But that’s half the joy – with the specific configuration I’m testing – of Nemo’s latest line-up of ultralight sleeping pads. You see, the Tensor range comes in ten different configurations, from a short mummy, mummy, regular, wide and long wide. And then for each different size, you can choose either insulated or non-insulated. And so explains the exorbitantly long, yet completely accurate title of this product and review.
While each model within Tensor range offers a different size, weight and insulation configuration, underpinning the entire Tensor range are the same core technologies. All are made using a lightweight 20D polyester and similarly lightweight construction methods, all of which are intended to keep the pads as light as possible. The Regular Mummy (what I’m testing) weighed in at 425g, just over the published 410g weight, although when you add in all the extra bits (stuff sack, straps, inflation bag), the total weight is closer to 500g (still very respectable for an Ultralight).
The pads all use Nemo’s spot-welded Spaceframe baffle system. Essentially the baffles are designed in such a way that the metalised insulating layer hangs from the baffles rather than being welded to the inner liner. This is intended to reduce the crinkle-sound when rolling around at night, common in many other metalised insulated pads.
The pads also incorporate Nemo’s zero-profile, multi-functional valve. While this valve system is super easy to use (insert one valve to inflate, remove both valves to deflate), herein also lies my only real criticism of the pad. Accidentally pull off both valves (and while they’re unlikely to come out themselves, it’s not too difficult to accidentally pull both off) and BOOM, the bag will deflate almost instantly. Awesome for getting back on the trail quickly, a real b*itch if you’re wanting to pump a little more air during the night and you pull the wrong valve. The valve is also a little difficult to blow up manually (ie wrapping your lips around the valve). Instead, Nemo have included their Vortex pump sack. The theory is you kinda breath into the sack normally and then use that to inflate the pad. I found this worked okay, but still much faster to blow up the pad directly, despite having to suck the valve (about 15 big breaths for me).
The pad is a pretty fat (for an ultralight) 8cm thick which I found really comfortable to sleep on. The mummy design does feel narrow, although all the larger (and heavier) models overcome this. It really depends how much weight and volume are important. A velcro strap allows the pad to be really compressed, down to a size that is a tad smaller than a 1L neoprene water bottle.
(R.Handel)
Need to know:
Intended use: 3 season (-7 to -12C)
Thickness: 8 cm
Dimensions: 183x51x8cm
Packed dimensions: 20 x 7.5cm dia
Weight (with all accessories): 500g
RRP: $239.95
More info: www.nemoequipment.com