The Klymit Static V2 is one of the most popular budget sleeping pads for Australian backpackers — and it’s earned that reputation. At 471g and under $180, it delivers genuine backpacking performance without the premium price tag. This review covers what it does well, where it falls short, and who it’s right for.
What is the Klymit Static V2?
The Klymit Static V2 is a lightweight air sleeping pad designed for backpackers and hikers who need to keep pack weight down without sacrificing all comfort. It uses a unique V-chamber design that cradles your body while minimising material — which is how Klymit keeps the weight so low.
Key specs at a glance:
- R-value: 1.3
- Weight: 471g
- Dimensions: 183cm x 58cm x 6cm
- Packed size: ~20cm x 8cm
- Price: $120–$180 AUD
What makes it stand out
Weight and pack size
At 471g the Static V2 is one of the lightest sleeping pads you can buy at this price. It compresses to roughly the size of a 600ml bottle — small enough to fit inside your pack rather than strapped to the outside. For multi-day hikes where every gram matters, this is a genuine advantage.
Value for money
Most ultralight sleeping pads cost $250–$400. The Klymit delivers comparable weight at 30–50% less. For beginners testing whether they enjoy backpacking, or experienced hikers building a lightweight kit on a budget, it’s hard to beat.
Ease of use
10–15 breaths to fully inflate, opens wide to deflate fast. No complicated valve systems. Simple and reliable — exactly what you want after a full day on the trail.
The R-value limitation — important for Australian campers
With an R-value of 1.3 the Klymit Static V2 is strictly a warm weather pad. Here’s what that means in practice:
- ✅ Suitable for: Summer camping, coastal trips, warm nights above 15°C
- ✅ Acceptable for: Mild autumn nights (10–15°C) with a warm sleeping bag
- ❌ Not suitable for: Winter camping, alpine conditions, nights below 10°C
Australian campers planning trips to the Victorian Alps, Snowy Mountains, or Tasmania in cooler months need a higher R-value pad. For those trips look at R-value 3+ minimum.
Comfort
The V-chamber design provides surprisingly good support for the weight. Most back and side sleepers report comfortable nights in warm conditions. Side sleepers over 90kg occasionally report feeling the ground on their hips — if that’s you, consider a thicker option.
It’s not luxury comfort — it’s functional comfort optimised for weight. For tired hikers finishing a long day on the trail, it’s more than adequate.
Who should buy it
- Budget-conscious backpackers starting out or upgrading from foam
- Summer hikers camping above 10–15°C
- Weight-obsessed ultralight enthusiasts
- Weekend and overnight hikers doing 1–3 night trips
- Students and beginners with limited budgets
Who should consider alternatives
- Year-round campers needing cold weather insulation — look for R-value 3+
- Car campers with no weight restrictions — get something more comfortable
- Heavy side sleepers over 90kg — consider a thicker pad
- Alpine and winter backpackers — need R-value 5+ minimum
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| R-Value | 1.3 |
| Weight | 471g |
| Dimensions | 183cm x 58cm x 6cm |
| Packed Size | ~20cm x 8cm |
| Material (Top) | 30D Polyester |
| Material (Bottom) | 75D Polyester |
| Valve Type | Twist-pull brass valve |
| Inflation | Manual (10–15 breaths) |
| Season Rating | Warm weather / summer |
| Price Range | $120–$180 AUD |
Final verdict
Rating: 8/10
The Klymit Static V2 makes one clear promise — ultralight weight and compact size for warm weather camping at an affordable price — and it delivers on that promise reliably. For Australian hikers tackling summer trails, coastal walks, or warm season bushwalking, it’s an excellent choice.
Just know what you’re buying. This is a warm weather specialist, not an all-conditions pad. Within that remit it’s outstanding value.
Also see our guide to best camping mattresses for Australian campers.