BA Q-Core SL vs. Exped SynMat 9

[thunderchicken21]

Torn between the Exped SynMat 9 and the BA Q-Core SL. I like the weight and pack-ability of the BA pad, but like the extra warmth and integrated "pump" of the Exped. I think either 1 of the 2 models I listed would be good for me, but if someone has any other suggestions for a 3.5" thick pad by either BA or Exped I'm open to suggestions.

 

[jm1607]

Both good mats, Synmat 9 is heavy though. Synmat 7 is considerably lighter. Checkout the Thermarest Xtherm Max as well, it's what I finally settled with. It's the only one made in USA as well.

Synmat 9 LW: 42oz, R=6
BA Q-core SL LW: 23oz, R=4.5
Xtherm LW: 23oz, R=5.7

 

[steveo]

I had the BA q-core until the valve failed. I was never cold in September. If I expected colder weather I carried a blue walmart foam pad and all was good. I since purchased a Synmat 9 since I mostly tent camp for elk. I expect to use it this October.

 

[Shrek]

If you can find the ul9 synmat it comes in at 32 oz for the LW. I love mine but they are discontinued and have gone to a smaller mummy shaped pad in the ul line.

 

[husky390]

I've been pretty happy with my Q-core. it packs down nicely and I've never been cold with it. I do have the Synmat 7 but haven't slept on it yet and I'm not thrilled that it's about twice the size of my Q-core when in its storage sack.

 

[gobbler1662]

I've had both the Synmat 7 and Q core SL. Both darn good mats, just a side note I've found BA always a couple ounces heavier than listed. My Exped was spot on for me as far as listed weight.

 

[Backpack Hunter]

I have the q core sl, and like it. Warm, pretty light, and comfortable. I had the ul7, and liked it well enough just not as much as the q core sl. I have not had the ul9.

 

[Where's Bruce?]

dupe

 

[Where's Bruce?]

I use the EXPED UL9 LW...yeah, it's heavy but then again, so am I. I hate feeling lumps under me and the EXPED is ideal for quilt users, nice & warm. It's the one place where weight is worth its weight.

 

[thunderchicken21]

After going back and forth and looking at other pads as well, I ended up ordering a EXPED Synmat 7 LW.

 

[husky390]

After going back and forth and looking at other pads as well, I ended up ordering a EXPED Synmat 7 LW.

Hope you have better luck than me. My Synmat 7 popped the first night I used it. I had a foot print and a floored tent underneath it. It could have been from the dog but it pissed me off royally as it deflated during the night. Luckily I had a Zlite foam pad to use since my wife had the Qcore. I'll be going back to the Qcore.