When it comes to camping or backpacking, a good sleeping pad is essential for a comfortable night’s sleep. The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad has been a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts due to its impressive combination of durability, lightweight design, and insulating properties.

Design and Construction

The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol features a simple yet effective design that prioritizes comfort and protection from the elements. The pad is constructed using a unique foam insulation that provides excellent warmth retention while keeping the weight down.

One of the standout features of the Z Lite Sol is its ability to withstand rough conditions. The pad’s ruggedized surface can handle rocky or uneven terrain, and its compact size makes it easy to stow away in your backpack when not in use.

Weight and Compressed Size

Weighing in at just 12 ounces (340g), the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol is an extremely lightweight sleeping pad that won’t weigh you down on long hikes or backpacking trips. When compressed, it measures a mere 3 inches (7.5 cm) in thickness, making it easy to stuff into your backpack.

Insulation and Temperature Performance

The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol boasts impressive insulation properties, thanks to its unique foam construction. This design allows the pad to retain warmth even in freezing temperatures, keeping you comfortable throughout the night.

In our testing, we found the Z Lite Sol to be effective down to around 20°F (-7°C), although it’s worth noting that this can vary depending on individual comfort levels and sleeping conditions.

Comfort and Support

The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol features a surprisingly comfortable surface, considering its lightweight design. The pad provides ample support for your body, reducing pressure points and promoting a restful night’s sleep.

One minor complaint is the lack of a dedicated head or foot section on the pad. While this may not be a major issue for most users, it can make it slightly more difficult to adjust your position during the night.

Durability and Maintenance

Therm-a-Rest has built the Z Lite Sol with durability in mind. The pad’s ruggedized surface and robust construction ensure that it can withstand rough handling and harsh weather conditions.

Cleaning the Z Lite Sol is a breeze, as it can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth or washed in cold water.

Comparison to Competitors

The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol stands out from its competitors due to its unique foam insulation design. While other sleeping pads may offer better temperature performance or added features, the Z Lite Sol’s lightweight and compact design make it an attractive choice for backpackers and ultralight enthusiasts.

Some notable competitors include:

• REI Co-op Trailbreak 20: A more expensive option with improved temperature performance but increased weight (15 ounces / 425g).
• Big Agnes Q-Core SLX Insulated Sleeping Pad: A higher-end pad with advanced insulation and a dedicated head section, but also significantly heavier (23.5 ounces / 667g).

Conclusion

The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol Sleeping Pad is an excellent choice for backpackers, ultralight enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a durable and insulating sleeping pad. While it may not offer the absolute best temperature performance or comfort, its unique foam insulation design makes it a standout in its class.

With its impressive weight savings, compact size, and rugged construction, the Z Lite Sol is an excellent option for those who value lightweight gear without sacrificing too much comfort or protection from the elements.

Technical Specifications:

• Weight: 12 ounces (340g)
• Compressed Size: 3 inches (7.5 cm) thick
• Insulation: Unique foam design
• Temperature Performance: Effective down to around 20°F (-7°C)
• Comfort and Support: Surprisingly comfortable surface with ample support for the body
• Durability: Ruggedized surface and robust construction ensure durability in harsh conditions
• Maintenance: Easy to clean with a damp cloth or washed in cold water