Blog

About Thermarest

Posted by Mark Richardson on Feb 02, 2026

hermarest can rightly claim that they started a minor revolution in backpacking comfort. Before 1972, there was the 'closed cell foam mat' to sleep on, which provided insulation but little comfort. Since 1972, the introduction of self-inflating mats and then ultralight airbeds from Thermarest and other companies has transformed the quality of sleeping outdoors. Since moving into sleeping bags in 1 …
read more

Rab Sleeping Mat Guide

Jan 28, 2026

Rab's collection of inflatable sleeping mats are designed to insulate you from the chill and support you on all terrain, providing all the retreat you need from bitter conditions and plummeting temperatures. From compact, ultralight sleeping pads for fast and light missions, to robust self-inflating roll mats for regular camping use, to winter sleeping mats built to insulate you from the deep free …
read more

Nemo Equipment Sleeping Mat Ranges Explained

Posted by Mark Richardson on Jan 27, 2026

We stock the key ranges of Nemo sleeping mats, find out which they are and what they do here. — Improving on our original, best-selling Tensor line, Tensor™ Trail offers versatile warmth for three-season adventures where weight is the top priority. Designed to take you from spring to fall, it keeps nights restful and packs up light. The pad’s interior features NEMO&rsqu …
read more

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Sleeping Mat

Sep 02, 2025

The key factors to take into consideration when choosing a sleeping mat are the pack size, weight, your budget and most importantly what time of year you will be using it which, determines the level of insulation you need. Comfort in an outdoor sense is partly dictated by being able to iron out the lumps and bumps in the ground with the mat, but insulation is king and if you’re cold you won& …
read more

Thermarest NeoLoft Sleeping Mat: Built for Backpacking

Sep 01, 2025

Welcome to the comfort revolution and get ready for the most comfortable nights you’ve ever experienced backpacking. If an XLite NXT and a MondoKing had a baby, it would be the NeoLoft. With a lightweight and warmth-efficient internal structure, a luxurious comfort-driven 3D profile, and a silkysoft stretch knit surface, the NeoLoft is designed to cushion, cradle and contour all night long. …
read more

The Ultimate Ultralight Bikepacking Advice Page

Posted by Chris Futers, Lois Fife and Rob Farquhar on Jul 16, 2025

Bikepacking Travelling on two feet can require little more than a rucksack to carry your belongings and enable you to travel far. An ultralight journey on two wheels can require a bit more thought. Some of the main factors being the terrain and the duration of the ride. Gruelling miles off road can feel very different to those on the road, and take a lot longer, but the rewards when both road ri …
read more

Sea to Summit Etherlite XR and XR Pro Explained

Apr 01, 2025

Ether Light XR is the thickest and warmest sleeping mat in our Ultra Light range, due to using new insulation, Thermal Core®. The Air Sprung Cells still provide four inches of stability and comfort, while Thermal Core® insulation prevents convective heat loss and internal air movement. This results in true four-season performance perfect for backpacking, light weight camping, bikepacking a …
read more

Wild Camping for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide for the UK

Posted by Andy Neil on Sep 05, 2024

Wild camping is more than just a hobby; it’s an enriching and deeply rewarding experience that allows you to reconnect with nature in its most unfiltered form. Whether waking up to a breathtaking mountain sunrise, listening to the soothing sounds of a forest at night, or simply enjoying the solitude that only the wilderness can offer wild camping provides a unique escape from the everyday hus …
read more

Thermarest NXT Sleeping Mats Explained

Aug 23, 2024

With improved warmth and comfort, the NeoAir XLite NXT solidifies the legacy of its predecessor as the finest ultralight air sleeping pad for year-round backcountry adventures. By refining the way our cutting-edge construction technique, the Triangular Core MatrixTM, integrates with the warmth radiating ThermaCaptureTM technology. The XLite NXT delivers maximum comfort and support at a minimal wei …
read more

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Sleeping Mat

Posted by Andy Neil on Jul 17, 2024

When preparing for a hiking or backpacking trip, selecting the right sleeping mat is crucial for ensuring comfort and warmth during the night. We’ll delve into the different types of sleeping mats available and the importance of R-value. Our aim is to equip you with the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision when choosing the right sleeping pad for your next adventure. leeping …
read more

NEMO Equipment Founder & CEO Cam Brensinger Interview

Posted by Andy Neil on Jul 08, 2024

Last month, we had the privilege of hosting Cam Brensinger, the founder and CEO of Nemo. Cam, who established Nemo in 2002, was kind enough to sit down with us and answer a few questions on the company's origins, the process of bringing ideas to market, and the vital role of brands in championing sustainable design. 1. What inspired your decision to start NEMO? How did your upbringing influen …
read more