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Question about sleeping pads: Was I doing it wrong for 10 years?
I was out at Big Bend last month and this guy next to me at the campsite asked why my pad was so flat. I told him I always inflate it just enough so it's not rock hard. He laughed and said 'bro you're supposed to blow it up until it's firm, then let a tiny bit out so your hips don't touch the ground.' I've been deflating them on purpose all these years thinking softer was comfier. Turns out my back pain on trips was probably from my hips grinding into the dirt through a half inflated pad. Now I'm wondering if I've been setting up my tent wrong too. Anyone else realize they've been using basic gear wrong for way too long?
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betty_reed611mo ago
Wait, you've been doing that too? I did the same thing for years. Thought a softer pad was better for my back. Ended up with a sore hip every morning.
Yeah, a guy at REI told me the same thing. Said you want it firm enough that your hips don't touch ground. I felt pretty stupid. But hey, we learn, right?
At least you figured it out. Better late than never. Now your back will thank you.
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