Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT vs Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated

The Rapide SL Insulated is the better pick for most side and back sleepers: 4.25 inches of thickness and a 4.8 R-value give more cushion and warmth than the NeoAir XLite NXT's 3 inches and 4.5 R-value. The XLite NXT is the lighter, smaller-packed pad at 13 oz versus about 18 oz, so it wins for ounce-counting backpackers. The NeoAir's weak spot is durability and grip: owners report leaks and pads that stop holding air, and the slick surface slides at night. The Rapide's main complaint is repacking it into its stuff sack.

• Choose the NeoAir XLite NXT if you count every ounce on long backpacking trips and want a warm pad that packs to about the size of a 1L bottle.
• Choose the Rapide SL Insulated if you want a thicker, warmer, more forgiving pad and don't mind a few extra ounces.