A close look at two sleeping pads buyers cross-shop. The NeoAir XLite NXT takes a modest overall edge, led by warmth, but the Ether Light XR Insulated has its own case.
| Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT | Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 87✓ | 84 |
| Warmth (R-value) | 4.5 R✓ | 4.1 R |
| Weight | 13.0 oz✓ | 16.6 oz |
| Warmth-to-weight | 1.22 R/100g✓ | 0.87 R/100g |
| Packed size | 1.95 L | 1.66 L✓ |
| Thickness | 3.0 in | 3.9 in✓ |
| Durability | 30 /100 | 39 /100✓ |
| Price | $200 | $189✓ |
| Features | 1Pump sack included | 3Pump sack included, Two-way valve, Repair kit included✓ |
| Type | Inflatable | Inflatable |
| Shape | n/s | Tapered |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: NeoAir XLite NXT in blue, Ether Light XR Insulated 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 Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT next to the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated and the trade-offs are clear. The NeoAir XLite NXT wins on warmth and low weight, and the Ether Light XR Insulated pushes back on packability and cushion.
The NeoAir XLite NXT is warmer (R 4.5 vs R 4.1), 4 oz lighter, and stronger on warmth-to-weight. The Ether Light XR Insulated is a touch more packable, thicker for more cushion, and more durable. On the default GearScore the NeoAir XLite NXT leads 87 to 84.
Pick the NeoAir XLite NXT if you care most about warmth and low weight, which makes it the better call for colder nights and shoulder-season trips. Pick the Ether Light XR Insulated if packability and cushion matter more to you, or you are focused on saving space in your pack.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT. It is warmer (R 4.5 vs R 4.1) than the Ether Light XR Insulated.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT. It is 4 oz lighter than the Ether Light XR Insulated.
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT, 87 to 84 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 for warmth, or the Ether Light XR Insulated for packability. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.