REI Co-op Traverse Insulated Sleeping Pad Review
The Traverse ($139) is an awesome pad and an even better value—in fact, it’s one of our favorite REI brand products on the market. Yes, it’s relatively heavy, but it’s also comfortable, tough, and should last longer than ultralight models made with thinner (and more crinkly) fabrics. If you aren’t counting every ounce and want to keep the price of your backpacking kit in check, it’s a winner.
Comfort
Warmth / Weight
Packed Size
Durability
Ease of Use
Sustainability
Type
Air
R-value
4.3
Weight
1 lb. 5 oz.
Packed Size
9.5 x 4 in.
Thickness
3.5 in.
Fabric(s)
75D recycled polyester
Pros
Cons
REI Co-op Traverse Insulated
For this season's top models, see our guide to the Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads.
The REI Traverse is one comfortable sleeping pad. Starting with thickness, at 3.5 inches, it’s on par with our top-rated pad, the Nemo Tensor All Season, and gets you plenty of clearance off the ground. It’s not quite as cushy as a pad like the Nemo Eclipse at 4 inches, and the comfort-oriented Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft offers a whopping 4.6 inches of thickness (it’s a category leader, but it also weighs 1 lb. 9 oz. and costs $250). But I thought 3.5 inches was plenty good, and the discontinuous internal baffles and full rectangular shape provided an excellent platform for sleeping.
Thickness aside, the real comfort of the REI Co-op Traverse comes from the materials. REI went with a burly 75D recycled polyester, which is substantially thicker than ultralight competitors that hover around the 20D to 30D range. The result is that those pads tend to feel crinklier and are louder, whereas the REI Traverse is softer and quieter. This can make an even bigger difference than thickness, and the Traverse is noticeably soft, which is particularly impressive given its $139 price tag. It feels and acts like a high-end pad.
Starting with warmth, the R-value of the REI Traverse is 4.3, putting it squarely in the 3-season territory. For context, R-value measures the pad's ability to insulate you from the ground, and anything under 2 is for warm-weather summer backpacking. The 2 to 4 R-value range works for most summer and early-fall alpine trips, and we think 4.3 on the Traverse is totally practical—it’s everything most people need. The percentage of people who backpack in winter conditions is a small fraction of the 3-seasoners, and the Traverse is in line with an uber-popular pad like the Thermarest NeoAir XLite NXT (4.5 R-value). That said, if you plan on getting out in the winter, or if you run cold or want that extra buffer, there are a number of higher R-value backpacking sleeping pads on the market.
Weight is where the REI Traverse takes a hit. At 1 pound 5 ounces for the size medium, it’s heavier than most backpacking sleeping pads. A big reason for this is the aforementioned 75D polyester, which is substantially thicker than that of leading ultralight models that often tip the scales at just under one pound. It’s worth noting that the extra thickness makes the pad more comfortable and durable, but there’s no doubt you pay a weight penalty. The Nemo Tensor All Season weighs 14.1 ounces (5.4 R-value) and has the same dimensions as the Traverse (72 x 20 x 3.5 in.), while the Thermarest NeoAir XLite NXT weighs just 13 ounces and is half an inch thinner.
Given its weight, the REI Co-op Traverse sleeping pad's packed size is surprisingly competitive. At 4 x 9.5 inches, it’s in line with other popular pads like the Nemo Tensor All Season (4 x 10 inches) and Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite (4.1 x 9 inches). If space is a primary concern for you, the Big Anges Rapide packs down to a scant 7 x 4 inches, which is impressive. But as our Rapide tester said, “Getting it back into its original stuff sack is borderline sorcery,” which is not a desirable trait and can make those mornings packing up infuriating (personally, I despise stuff sacks that are impractically small). And at the absolute minimalist end of the spectrum, the Nemo Tensor Elite can be packed down to 5.5 x 3 inches, but that pad goes all-out on weight savings with ultra-thin materials and an R-value of 2.4.
All in all, the packed size of the Traverse is quite impressive given its thick build, and it’s a cinch to roll up and store in its stuff sack. It may be a heavy pad, but it’s not big.
Denier is a measure of fabric thickness, and the REI Co-op Traverse is made with a burly 75D recycled polyester. Foam sleeping pads are the most indestructible by nature—they literally can’t pop, although they certainly aren’t very fun to sleep on either. Among air pads, the Traverse is among the thickest on the market. The Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro, which weighs a hefty 1 pound 14 ounces, is 50D X 70D, and the Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft is made with ith 50D polyester on the top and 75D on the bottom. The Traverse surpasses them all, which adds to both its comfort (ultralight materials are crinkly with wax paper vibes) and long-term durability. Keeping the valves intact is key to keeping a pad going, but the fabric thickness is perhaps most important of all.
I’ve experienced no issues with my REI Traverse thus far. It’s also worth noting that I’ve used older versions of the REI Co-Op Helix line extensively, without babying them at all, and never have I had a hole in my REI pads. Unfortunately, I can’t say the same about other brands.
If you have issues with punctures (this can happen, particularly when sleeping directly on rocks or if sand and dirt makes its way into your tent), REI included a nice little patch kit with temporary adhesive patches, two fabric circles to match the pad, and even a replacement flap for inside the valves.
The REI Co-op Traverse is a snap to use. It has separate inflation and deflation valves, which are becoming increasingly standard in the sleeping pad world. The dual valves make inflation easier than with a single valve (you don’t risk releasing all the air by accident). The valves are large, well-marked (and different colors), and sturdy.
To inflate, the REI Co-op Traverse comes with a separate sack that attaches to the inflation valve. To capture air, you blow gently in the direction of the open sack (you have to blow much less than you think to fill it up), seal the top, roll it up, and repeat. With this system, occasionally the sack will disconnect from the inflate valve (a slight annoyance, but easy to reattach, and air does not leave the pad), and it usually takes around 6 to 8 sacks full of air to get the job done. Or, if you’re like me, you finish the job off manually. Those who don’t want to deal with the inflation sack can invest in a rechargeable pump like the Flextail Zero Pump 2 ($49) that weighs just over an ounce (and you can leave the sack behind).
Deflating the pad is as simple as opening the gray deflate value and pushing down. The air comes out quickly and easily, the pad rolls up into thirds, and the stuff sack has the right amount of room (not too little like the Big Anges Rapide). And a nice touch: “Use and Care” directions are printed on a little pocket inside the stuff sack that houses the repair kit.
Select icon to view details:
Longevity
Choosing durable outdoor gear and keeping it in use for longer is one of the best ways to reduce environmental impact. Our proprietary longevity rating assesses factors like overall build quality, materials, fabric denier, component durability, and real-world performance. A green check indicates that we expect the product to be long-lasting relative to its peers, a yellow check mark indicates average longevity, and a red X indicates a product that may have a limited lifespan.
Recycled Materials
Recycled materials are prevalent in outdoor gear, with nylon, polyester, wool, and down among the most common, but the composition varies widely. A green check mark indicates the product is made with a substantial amount of recycled materials (100% recycled or the core fabric that makes up most of the product is recycled), a yellow check means it contains a moderate to small amount of recycled materials, while a red X means there are no recycled materials in the product.
Bluesign Approved
Bluesign Technologies, based in Switzerland, operates a third-party textile management system that ensures materials are manufactured to strict environmental, chemical, and worker safety standards. A green check mark indicates a product is either a Bluesign Product (contains at least 90% Bluesign-approved fabrics and 20-30% Bluesign-approved accessories) or features a significant amount of Bluesign-approved materials. A yellow check mark means it uses some Bluesign-approved materials but less than the aforementioned category, and a red X means there are no Bluesign-approved materials in the product.
Repair Kit
Repair kits help extend a product’s lifespan by allowing users to quickly fix issues—like sleeping pad punctures or damaged inflation valve seals—rather than replace the item entirely. A green check indicates the product includes a repair kit, while a red X means it does not.
Responsible Manufacturing
This criterion evaluates a brand’s commitment to fair wages, safe working conditions, and reducing environmental impact through certifications and programs like Fair Trade Certified, Fair Wear Foundation, Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP), and the Fair Labor Association, while also recognizing brands that manufacture primarily in the U.S. or Europe under strict labor and environmental regulations. A green check mark indicates a brand meets our responsible manufacturing criteria, while a red X means it does not.
Recycled and/or Reduced Packaging
Packaging can add significant waste to outdoor gear purchases, so many brands work to reduce its impact by using recycled materials, incorporating Forest Stewardship Council-certified paper products, and minimizing plastic and paper use. A green check mark indicates a brand uses recycled or reduced materials across all of its packaging, a yellow check indicates moderate or limited use of recycled or reduced packaging, and a red X indicates the brand does not make either of these efforts.
Repair Services
Repair services extend the lifespan of outdoor gear and reduce overall consumption, though programs vary widely. Some brands offer comprehensive repairs for a range of issues, while others provide limited or no repair support. A green check mark indicates a robust repair program, a yellow check mark indicates limited repair services, and a red X indicates the brand does not offer repair services.
Carbon Footprint Tracking
This criterion evaluates whether a brand measures, reports, and works to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions using established frameworks such as the Higg Index, Greenhouse Gas Protocol, or The Change Climate Project. A green check mark indicates a brand publicly reports greenhouse gas emissions data, sets clearly defined reduction targets, and uses established tracking frameworks such as Higg or The Change Climate Project. A yellow check mark indicates the brand tracks emissions and outlines reduction goals but provides limited data, lacks science-based verification, or does not clearly report progress. A red X indicates the brand does not appear to track greenhouse gas emissions or provides so little information that its efforts cannot be verified.
Annual Impact Report
Annual impact reports provide transparency and accountability by outlining a brand’s sustainability efforts across areas such as material sourcing, greenhouse gas emissions, waste, water use, supply chains, and packaging. A green check mark indicates a brand publishes a detailed, brand-specific impact report that closely aligns with our sustainability criteria and leaves little room for ambiguity. A yellow check indicates a brand provides some relevant sustainability reporting but lacks detail in key areas or is covered only briefly within a parent company report. A red X indicates a brand does not regularly publish an impact report.
I tested the REI Traverse in a medium size, which measures 72 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 3.5 inches thick. At 6’1”, I’m always pushing the limits of regular-size backpacking sleeping pads, but slept fine (and the pad is truly rectangular, which adds a touch more real estate compared to tapered pads). Those looking for more room can opt for the Medium Wide (72 x 25 in.) or the Long Wide (78 x 25). All three pads are 3.5 inches thick.
REI Co-op Helix ($169): A Touch More Warmth
Among the Co-op’s current crop of air pads, it’s an easy call for us: we prefer the new Traverse. The Helix is the brand’s premium offering, coming in $30 more, with a slightly higher R-value and a raised, air cell construction (compared to the flatter, more supportive shape of the Traverse). The thickness goes down to 3 inches from 3.5, but the weight stays the same. In addition, the Helix has rounded corners and tapers at the foot end. Last but not least, the Helix is 30D, which is considerably thinner than the 75D Traverse. In the end, we’d save $30 with the more durable, thicker, and softer-feeling Traverse. For more, check out our review of the REI Co-op Helix.
Big Agnes Divide Insulated ($130): A Little Less for a Little Less
If you're looking for an air pad and trying to keep the price low, the Big Agnes Divide is another viable option. At $130, it’s $9 cheaper than the Traverse, has the same exact dimensions and rectangular shape, but with a slightly lower R-value of 4.0 instead of 4.3, and a higher weight of 1 lb. 7 oz. for the size regular. You also get a different valve system—the Divide also has two valves, but they are right next to each other instead of on different ends of the pad—and a denier of 70D, a touch less than the 75D Traverse. We like the Divide, but the REI Traverse is just a bit better. For more, read our Big Anges Divide review.
One of our current favorite Co-op products, the Traverse pad delivers serious value thanks to a plush, comfortable sleeping platform, durable materials, and a low price. It’s not a weight leader, but the rest of its performance truly shines.
Comfort
Warmth / Weight
Packed Size
Durability
Ease of Use
Sustainability
While the Helix Insulated’s price-to-warmth ratio looks impressive on the surface, we suggest you spend your money elsewhere. This pad has an odd baffle design and questionable warmth.
Comfort
Warmth / Weight
Packed Size
Durability
Ease of Use
Sustainability
One of the best budget models we tested, the Divide Insulated has an impressive R-value and comfort level for its price. Its weight and warmth don’t exactly turn heads, but your wallet will notice.
Comfort
Warmth / Weight
Packed Size
Durability
Ease of Use
Sustainability
Is the Traverse Insulated for You?
Backpacking pads are trending thicker and more comfortable but not necessarily more durable. The REI Co-op Traverse bucks that latter piece thanks to its thick 75D construction. Combine that with its low price and comfy sleeping platform, and you have a very compelling product. For all but the most weight-focused backpackers—the REI pad is roughly 5 to 7 ounces heavier than the leaders in the space—we think the Traverse should have wide appeal.
it's trail o'clock
Backpacking Gear Guides
Gear Guide
Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags of 2026
Gear Guide
Best Backpacking Tents of 2026
Gear Guide
Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2026
Gear Guide
Best Trekking Poles of 2026
curated for you