I'm 6'3.5" & the regular @ 72" works great plus the extra weight of the large isn't worth the additional 15 sq in of pad.

If you would like your entire body to be on the pad then you need long. I try to stay a minimalist so i get the short to cut weight, then use my pack to rest my lower legs on.

I've actually done this before with my Prolite 4. The dimensions are 7 x 28" for the long, 4 x 21" for the regular, & you can use any standard or Trail Lite, for the Prolite series pad, Therm-a-Rest stuff sack.

http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Therm-a-Rest-Tough-Skin-Trail-Pro-Stuff-Sack/CAS0441M.html

http://www.backcountry.com/outdoorgear/Therm-a-Rest-Trail-Lite-Stuff-Sack/CAS0317M.html

Cory is correct. You have to purchase a stuff sack separately. Some Therma-a-Rest models do come with a stuff sack but the Prolite series does not.

See my answer above about using an alternative stuff sack option for the Prolite series.

I bought last years model from BC and mine did not come with a stuff sack

No this does NOT include a stuff sack. You can pick one up at:

http://www.backcountry.com/store/CAS0514/Therm-a-Rest-Prolite-Plus-Stuff-Sack.html

It comes with a stuff sack.

Start self-inflating your pad as soon as you get to camp by placing it in direct sunlight. This will allow it to inflate much faster & eliminate the need to blow into it.

if you are concerned about blowing into it because of the moisture freezing and making you cold, I wouldn't worry too much. Literally a few breaths is all it takes. Not really enough to worry about moisture.

It takes just a few breathes to inflate it. It takes a few minutes if you want to wait but even then you will probably still need to blow a bit into it. Maybe I have never been patient enough to just wait but it really is no big deal to inflate by blowing into it.

if you inflate it yourself and don't wait for it to "self-inflate" itll take about 30 seconds

The Thermarest pads I've used only take a few minutes - maybe 5-10? Never timed it. I usually just blow it up using good 'ol fashioned lung power and then it's less than 30 seconds.

I have used it with success. The L pad with the 25" chair is what I used. They actually worked perfect together. Nice little set up.

Yes it can! The Large size that is. Even though the edges are rounded, the Trekker Chair 25 will work.

see the trekker chair CAS0307 also check out the Therm-a-Rest Compack Camp Chair Item #CAS0509. the L will fit the 25" chair

Yes, but only if you get the S or M size. The L will not fit the chair kit.

If you plan on using your pad for winter use or simply want a more comfortable night's sleep, choose the ProLite Plus. It gives you an extra .5" thickness & increases the R-Value rating from 2.2 to 3.8.

There are some significant differences between the two pads. The Prolite was designed purely for weight and size conscious users. It is 1/2 lb lighter than the Prolite Plus. The shape is different (rounded corners, super lightweight materials top and bottom, star cutouts, etc.). As was already mentioned it is only 1" thick so there is a compromise on comfort (although with a self-inflatable mattress you do have the ability to make it as firm as you want thus allowing a 1" pad to be quite comfortable).

The Prolite Plus is for the user who wants lightweight and compactness, but doesn't consider these it's most important features. The Prolite Plus is meant for all-year use based on the holes being cut out at a 45 degree angle which gives it more insulation (more R-Value) but still maintaining the weight and roll up size of the Prolite 4 (brand new feature for 2009). It's the best lightweight option for 4 season use. Because it's 1 1/2" thick, it's also more comfortable. Again, it is 1/2 lb heavier than the Prolite.

The women's versions of both pads have a chevron pattern in the torso and feet cutouts. This gives them both more insulation and a bit more comfort (this was due to the belief that women are typically colder sleepers than men). They are the same size and weight as both men's versions when rolled up which is achieved by shortening the women's pads about 6 inches. I think the regular size is a perfect fit for you in my opinion. You will appreciate carrying less pad and it is the exact length that you want. Having it be a little wider is desirable, but not necessary. However, only you are an expert in how you sleep so I would get what will make you the most comfortable. Even the Lg sizes roll up small and don't weigh that much. Personally I go with the lightest weight I can get away with. This seems to make a huge difference over the course of a week of backpacking. Just some thoughts...

The plus is .5" thicker, weighs a bit more and is considered a four-season pad, while the prolite is a three-season pad. I use a 20" pad and it's wide enough for my average frame. It depends on how much weight you want to carry. If you think you roll around a lot, you may want a wider pad, but its not really necessary. I'd say go for the regular size.

3.8