NEMO Switchback Ultralight Sleeping Pad Review

The Specs

The following information reflects the NEMO Switchback in a size medium. There is also a short version available. If you would like to see specifics on the short version, you can find them here.

• Weight: 14.5 oz / 415 g
• R-Value: 2
• Dimensions (in): 20.0 x 5.0 x 5.5
• Dimensions (cm): 51 x 13 x 14
• Packed Dimensions (in): 5 x 20.5 x 6
• Packed Dimensions (cm): 13 x 52 x 15
• Length: 72 in / 183 cm
• Thickness: 0.9 in / 2.3 cm
• Materials: PE Foam
• Shape: Rectangular
• Sizes: Short, Regular
• Color: Orange
• MSRP: $54.95

The Good

The Weight: At 14.5 oz / 415 g, the NEMO Switchback isn’t the lightest sleeping pad available, foam or air, but it is still lightweight as far as sleeping pads go. If you love the texture of the Switchback, you can always opt for a short version of the pad to cut nearly 50% of the weight (10.5 oz / 300 g vs. 14.5 oz / 415 g). Another option is to simply cut off a section of the Switchback (or cut the corners) if you’re looking to shave additional weight.

The R-value: The R-value of 2 for the NEMO Switchback is about as good as you can hope for from a foam pad. There are a few with claims of up to 2.5 but I am skeptical of these claims (these pads are nearly the same as the Switchback – thinner even). But for three-season backpacking or as a protective insulating pad beneath an air mattress for four-season travel, the Switchback’s R-value should be just fine.

The Durability: The Switchback is about as durable of a foam pad as you could hope for. It’s on the thicker side, it’s foam, and it folds down as compactly as you could hope. You aren’t going to be punching any holes in it unless you put some serious downward pressure on it with a point underneath. Just be cautious not to get it caught on anything if you have it attached to the outside of your packs and you’re pushing through some brushy areas.

The Okay

The Comfort: The NEMO Switchback is comfortable for sleeping on your back (at least I find it comfortable). However, if you are a side sleeper, you may have a bit more difficulty finding comfort with the Switchback. It is on the thicker side which makes it slightly more comfortable for side sleeping, but most side sleepers will find the same issue with all lightweight foam pads.

The Price: The NEMO Switchback is $54.95 for the regular size. Not the cheapest pad available (the short version is $10 cheaper), but still much less expensive than most inflatable pads. That said, you can expect this pad to flatten over time (as all foam pads do), so it will ultimately need to be replaced (whereas air pads don’t flatten – they just get punctured).

The Bad

The Size: This is true of any full-sized insulated sleeping pad, but the NEMO Switchback is large when packed down. This is true of any full-sized insulated sleeping pad. Besides your backpack, the Switchback is liable to be your single largest piece of gear. It’s simply the price you pay for having a lightweight, quickly-deployable, unpoppable sleeping pad.

The XL Version: Unfortunately, for anyone who wants a longer or wider sleeping pad, the NEMO Switchback comes in just two versions, short and regular. If you’re looking for anything longer than 72 in / 183 cm or wider than 20.5 in / 52 cm, you’ll have to look elsewhere, unfortunately.

Who is it for?

The NEMO Switchback is a great choice as a sleeping pad for beginner backpackers, thru-hikers, river people, bikepackers, or anyone looking to sleep outside. If you’re going to be using it in three-season conditions (and not sleeping on any lingering spring snow), then you’ll have all the insulation you need. As an addition to a four-season setup, the Switchback will also serve you well – so long as you have somewhere to carry it.

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