While I’m not
sure the perfect backpacking pillow exists just yet, Mountain Laurel Designs teamed
with Klymit to offer a very viable option in the form of MLD’s Pillow
X.
Pillow
X is a 1.9oz/$30 pillow that uniquely has an “X” chamber design which
enables the users head to be cradled in a manner standard backpacking pillows simply
can’t offer. It valleys in the middle to
also center the head and at 15”x11”x4”, the size isn’t too bad either. Fabric is 30D on top and 75D on the bottom
which offers assurances towards durability and the Klymit valve system is
reliable.
I found that not
blowing it up firm added to the comfort, and like a lot of other pillow
options, coupling it with clothing and adding something fuzzy around it (i.e.
fleece shirt) increased the comfort level tremendously. Overall, I wouldn't mind if it were thicker.
The only
drawback, MLD doesn’t offer a patch kit, although truthfully, it probably isn’t
needed and most backpackers likely already carry one for their sleeping pad.
