Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated Sleeping Mat Guide
Sep 15, 2020
Insulated, Superlight, Compact, 3-season Air Chamber Sleeping Pad
Big Agnes has revamped its most popular sleeping pad, the Rapide SL Insulated mat. The new model is just as comfortable and supportive as the old one, with a 9cm thick core and oversized 11cm thick baffles that cradle you all night. It also has the same quilted sleep surface, backed by offset I-Beam construction, which helps to reduce bounce and provide stability. If you are a fan of the previous model, you will be delighted with the new one.
Higher R-Value of 4.8
The new sleeping pads are lighter, warmer, and take up less space in your pack than the previous models. The regular size is now 28 grams lighter and has an improved R-value of 4.8, up from 4.2.
Even Lighter & Smaller Pack Size
The lower weight, smaller pack size, and higher R-value were achieved by replacing the Primaloft insulation in the previous pads with two layers of heat-reflecting film that Big Agnes has previously used in their Zoom UL range.
Two Layers of Heat Reflective Film
Although some campers may be put off by the term “heat-reflecting film,” I am happy to report that the pad is as quiet as the previous model, with no hint of the infamous crisp packet crinkle.
The new 4.8 R-value makes the Rapide SL an even better option for backpackers and campers who want a lightweight, warm sleeping pad that can be used throughout the year. I would be confident to sleep on this throughout the winter camping season, possibly paired with a closed-cell foam mat in extreme conditions.
Another improvement I was pleased to see is that Big Agnes has scrapped the pump sack that the previous model came with. The old pump sack was overly heavy (116g) and didn't hold much air, so it was a pain to use and added unnecessary weight. The new pump sack is twice the size, making it twice as efficient and only half the weight (55g).
Overall, Big Agnes has improved an already popular mat. If you are in the market for a new pad that will see year-round use, this, undoubtedly, gets my recommendation.
3.5” Thick Mat
3.5” / 9cm thick pad with 4.25” / 11cm larger outer chambers.
Lighter Pumpsack
Updated Pump sack weighs only 55g.
Quilted Surface
Quilted top provides a cushioned pillowy sleeping surface.
Dual Valve
High-volume dual valve allows for efficient and easy inflation.
Terms and Conditions
The winner will win a Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated Sleeping Mat in their chosen size.
The competition starts on 2nd June 2025 and ends on 1st July 2025. All entrants between these dates will be entered into the draw. The winner will be drawn on 2nd July 2025, and the winner will be notified via email. If you don't get an email from us, unfortunately, you have not been successful on this occasion.
Every correct entry submitted between the competition dates will have their email address entered into the draw. The draw will be made using a random number generator and will be completely fair, with each email address having the same chance to win as any other. Only one entry per person will be accepted. No dialogue will be entered about the administration of the competition/draw.
You can also enter the draw by sending your entry to us by post at the following address: Ultralight Outdoor Gear, Unit 2, Tees Valley Court, Wynyard Business Park, Billingham, TS22 5FE, United Kingdom. Add your name, answer, and email address inside.
If you purchase one of the prize items and then win the competition, you are entitled to a refund of the cost of the item!
Big Agnes has revamped its most popular sleeping pad, the Rapide SL Insulated mat. The new model is just as comfortable and supportive as the old one, with a 9cm thick core and oversized 11cm thick baffles that cradle you all night. It also has the same quilted sleep surface, backed by offset I-Beam construction, which helps to reduce bounce and provide stability. If you are a fan of the previous model, you will be delighted with the new one.