When it comes to camping and backpacking, a reliable sleeping pad is an essential item for a comfortable night’s sleep. Therm-a-Rest has been a leader in the industry for decades, and their Z Lite Sol sleeping pad is one of the most popular choices among outdoor enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the features and benefits of the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol.

Design and Construction

The Z Lite Sol sleeping pad is designed to be ultra-lightweight, weighing in at just 12 ounces (340g) for the standard size. Despite its compact weight, it still offers an impressive amount of comfort and insulation. The pad features a unique foam construction that provides excellent cushioning and support for your body.

Inflated vs. Uninflated Size

The Z Lite Sol sleeping pad inflates to a generous 72″ x 20″ (183cm x 51cm) size, providing ample space for a comfortable night’s sleep. When deflated, the pad compresses down to just 3 inches (7.6 cm) in diameter and 2 inches (5.1 cm) in height, making it easy to carry on backpacking trips or store in your gear closet.

R-Value and Insulation

The Z Lite Sol has a respectable R-value of 2.9, which provides adequate insulation for camping in temperatures ranging from -20°F to 40°F (-29°C to 4°C). While it may not be the warmest sleeping pad on the market, it’s still an excellent choice for backpackers and campers who need a lightweight solution.

Compressed Packing

One of the standout features of the Z Lite Sol is its compressed packing ability. The pad can be rolled up into a compact cylinder that fits easily in your backpack or pocket, making it perfect for thru-hikers and ultralight enthusiasts.

Packing Size vs. Competitors

When comparing the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol to other sleeping pads on the market, we noticed that it has a slightly larger packed size than some of its competitors. However, this is offset by its excellent comfort and support features.

Weight Comparison

Here’s a weight comparison between the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol and some of its closest competitors:

• Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol: 12 oz (340g)
• Big Agnes Q-Core SLX: 14.8 oz (420g)
• Sea to Summit Ether Light XT: 15.2 oz (430g)
• Exped SynMat HyperLite: 16.3 oz (460g)

As you can see, the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is one of the lightest options on the market.

Conclusion

The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol sleeping pad is an exceptional choice for backpackers and campers who prioritize comfort and support in a lightweight package. While it may not be the warmest or most feature-rich option, its compact size, excellent cushioning, and affordable price make it an attractive choice for those looking to upgrade their camping gear.

Technical Specifications:

• Weight: 12 oz (340g)
• Inflated Size: 72″ x 20″ (183cm x 51cm)
• Uninflated Size: 3 inches (7.6 cm) in diameter, 2 inches (5.1 cm) in height
• R-Value: 2.9
• Compressed Packing Size: 3 inches (7.6 cm) in diameter, 12 inches (30 cm) long
• Material: Foam construction
• Price: $40 – $50

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Ultra-lightweight design
• Excellent cushioning and support
• Compact packing size
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• May not be the warmest option for cold weather camping
• Compressed packing size can be a bit larger than some competitors