Gear Guy
Q:
What's the best sleeping pad for a kayaking trip in Canada?
I planning a weeklong sea kayaking trip in northern Quebec. I (and my backside) would appreciate any of your thoughts on a decent portable sleeping pad. Is inflatable the way to go? And what about length? We anxiously await your deliberation. Nicholas B. Westmount, Quebec
Along with the inflatable pad, toss in a light non-inflating pad. It'll give you a backup in case killer bees attack your inflatable pad, and add a hefty measure of comfort. Mountain Hardwear's Superlight 2 ($65) is a full-length foam pad that weighs less than two pounds. Or, Cascade Designs' Z-Rest in a three-quarter length weighs only 15 ounces and costs $36. By itself it's a little thin, but when used in conjunction with an inflatable it's great.