Switched from a foam pad to an inflatable and I'm not going back
Slept on a $40 closed cell foam pad for two seasons and woke up stiff every trip, then borrowed a friend's $120 inflatable on a trip to Minnesota's North Shore last month. My back didn't hurt once, but now I'm paranoid about punctures, so does anyone actually trust these things on rocky ground?
Rocky ground is fine if you pick your spot. Clear the sharp stuff, throw down a thin foam layer or your pack under it, and you'll be good. Inflatables are worth the tiny bit of care.