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What's the difference between this and the NeoAir Trekke...
By BradyF
Ranked #346 - Lightweight Sleep Pads
March 7, 2011
What's the difference between this and the NeoAir Trekker?
View Details: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Sleeping Pad
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
By kayak33552108140
Ranked #239 - Lightweight Sleep Pads
December 15, 2011
I also have both. I find the NeoAir seems a little more comfortable than the Trekker and NeoAir is a little warmer. The key is adjusting the correct air pressure to body weight. I also use the Thermarest air adapter that takes between 2-3 bags full of air to fill. Very little effort and lightweight compact inflation option.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
By Jason Livingston
Ranked #2 - Lightweight Sleep Pads
March 7, 2011
Great question! There are a couple of key differences between the two. The NeoAir (listed above) uses the most durable lightweight nylon available. Remember, this is ultra-lightweight material so it needs a little more TLC (no different from other super lightweight gear). However it is much more durable than other ultra-lightweight materials and has incredible tensile strength (it's ability to withstand tears). It can also take amazing amounts of pressure without breaking down. It isn't remarkably puncture proof, but really no nylon ripstop or polyester is. This material is also coated with a tacky silicon surface to help it from sliding around the tent. The other major difference between this and the NeoTrekker is the highly reflective mylar sheet that helps to radiate heat back to the user. This increase it's R-Value by almost 2 points. The NeoTrekker doesn't have this reflective material inside the pad. The NeoAir is also about 5 oz. lighter and can pack smaller. The NeoTrekker uses a polyester material instead of nylon. Polyester materials are less expensive than high-end nylons and don't have the same tensile strength for it's weight. However, the polyester used on the NeoTrekker has similar characteristics as the nylon on the NeoAir, but at a weight penalty. The polyester also has a brushed feel to it giving it a softer hand. Because the NeoTrekker lacks the noisy reflective mylar inside, it is much quieter if you are concerned about crinkly noise. I've used both pads and am not bothered by either although some have complained with the NeoAir. In summary the NeoTrekker is more durable, quieter but less insulative and heavier than the NeoAir. It's also $40 cheaper. If these attributes are desirable, and the extra weight isn't a big deal, then the NeoTrekker is a tremendous pad. However, if size, weight, and extended season use (down to about 20 degrees F) is paramount without sacrificing comfort, albeit for the slight crinkly noise and a bit more money, the NeoAir stands supreme.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
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