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UOG TOP PICK - The Tensor Extreme Conditions mat series is the pinnacle of mats for winter use. It has an unparalleled warmth-to-weight ratio and unmatched r-value. It is very comfortable and supportive and provides a silent sleeping platform to ensure a restful night's sleep. Thanks to its low weight, it can be used year-round in any condition. It is an excellent choice for ultralight backpackers who wish to push their limits, one of our top picks.
Nemo says:
Tensor™ Extreme Conditions represents a new chapter in NEMO backcountry pad innovation. With its Apex™ baffle internal structure, Tensor EC toasts the competition, achieving an 8.5 R-value and a mind-bending warmth-to-weight ratio. Now the warmest, most insulating ultralight pad on the market, it’s also still the quietest pad in its class. (Dreamy, right?)
Using distinctly shaped baffles, the Apex™ design evenly suspends a record four layers of insulating Thermal Mirror™ film inside the pad. The strategic placement and number of layers combine to produce incredible warmth at as little as one pound, making this pad a winter-worthy companion that won’t weigh you down. Just as important, the floating construction prevents annoying crinkling noises so you and your camp partners can sleep soundly even on the most restless nights. Warmth, quiet, and 3.5 inches of stable cushioning together make Tensor synonymous with comfort.
Tensor Extreme Conditions ushers in improved puncture-resistance and strength with a 40D nylon bottom to protect the pad from tougher terrain. Meanwhile, the premium 20D nylon top offers a soft, lightweight sleep surface. The pad’s Laylow™ valve also gets a polish, removing unnecessary elements and significantly improving the performance and ease of use in all conditions — especially colder temperatures. Plus, it still effortlessly pairs with our Vortex™ pump sack to inflate in mere minutes, without introducing excess moisture into the pad.
Our Verdict
The Tensor series of sleeping pads has always been popular with customers and staff alike. They are highly supportive and comfortable, regardless of whether you are a side sleeper or not. The Tensor Extreme lives up to its predecessors, providing excellent comfort and support as you toss and turn.
Its stand-out feature is its highly impressive 8.5 R-value, which makes the Extreme the warmest mat on the market and the mat with the best warmth-to-weight ratio. The regular mat, which weighs just 507g, outperforms other mats of a similar weight, some with R-values of less than 4, putting into perspective just how light and warm this mat is.
The mat can achieve this unparalleled R-value due to its new baffle construction. The Apex™ baffle design uses four sheets of “Thermal Mirror Metallised Film” suspended (not welded) throughout the mat; these layers reflect your body heat back towards you, insulating you from the cold ground or compacted snow. As the layers are suspended, they should not rustle or crunch, a sound that has become synonymous with ultra-light insulated pads. I am pleased to say the mat is almost silent, which I think was a concern for everyone yet to get their hands on this mat.
The mat includes Nemo’s Vortex Pump Sack, one of the most efficient pump sacks I have used (for reference, I tested out the regular wide Extreme mat, and it took less than 6 blasts of the Vortex to inflate the pad fully). The Vortex Pump Sack fits snugly on the newly updated “lay low” valve, which works as a one-way valve for inflation and as a dump port to rapidly deflate the pad when it’s time to pack up camp.
Overall, the Tensor Extreme is an excellent choice for a cosy, supportive, and lightweight sleeping pad. It will keep you warm and comfortable on your next camping trip, no matter where that may be.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
In-depth Reviews:
Features
- Apex™ baffle design suspends more insulating layers than ever before, strategically spaced for the highest R-value possible — 8.5.
- 3.5 inches of stable, cushioned loft for incredibly comfortable nights.
- bluesign® approved premium nylon fabrics shave grams while offering superior puncture- and tear-resistance.
- Improved zero-profile, multifunctional, microadjustable Laylow™ valve offers customized inflation control, even at -20° F and below.
- Four layers of floating Thermal Mirror™ metallized film provide quiet insulation with an unprecedented warmth-to-weight ratio.
- Impressively quiet for uninterrupted sleep (and happy neighbors).
- Included Vortex™ pump sack provides easy and fast inflation, saves breath at elevation, and minimizes moisture entering the pad.
- Protected by the NEMO Lifetime Warranty.
Specifications
- Weight: 507g (ex bag)
- Dimensions (LxW): 183cm x 51cm / 72" x 20"
- Packed Size: 10.0 x 4.0 in dia / 25.5 x 10 cm dia
- R-Value: 8.5
- Thickness: 3.5 inches
- Shape: Rectangle
- Color: Black/Birch Bud/Citron
Material & Construction
- Insulation:Aluminized Film
- Fabric: 20D GRS certified Nylon, Bluesign Approved
ASTM R-Value:
From 2020, there is a new industry standard for measuring the R-value (level of insulation) of sleeping mats – ASTM F3340-18. This new standard is the sleeping mat equivalent to the EN rating for sleeping bags.
You can now directly compare the R-value of mats rated using the ASTM F3340-18 with confidence that is a fair and accurate comparison between mats. In simple terms, the higher the R-value, the warmer the mat.
In general terms, an R-value below 2.0 is for summer use, 2.0 to 4.0 is for cooler 3 season use and 4.0+ is for winter temperatures. This will be also be dependent on your sleeping bag, how cold you sleep etc. Please contact our customer service team if you need advice on choosing the right mat for your activity.
