Gear review: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT

Publication date: 25 Aug 2024

GearSleeping pads

Nothing is more important than a good sleep after a long day of hiking. Especially, when you choose to carry your camping gear on a long-distance trail. In this review, in this gear review of the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT, I will talk about the details and my experience with the sleeping pad.

In my opinion, Therm-a-Rest is the best option for anyone wanting to reduce weight, with improved warmth and comfort. The new Xlite NXT was developed to be slightly thicker than the old pad, with a higher R-value. This pad is at the top of my list of suggestions for an ultralight sleeping pad for three-season use. I’ve tested it out on many trails and different surfaces. I conclude that the sleeping pad is a bit slippery if you lie a little vertically. It’s something that I didn’t know before I bought it. But overall, it was the best decision to buy it and there is not much to complain about.

Ard Leeksma

Ard Leeksma was born in the Netherlands. He is a self-taught freelance photographer who travels anywhere and has been thru-hiking about 4 years from now. His love for long-distance hiking all started in the best hiking country: New Zealand. Eventually, he discovered his way to the mountains in Europe, especially in the Alps, Pyrenees, and the Balkans. Ard writes detailed itineraries of his trips and shoots personal portraits and business outdoor branding.

You can check his website or follow him on Instagram: @ardleeksma

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Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT

Comfort

The NXT version is half an inch thicker. I’ve found out that I slept comfortably on my side, back, and stomach without any issues, even when I set up on uneven ground. The R-value of 4.5 is also plenty warm enough to keep most hikers comfortable on pretty much any three-season hike.

The Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads are familiar with the potato chip bag sound! However, the NXT is much quieter compared with others. Still, it does have a little crinkle sound, but it doesn’t bother me when I sleep. Overall it is warm and comfortable.

Ultralight

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT weighs 354 grams, including the pump-sack. Compared to other pads on the market, the Xlite NXT is the second lightest. The NXT packs down to about the size of a 1L water bottle. That is smaller than many of the other top sleeping pads available. I always opt for more compact gear when I can, because it allows me to have more room for stuff like a plush pillow, towel, coffee equipment, and/or, of course, more snacks or food.

Pump sack included

The XLite NXT comes with a pump sack, so it can be inflated quickly and easily without having to blow your tuna wrap/Mountain House meal breath into the pad. Not only does this save you energy, but it also helps to preserve the inner workings of your sleeping pad. I fill up the mattress easily and quickly and makes me smile every time. The pump-sack connects very easily. With a handy switch on top, it allows you to connect the pump-sack and also the NeoAir micro pump. I am not a big fan of the micro pump: it is not included and costs you more money to buy it.

Made in EU, Ireland

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT sleeping pad proudly carries the mark of quality associated with being made in the EU, Ireland. Known for its precision craftsmanship and high standards, Ireland has become a hub for the production of advanced outdoor gear. By manufacturing the NeoAir XLite NXT in Ireland, Therm-a-Rest ensures a high level of attention to detail, durability, and innovation. This local production allows the company to maintain stringent quality control while supporting skilled craftsmanship. Extra special if you know that almost all outdoor gear is being produced in Asia.

Specifications

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT
Dimensions	51 x 182 cm
Weight	354 gram
Packed Size	23 cm x 10 cm (9in x 4.1 in
Includes	Stuff sack, Pomp sack, patch kit
Fabric	30D rip HT Nylon
R-Value	4.5
Price	199,95
Contact	Thermarest.com

pro's

Great Value

Quiet & Comfortable

Warm & Durable

Compact & Pump-sack included

Made in EU

con's

A bit expensive

A bit slippery feeling on a steep surface

Conclusion

The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT sleeping pad is an perfect choice for hiker looking for lightweight comfort without sacrificing warmth or durability. With its impressive R-value of 4.5, compact packability, and enhanced noise reduction, it offers a quiet sleep experience in year-round conditions. This sleeping pad delivers premium support and warmth, ensuring a restful nights in your tent. For me, a pro is that the Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads are made in the EU, Ireland. Overall you can’t go wrong with NeoAir Xlite NXT!