I've been using the Thermarest Trail Lite regularly for over a year. I originally purchased it because it could be rolled up quite small for backpacking and was a bit thicker, when inflated, than the simple closed cell foam pad I'd used previously.
Since you can adjust the thickness by adding extra air it tends to be more comfortable than the foam ones. But when deflated and stored in the included stuff sack it takes a lot less space in my pack.
They are reliable and the material that they ...are made from seems durable. I've never had an issue with deflating on its own. I have used these pads on several winter outings and not once have I felt the cold through the pad.
I find that the self-inflate feature does work but you really need to be patient. When you set up camp take the mattress out of the stuff sack, open the valve and lay it out with nothing on top of it. Let it sit a while and it will self inflate. My son is a bit impatient and he inevitably will blow it up manually. Not a big deal, but I know in the winter that your warm moist breath can cause condensation inside, so keep that in mind. Deflating and packing is quite easy. I just open the valve and let the air out. Then I fold it in half and roll out the remaining air. It packs down nicely and fits easily inside the stuff sack.
The manufacturer recommends that you store the pad in the inflated position so it will remember that shape and will inflate faster on its own. They suggest leaving it under a bed or sofa. I don't have the room to do that so I keep them rolled up in the stuff sack and I have not had an issue so far.
Overall this is a great product and I would recommend it to anyone who is planning on going camping or backpacking.
Me and my wife used the Trail Lite during a 4 months trip in Patagônia. The product is well designed and worked great in every terrain we used it. We faced cold and hot days, sun and rain, still I got nothing to complain about our nights of sleep. The touch of the material is pretty good and feels very tough, we had no problems with holes or something like that.
Stricking a balance between lightweight and comfortable, the Trail Lite mattress is a self-inflating sleeping pad that will make it super easy to get a good night's rest while you're out in the backcountry. The Trail Lite Mattress features die-cut foam to reduce bulk and weight, and a self-inflating valve provides convenience and ease of use. Supreme durability and the ability to be used in nearly all conditions make this a timeless favorite for outdoor lovers of all stripes. Sleeping area is increased thanks to its rectangular shape and makes for a superior, gap-free mating with other sleeping pads. A handy stuff sack comes included.
This product can only be shipped to U.S. addresses.
