We’ve covered a lot of products from Klymit over the years, as we’ve been ever impressed with their brand of light weight, inflatable camping pads and argon insulated jackets and vests. So it was no surprise when we found even more innovation from this Ogden-based company at the Outdoor Retailer 2012 Summer Market.
First, they’ve taken the popular Inertia XL camping pad and made a ¾ length version for those backpackers who don’t need the padding for their legs and feet. Advantage? Less weight in the pack, and more packability. The Inertia X-Wave features increased support, a coverage area based on body mapping, and even an integrated head pillow.
Another new pad from Klymit is the Static V, a full length pad that inflates in only 10 breaths. It has unique “V” chambers to limit air movement and heat loss, while also supporting the body. Elevated side bumpers also keep you on the pad while tossing and turning.
The Cush is a small inflatable pad that can be used as either a pillow or seat. You can inflate it and fold it up to your desired height and firmness. I see this becoming very popular not only for backpackers, but also non-outdoor uses like sleeping on long flights, or for sitting on metal bleachers while taking in a fall football game.
Finally, Klymit announced that they are getting into the backpack business… sort of. No, they’re not engineering inflatable packs, but they are working with Ultralight Adventure Equipment to create a pack that offers support and firmness without the weight. Think of it as a sort of inflatable pack frame. Only this pack frame can pull double duty by removing it and putting it to work as a sit pad, pillow, or small sleep pad.
Nope, no surprises here, as it’s clear that Klymit continues to impress with new ways to use inflatable pads to make our outdoor adventures more comfortable. For more, visit www.klymit.com.