Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad Review
An in-depth review of our overall favorite sleeping pad for backpacking
September 5th, 2025
Our verdict
A perennial favorite of backpackers, thru-hikers, and bikepackers alike, the inflatable Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT won our title for Best Overall Backpacking Sleeping Pad. This bright yellow beaut is lightweight, with the “Regular” size coming in at 12.5 ounces, and packs down to about the size of a Nalgene. With the best R-value insulation we’ve seen on a pad of this weight (essentially, 4-season), it’ll keep you warm, too.
We’ve tested the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT for over 8,000 miles, through various terrain, short and long trails alike, including the PCT, the Colorado Trail, Three Sisters Loop, and packrafting in Utah’s Canyon Country. Ultimately, the warmth, comfort, and packability of this sleeping pad make it an excellent option for thru-hikers, weekend backpackers, and carcampers.
It is not the warmest sleeping pad out there and naturally has issues when it comes to being inflatable (alas, it is susceptible to popping, but we believe that can be fairly avoidable with a little intention when setting up camp). However, if you’re looking for a compact sleeping pad that still keeps you warm, the NeoAir XLite NXT might be for you.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT
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Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Specifications
| Size | Short | Regular | Regular-Wide | Large |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R-Value | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| Weight | 11.5 oz | 13 oz | 1 lb | 1 lb 1 oz |
| Width | 20 in | 20 in | 25 in | 25 in |
| Length | 66 in | 72 in | 72 in | 77 in |
| Thickness | 3 in | 3 in | 3 in | 3 in |
Comparison Table
| SLEEPING PAD | WEIGHT (ounces) | TYPE | PUMP SACK? | R-VALUE | THICKNESS (inches) | PACKED SIZE (inches) | LENGTHS (inches) | WARRANTY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT | 13.0 | Inflatable | Y | 4.5 | 3.0 | 9 x 4.1 | 66, 72, 77 | Limited lifetime |
| Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT | 16.0 | Inflatable | Y | 7.3 | 3.0 | 9 x 4.5 | 72, 77 | Limited lifetime |
| Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus | 23 | Self-inflating | N | 3.2 | 1.5 | 11 x 6.8 | 47, 72, 77 | Limited lifetime |
| Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft Sleeping Pad | 25 | Inflatable | Y | 4.7 | 4.6 | 5.7 x 9.5 | 73, 78 | Lifetime guarantee |
| Nemo Tensor All Season Insulated Sleeping Pad | 14.1 | Inflatable | Y | 5.4 | 3.5 | 4 x 10 | 72, 76 | Lifetime |
What we liked
Lightweight and packs down into a small cylinder
Great insulation that keeps you warm, even on cold nights
Durabile despite being an inflatable pad
What could be better
A little noisy when shifting positions
Susceptible to popping
Vertical baffles aren't as comfortable for side sleepers or rollers
How we tested
Inflating the NeoAir XLite on a week-long backpacking trip in the Bob Marshall Wilderness along the China Wall
Across many writers at Treeline, we’ve tested the NeoAir XLite NXT well over 8,000 miles. Our testers have taken previous versions and the newest version of this sleeping pad on the PCT, the Colorado Trail, Three Sisters Loop, and packrafting in Utah’s Canyon Country.
We also researched extensively for our Best Sleeping Pads guide, sifting through online reviews and other gear guides. In the end, we tested the NeoAir XLite alongside 10 other sleeping pads that met our criteria and were praised by experts and everyday users.
Features
Comparing older and newer versions of the XLite. The newest version is the one on the top
Lengths
It comes in four lengths-Short (66”), Regular (72”), Regular Wide (72”), and Large (77”), with the Regular Wide and Large also having a bit more width (25” vs. 20” for the other models). Each of the sizes is tapered at the foot to fit into tents that are similarly tapered. In our measurements, the new NXT version is even wider at the shoulders, improving on the design from earlier editions.
Thickness
The newest version is thicker than previous versions—3” vs. 2.5”. At 3 inches thick, the XLite NXT is great for back, stomach, and side sleepers. The updated model includes changes to the baffles (the individual chambers that hold the air that create the textured pattern on the sleeping pad) to improve the nestling in experience for side sleepers. Our own side-sleeping testers haven’t had issues bottoming out, even after thousands of miles and dozens of nights hiking on this pad.
Width
We also tested the rectangular wide version of this pad, alongside camping cots to determine the comfort of a camping-style version of the XLite.
When measuring the new NXT version, we found the Regular size to be wider than stated (22” by our measurements). We assume Therm-a-Rest is considering 20” as the average width across the length of the pad, from shoulders to feet.
The XLite NXT seems wider at the shoulders and narrower at the feet, providing more surface for shifting around during sleep, which we found to be an improvement.
Therm-a-Rest also introduced the Regular Wide size, which has a 25” width for the 72” model.
Construction and materials
Close-up on the fabric and materials of the old version of the XLite (top) and the new XLite NXT (bottom).
The NeoAir Xlite NXT uses 30D rip HT nylon, which is supposed to withstand rips and tears. Therm-a-Rest boasts “improved internal construction” in the NXT model, with their Triangular Core Matrix, coupled with the warming ThermaCapture technology. This new internal construction supposedly makes the XLite 83% quieter than the previous model.
The XLite’s horizontal baffles house the triangular interior construction, which limits the flow of air and increases insulation, while also creating a comfortable, supportive sleep surface.
Valve system
Close up on two valve systems have been used on the NeoAir XLite. The bottom is an older twist valve and the top is the newer WingLock Valve.
Like the other NeoAir sleeping pads, the XLite uses Therm-a-Rest’s WingLock valve system. There are two tabs on either side of the valve, one you twist to inflate, the other you use to deflate. This addition to newer models makes the overall function of inflation and deflation easier.
Performance in the field
Warmth and insulation
With an R-value of 4.5, most 3-season backpackers will find the NeoAir XLite NXT adequate year-round, though not as warm as the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm or NEMO Tensor All-Season and Extreme sleeping pads. Our testers have taken the older version (rated at an r-value of 4.2) into the teens on dozens of nights. Although we would’ve preferred the better-insulated XTherm for such conditions, we survived. We noticed the new NeoAir NXT with a R-value of 4.5 feels warmer than the previous versions.
Comfort and sleeping
Cowboy camping on the Mt. Baldy mountain summit with the Neoair XLite sleeping pad.
With an extra half inch of height from the ground, our testers have found the updated NeoAir XLite NXT to be even more comfortable than previous versions. We find that, similar to earlier models, the thickness and horizontal baffles make it relatively easy to sleep on your side or stomach. We find the 4.5 R-value to be plenty on chilly nights, even for testers who run cold.
Inflation and Deflation
In addition to inflating the NeoAir with your own breath, you can use the included pump sack of a NeoAir battery-operated inflator (seen here).
Depending on your lung capacity, in our tests, the Regular takes about 25-35 breaths to fill or it can be inflated using a pump sack or pad inflator. The last two iterations of this pad have come with TwinLock and WingLock valves, making inflating the pad relatively easy.
As with all inflatable pads, it’s going to take some huffin’ and puffin’ to fill the NeoAir NXT. Therm-a-Rest includes the 1.8 oz pump sack (on our scale) or the 2.3oz-before-batteries NeoAir Micro Pump.
Sound
In the past, the XLite was noted for its “crinkliness”—the Mylar material inside the XLite that provides most of its insulation is loud, and sometimes causes light sleepers to wake up when they change positions. The crinkliness is similar to the sound made by a bag of potato chips.
However, this has changed with the NeoAir XLite NXT, as the manufacturer claims an 83% reduction in noise. Our testers (who admittedly are hard sleepers in the backcountry) have put in 30 nights on the most recent model and haven’t noticed crinkling sounds.
Versatility and packability
Comparison of the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm (left), Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite (middle), and a standard Nalgene bottle for size comparisons.
We’ve found that the NeoAir XLite NXT can be used for various camping settings. With it’s relatively high R-value, it performs well on long thru-hikes or even functions as a comfy pad for overnight car camping. When inflated, it’s slim enough to fit into ultralight backpacking tents (like the Aeon Li by Tarptent, or the Haven Ultralight Tent by Six Moon Designs) without taking up the whole floor.
The XLite pairs well with most sleeping bags and backpacking quilts (like the Katabatic Palisade Quilt). The discrete pack size of the XLite doesn’t take up too much space inside a backpack, compressing to a mere 4.1 x 9 inches (regular size), only slightly larger than a Nalgene water bottle (Therm-a-Rest has many photos boosting this selling point. And while we’ve mostly used it for sleeping, with its durable nylon surface, we know we could use it as a sled or flotation device if we needed (which is pretty cool).
Therm-a-Rest washes and repairs sleeping pads free of charge at the PCT Days Outdoor Festival in Cascade Locks, Oregon that happens each August.
Durability and Wear
While there are plenty of reviews online of folks complaining about their NeoAir XLite puncturing, we’ve personally never had this issue (or were easily able to patch it). Camping in deserts or on rocky terrain, the nylon holds up. We do like to make precautions by sweeping the ground before setting up our tents. Using a footprint with your tent can also help avoid punctures.
Most of our testers have used the NeoAir XLite for thousands of miles, and it has held up wonderfully, and not lost its ability to inflate into a comfortable pad for sleeping.
You can learn more in our guide How to Repair a Sleeping Pad.
Who else likes it
The NeoAir XLite NXT is one of the most common sleeping pads used among backpackers and thru-hikers over the years.
While review sites don’t tend to agree on much, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT was a commonality between all the sites we reviewed, receiving much praise. Wirecutter/New York Times in particular mentioned that the surface of the pad, rather than being slippery and hard to stay on, like some air pad models, was grippy throughout the night, making it easier for slick sleeping bags to find purchase and not slide off. (Full disclosure: Treeline Review editor and co-founder Liz Thomas wrote the original version of their story.)
Should I buy the NeoAir XLite NXT?
Buy if you’re a backpacker or planning a thru-hike and want a luxurious but lightweight sleeping pad, or even if you want a sleeping pad that won’t take up much storage and will keep you warm.
Skip if you’re mostly car camping and want an extreme amount of comfort, or run super cold and would prefer a higher R-value (like in the Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft).
Where to buy
The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT is a popular sleeping pad, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership
Similar products
NEMO Tensor All-Season Insulated Sleeping Pad
R-Value: 5.4
Thickness: 3.5”
Weight: 14.1 oz
Inflation: Inflatable
Lengths: 72”, 76"
What we liked: Supportive comfortable for all sleepers, good warmth to weight ratio, slightly less expensive than other pads
What we didn't like: Increased height means bigger distance to roll off pad, height puts you closer to sloped walls on tarp tent systems
The NEMO Tensor All-Season has been one of our favorite sleeping pads since we first started testing sleeping pads years ago. Our testing over the years with half a dozen Treeline writers has proved it is ideal for side sleepers and feels more comfortable than all the other pads we tested, which is why it has won our Most Comfortable Sleeping Pad. It’s only a little heavier than the NeoAir XLite, and is the same price. If you want more cushion and warmth, the Tensor All-Season is a great option. For more info, see our in-depth review of the NEMO Tensor All Season Insulated Sleeping Pad.
NEMO Tensor All-Season Insulated Sleeping Pad
R-Value: 7.3 (rated to below -40F)
Thickness: 3”
Weight: 16 oz (6-foot length)
Inflation: 25-40 breaths or comes with Pumpsack
Lengths: 66”, 72”
What we liked: Among the best warmth to weight ratio, highly insulated, great for stomach sleepers
What we didn't like: Price
Almost as popular as the NeoAir XLite, the inflatable Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT is the best backpacking sleeping pad for winter camping or if you sleep cold, which is why it won our Best Sleeping Pad for Cold Sleepers.
At only 3 ounces heavier than the XLite–16 ounces instead of 13–the XTherm provides a whopping R-value of 7.3, which Therm-a-Rest suggests is comfortable for temperatures down to -40F(!). Plus, it has the same packed size as the XLite–about the size of a Nalgene.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT
R-Value: 3.2
Thickness: 1.5”
Weight: 23 oz
Inflation: Self-inflating
Lengths: 47”, 72”, 77”
What we liked: Easy to inflate, durable, affordable, not far to fall for sleepers who roll around, compact
What we didn't like: Low insulation, not as thick of a pad
The Therm-a-Rest ProLite has been available for decades and its latest iteration, the Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus, is still a great option for a backpacking sleeping pad because of its durable, compact design and ease of inflation.
It's a self-inflating pad, which means no huffing and puffing–a gift, especially after a long day of hiking. Similar to its Therm-a-Rest relatives, it’s light and compact, but is significantly cheaper (which is why it won our Best Budget Inflatable Pad).
Therm-a-Rest ProLite Plus
Why you should trust us / About the author
Amanda Jameson
Amanda Jameson has hiked over 3500 miles, including thru-hikes of the Pacific Crest Trail and Colorado Trail and a LASH (long-*ahem* section hike) of the Grand Enchantment Trail. Between those hikes and a stint as a Traveling Trainer for the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, she has slept outside for nearly a year of my life.
Amanda is also an American Hiking Society Next Generation Trail Leader and a Vice-President of the board at the American Long Distance Hiking Association-West, which awards the Triple Crown of Hiking. Her popular blog, Brown Girl on the National Scenic Trail, is a space for intersectional writing to encourage folks of all colors and all walks of life to experience our wild spaces and preserve them for the future. You can see all her Treeline Review articles on her author page.
Naomi Hudetz
Naomi Hudetz is co-founder and director of analytics and digital innovation and leads business strategy and revenue operations for Treeline Review. She brings decades of private sector experience in project management, budget and pricing projection, and long-term business vision, strategy, and goals.
Naomi left her corporate career to pursue her passion for the outdoors. She received the Triple Crown award for hiking for completing the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest, and Continental Divide Trails and has hiked numerous other distance routes including the Great Divide Trail across the Canadian Rockies (twice), Grand Enchantment Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, the Arizona Trail, (most of) the Idaho Centennial Trail, the first known thru-hike of the Blue Mountains Trail, and the Oregon Desert Trail. She recently bikepacked the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route.
She previously served as Treasurer of the American Long Distance Hiking Association-West, and is currently on the board of the Continental Divide Trail Coalition. She’s based in White Salmon, Washington.
