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Given that Rab have been making sleeping bags since their very first hand-stitched down bag in 1981, it's perhaps a surprise that they haven't ever made that other crucial part of the sleep system - the sleeping mat. Well they have now, and the new range that launches this spring includes four inflatable models and one self-inflating mat. The mats range in R-Value from 3.8 to5.8, and the weight range is from 550g to 785g - so really useable warmth and weight ratings, and an emphasis on durability rather than ultra- lightweight, which is perhaps a sensible move given Rab's mountaineering and trekking audience. We have been testing the lonosphere 5 model, which has an R-Value of 4.8 and weighs 550g for the standard version and 810g for the Long Wide version. It's the lightest mat in the range, and also the only model with a tapered shape. The mat has an eye-catching design with a bright yellow top with grip imprint to stop you sliding around, while the grey bottom features a two-way valve that allows for quick and hassle- free inflation and deflation. A pump sack is included, and we found this takes just a handful of repetitions to inflate the mat. Also included in the package is a repair kit and 'burrito bag' that fits in the mat itself, the repair kit and pump sack. What about the materials and tech that's packed into this mat? Well the impressive R-Value for the weight is achieved with a combination of Stratus R recycled polyester insulation and Rab's TILT (Thermo lonic Lining Technology) system, which uses a reflective layer to prevent heat loss. The main fabric of the mat is a 20-denier recycled polyester, with a fluorocarbon-free DWR, so these sustainable credentials of the mat appears to be right up there too (Rab have made massive strides in this area over the last few years, and has been certified as a Carbon Neutral company for the last three years). In use the lonosphere is a pleasure to use. The burrito bag is far easier than a standard stuffsack for packing the mat back into, though if you want to save a few grams you can just leave this at home of course (the mat itself weighsonly 450g). Inflating is quick and easy, and the mummy shape is comfortable enough while also fitting more easily into a tent, especially with two people. The larger outer baffles help prevent you from rolling off the mat, and the lonosphere is a lot 'quieter' than many other mats due to the material used. Overall, if this model is to go by, Rab have a really strong offering in the crowded
sleeping mat market.

VERDICT

Well made and offering excellent warmth-for-weight, the lonosphere will appeal to trekkers and mountaineers