Here is how these two sleeping pads compare on the numbers. The NeoAir XLite NXT MAX leans on low weight while the NeoLoft answers with warmth, so the pick comes down to which you value.
| Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT MAX | Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 81✓ | 77 |
| Warmth (R-value) | 4.5 R | 4.7 R✓ |
| Weight | 19.0 oz✓ | 25.0 oz |
| Warmth-to-weight | 0.83 R/100g✓ | 0.66 R/100g |
| Packed size | 3.17 L✓ | 3.98 L |
| Thickness | 3.0 in | 4.6 in✓ |
| Durability | 30 /100 | 65 /100✓ |
| Price | $220✓ | $250 |
| Features | 2Pump sack included, Repair kit included | 4Quiet fabric, Pump sack included, Two-way valve, Repair kit included✓ |
| Type | Inflatable | Inflatable |
| Shape | Rectangular | Rectangular |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: NeoAir XLite NXT MAX in blue, NeoLoft 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.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT MAX against the Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft is a study in priorities. The NeoAir XLite NXT MAX wins on low weight and warmth-to-weight, and the NeoLoft pushes back on warmth and cushion.
The NeoAir XLite NXT MAX is 6 oz lighter, stronger on warmth-to-weight, and more packable (3.2 L vs 4 L). The NeoLoft is warmer (R 4.7 vs R 4.5), thicker for more cushion, and more durable. On the default GearScore the NeoAir XLite NXT MAX leads 81 to 77.
Pick the NeoAir XLite NXT MAX 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 NeoLoft if warmth and cushion matter more to you, or you are focused on colder nights and shoulder-season trips.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT MAX. It is 6 oz lighter than the NeoLoft.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft. It is warmer (R 4.7 vs R 4.5) than the NeoAir XLite NXT MAX.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT MAX, 81 to 77 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
It depends on your priorities. Go with the NeoAir XLite NXT MAX for low weight, or the NeoLoft for warmth. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.