Exped Synmat 7 Update

As noted in our initial review of the Exped Synmat pad, we’ve noticed a rather unique noise when using them.  It is more of a quiet “whine” or squeal that is only heard if the pump area is up by your head.  This squealing is not that loud, but rather  just loud enough to hear when it’s next to your head and it only occurs when your laying still.

During our recent trip to the Outdoor Retailer trade show, we spoke with on of the Exped reps and they enlightened us to what is causing the noise.  So, basically, when you finish pumping up the mat to your desired comfort, you’ll close the valve in such a manner that you deflate the pumping mechanism slightly.  Since the foam inside the pump doesn’t like to stay compressed, it will do its best  to expand.  This expansion causes the pump to suck back the air in the pad slowly.  The air moves ever so slightly back across the one-way valve to fill the pumping mechanism.  This movement of air cause the pad to quietly squeal and thus annoy the would-be sleeper.

In order to prevent the squeal (other than just putting the pump end at your feet), you’re going to refill the pump chamber to prevent the pad from making the sound.  To do this, you’ll need to follow these steps:

1.   Fill the pad to your desired comfort level.

2.   Locate the valve at the end of the pump.  Look for the little dot (see photo).

3.   Give the valve a squeeze.

4.   Fill the pump chamber with air.

5.   Lay down and enjoy a noise free night.