If I'm trying to cut weight to a minimum, I use a poncho shelter and sleep on the ground, no pad.
However, if I want the best nights sleep possible, have trees, don't want to care about how level, dry, or rocky the ground is, I'll use a hammock. Mine's a second generation Hennessey I've had for maybe 10 years and still going strong. I made my first hammock, which I still use. I don't use "tree huggers" or "snake skins" (dead weight and there are other ways to not hurt trees).
Yup, they are heavier but the comfort provided is worth leaving something else at home.