Therm-a-Rest Z-Rest

robert hale
Reviewed: 25 January 2005

COMFY BUT THE CONDENSATION EFFECT IS A MAJOR MINUS

really comfy compaired to normal closed cell mats,and is alot neater in a tent because corners don't curl up like normal mats, an again comfy hmmmmm

pools of condensed sweat makes anything a bit smelly after afew days of contact especially knees of trousers elbows sleeping bag etc... (anything that touches the mat and sweat....)not good, also the cups can get full of dirt which combined with sweat makes the whole thing worse!!!and harder to clean, an if being carried on the outside of your pack, if it rains, because of the way it is packed consetina style the rain can get in the gaps and soak the whole mat unlike a rolled mat where only the outer/exposed part of the mat gets wet if ya see what i mean...................

such a very nice light comfy closed cell mat very sadly let down by the condensation problem, so only recommended if ya sweat as much as a mozzie pees!!!

joan collins
Reviewed: 25 September 2001

Cheap and light

Impermeable and virtually indestructible.

A well-behaved mat which doesn't curl up when you're trying to flatten it, or refuse to pack down small.

Ultralight.

Not as insulating as an inflatable.

Any condensation will pool in the dimples and wet the sleeping bag.

Compresses more with use - you don't get that 'as new' insulation you get every time with an inflatable.

Rather bulky to carry.

A good compromise between a light, cheap Karrimat and a more expensive inflatable Thermarest, this is quick to set up or pack away, and provides a reasonable amount of insulation for very little weight.

It can be confidently used in places you wouldn't dare take a Thermarest, like cactus or thistly areas.

It's too large to be carried in many rucksacks, though, and its bulk makes it an irritating obstruction sometimes.

Watch out for condensation, or wetness in general, which pools easily on the textured surface.