Mad Rock R3 Crash Pad

We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Mad Rock R3 Crash Pad and summarize the results below:

Universal Ranking

PeakScore: 85 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.2 stars 
Expert Rating: 4.3 stars

Number of Ratings Reviewed: 118

Pros & Cons

Reasons to buy:

User Reviews

  • Adequate thickness to cushion on low to medium falls.
  • Works well for covering uneven landing surfaces.
  • The rolls are formed to hug rocks that are beneath the mat, cushioning the fall.
  • Doubles as a haul bag for your equipment.
  • A flap covers the straps when the pad is laying on the ground, keeping them clean.
  • The baffles provide comfort for landing.
  • The chest straps are protected with a tarp that can be Velcro-ed to the pad.
  • Features a horizontal chest strap and hip straps for carrying efficiency and support.

Expert Reviews

  • Eco-friendly recycled materials!
  • The ribbed design makes this pad proficient for forming to uneven terrain.
  • The pad is well made, durable, and comprised of recycled and soft foam.
  • The strap hooks are smooth and secure.
  • The softness of the pad is top-of-the-line, making this pad ideal for low to medium-high falls.
  • The company will refill your existing pad with new recycled foam when needed.
  • The zipper pockets can be used to store clothing or gear.
  • Features two gear loops, allowing for hand-free transport.
  • Rated as one of the top pads for uneven landings.
  • Convenient snack pocket.
  • The pad features landing zone coverage and the ability to lay flat.
  • The 1680-denier nylon is some of the most durable in the climbing industry.
  • The closure flaps prevent any gear from falling out.
  • The daisy chain webbing allows you to clip gear to the back.

Reasons NOT to buy:

User Reviews

  • After prolonged use, there were reports of the pad forming a rip.
  • Very heavy – would not be idea for a moderate or long approaches.
  • Not the best for high-balling since not a ton of padding.
  • A bit awkward to carry due to the bulkiness.

Expert Reviews

  • The shredded foam can pack down over time (but also can be replaced).
  • The baffles feel less-full over time.
  • Approximately 2x the weight of the standard pad.
  • Since the pad is comprised of soft foam, there is a higher chance of bottoming out.

Summary:

The Mad Rock R3 Crash Pad is an eco-friendly choice for those looking to boulder on short approaches and on uneven terrain. However, the heavier weight and soft foam make the pad less-than-ideal for long approaches and high balling.

Multimedia:

Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web, including here: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.