REI Co-op
REI Co-op Helix Insulated Air Sleeping Pad
Best insulated sleeping pad for cold-weather backpacking comfort.
Light, plush, and warm, the 3-inch thick REI Co-op Helix Insulated Air Sleeping Pad is designed to make your trips more comfortable. It features an R-value of 4.9, making it an excellent choice for backpacking adventures in cold weather, providing considerable insulation from ground temperature. The pad offers a flat, mattress-like surface thanks to its 3-inch thickness and even, gridded weld pattern. It utilizes 2-layer reflective insulation (aluminum-coated PET film) for warmth without adding significant weight. Inflation and deflation are quick and easy using dual custom valves that work seamlessly with the included pump sack. The interior baffle design enhances durability and longevity. Available in Regular, Regular Wide, and Long Wide sizes, this unisex pad is made with durable materials and is certified by The Climate Label.
$118.29
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
311
/ 692
#311 in Sleeping Pads
Price vs Category Average
+2%
Above average
Best Use
Backpacking
/ Backpacking
Who it's for
- Backpackers needing warmth without extra pack weight
- Side sleepers requiring extra cushioning on uneven ground
- Campers wanting quick setup and teardown at camp
Who should skip it
- Light sleepers sensitive to rustling noises at night
- Ultralight hikers prioritizing the absolute lowest pack weight
- Campers who prefer the durability of closed-cell foam
Performance breakdown
Thermal Insulation
An R-value of 4.9 handles cold-weather camping with impressive thermal efficiency.
Sleep Comfort
Three inches of loft creates a stable, mattress-like surface for side sleepers.
Inflation Speed
Dual valves and the included pump sack make setup quick and effortless.
Durability
Ripstop polyester and reinforced internal baffles withstand rugged backcountry use.
Packability
Balances plush thickness with a manageable packed size for backpacking trips.
Sustainability
Climate Label certification reflects a strong commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Key Specs
Best Use
Backpacking
Sleeping Pad Type
Air
Sleeping Pad Shape
Mummy
Insulated
Yes
Insulation Type
Synthetic
R-Value
4.9
Repair Kit Included
Yes
Stuff Sack Included
Yes
Know before you buy
With an R-value of 4.9, the Helix is well-suited for cold-weather adventures. It provides significant insulation from the ground, making it a reliable choice for late autumn or early winter trips where temperatures drop.
The pad includes a dedicated pump sack that connects to the dual custom valves. This system allows you to inflate the pad quickly without introducing moisture from your breath into the interior, which helps preserve the insulation over time.
The pad features a 3-inch thickness and a gridded weld pattern designed to create a flat, mattress-like surface. While it has a tapered shape to fit inside trapezoidal tents, the design prioritizes a stable sleeping platform that prevents the 'balloon' effect common in some air pads.
The Regular size tapers to approximately 14 inches at the footbox, while the Wide size tapers to 17 inches. If you are a side sleeper who moves around a lot or prefers extra room for your legs, the Wide version offers a more comfortable sleeping surface.
The pad is constructed with 30-denier ripstop polyester, which balances weight savings with necessary durability for backcountry use. Additionally, the interior baffle design is engineered to reduce internal stress, helping the pad maintain its shape and integrity over many seasons.
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