"Sadly disappointed" - Review of Pacific Outdoor Equipment Ether Thermo 6 Sleeping Pad - Women's

First, I have to start off with having had high expectations for the women's version of this sleep pad. I researched them all, and found for the weight (looking for a light one to pack on my back) and the big key of more insulation in the feet, I was seriously impressed with finding out about this product. I shopped around for the best price, got it, and we off went to go backpacking. It was late January, early February so it was a bit cold out in the desert at night. But I was feeling pretty confident that it would keep me warmer and definitely more comfortable than the Big Agnes one I have since this one is specific for women. Well, I wanted my feet warmer than the last time and this was supposed to be the answer! Hmmm, nope. Hate to say it, but I was not a happy camper, no pun intended! I could not tell a difference in the insulation and it is 2" thick, or should I say thin, compared to the Big Agnes having 2.5" with about the same weight. The temp inside our tent on both times was within tenths of degrees so I feel confident in my overview and the 1/2 inch of height to me made a big difference. Mind you, while I am short, I am not a petite size 2 and I woke up stiff in my low back (never had that with my Big Agnes)... so while I am sure there are women that will love this, I cannot say I did. I am pushing 40 and my back can't take me sleeping on the "floor", and this one seemed either too full and I was rolling off the top, or too thin with no support. Then of course, I didn't feel the special added feet insulation in this one as I had hoped and this was even with a blue thin pad underneath it all to help with the cold! Guess this will be one that our kids with strong backs and nimble, limber youth will have to use in the warmer months. But the concept of it sounds great... I just want my Big Agnes insulated pad back. Hope this helps you and happy sleeping !
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