This is a unique example, but my climb allowed me to view and appreciate this pad from different angles. It proved the Tensor EC’s durability in harsher conditions than a generic camping trip. Insulated models leverage 2 layers of suspended Thermal Mirror™ metallized film for a lighter and remarkably quiet sleep when compared to the competition. We tested a mummy version, but it’s also offered in a Rectangle shape. More on sleeping pad shapes in our Guide. This ultralight sleeping pad is insulated. It has an R-value of 2.5 meaning it provides moderate insulation from ground temperature. Therefore the Nemo Tensor is designed for camping in colder temperatures and may feel too warm or clammy for summer use. The Tensor Insulated is an all-season sleeping mat with a focus on a silent night sleep. This particular model is the regular wide version, so it's brilliant for those wanting extra wriggle room.

I owe apologies to tentmates awoken by the irritating noise emanating from my pad as I tossed and turned. Some pads are that noisy! Spacious– Even with a six-foot frame, I found this pad to have plenty of space. This is awesome for anyone who likes to splay out and has plenty of room for most people in general. It is a 1 person sleeping pad (doubles Sleeping Pads and double sleeping bags do exist) and comes in 3 different size versions – we tried the medium one. Can be too warm– It’s a great warm pad, but it’s arguably not usable in the summer. I spent a few 70-ish degree nights on this pad wearing basically nothing and still found myself drenched in sweat.Additionally, its 40-denier nylon bottom resisted ripping against the sharp stone. Durability is always a fear of mine when testing ultralight pads. So this was a pleasant surprise. While sleeping on our portaledge, it deflected violent gusts of wind that endlessly whipped the bottom of the ledge, cocooning me in warmth. Note that most sleeping pads have an R rating of 1.0 (good for warm weather) to 5.5+ (for use in extreme cold). Two Layers of Thermal Film Insulation– Thermal Film Insulation is lightweight and quieter than the competition. The Tensor EC borrows some core elements from existing NEMO pads, like one-way lay-low valves, and suspended Thermal Mirror metalized film. However, it employs a new baffle tech called Apex. Four layers of its thermal film are placed over trapezoidal trusses (flexible, vertical supports within the pad), as opposed to the common rectangular design. Spaceframe Baffles– The unique baffles system on the Tensor provides excellent stability and weight distribution, using low-stress, die-cut trusses that eliminate springiness.

bluesign® approved premium nylon fabrics shave grams while offering superior puncture- and tear-resistance.Weighing in at just 1lb 2 0z (the medium-sized version) this by far amongst the lightest sleeping pads we have carried.

The NEMO Tensor is a sleeping pad that hits nearly every mark well in an overcrowded field. In both insulated and non-insulated versions it has a respectable weight for an air pad, has 3 inches of cushion that’s dispersed very evenly through the quilted baffles, and is nice and quiet when you roll over. An air pad with twist and pull valve usually takes this many breaths to inflate. You’ll be huffing and puffing. All of this on a 20-inch pad feels a bit hindering. Pads with similar high R-values, like Exped’s Ultra 7R and Dura 8R allow you a tad more girth, affording a cozier, less constraining sleep.Each sheet of film is slotted over these trusses, with different-sized holes in each sheet. That eliminates the need to weld them in place. By free-floating each sheet, NEMO not only cuts weight but greatly reduces the loud crinkly sound that is so common — and insomnia-inducing — with insulating air pads. I’ve spent roughly a month’s worth of nights getting familiar with this pad, so I’ve had a good chunk of time to get familiar with it. I’m mostly going to talk about the two factors that make this pad unique: its insulation and its large cut. Insulation A small hole at the top of the pad allowed me to clip it to a sling in case the pad slipped from under me and flew away in the breeze. This also serves as an easy way to hang the pad up to dry if it gets wet. That was a simple added bonus that I haven’t seen on other pads.