Original Z Lite™ Sleeping Pad

  • Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite - Coyote / Grey [Regular]
  • Therm-a-Rest | Z-Lite - Coyote / Grey [Regular]
  • Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite - Coyote / Grey [Regular]
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Therm-a-Rest

Original Z Lite™ Sleeping Pad

$49.95
$49.95
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Lightest, most compact closed-cell foam pad.
  • Extra Durable: Virtually indestructible, the proprietary closed-cell foam provides lasting, economical comfort.
  • Compact Design: Folding design is compact and easy to pack.
  • Layer It: Add 1.7 R-Value and protection from punctures when you layer the Z Lite under another sleeping pad.
  • Endless Utility: Sleeping pad, sitting pad, mosquito swatter... Fold it and find your best uses!
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Description

A backpacking icon, the Original Z Lite closed-cell foam sleeping pad is ultralight, virtually indestructible, and highly compact. Molded into a system of heat-trapping dimples, the proprietary foams are softer on top of the pad for extra comfort and denser on the bottom for boosted durability. The accordion-style design allows for the Z Lite to be unfurled into a sleeping pad, folded into a convenient seat, or even used a mosquito swatter. With it‘s legendary versatility, there’s a reason so many packs on the trail have a Z Lite strapped on.

Tech Specs

Size:
Regular
R-Value:
1.7
Weight:
14 oz (0.41 kg)
Width:
20 in (51 cm)
Length:
72 in (183 cm)
Thickness:
0.75 in (2 cm)
Packed Dimensions:
20 in x 5 in x 5.5 in (51 cm x 13 cm x 14 cm)
Foam Type:
Molded Closed Cell
Material(s):
Crosslinked Polyethylene Foam
Country Of Origin:
Made in USA
Color:
Coyote / Gray
SKU:
02302

Video Gallery

FAQs and Documents

What is solution-dyed fabric?

Solution-dyed fabric uses pre-dyed fibers to minimize the water and energy required to color the fabric. This means that color, or pigment, is added to the material producing the completed fabric. Compared to conventional batch-dyeing—the process of dyeing already produced fabric— solution dyeing requires significantly less water and energy, reducing waste and carbon emissions.

Will the NeoLoft fit in my tent?

Check the floor dimensions of your tent to see if they will accommodate the extra width of a NeoLoft pad. Lengthwise, every NeoLoft size will fit in the typical backpacking tent.

The floor dimensions of most 2-person backpacking tents are typically 50-52 in (127-132 cm) wide by 88-90 in (223-229 cm) long. If your 2-person backpacking tent is 52 in (132 cm) wide, then it will fit two Regular Wides or two Longs, or one of each. If your 2-person backpacking tent is 50 in (127 cm) wide, two of the wider NeoLofts will bulge slightly against the sides, but it will easily fit one Regular Wide or Long and one Regular.

Why is the NeoLoft wider and longer than other pads even though they are the same size (Regular, Regular Wide, Large)?

A Regular Wide NeoLoft measures 26 in x 73 in (66 cm x 185 cm), whereas a Regular XLite™ NXT measures 25 in x 72 in (64 cm x 183 cm). The NeoLoft’s 3D construction utilizes a sidewall band that attaches the top and bottom fabric. The sidewalls bulge out a bit when inflated, adding a touch of extra length and width.

Is the NeoLoft™ a NeoAir® sleeping pad?

No it’s not; we borrowed the ‘Neo’ moniker due to similarities in the internal constructions of the NeoLoft and the NeoAir pads. The NeoAir uses Triangular Core Matrix construction and the NeoLoft has ContourCore Matrix construction.

What’s the difference between Triangular Core Matrix™ construction and ContourCore Matrix™ construction?

Optimized for industry-leading warmth-to-weight ratios, Triangular Core Matrix is used inside our lightest, most compact sleeping pads. ContourCore Matrix uses the same thermally efficient design (two stacked layers of triangular chambers that disrupt convective heat loss) but incorporates a more flexible urethane material that allows for a thicker pad and superior contouring support. It’s heavier and less compact but maximizes comfort.

How should I inflate my self-inflating pad the first time?

For best performance, inflate your self-inflating pad with air by breath or pump and sack and leave the mattress fully inflated for 2-4 hours before your first use.

How do I inflate my self-inflating pad during winter?

In freezing conditions, avoid breath inflating your self-inflating pad. The moisture from your breath can freeze inside the mattress. The mattress may self-inflate slower in cold weather. Use a pump sack or electric pump if the pad needs additional air.

How Does a Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad Work?

Self-inflating sleeping pads rely on the compressible and rebound-able open cell foam cores to self-inflate. The atmospheric pressure around the pad pushes air into the rebounding open cells when the valve is opened. Check out our blog post for more information.

How Long Should it Take for My Pad to Self-Inflate?

Generally, it takes 5-15 minutes for any of our self-inflating pads to inflate on their own. That 10-minute variance range is probably due to one of the following factors: core construction, trained compression, elevation and temperature. We find the most significant factor is trained compression (i.e. if your pad is new and has been factory rolled on the shelf for some time or stored rolled up for a few months). Check out our blog post to find out why.

Why Doesn’t My Self-Inflating Pad Inflate All the Way?

Self-inflation begins when the valve is opened and ends when equilibrium is reached between the atmospheric pressure outside the cells and the air pressure within the cells pushing the other way. In our experience, most users’ comfort level requires more air than the equilibrium level, which is why self-inflating pads don’t inflate “all the way.” Check out our blog post for more information.

How should I store my sleeping pad?

  • Self-Inflating: We recommend storing the mattress unrolled and fully inflated in a dry place with the valve open. This will ensure the foam self-inflates faster when camping. Storage for a prolonged time in a damp space may cause mildew damage which is not covered by our Limited Lifetime Warranty.
  • NeoAir: We recommend leaving the valve open and storing your mattress rolled tight in a stuff sack to protect it from dirt and sharp objects.

What is the best way to clean my sleeping pad?

Regular cleaning will extend the life of your mattress, especially if you sleep in direct contact with its surface.

Do not put your mattress in the washing machine. Cleaning with a hose or in a bathtub is best. Do not forget to close the valve while washing. For general cleaning, a quick scrubbing with Formula 409®, BioClean™ All-Purpose Cleaner, or other general household cleaner is best.

Watch the video: How to Care for Your Therm-a-Rest® Mattress

For tree sap, spot clean with a cotton rag soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will take some work and sap will likely leave a stain. However, a dusting with talc or baby powder when you are done should eliminate any residual stickiness.

What should I do if I think my sleeping pad is losing air?

If you think that your NeoAir or self-inflating sleeping pad are losing air, it’s possible that you have a puncture in your pad. If you want to repair your pad at home, check out this blog post. If you’d like to send your pad to our Seattle repair shop, head over to our warranty page.

How warm is my sleeping pad and what is the ASTM testing standard?

ASTM F3340-18 is a new testing standard that provides R-value ratings for sleeping pads. While Therm-a-Rest has always used R-value to rate our sleeping pads, this new standardization will allow campers to make “like-for-like” comparisons with our competitors pad. Head to a blog for an in-depth explanation.

What is the benefit of stretch knit fabric on my sleeping pad?

For comfort-conscious campers, we use stretch knit fabric for unrivaled support and superior next-to-skin feel. The fabric conforms to your body to provide supple support as you enjoy your nights under the stars.

Can I replace the valve on my Therm-a-Rest mattress?

  • Yes. Classic Valve Replacement Kits can be purchased here.
  • WingLock™ Valve Replacement Kits can be purchased here
  • If you’re having issues with your TwinLock™ Valve, our warranty & repair team is here to help. Please visit thermarest.com/warranty for more info.
  • If you’re not sure which valve you have please refer to the graphic below:
    • Valve Type

How do you inflate and deflate sleeping pads with a WingLock™ Valve?

  • Watch this video for step by step instructions on how to use the WingLock™ Valve
  • To Inflate the WingLock™ Valve:
    • Unroll your sleeping pad and open the valve cap by twisting it counter-clockwise.
    • Use a pump sack or breath to inflate your pad. The one-way valve will prevent air from escaping.
    • Continue inflation until the mattress is fully inflated and close the valve by twisting the valve cap clockwise.
  • To Deflate WingLock™ Valve:
    • Open the wings to open the one-way valve.
    • Open the valve cap by twisting counter-clockwise, allowing air to escape
    • Roll the pad toward the valve end, pushing any remaining air from the pad.

Can I replace my old Therm-a-Rest valve with a new WingLock™ Valve or TwinLock™ Valve?

No. WingLock™ or TwinLock™ Valves cannot be installed on products that originally included a Classic Therm-a-Rest Valve. If you’re not sure which valve you have please refer to the graphic below:Valve Type

What makes the WingLock™ Valve different from Classic Therm-a-Rest Valves?

  • Faster Inflation: Larger valve opening and one-way inflation allows three times faster airflow than our classic valve (with a pressurized air supply the Classic Valve flow rate measures to 2.2 standard cubic feet per minute, where the WingLock Valve flow rate measures to 6.5 standard cubic feet per minute, or a 295% difference).
  • One-Way Inflation: Unique design keeps air from escaping during inflation.
  • Deflation “Wings”: When it’s time to break camp, open the valve and twist the wings to deflate your pad twice as fast as our classic valve.
  • Watch this video to learn more

What makes the TwinLock™ Valve different from Classic Therm-a-rest Valves?

For our larger pads, we developed the TwinLock™ Valve which utilizes two one-way valves: a one-way inflation valve and one-way deflation valve that allows for five times faster deflation than our classic valve. Watch this video to learn more.

How do you inflate and deflate sleeping pads with a TwinLock™ Valve?

  • Watch this video for step by step instructions on how to use the TwinLock™ Valve
  • To Inflate TwinLock™ Valve:
    • Unroll your sleeping pad and open the “IN” valve by twisting it counter-clockwise.
    • Use a pump sack or breath to inflate your pad. The one-way “IN” valve will prevent air from escaping.
    • When the mattress is fully inflated and close the valve by twisting the valve cap clockwise.
  • To Deflate TwinLock™ Valve
    • Open the “OUT” valve by twisting counter-clockwise.
    • The one-way “OUT” valve will keep air from flowing back into the pad.
    • Roll the pad toward the valve end, pushing any remaining air from the pad.

Shipping and Returns

Free Shipping on Orders over $50

We offer complimentary FedEx Ground shipping for orders over $50. Learn More

Orders Shipped in 1-2 Days

We do our best to get all orders out within one business day, Monday through Friday. Learn More

No Hassle Returns

We accept returns within 30 days of purchase. All returned items must be in new condition. Please be sure no dirt, grass or pet hair is on the item you are returning. Learn More

Limited Lifetime Warranty

Every piece of Therm-a-Rest gear is designed to endure the rigors of your time in the backcountry. We offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty on all products, except electronic devices, which have a 2-year Limited Warranty. Visit our Therm-a-Rest warranty page for more info.

Portrait of our repair shop crew

Overall rating: 4.7613635 / 5 from 88 reviews.

AI Generated Review Summary

The Original Z Lite™ Sleeping Pad is highly regarded for its lightweight and compact design, making it ideal for backpacking. Customers appreciate its durability and ease of packing, which enhances its value for outdoor adventures.

Summary topics

  • Backpacking Suitability (16%): A significant number of customers pointed out that they love the Z-Lite for backpacking.
  • Weight and Compactness (16%): A significant amount of customers expressed appreciation for the fact that the product is super light weight and compactable.
  • Durability and Performance (31%): Many customers remarked that this pad is great, lightweight, compact, and can take a beating.

Review topics: ["fit","weight","comfort","pad","width","z-lite","mattress","packs","pain","trips","light","gear","mat","sleep","choice","coating","profile","chance","hikes","place","cushion","seat","distance","mats"].

Review highlights

  • "Fantastic sleeping pad, light weight, compact and can take a beating." — VIK D.
  • "The reflective coating is also great, a slight bump in warmth for no additional weight costs." — Max2
  • "I have used so many pads over the years, but I find the Z-Lite to be the best choice for backpacking." — Dj N.

Reviews

Quick and durable

"Quick and durable"

— Ryder C. (5/5)

I keep coming back to

"I keep coming back to these pads because they are bomb proof, and even more importantly idiot proof. I cant pop it i cant water log it, takes 1 second to lay out and 1 second to fold back up. Not the most comfortable pad in the world, not the highestR value but it cant really be beat for 3 season use. Its the AK47 of sleeping pads."

— T T. (5/5)

"Perfect for my needs!"

— Bryan (5/5)

Perfect!

"Perfect!"

— Bryan O. (5/5)

We bought this for our

"We bought this for our son's birthday on 12/29. He is theilled with it!!"

— Katha C. (5/5)

perfect for an added layer between you and the ground

"super light weight, perfect amount of added cushion under another pad, and I love it for kayak camping because it breaks down so easily and is obviously waterproof. I pair it with my Trail ProLite Sleeping Pad and cinch pillow."

— George B. (5/5)

Great support

"This is my go to for all indoor and outdoor visits. My back always feels great in the morning. The normal width is just my shoulders so my elbows have a tendency to fall to the side. I will buy a wide version in the future."

— Leo M. (5/5)

Perfect sleeping pad.

"Fantastic sleeping pad, light weight, compact and can take a beating. Use this for military and personal outdoors trips. From the West to East coast and even the high artic, worth its weight and then some."

— VIK D. (5/5)

Fail proof pad!

"Light weight and super simple! Great for backpacking by itself or putting under your blow up mattress."

— Corrie P. (5/5)

Bomber pad!

"Great pad, comfortable on its own, in colder conditions I use it in conjunction with an xlite performs flawlessly!"

— Tyler N. (5/5)

Q&A