A Closer Look at Updates to Tensor™
A Closer Look at Updates to Tensor™
A Closer Look at Updates to Tensor™
A Closer Look at Updates to Tensor™
Last updated at 04/27/2026 07:39:50
NEM TENSOR MAT W22 GOLDFINCH REGULAR WIDE
Free delivery between 1–7 May
originally posted on nemoequipment.com
I wanted so badly to like this product. Light , comfy, compact. The baffle system seems space age compared to other brands, as does the amazing air pump bag, three full bags and the mattress is up and ready to go….. almost almost everything was perfect. Until you realise it’s made out of the flimsiest version of all of the materials out there. I haven’t had one trip without a puncture. The last trip a feather from my down sleeping bag made a hole, previously who knows but 2 punctures on the base while sleeping on snow on a foam pad. . Can’t fault the design , just the follow through on material durability. My thermarest seems bullet proof compared to my patchwork pattern nemo pad now. It’s such a shame as everything else about that bag is perfect.
originally posted on nemoequipment.com
I bought this air mattress in November of '22 for an upcoming trip to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. I'm an avid hiker and climber and I own and have used several different sleeping pads and air mattresses over the years. The first night was great and I slept comfortably (the NEMO was on top of a thick foam pad provided by the porters . . . I still haven't experienced the mattress without the foam pad, so...). The inflation sack and the nozzles for inflating and deflating the mattress were great. It was thick and kept me warm throughout the night, and it was silent unlike one of my other air mattresses. In short, I was in love. BUT!!!! The mattress sprang a leak . . . over the course of a 7-day hike where it was babied and kept on a large foam pad. It never came in contact ... MoreI bought this air mattress in November of '22 for an upcoming trip to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. I'm an avid hiker and climber and I own and have used several different sleeping pads and air mattresses over the years. The first night was great and I slept comfortably (the NEMO was on top of a thick foam pad provided by the porters . . . I still haven't experienced the mattress without the foam pad, so...). The inflation sack and the nozzles for inflating and deflating the mattress were great. It was thick and kept me warm throughout the night, and it was silent unlike one of my other air mattresses. In short, I was in love. BUT!!!! The mattress sprang a leak . . . over the course of a 7-day hike where it was babied and kept on a large foam pad. It never came in contact with any rocks or other sharp objects. The leak appears to be either at the nozzle or at a seam and appears to be from a manufacturing defect. For a $200-$300 product, I'm left pretty concerned about the prompt failure of this product. Perhaps I just got a defective product... It happens... But frankly I might consider buying a different air mattress.
originally posted on REI
Coming from egg-crate style foam bed pad, I was skeptical about inflatable. But I needed something better. When someone suggested these were firm and could pack to the size of a water bottle I decided I’d take the chance. Seems worth the money!The inflate bag with one-way valve is a clever way to get some significant pressure packed into this mattress. At 6’1” and 180+ lbs, I’m glad I got the long/wide. I’ve fully inflated, the only time I noticed my body getting close to ground was if I was sitting upright with all my weight on my backside. But it’s not a seat cushion, so don’t do that.Feels sturdy! Though I’d still try and keep it protected from points and edges. Haven’t had much chance to test if the insulated were better but in Minnesota you’re as likely to ... MoreComing from egg-crate style foam bed pad, I was skeptical about inflatable. But I needed something better. When someone suggested these were firm and could pack to the size of a water bottle I decided I’d take the chance. Seems worth the money!The inflate bag with one-way valve is a clever way to get some significant pressure packed into this mattress. At 6’1” and 180+ lbs, I’m glad I got the long/wide. I’ve fully inflated, the only time I noticed my body getting close to ground was if I was sitting upright with all my weight on my backside. But it’s not a seat cushion, so don’t do that.Feels sturdy! Though I’d still try and keep it protected from points and edges. Haven’t had much chance to test if the insulated were better but in Minnesota you’re as likely to camp in 40°F nights as you are in 90°F nights, and you can always add more.Based on my experience so far the only disappointment was that it’s advertised as quiet. It’s not. But it’s very comfortable, packs nicely, and is a welcome addition to and improvement on my camping gear.
| Minimum Weight | 0 lb, 13.8 oz / 390 g |
| Packed Weight | 1 lb, 1 oz / 470 g |
| Packed Size | 8.0 x 3.0 in dia / 20 x 7.5 cm dia |
| R-Value | 2.5 |
| Dimensions | 72" x 20" / 183cm x 51cm |
NEM TENSOR MAT W22 GOLDFINCH REGULAR WIDE
Free delivery between 1–7 May
I wanted so badly to like this product. Light , comfy, compact. The baffle system seems space age compared to other brands, as does the amazing air pump bag, three full bags and the mattress is up and ready to go….. almost almost everything was perfect. Until you realise it’s made out of the flimsiest version of all of the materials out there. I haven’t had one trip without a puncture. The last trip a feather from my down sleeping bag made a hole, previously who knows but 2 punctures on the base while sleeping on snow on a foam pad. . Can’t fault the design , just the follow through on material durability. My thermarest seems bullet proof compared to my patchwork pattern nemo pad now. It’s such a shame as everything else about that bag is perfect.
I bought this air mattress in November of '22 for an upcoming trip to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. I'm an avid hiker and climber and I own and have used several different sleeping pads and air mattresses over the years. The first night was great and I slept comfortably (the NEMO was on top of a thick foam pad provided by the porters . . . I still haven't experienced the mattress without the foam pad, so...). The inflation sack and the nozzles for inflating and deflating the mattress were great. It was thick and kept me warm throughout the night, and it was silent unlike one of my other air mattresses. In short, I was in love. BUT!!!! The mattress sprang a leak . . . over the course of a 7-day hike where it was babied and kept on a large foam pad. It never came in contact ... MoreI bought this air mattress in November of '22 for an upcoming trip to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. I'm an avid hiker and climber and I own and have used several different sleeping pads and air mattresses over the years. The first night was great and I slept comfortably (the NEMO was on top of a thick foam pad provided by the porters . . . I still haven't experienced the mattress without the foam pad, so...). The inflation sack and the nozzles for inflating and deflating the mattress were great. It was thick and kept me warm throughout the night, and it was silent unlike one of my other air mattresses. In short, I was in love. BUT!!!! The mattress sprang a leak . . . over the course of a 7-day hike where it was babied and kept on a large foam pad. It never came in contact with any rocks or other sharp objects. The leak appears to be either at the nozzle or at a seam and appears to be from a manufacturing defect. For a $200-$300 product, I'm left pretty concerned about the prompt failure of this product. Perhaps I just got a defective product... It happens... But frankly I might consider buying a different air mattress.
Coming from egg-crate style foam bed pad, I was skeptical about inflatable. But I needed something better. When someone suggested these were firm and could pack to the size of a water bottle I decided I’d take the chance. Seems worth the money!The inflate bag with one-way valve is a clever way to get some significant pressure packed into this mattress. At 6’1” and 180+ lbs, I’m glad I got the long/wide. I’ve fully inflated, the only time I noticed my body getting close to ground was if I was sitting upright with all my weight on my backside. But it’s not a seat cushion, so don’t do that.Feels sturdy! Though I’d still try and keep it protected from points and edges. Haven’t had much chance to test if the insulated were better but in Minnesota you’re as likely to ... MoreComing from egg-crate style foam bed pad, I was skeptical about inflatable. But I needed something better. When someone suggested these were firm and could pack to the size of a water bottle I decided I’d take the chance. Seems worth the money!The inflate bag with one-way valve is a clever way to get some significant pressure packed into this mattress. At 6’1” and 180+ lbs, I’m glad I got the long/wide. I’ve fully inflated, the only time I noticed my body getting close to ground was if I was sitting upright with all my weight on my backside. But it’s not a seat cushion, so don’t do that.Feels sturdy! Though I’d still try and keep it protected from points and edges. Haven’t had much chance to test if the insulated were better but in Minnesota you’re as likely to camp in 40°F nights as you are in 90°F nights, and you can always add more.Based on my experience so far the only disappointment was that it’s advertised as quiet. It’s not. But it’s very comfortable, packs nicely, and is a welcome addition to and improvement on my camping gear.
I am in the market for a lightweight backpacking sleeping pad. Staff at REI recommended this pad to meet my needs and I was excited to try it out.The first night I used this product it delivered exactly as described. It was lightweight, very comfortable, and super easy to use. I really liked the vortex pump sack! I woke up in the morning satisfied with the product.The second time I used this it was a completely different experience. I slept in ideal conditions and didn't notice until the following morning that the pad had deflated. I had assumed that I possibly didn't secure the air valve or something of the like. This was not the case. I used it again twice more in the hopes it would work and it was clear that the pad was not keeping in air as I woke up with it ... MoreI am in the market for a lightweight backpacking sleeping pad. Staff at REI recommended this pad to meet my needs and I was excited to try it out.The first night I used this product it delivered exactly as described. It was lightweight, very comfortable, and super easy to use. I really liked the vortex pump sack! I woke up in the morning satisfied with the product.The second time I used this it was a completely different experience. I slept in ideal conditions and didn't notice until the following morning that the pad had deflated. I had assumed that I possibly didn't secure the air valve or something of the like. This was not the case. I used it again twice more in the hopes it would work and it was clear that the pad was not keeping in air as I woke up with it nearly fully deflated. I live in Colorado but used this in California in much less rocky conditions and much more favorable conditions but it still failed. There is no way I could trust this in the back country or the rocky mountains because how poorly this performed after two days of use. I understand that pads can get leaks and get beat over time BUT at this price point it is unacceptable that this pad gave out after its first use. The 20D polyester may not of been the right call for this product and I also have concerns for the quality control after seeing so many similar reviews. If I could of only gotten more than a single use before it failing me I may of felt differently but this was quite disappointing. I will be returning this product.
I had another inflatable pad but didn't like the ridges that run from head-to-toe and it always felt unbalanced where I'd keep rolling off, this seemed flatter and more balanced. The design that went into this pad had me sold (insulated, offers airflow underneath, well engineered, lifetime warranty). I was so excited to try this sleeping pad and loved it, slept well with it, for a while... The pad was great for 2 outings, but after two trips (10 day Wonderland Trail in 2021 and 3 day Spray Park Loop in 2022), this pad proved to me it wouldn't last. I had patched 1 leak after the Wonderland Trail in 2021. A bit concerning, but hey maybe that is the price for lightweight. My trip in 2022 didn't even make it one night without going flat. I'd wake up every hour and ... MoreI had another inflatable pad but didn't like the ridges that run from head-to-toe and it always felt unbalanced where I'd keep rolling off, this seemed flatter and more balanced. The design that went into this pad had me sold (insulated, offers airflow underneath, well engineered, lifetime warranty). I was so excited to try this sleeping pad and loved it, slept well with it, for a while... The pad was great for 2 outings, but after two trips (10 day Wonderland Trail in 2021 and 3 day Spray Park Loop in 2022), this pad proved to me it wouldn't last. I had patched 1 leak after the Wonderland Trail in 2021. A bit concerning, but hey maybe that is the price for lightweight. My trip in 2022 didn't even make it one night without going flat. I'd wake up every hour and re-inflate it only to have the air lossed an hour later. Couldn't detect any leaks while out in the field, checked the caps and seals as well. Came back from the trip and found 8 holes in it. All leaks were on the bottom side and seem to be at the edges of the ovals. I don't think it's a function of any particular campsite, because I always stay in designated sites and always make sure the footprint, tent, and inside of tent are free of any pebbles, sticks or debris. Seems like all the hole patching and the price for this pad do not make it a good value...I would not recommend this pad. There are enough other reviews like mine that should be a sign to buyers.
I bought 2 of these for my wife and I and although they’re very comfy, both have popped after 2 trips.I bought the paw print for the aura tent thinking I could wrap my pad with it for extra protection, but even with the extra layer, my dog ripped a 3 inch hole in it after her morning stretch. I should mention that I sleep with my pad pretty deflated, so it shouldn’t have been that easy to pop..Hoping I can find a solution for this as I don’t want to be repairing holes after every trip :/One other issue I had was moisture inside the pad. I used the vortex pump so no issue there. Not sure if this is normal? We had a pretty big rainstorm so condensation was to be expected, but inside the pad? Kinda odd. After a few days of hanging up they mostly dried out.All ... MoreI bought 2 of these for my wife and I and although they’re very comfy, both have popped after 2 trips.I bought the paw print for the aura tent thinking I could wrap my pad with it for extra protection, but even with the extra layer, my dog ripped a 3 inch hole in it after her morning stretch. I should mention that I sleep with my pad pretty deflated, so it shouldn’t have been that easy to pop..Hoping I can find a solution for this as I don’t want to be repairing holes after every trip :/One other issue I had was moisture inside the pad. I used the vortex pump so no issue there. Not sure if this is normal? We had a pretty big rainstorm so condensation was to be expected, but inside the pad? Kinda odd. After a few days of hanging up they mostly dried out.All in all, if you don’t have a dog it’s almost a 5/5, I slept really well on it, even as a side sleeper. No hips or shoulders on the ground, and the long wide was a must have! Inflation is super easy, only takes 5-7 pumps with the included sack. If you DO have a dog this pad is probably not for you.
My previous mattress was a mummy shape, non-insulated and of a different brand. As I have recently switched from a sleeping bag to a quilt, I wanted an insulated mattress (4R). For years I've been trying to perfect my sleep situation when hiking. I think I have hit the holy grail here. The 4 things that this mattress does exceptionally well.1. It's warm!2. It's long (I'm 188cm) and finally my feet don't hang off the end3. It's wide! (when rolling during the night, not once did I fall off4. It's Quiet!(So much quieter than other brands I've owned. Other mattresses would actually wake me up when rolling around. Not this one).Lastly having the inflatable bag to blow it up is a game changer. Much easier on the lungs.Nemo I'm in love!Lastly, pair it with the Nemo ... MoreMy previous mattress was a mummy shape, non-insulated and of a different brand. As I have recently switched from a sleeping bag to a quilt, I wanted an insulated mattress (4R). For years I've been trying to perfect my sleep situation when hiking. I think I have hit the holy grail here. The 4 things that this mattress does exceptionally well.1. It's warm!2. It's long (I'm 188cm) and finally my feet don't hang off the end3. It's wide! (when rolling during the night, not once did I fall off4. It's Quiet!(So much quieter than other brands I've owned. Other mattresses would actually wake me up when rolling around. Not this one).Lastly having the inflatable bag to blow it up is a game changer. Much easier on the lungs.Nemo I'm in love!Lastly, pair it with the Nemo Filo pillow and you will have the best nights sleep known to man kind. I slept on this next to my couch one night.
I paid $175 for this in 2019 for my once or twice a year backpacking trip with friends. This means I have used it about 5 times, totaling about 15 nights. It has been very comfortable and lightweight and less noisy than some of my friends's similar pads. Unfortunately, the failure of my Nemo pad on this year's trip left me sleeping on the ground. I am proud that at age 71 I can still backpack, but I desperately depend on my sleeping pad to keep my body from hurting all night. I could not find the slow leak to try to patch it and just kept blowing it up. Now back home, I must go through the lengthy process of making a complicated warranty claim, etc and will not have a pad for the rest of the summer. Don't suffer like me. Buy something else.
WHEN these pads work, they are delightful. Easy to inflate and quick to deflate, compact, etc. The technology is NOT reliable, however. At first, I sometimes had trouble getting the pad to hold air, but I discovered that it was a poor sealing job when pressing in the valve components. But now, even with meticulous fitting, the thing doesn't hold air--and I'm very, very, very careful about where/when/and how I set up the pad--clear zone under the tent, inflate/deflate in the tent, etc. Must be a leak somewhere along the seams. I have to submerge it in my tub to find the leak, which I will do. My wife saw another camper with one--SAME PROBLEM! The company replaced that one, and I hope the same is true of my unit. Total nights on this are less than 20. It's just not ... MoreWHEN these pads work, they are delightful. Easy to inflate and quick to deflate, compact, etc. The technology is NOT reliable, however. At first, I sometimes had trouble getting the pad to hold air, but I discovered that it was a poor sealing job when pressing in the valve components. But now, even with meticulous fitting, the thing doesn't hold air--and I'm very, very, very careful about where/when/and how I set up the pad--clear zone under the tent, inflate/deflate in the tent, etc. Must be a leak somewhere along the seams. I have to submerge it in my tub to find the leak, which I will do. My wife saw another camper with one--SAME PROBLEM! The company replaced that one, and I hope the same is true of my unit. Total nights on this are less than 20. It's just not reliable, so DO NOT count on it. My wife was able to drop off an older thermarest while I was on mid bike tour, so I only had to deal with two nights of constantly re-inflating the pad. I will not be taking a Nemo pad on our Great Divide Mtn. Bike route attempt next year. Too bad.
I Experienced my 4 most comfortable nights sleeping on the ground in a long lifetime of outdoor adventure (age 75). Unfortunately, a gust of wind blew sharp-edged High Sierra granite sand into my tent and the pad ended up with a couple of pinhole leaks. I had to reinflate once in the middle of the night. Immersing it in the lake the next day I quickly found a leak and patched. Got about 6 hours sleep that night before having to reinflate. Couldn’t find the leak. Back home, immersing in bathtub, still couldn’t find leak. Went on-line, including contact message to Nemo – no response. On-line chat w/ REI staff: no new ideas, just option to return. Then someone in a local mountain shop suggested a fine mist/spray of well diluted dish liquid. It worked! Found the second, ... MoreI Experienced my 4 most comfortable nights sleeping on the ground in a long lifetime of outdoor adventure (age 75). Unfortunately, a gust of wind blew sharp-edged High Sierra granite sand into my tent and the pad ended up with a couple of pinhole leaks. I had to reinflate once in the middle of the night. Immersing it in the lake the next day I quickly found a leak and patched. Got about 6 hours sleep that night before having to reinflate. Couldn’t find the leak. Back home, immersing in bathtub, still couldn’t find leak. Went on-line, including contact message to Nemo – no response. On-line chat w/ REI staff: no new ideas, just option to return. Then someone in a local mountain shop suggested a fine mist/spray of well diluted dish liquid. It worked! Found the second, tiny leak and smeared on a little SeamGrip. Now holding air beautifully. I look forward to many years of sleeping comfortably on the ground!
| Minimum Weight | 0 lb, 13.8 oz / 390 g |
| Packed Weight | 1 lb, 1 oz / 470 g |
| Packed Size | 8.0 x 3.0 in dia / 20 x 7.5 cm dia |
| R-Value | 2.5 |
| Dimensions | 72" x 20" / 183cm x 51cm |
