Sym Mat, Down Mat, and NeoAir

[Brandon Pattison]

Which one and why? DIY early season and late season. Do I need one for each season? I have a 30-degree and a 0-degree sleeping bag. The 30-degree unit will be what is used. I have asked this question before but this is kind of different. I am concerned with weight and also feel that moist breath will make the insulation rating lower but on the other hand, the pump is heavy.

 

[Backpack Hunter]

Only you can decide what you will be comfortable with, but I do have separate pads for early and late season.
The down mats you can blow up with a squeeze bulb pump so you don't have moisture issues....they only weigh 1oz or less.
I tend to lean away from the NeoAir only because of the noise and horizontal baffles. Your tastes might run a bit different though.