Therm-a-Rest delivers outstanding gear for everything from backcountry ultra-light enthusiasts to backyard campouts with your kids. Their latest addition, the MondoKing sleeping pad, is another testament to their commitment to excellence. The MondoKing is a luxurious sleeping pad for those who want to sleep like royalty in the outdoors.
While this sleeping pad won’t win any awards for minimalism, it more than makes up for it with unparalleled comfort. Additionally, the MondoKing 3D is made in market to minimize environmental impact and to ensure quality (just like all other Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads).
Overview:
When the MondoKing arrives on my doorstep, it is clear that it is aptly named. While it is not absurdly large, it is considerably larger than a traditional sleep pad. It weighs four pounds six ounces, measures twenty-five inches, and comes in a pump-stuff sack. Notably, it weighs considerably less than a comparable sized air mattress. Other than being larger, it resembles a traditional sleeping pad.
However, that is where most of the similarities end. The MondoKing is constructed with StratCore which uses a continuous layer of thermal foam with alternating ridges of foam and air to create a luxurious outdoor sleeping experience. Essentially, four inches of luxury, supportive loft for outstanding sleeping comfort once inflated. This gives it a remarkable weight-to-warmth ratio and R7-value insulation rating. Translation – this sleeping pad will keep you comfortable with minimal heat/cold transfer.
First Take:
Unrolling the Therm-a-Rest MondoKing reveals it is clearly a quality, solid (and big) sleeping pad. The stretch knit fabric is supple and plush giving it an extra-cozy feel. I can see the foam ridges outlining the pad and am excited to see how much additional support the StrataCore offers. I twist open the TwinLock Valve inflation valve and watch as it slowly inflates. (The MondoKing utilizes two one-way valves – one for deflation, and one for inflation).
While the MondoKing inflates some, it does not auto-inflate enough on its own to be comfortable. So I use the stuff sack, which also doubles as an air-pump. After attaching the valve to the built-in adapter on the stuff sack, I simply compress the stuff sack and send the trapped air into the sleeping pad. The TwinLock Valve keeps any air from escaping so it only takes a few cycles of this to fill the MondoKing.
When I first settle in on the MondoKing I realize I slightly overinflated it for my comfort level. Fortunately, I just have to reach above my head and use the other TwinLock valve to release a little air and find my perfect amount of pressure. This valve also keeps air from returning back into the sleeping pad, which makes deflating it a breeze when I am done using it.
Insights:
Like millions of others, camping is a cherished pastime of mine. Yet, as someone with a bad back, I thought perhaps my camping days were over. However, with the MondoKing I get the space, comfort, support and stability I need. I really appreciate how the MondoKing sleeping pad vertical sidewalls are a little over four inches tall. This gives the sleeping pad greater stability and comfort.
This also maximizes the usable sleep surface so I have all the space I need. The large is twenty-five inches wide (and the MondoKing XL is thirty inches wide). Additionally, the Therm-a-Rest MondoKing couples perfectly with other MondoKing 3D mattresses using the Therm-a-Rest Universal Camping Mattress Coupling Kit (sold separately). Coupling two MondoKing sleeping pads together gives me a sleeping area roughly the same size as a queen bed. Not bad for outdoor sleeping!
I find the coupling keeps the mattresses mostly together. Although there is a little separation through the night, it isn’t enough to cause discomfort. Ultimately, it is pretty impressive and handy to have the coupling kit. It gives me the capability to have the luxury of one large mattress if desired. It is almost like having an inflatable bed in the outdoors without all the hassle. While slightly bulky to pack, the MondoKing is next level in comfort and convenience.
Summary:
The Therm-a-rest MondoKing 3D is the ultra-cozy sleeping pad that delivers luxury comfort in the outdoors. While it is not ideal for deep overland expeditions, it is perfect for backyard camping, campers, overnights, and a dozen other sleeping needs. For anyone with a bad back who loves to camp or enjoy the outdoors, this is a must have sleeping pad. With the highest level of comfort and support out there, the MondoKing sleeping pad will keep you warm, comfy, and feeling your best. The MondoKing is the ultra-lux outdoor royalty of sleeping pads!
Our reviews are always 100% independent. Blitzreviews may earn a small affiliate fee when you click and buy using our links.
