Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat continues to perform well. I’ve used it on everything from rocky alpine terrain to soft forest floors. It has consistently provided a comfortable night’s sleep.
Durability has also proven to be excellent. The fabric shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to abrasive surfaces. The seams are holding strong, and the valve functions flawlessly. I am impressed.
Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and debris. I typically store it unrolled with the valve open to maintain its loft, following the manufacturer’s recommendations. Compared to my previous sleeping pads, the Pursuit SI offers a superior combination of comfort, weight, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat
Specifications
The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. It features a 100% Post-consumer Recycled Polyester fabric. It also features Horizontal Delta Coring for weight reduction and comfort.
The 2-inch (5cm) thickness provides ample cushioning, while the rectangular shape offers plenty of room to stretch out. The Large size is generous, and the mat packs down to a respectable size for backpacking. These specifications translate to a comfortable and packable sleeping solution suitable for various outdoor adventures.
Performance & Functionality
The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat excels in providing a comfortable and supportive sleeping surface. The Horizontal Delta Coring effectively distributes weight and minimizes pressure points. It keeps you comfortable even when sleeping on uneven terrain.
The mat inflates quickly and easily, thanks to the XPEL Multi Function Valve, and deflates just as efficiently. Its strengths lie in its comfort, packability, and ease of use, while its main weakness is perhaps its price point, which is higher than some comparable mats. However, its quality and features justify the investment.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a self-inflating sleeping mat, delivering a comfortable and reliable sleeping experience in various conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes comfort and usability. The recycled polyester fabric is soft and comfortable against the skin. The rectangular shape provides ample space for movement.
The mat is lightweight and packable, making it easy to carry on backpacking trips. The XPEL valve is intuitive and easy to operate. There is a slight learning curve to get used to the self-inflating nature of the pad, but overall it is a user-friendly design.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat is built to last, using high-quality materials and construction techniques. The recycled polyester fabric is durable and abrasion-resistant. The seams are strong and well-sealed.
With proper care and maintenance, this mat should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth. Storing the mat unrolled with the valve open helps maintain its loft and prevents mildew growth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat comes with a side-loading stuff sack for easy packing and storage. There are no specific customization options available for the mat itself. However, it is compatible with a wide range of sleeping bags and groundsheets from various brands.
Additionally, users can add a thin foam pad underneath for extra insulation in colder conditions or to protect the mat from sharp objects.
Pros and Cons of Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular MatPros
- Comfortable and supportive thanks to the 2-inch thickness and Horizontal Delta Coring.
- Lightweight and packable, ideal for backpacking.
- Durable and well-made with recycled polyester fabric.
- Easy to inflate and deflate with the XPEL valve.
- Environmentally conscious design using recycled materials.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some other self-inflating mats.
- Rectangular shape might be too bulky for some ultralight backpackers (Consider the Contour version if saving weight is the top priority).
Who Should Buy Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat?
Pros
- Comfortable and supportive thanks to the 2-inch thickness and Horizontal Delta Coring.
- Lightweight and packable, ideal for backpacking.
- Durable and well-made with recycled polyester fabric.
- Easy to inflate and deflate with the XPEL valve.
- Environmentally conscious design using recycled materials.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some other self-inflating mats.
- Rectangular shape might be too bulky for some ultralight backpackers (Consider the Contour version if saving weight is the top priority).
The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat is perfect for backpackers, campers, and anyone looking for a comfortable and lightweight sleeping solution. It is especially well-suited for those who prioritize comfort and sustainability. The rectangular shape is ideal for those who like to stretch out while sleeping.
Those who should skip this product are ultralight backpackers on a tight budget. There are lighter and cheaper options available, although they may not offer the same level of comfort or durability.
A must-have accessory is a footprint or groundsheet to protect the mat from sharp objects. A small repair kit is also a good idea for extended trips.
Conclusion on Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat
The Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat is an excellent self-inflating sleeping mat that delivers on its promises of comfort, weight savings, and sustainability. It is well-made, durable, and easy to use. It has quickly become my go-to sleeping pad for backpacking trips.
The price is justified by the quality of the materials and construction, as well as the thoughtful design and features. I would highly recommend the Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat to anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable sleeping solution for their outdoor adventures. So, if you value a good night’s sleep in the backcountry, look no further. Buy the Sea to Summit Pursuit SI Rectangular Mat and experience the difference!