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Self inflating air mattresses. 16-Apr-2011 At 11:40:53 PM Mike Bee

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My thoughts:
A prolite (previously prolite 3) pad is great for non snow conditions. I've used it to below zero and not been cold on it. However, sleeping on snow in the vic alps I found it lacking, and haven't used it since on a freezing base. I have used both the short and the regular, and since I purchased the regular, I haven't used the short. I find the extra length indespensible, and I don't plan on buying a short (or 3/4) length pad ever again. Basically, when I'm not sleeping on a subzero base (ie snow), I'll use a regular prolite (or prolite 3) for any lightweight style trip. It's more comfortable than a foam pad, and far smaller. The weight penalty is minimal.

I use foam for situations where space isn't an issue. For alpine trips when I'm not pushing through scrub, taking a Z-Lite is warmer, lighter, but bulkier. It's a much preferred option for me these days if I can get away with the bulk.