Hi everyone, I bought my Thermarest Ridgerest mat today. I wanted my whole body on the mat, but I have about 8-9" to spare in length. I’m only 65" tall, and the mat is 72" long (regular size). Has anyone ever cut their mat to fit their desired length, in order to save weight? Just wondering. Also, this mat obviously (to me anyway) will do on the outside of the pack rolled up…what does everyone use to keep it dry in rain? Thanks as always!!!
–Michele
Michele
I mean I have about 7" to spare on the thing…next week I learn how to subtract 3-digit numbers! :lol
Michele
Michele -
No problemo, just cut to size. I have used Ridgerests for years. I cut them down to fit my torso (i use my frameless pack stuffed with a few soft items for my feet). You can even cut rounded corners if you want to be stylish! 
Don’t worry about trying to keep it dry. It’s made of closed-cell foam that cannot be saturated by water. Just shake the water beads off and maybe wipe it with a bandana before putting your sleeping bag on it.
I keep the green side up always and the black side down. This way, when i use it as a pad to sit on the ground, i don’t get the “up-side” dirty - so my sleeping bag stays clean.
BTW, 65" isn’t really “vertically challenged” at least in my opinion!
Happy Trails, freebird
freebird