Klymit Static V2 Review

The Static V2 represents a solid value. Throughout our testing, it performed above average in most metrics and was only trounced in categories it wasn't really designed to perform in, such as warmth. If you're on a budget and looking to squeeze every penny while still staying comfortable, the Static V2 is worth a look.

Performance Comparison

Comfort

If you head over to REI and roll around on the Static V2, you will probably be put off because your elbows and knees will push through to the floor as you shift around. This gave us an initial feeling that our sleep might be hampered by how thin this pad is relative to others. However, when we got out into the field, we were pleasantly surprised by how the Static V2 actually slept. Once we were settled down and laid flat or on our side, we didn't push through to the ground. Even our boniest gear testers felt comfortable side sleeping, though some occasional ground contact was noted.

The clever design of the Static V2 incorporates a subtle trough down the middle that helps contain your body as you toss and turn in the middle of the night. The distinct V pattern also baffles airflow as you shift, keeping the bouncy feeling often associated with inflatable sleeping pads to a minimum. This works well as the air can channel through small connections between each V instead of just having one large air chamber for the entire sleeping pad.

Finally, the Static V2 is one of the wider sleeping pads we tested, especially in its weight class. Other pads (typically much more expensive ones) often achieve their lightweight by trimming width. While this can effectively save grams, it results in a sleeping pad that can feel like it's trying to buck you off instead of cradling you to sleep. The Static V2 provides an excellent balance of weight and comfort and feels much more towards the cradling end of the spectrum.

Weight

On our tried and true scale, the newest Static V2 weighs in at 17.7 ounces, which includes a patch kit and stuff sack. When considering there was no compromise on width or comfort, this isn't a bad weight. There are certainly lighter sleeping pads on the market if you need an ultralight option, but for most backpackers or hikers, the Static V2 will be light enough.

Another important consideration when examining a sleeping pad's weight is the type and thickness of the fabrics used. Ultralight pads often utilize super-thin materials down to 30 or even 25-denier. In contrast, the Static V2 uses a 75D polyester material on the underside for durability and 30D polyester on top for weight savings. Different upper and lower fabric thicknesses result in a reasonable overall weight and a boost in durability over some superlight sleeping pads.

Warmth

What initially drew us to the Static V2 was the competitive price and attractive spec sheet that seemed to stack up well against the more expensive competition. When we saw the R-value and slept with this pad on a chilly night, we understood that the competitive price comes at the cost of insulation.

The one big downside to this pad is the low R-value of 1.3. During our testing, we attempted to sleep out on some below-freezing nights, and the cold eventually crept in. It wasn't unbearable, and we did get some sleep, though we were forced to use our Wim Hof breathing techniques to heat up and keep from shivering. The Static V2 proved to be most appropriate for temperatures above freezing and is truly perfect around 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Packed Size

The Static V2 is one of the smallest sleeping pads when packed as any we tested. It's easy to lose this pad in your pack, and it's small enough for the most compact setups.

This pad isn't the easiest to stuff into its tiny stuff sack. But once you get the hang of how it rolls into the storage bag, you'll be as impressed as we are with its size. This packs to a size that's smaller than a standard 1-liter Nalgene water bottle.

Quality of Contruction

On the whole, the Static V2 pad is very well made. It's constructed with high-quality materials, solid welds, and seems to be adequately durable. The updated inflate/deflate valve made it easier to use overall than older versions.

The valve is flush with the top of the pad, making it sturdy and low profile. It's also chunky and feels solid when flipping from inflating to deflating. The previous generation of the Static V2 was equipped with the classic screw valve seen on sleeping pads from a bygone age. Not only were these vulnerable to breaking, but they also restrict airflow. The current inflation valve is wide enough to allow unrestricted full breaths, and it's efficient. We could get the Static V2 out of its package and fully inflated in about a minute and a half. This was an average inflation time performed at a leisurely pace.

Deflating the Static V2 was unquestionably more frustrating than inflating it. The narrow channels that connect each baffle do a great job of reducing bounce while sleeping on the pad. The same narrow connections make rolling the pad back up a relatively slow process compared to other sleeping pads. While this is a small annoyance, it is worth mentioning.

The Static V2 also cleverly blends fabric densities relative to how much abuse the surface will receive. The underside utilizes a thick 75D material, whereas the less exposed topside has a lighter-weight 30D polyester. Throughout our testing period, this pad showed no signs of leakage, and the valve system worked flawlessly.

Should You Buy the Klymit Static V2?

We feel the Static V2 represents a great value. For the price, we haven't found a pad that can stack up. There are definitely cheaper pads out there, and there are pads that offer greater comfort or warmth. What the Static V2 does is combine a reasonable level of comfort, weight savings, and durability into an affordable package that's a great option for seasoned backpackers and newbies alike.

What Other Sleeping Pads Should You Consider?

If you plan on camping in cold weather and need a comfortable and reliable sleeping pad, we think you should check out the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT. This pad is much warmer than the Static V2 and weighs considerably less, though it costs more. The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT is even warmer, with a claimed R-value of 7.3 (the highest in our lineup), though it's also a bit heavier and more expensive. If you want a warmer sleeping pad without breaking the bank, check out the Nemo Quasar 3D Insulated, or pick up a Nemo Switchback and combine it with the Static V2 for an R-value of 3.