The Quest for Comfort: Choosing the Perfect Ultralight Backpacking Pillow
Getting a good night's sleep while backpacking is so important for enjoyment and safety on the trail. Yet traditional pillows are too bulky and heavy to carry. That's where ultralight backpacking pillows come in. They provide comfort without excess weight, allowing you to sleep soundly each night.
However, with so many options on the market, choosing the right ultralight pillow can seem overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, I'll explore the various types of ultralight backpacking pillows and their features. I'll also share how factors like sleep position, temperature regulation, and noise level impact the decision. After considering it all, I'll explain why the Zzz's on Tees pillow stands out as a top choice.
The Main Types of Ultralight Backpacking Pillows
There are three main categories of ultralight backpacking pillows: inflatable, stuff sack, and microfiber/foam. Each has its pros and cons in terms of comfort, packability, and weight.
Inflatable Pillows
Inflatable pillows are the lightest option, often weighing just 1-3 ounces when packed down. Made from materials like nylon or ripstop polyester, they use air to provide support. Simply blow air in through a one-way valve to fluff up before sleeping.
Pros:
- Extremely packable - compress down smaller than a grapefruit
- Very lightweight - most weigh under 2 oz
- Can adjust firmness by adding/releasing air
Cons:
- Tend to be noisier than other options when rustling
- May lose air overnight and lose shape/support
- Some find them less comfortable than other styles
Stuff Sack Pillows
Stuff sack pillows involve filling an outer fabric sack, usually with clothing, a compressible filler like microfiber, or insulation scraps. Tie it off and you've got a pillow!
Pros:
- Readily available since you likely have the materials on hand
- Very lightweight if using light/compressible filler
Cons:
- Less consistent support than other options
- Require additional gear (clothing/filler to stuff sack)
- Bulkiness depends on amount and type of filler used
Microfiber/Foam Pillows
These pillows provide more traditional loft and support using synthetic materials like microfiber or memory foam wrapped in nylon or polyester.
Pros:
- Tend to be most comfortable and contoured option
- Maintain shape all night without needing inflation
- Some are adjustable/compressible
Cons:
- Heaviest of the ultralight options, often 4+ oz
- Less packable than inflatable or stuff sack styles
Additional Factors to Consider
When choosing the right ultralight backpacking pillow, consider these important factors beyond just type and weight:
Comfort
How much loft and support do you need? Test different pillow styles to see which feels best for your sleep position and needs. Consider any neck or shoulder issues that might impact comfort.
Temperature Regulation
Look for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that won't retain heat. Down-alternative or merino filled pillows naturally regulate temperature.
Noise Level
Noisy rustling fabrics can disturb your sleep and those around you. Look for quieter, softer materials. Inflatables are generally noisier than others.
Packability
Think about available space in your pack. The smallest pack size offers the most versatility for fitting pillows elsewhere if needed.
Durability
Choose rugged, puncture-resistant fabrics that will last through repeated use and accidental mishaps on the trail. Nylon and polyester tend to be most durable.
Customization
Some pillows allow user-controlled loft with straps or adjustable fill. Consider models offering versatility depending on conditions.
Extras
Bonus features like carry sacks add convenience. Some pillows include integration with sleeping pads for added comfort.
Keeping these considerations in mind will help you identify which features matter most for your needs and priorities on the trail. comfort, temperature control, and noise are especially crucial for a good night's sleep.
A Detailed Look at Top Ultralight Pillow Options
Now let's examine some popular ultralight backpacking pillow models currently on the market. I'll highlight their key specs, pros, and cons so you can compare top contenders.
Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow
Type: Inflatable
Weight: 2.1 oz
Size: 4.5" x 9.5" packed
Fabric: 70D Nylon outer, 40D Nylon interior
The Aeros is a long-time favorite for its impressive comfort given the light weight. Internal baffling provides shape retention. The nylon fabrics are quieter and more durable than other inflatables. It packs down smaller than most and has a carry sack.
Pros:
- Well-designed shape provides better support than standard inflatables
- Quality construction for long-lasting comfort
- Carry sack adds convenience
Cons:
- More expensive than basic inflatable options
- May still rustle/crinkle more than microfiber/foam pillows
- Requires manual inflation each night
Exped Ultra 3 Pillow
Type: Microfiber/Foam
Weight: 4.5 oz
Size: 7" x 7" packed
Fabric: 40D Ripstop Nylon outer, Microfiber fill
The Ultra 3 uses a lightweight memory foam core wrapped in cozy microfiber fill for contouring support. External adjustment straps allow customizing loft for different sleep positions. The ripstop nylon shell is puncture resistant.
Pros:
- Memory foam core molds to natural neck shape
- Microfiber wool is soft and breathable
- Straps provide user control over firmness
Cons:
- Heavier than inflatable options
- Less compressible pack size than inflatables
- Foam may lose shape/support over time
Sea to Summit Aeros Comfort Plus Pillow
Type: Inflatable
Weight: 2.9 oz
Size: 5" x 10" packed
Fabric: 40D Nylon plain weave
Fill: LightTouch OEKO-TEX certified down alternative
An upgraded Aeros model using a soft down alternative microfiber fill for plush loft and shape retention. The nylon plain weave is extra quiet while still breathable and tough.
Pros:
- Outstanding comfort from down-like microfiber fill
- Pillow maintains shape all night
- Soft, quiet nylon fabric
Cons:
- Considerably more expensive than standard inflatable
- Heavier than basic 2 oz inflatable options
- Manual inflation still required each use
Outdoor Vitals Lightweight Summer Pillow
Type: Microfiber/Foam
Weight: 3.2 oz
Size: 6" x 6" packed
Fabric: 40D Nylon plain weave
Fill: Soft microfiber
A budget-friendly microfiber pillow offering decent contouring comfort. The soft microfiber fill is enclosed in breathable nylon plain weave. Adjustable side straps allow controlling loft.
Pros:
- Great value for the price
- Straps provide customization
- Breathable plain weave fabric
Cons:
- Fill may bunch up without defined internal baffles
- Less durable materials than premium options
- Heavier than inflatable competition
Why the Zzz's on Tees Pillow Stands Out
After considering the various ultralight backpacking pillow designs, the Zzz's on Tees pillow truly stands above the rest. Here's a more in-depth look at what makes it exceptional:
Patented Memory Foam and Merino Wool Comfort
The Zzz's on Tees pillow uses a combination never seen before in backpacking pillows - a memory foam core wrapped in a soft merino wool exterior.
This provides the shape contouring of memory foam along with the breathability, moisture-wicking, and temperature regulating benefits of merino. It molds perfectly to your natural neck shape while keeping you cool and comfortable.
Noise-Reducing Brushed Fabric Shell
Too often inflatable pillows are plagued by rustling sounds in the night. Not the Zzz's on Tees.
It uses a double-layered brushed shell fabric that reduces crinkling to a whisper. Light sleepers or those camping near others need not worry about disruptive noises.
Ultra-Compressible Pack Size
Weighing just 3.2 ounces packed, the Zzz's on Tees pillow compresses smaller than an apple. This extreme packability allows fitting in the tiniest hipbelt pockets or shoulder strap sleeves.
Proven Durability
Ripstop nylon construction ensures the pillow withstands poking branches, compressions from heavy packs, and years of use on rocky trails. You won't have to replace it any time soon.
Versatile Configurations
Whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach, the pillow can be bunched or flattened to suit your position. It effortlessly molds to provide just the right amount of support.
Temperature Regulation
As mentioned, the breathable merino exterior keeps you wonderfully cool on warm nights. But it also retains enough body heat on chillier nights through the insulated memory foam center.
Beyond Just the Pillow
Zzz's on Tees completes the backpacking bedding system with ultralight silk sleep sack liners, earplugs, and more. Together they ensure deep, undisturbed sleep wherever the trail leads.
Packing the Perfect Sleep System
With the right ultralight backpacking pillow and additional sleep accessories, you'll wake up refreshed after any night on the trail. Here are some tips for constructing your ideal sleep kit:
- Pad: Choose an inflatable or closed-cell foam pad offering good lumbar support to align your spine.
- Sleeping Bag: Down or synthetic bags allow compressing small. Consider your typical climate and temperature rating needs.
- Pillow: As discussed, the Zzz's on Tees stands out but evaluate your priorities. Look for noise-reducing, temperature-regulating materials.
- Liners: Ultra-light silk liners add an extra layer of warmth and ventilation between your skin and sleeping bag.
- Eye Mask: Blocking sunlight helps you fall asleep even during the day if needed. Look for lightweight lycra or microfiber masks.
- Ear Plugs: Cutting wind, stream, and campmate noises promotes deep sleep. Foam or reusable silicone plugs pack smallest.
Organize your sleep kit in a lightweight compression sack or stuffable case for easy stowing in your backpack. With the ideal ultralight pillow at the center, you're guaranteed comfortable zzz's anywhere adventures take you.
Conclusion
Hopefully this extensive guide has helped you gain a thorough understanding of what to look for in an ultralight backpacking pillow and why the Zzz's on Tees model stands out. Whether side sleeper or stomach sleeper, hot natured or cold, you now know how to pick the perfect pillow to align your spine and keep you cozy all night long on the trail.
A good night's rest is so crucial for enjoying your adventures and waking up energized each day. So be sure to carefully consider all available options before starting your next backpacking trip. With the right pillow in tow, you'll feel revived and ready to tackle any morning with a smile.