CCF vs. Therma-Rest

[beep]

I could be wrong, but.......this is inflatable right??.....so what is the down actually doing ....the purpose of down is to create "fluff" as insulation- i.e....create an air pocket of dead air that insulates....if it is inflatable, then wouldn't that negate the need for down????

The down creates the dead air space/barrier that reduces the movement of the air in the pad. An air-only pad offers very little insulation (R value around 1), better than nothing but not effective at temperatures below 40-45 degrees in my experience. The Exped Downmat 7 has an R-value of 5.9. The Downmat 9 has an R-value of 8.

[Dunk]

I find that CCF pads form ridges underneath me that are uncomfortable when in the hammock. Thermarest/inflatable pads sit better underneath me.

CCF is cheaper and lighter though.
Therma's pack down smaller.

I'd go with a Therma centre with CCF shoulder 'wings'.

[Trooper]

I just skimmed the other responses, and I'll just echo those sentiments and add some long-term thoughts.

The CCF is lightest, least expensive, and might not slip as much as an inflatable. It has a good R-value than is constant.

The inflatable is more expensive and comfortable, but is best used partially deflated. I don't know what happens to the R-value, but partial deflation is a variable.

The Underquilt is what most folks ultimately decide on, with very few exceptions. The most expensive and most comfortable. Lightweight, and possibly the warmest option, depending on which model you get. Since you too will probably find the UQ to be best, save your money and get a CCF. The CCF can be cut down and used for your feet if you get a 3/4 or 2/3 UQ, and it also makes a great sit pad.

I like the Evazote pads from MEC or JRB.