Exped - FlexMat Plus

I used a combination of a cut down Xped Flexmat plus and a GG 1/8th inch folded in half for most of the Colorado Trail and that was super comfortable. That set up weighed around 18oz. This past fall I picked up a Yamatomichi UL pad 15+, I’ve spent 1 night on it, so I can’t give a detailed report on it other than it kept me warm, but the 200cm length only weighs 8.2oz. I cut the extra length and I’m now using it as the back pad for my KS40.

I have a cot + 1.5" foam + EXPED FlexMat Plus, great for back and side sleep. I have chronic back pain and sleep well. $23 for foam on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07999TQWB?ref\_=ppx\_hzsearch\_conn\_dt\_b\_fed\_asin\_title\_2](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07999TQWB?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_2)

I use exped flexmat plus paired with a decathalon roll pad that I've modded to fold. I don't think I'd recommend the flexmat plus solo, but it works well as a system. I'd also be tempted to try the nemo switchback as it generally gets the best reviews for ccf.

Don't get a liner, get down boots and a down balaclava instead. Much warmer for the weight. As for the pad, fix it (soap water to see the bubbles), get an xtherm but you'll probably have another leak at some point. Or get a closed cell foam pad like the Exped Flexmat Plus which won't ever leak. The r value is much better than the number suggests (due to lackluster test methodology). As general advice, lightly suffering on a thru hike is unavoidable sometimes. If you just started give your body time to adjust and read up how can influence perceived sleep temperatures. It's a skill.

It will pop.  I bring an Exped Flexmat Plus torso length and a Thinlight full size. Comfy, UL, versatile and never deflates.

Closed Cell Foam ftw. They're bomb proof, warmer than equivalent R value blow up pads, much cheaper and serve as a siesta or sit pad. The Exped Flexmat Plus is the comfiest at 1.5 inches thickness.  I cut mine to torso length and combine it with a Gossamer Gear 1/8 inch Thinlight (full length). No blowing up, no popping.

Yes but the Exped Flexmat PLUS is S Tier. Most comfortable CCF pad on the market.

I have three; Exped Ultra 5R, Exped Flex, and Exped Deep Sleep. Ultra & Flex are my backpacking pads and the Deep Sleep is for car camping. Side and back sleeper that runs hot. Spring/summer/fall in the PNW. Go wide/long since you like to roll around.

I hated it like hated hated it.

Phenomenal mat! This is the one I'm currently using. Try a couple nights car camping with it, or sleep out in the backyard, before taking it on your long trek. Works for me, no inflatable required.

Would it work? Yes. They’ll do the job, but they’re just not that comfortable. Just about everyone these days uses an inflatable. R values are generally higher (shouldn’t matter for you), they’re compact, weigh about the same, but most importantly, they’re pretty comfortable. The only real downsides to inflatables is they can be pricey, and they will eventually get a leak.

I love mine, it goes under my Nemo insulated pad when I know it's going to be cold.

I exclusively sleep on CCF mats. the best budget, packable and easily available option is the Decathlon MT500. The warmest is the Thermarest Ridgerest but it's bulky. The epxed flexmat, Thermarest Z lite and Nemo Switchback are all good but a bit more pricey. Don't get hung up on R values like you would with an inflatable pad. for some reason CCF mats always feel warmer, i think due to the density of the material. I've slept on ice in the alps with CCF mats. As always though it will depend on the person and you'd need to exercise caution with a young en.