As winter gives way to spring, the camping season begins anew, and having the right gear is essential for a comfortable outdoor experience. In our latest gear review, we’re taking a close look at the LayOn Air Sleeping Pad, a lightweight and compact sleeping pad that promises comfort without compromising on convenience.

We had the chance to test the LayOn Air Sleeping Pad, and we’re excited to share our honest thoughts on its performance.

Size and Durability

The first thing you’ll notice about the LayOn Air Sleeping Pad is its compact size. When deflated, it packs down to a very small size, making it easy to store in a backpack, even for ultralight travelers. In terms of size, the pad offers impressive dimensions when fully inflated. It measures 188cm in length, 65cm in width, and 7cm in thickness, which comfortably accommodates most body types and offers a high level of comfort for extended use.

However, at 630g, the weight could be considered on the heavier side for an air pad, especially if you’re focused on minimizing pack weight. While it’s not excessively heavy, those who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear may find this a bit bulky for backpacking. For road trips or shorter excursions, this weight is manageable.

The pad is crafted from 70D laminated nylon, known for its durability. It feels sturdy and has withstood the typical wear and tear of outdoor use. While we don’t engage in extreme testing, the material holds up well under normal outdoor conditions.

Comfort and Insulation

Comfort is a make-or-break factor for any sleeping pad, and the LayOn Air Pad excels in this area. The pad features a unique design with ridges that provide even support across the body. While some might find the ridges initially uncomfortable, we found that they offered a solid and comfortable sleep experience, especially when combined with the 7cm thickness.

One standout feature is the integrated air pillow, which doubles as the inflation pump. This raised pillow adds extra comfort and excellent head support, making it a welcome addition for long nights under the stars. The pillow is filled with air, but we were surprised by how cozy it felt despite the lack of additional padding.

In terms of insulation, the LayOn Air Pad offers a reasonable R-value of 1.4, which is suitable for temperatures around 10°C or higher. For colder conditions, we recommend adding an extra insulating layer, such as a foam pad or aluminum blanket.

However, it’s worth noting that the pad can be a bit noisy, particularly if you’re a restless sleeper. This is a common issue with air pads, even premium models, so it’s something to keep in mind if noise bothers you during sleep.

Inflating and Deflating

Inflating the LayOn Air Pad is quick and easy, thanks to the brand’s unique AIRFLOW® valve system. The air is blown into the pad through a pouch at the head side, which inflates the entire pad in just 8 to 10 breaths. Once inflated, the pouch seals up and acts as a headrest, providing additional comfort while you sleep. The process is fast, and we managed to fully inflate the pad in under a minute with minimal effort.

Deflating the pad is straightforward when you have help. Simply open the top and pull on all four corners, and the pad deflates almost instantly. However, if you’re alone, deflating can be a bit trickier. While LayOn recommends stepping on the pad to help with deflation, we found this method a bit risky, especially if you’re on rough terrain. Instead, we opted for the traditional method of rolling the pad from bottom to top, which felt safer and more controlled.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight
• Durable 70D laminated nylon construction
• Comfortable with integrated air pillow
• Quick and easy inflation process
• Reasonable R-value for moderate temperatures
• Simple to deflate with two people
• Affordable for the features it offers

Cons:

• Slightly heavy for ultralight backpacking
• No additional size options available
• The deflating process can be tricky for solo travelers
• Noisy for some sleepers
• The pad may be too large for smaller tents

Final Thoughts

Overall, we’re impressed with the LayOn Air Sleeping Pad. It provides a great balance of comfort, durability, and convenience at an affordable price. The compact design, fast inflation, and integrated air pillow make it an excellent choice for travelers, especially those looking for a lightweight and comfortable pad for road trips or short camping excursions.

While the weight and size may not be ideal for all backpackers, it’s a solid option for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use. The only area for improvement would be the deflation process for solo travelers, but with a little practice, it’s manageable.

If you’re in the market for a reliable, comfortable, and easy-to-pack sleeping pad for your next adventure, the LayOn Air Sleeping Pad is definitely worth considering.