Big Agnes Air Core SL?

[69ChrisCraft]

I haven't found much feedback on this new pad (released 2013). My primary use will be warm weather backpacking with a quilt. I was wondering if anyone has any opinion on this pad (1.5 R value) vs the Q core SL (4.5 R value). I've only ever used bags and closed cell pads until now.

Is there such a thing as a pad that's too warm? If not, I'd imagine the Q core will be a more versatile option.

 

[Brock A]

I haven't found much feedback on this new pad (released 2013). My primary use will be warm weather backpacking with a quilt. I was wondering if anyone has any opinion on this pad (1.5 R value) vs the Q core SL (4.5 R value). I've only ever used bags and closed cell pads until now.

Is there such a thing as a pad that's too warm? If not, I'd imagine the Q core will be a more versatile option.

I have quite a few nights on the Q-core. I have used it in a variety of weather too. Everything from hot July/August nights to sleeping directly on the snow with it. So far so good! It gets my approval.

 

[muleman]

I'd imagine the Q core will be a more versatile option.

I think you are correct and would be better off using the Q-Core. Having little insulation between you and moderately cool ground will rob your body of heat. Hypothermia starts at 95 degrees.

[h=3]A note about sleeping pads[/h] The cold ground is a much more efficient conductive mass than any air that surrounds you. This means that it will draw heat energy out of your body in an attempt to reach heat balance faster than anything else. It is also a mass that you will never reach equilibrium with, so it will pull heat energy from your body until you are the same temperature as it is. To reduce conductive heat loss through the ground, an insulated sleeping pad should be used to separate you from the ground and create a layer of air between you. Since the sleeping bag insulation will be compressed underneath you reducing it’s effectiveness, the sleeping pad is an essential piece of gear in your sleep system and shouldn’t be ignored.
http://www.trailsherpa.com/blog/2013/03/19/the-science-of-sleeping-bag-design/

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[fillthefreezer]

about 30-40 nights on my qcore SL so far and im very happy with it. from 60deg to 11deg. i would say for me, comfort ended at 15-20. i wouldve preferred a foam under it at that point

 

[69ChrisCraft]

Just the feedback I was looking for. The weights are the same and the $40 is negligible.

Thanks for the link MuleMan, that was an informative read.