Is the New Klymit Sleeping Pad Worth the Upgrade?
Klymit is a relatively new outdoor gear company that's been producing some very high quality products at low prices. Their gear is focused on entry level backpackers who are looking for a nice balance between weight and price.
The Klymit Static V and Klymit Static V2 are their two most popular sleeping pads. They're both good sleeping pads but if you're trying to decide the two of them it can be tricky as they're very similar.
The short answer is that the only difference between the Klymit V and V2 is that the V2 weighs about 2 ounces less than the V.
Here's a table showing all the specs if you want the full breakdown.
Klymit Static V and V2 Specifications
Klymit Static V and V2 Spec Comparison
Static V | Static V2 | |
---|---|---|
Fabric | 75D Polyester | 30D Polyester Top 75D Polyester Bottom |
Weight | 18.7 oz | 16.6 oz |
R Value | 1.3 | 1.3 |
Packed Size | 3" x 8" | 3" x 8" |
Dimensions | 72" x 23" x 2.5" | 72" x 23" x 2.5" |
Cost | $$ | $$ |
User Ratings | ||
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The Only Difference is Weight
Most of the specifications on the two sleeping pads are identical. The only difference is the weight which is a result of the material choices Klymit made. The Klymit Static V is made entirely of 75D polyester but the V2 is made with 30D polyester on the top and 75D polyester on the bottom.
The 75D is thicker which is better for protecting the sleeping pad from punctures, but is unnecessary on the top of the sleeping pad where it's not as prone to damage. By cutting the material down to 30D, Klymit was able to reduce the weight of the pad by about 10%.
Due to the increased complexity of manufacturing with two different materials, the Klymit Static V2 usually costs a little more than the Static V. It's up to you if the 2 oz weight difference is worth an additional money but personally I'd spend a little more since this is a sleeping pad you'll be able to use for a long time. As far as backpacking gear goes, a the price difference is pretty small and anytime you can reduce your weight without sacrificing function it's worth it.
Things I Didn't Like About the V2
There are just two things I don't like about the Static V and V2. The first is the R value and the second is the lack of size options.
Remember how both of these pads had the same specs? Well that means that they both have the same flaws too.
The R value of a sleeping pad is a way to compare it's insulating ability and is a way to quickly compare different pads. A lower R value means it is less insulating and a higher R value means it is more insulating. The R value on sleeping pads goes from a 1 (almost no insulation) up to 9.5 (very high insulation).
Most people will want a sleeping pad with an R value around 3. This is warm enough to keep you comfy in 3 season backpacking conditions. If you're usually cold at night then you might want to go a little higher to an R value of 4.
Both of these Klymit sleeping pads have an R value of 1.3 which is very low. Because the R value is so low, this pad should only be used for 3 season backpacking. I would never use this pad in the winter without putting an additional pad underneath it. If you're looking for a sleeping pad that you can also use during the winter I'd recommend something with at least an R value of 4.0.
The other disappointment with the Klymit Static V and V2 is that it only comes in one size option which is 72" long. As someone who is 73" tall, this is a deal breaker! Most other companies offer their sleeping pads in multiple sizes, usually ranging from 72" up to 78" which will work for most people.
If you are tall or do any winter backpacking you'll need to find a different sleeping pad. For the rest of us, this pad is a great option as an entry level pad that is lightweight and extremely affordable.
Top Choice - Klymit Static V2
The Klymit Static V2 is a great entry level sleeping pad. It weighs just 1 pound and packs down to the size of a pop can.
The change in materials means it weighs 10% less than the Klymit V1.
The only downside is the low R value which means it is only suitable for spring/summer/fall camping, but we can live with it since this pad is such a good value.
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