I recently went camping in 35-45 degree weather using a Klymit Static V, and it kept me perfectly warm. I’m considering more winter camping and need a sleeping pad with a higher R-value. Based on my experience with the Static V, should I opt for a pad with a not-quite-as-high R-value, or was my experience possibly a fluke due to warmer ground temperatures or a warmer pocket at the campsite? Also, if I choose a pad with a high R-value, could I potentially overheat?
The warmth wasn’t due to the pad, as the Static V is one of the lowest in terms of R-value. For winter, consider the Xtherm, which is excellent for cold conditions.
Be cautious with Klymit’s R-value ratings; they tend to be inflated. For instance, the Insulated Static V claims an R-value of 4.4 but tests at only 1.8. I wouldn’t risk winter camping with potentially inaccurate specs.
@Scout
To clarify, I’m not planning to use the Static V for winter without additional insulation. I’m trying to determine a baseline R-value for a winter pad based on my experience with the Static V.
Dez said:
@Scout
To clarify, I’m not planning to use the Static V for winter without additional insulation. I’m trying to determine a baseline R-value for a winter pad based on my experience with the Static V.
If you were warm at 50 degrees with an uninsulated pad, you might sleep warmer than average. However, when purchasing a winter pad, it’s better to err on the side of a higher R-value. Overheating is less of a concern; you can adjust your sleeping bag or vent to regulate temperature.
I’ve used the Insulated Static V in temperatures down to 25 degrees without issues.
You won’t overheat with a high R-value pad. For added insulation, consider pairing your existing pad with a foam pad like the Z-lite for versatility and extra warmth.
Sage said:
You won’t overheat with a high R-value pad. For added insulation, consider pairing your existing pad with a foam pad like the Z-lite for versatility and extra warmth.
I’ve looked into combining pads but calculated that the total R-value still might not suffice for true winter temperatures.
@Dez
Consider testing your current setup near home or with an escape plan. Sometimes real-world testing provides better insights than theoretical R-value calculations.
A friend used an uninsulated Static V with a simple foam pad in similar conditions and was comfortable. The ground wasn’t frozen yet, which likely helped. Remember, a high R-value pad doesn’t cause overheating because it merely insulates you from the ground.
Sleeping pad insulation mainly prevents heat loss to the ground; it doesn’t increase the heat. You won’t get hot in the summer with a high R-value pad.
A higher R-value won’t make you too hot. It’s about retaining your body heat, not generating it.
I use an insulated double V for 3-season camping with temperatures ranging from 40-75°F. Your sleeping bag is the primary regulator of heat, not your pad.
For temperatures just below freezing, layering a couple of 1/8” CCF pads with your Static V should be adequate. Remember, air-only mattresses are generally not recommended for winter unless they have a high R-value.
If you’re generally a warm sleeper, you might find even minimal pad setups sufficient. I used a Static V2 in similar conditions and was comfortable with basic additional clothing for insulation.
R-value is primarily about preventing heat transfer from your body to the ground. It’s irrelevant in summer conditions unless you’re on an unusually warm surface. For winter, prioritize a high R-value.
Your experience with the Static V in 40-degree weather might not translate to winter camping, especially as ground temperatures drop significantly in deep winter. Always opt for higher insulation during colder months.
Klymit’s R-values are not always reliable. Consider brands like Exped, Thermarest, or Nemo, which follow ASTM testing standards for more accurate insulation ratings.
Ainsley said:
Klymit’s R-values are not always reliable. Consider brands like Exped, Thermarest, or Nemo, which follow ASTM testing standards for more accurate insulation ratings.
Thanks for the brand recommendations. I’ll look into those with verified ASTM testing.