A close look at two sleeping pads buyers cross-shop. On the data the Tensor Extreme Conditions is the stronger all-round pick, and the question is whether the Ultra 8R still fits your budget or priorities.
| NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions | Exped Ultra 8R | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 83✓ | 74 |
| Warmth (R-value) | 8.5 R | 8.8 R✓ |
| Weight | 17.8 oz✓ | 23.0 oz |
| Warmth-to-weight | 1.68 R/100g✓ | 1.35 R/100g |
| Packed size | 2.08 L✓ | 2.93 L |
| Thickness | 3.5 in | 3.5 in |
| Durability | 34 /100 | n/s |
| Price | $260 | $230✓ |
| Features | 4Quiet fabric, Pump sack included, Two-way valve, Repair kit included✓ | 2Pump sack included, Repair kit included |
| Type | Inflatable | Inflatable |
| Shape | Tapered | Rectangular |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: Tensor Extreme Conditions in blue, Ultra 8R in amber. A blank spec is never counted as a win. GearScore is the rating for the Overall use-case (0 to 100). Pick another above to re-score. Prices are current MSRP.
Put the NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions next to the Exped Ultra 8R and the trade-offs are clear. The Tensor Extreme Conditions is the stronger pick on most of the specs that matter, while the Ultra 8R makes its case on warmth and price.
The Tensor Extreme Conditions is 5 oz lighter, stronger on warmth-to-weight, and more packable (2.1 L vs 2.9 L). The Ultra 8R is warmer (R 8.8 vs R 8.5) and $30 cheaper. On the default GearScore the Tensor Extreme Conditions leads 83 to 74.
Pick the Tensor Extreme Conditions if you care most about low weight and warmth-to-weight, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Ultra 8R if warmth and price matter more to you, or you are focused on colder nights and shoulder-season trips.
The NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions. It is 5 oz lighter than the Ultra 8R.
The Exped Ultra 8R. It is warmer (R 8.8 vs R 8.5) than the Tensor Extreme Conditions.
The NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions, 83 to 74 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
The Tensor Extreme Conditions is the stronger all-round pick here. Choose the Ultra 8R if warmth is your priority.