Lightest Foam Pad
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
$55
R-value2.0
Weight14.0oz / 397g
Thickness0.75in
Packed size20 x 5 x 5.5in
SurfaceAluminized on one side
Price$55
TrailCraft score 8.4/10
Read Full Review →Best Closed-Cell Foam Pad
NEMO Switchback
$55
R-value2.0
Weight14.5oz / 411g
Thickness0.9in
Packed size20 x 5 x 5.5in
SurfaceAluminized on one side
Price$55
TrailCraft score 8.5/10
Read Full Review →
Bottom line: These are close enough that either is a good buy. The Switchback has deeper nodes — 0.9in against 0.75in — which gives slightly more loft, warmth, and comfort for about an ounce more. The Z Lite is lighter and more widely available. If you find one on sale, buy it.
Head-to-head differences
Node depth
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol0.75in — slightly less loft
NEMO Switchback0.9in — 20% deeper nodes
Switchback wins marginally on comfort and loft.
Weight
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol14.0oz
NEMO Switchback14.5oz
Z Lite wins by half an ounce.
Availability
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite SolVery widely stocked and easy to find on sale
NEMO SwitchbackSlightly less common
Z Lite wins.
Durability
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite SolBoth are closed-cell foam — essentially indestructible
NEMO SwitchbackSame
Tie. Neither can puncture or fail.
Choose the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol if:
- →You want the lighter of the two
- →Availability and frequent sales matter
- →Half an ounce is worth more than node depth to you
Choose the NEMO Switchback if:
- →You want the marginally more comfortable pad
- →NEMO's lifetime warranty appeals
- →Deeper nodes suit your body weight
See all Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads reviews
Full rankings, specs, and scores for every product in this category.
View Full Category →Common Questions
Are foam pads comfortable enough to backpack with?
For back sleepers, many people find them adequate. Side sleepers usually find them too firm and prefer an air pad.
Can I stack a foam pad under an air pad?
Yes, and R-values add. This is the standard winter technique and adds puncture protection at the same time.
Why does anyone choose foam over air?
No failure mode. A foam pad cannot puncture or deflate, which removes the one gear failure that can genuinely end a cold trip.