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.
Types of Sleeping Mats
Sleeping mats come in three primary categories: Self Inflating, Closed Cell Foam Mats, and Inflatable Mats.
Self Inflating Mats
Self Inflating Mats feature foam encased in a sealed fabric envelope. The foam expands when the valve is opened, and the mat Self Inflates. These mats are known for their ease of use, providing good insulation and a balance between comfort and weight. However, they can be bulkier and heavier than inflatable mats and also require additional firmness inflation by mouth or pump.
Closed Cell Foam Mats
Closed Cell Foam Mats are made from dense foam filled with tiny closed air cells. They are lightweight, durable, and inexpensive. They are also effectively unbreakable and cannot be punctured; they shrug off any mishaps that may occur on the trail. Despite these advantages, they are less comfortable due to minimal thickness and are bulkier since they need to be rolled or folded. They can also be used in conjunction with other mats, adding a layer of protection and warmth, especially in winter conditions.
Inflatable Mats
Inflatable Mats require manual inflation, either by mouth, pump sack, or electric pump. These mats often have air chambers or baffles for added comfort and support. They are highly packable, lightweight, and comfortable due to their customisable firmness. However, if punctured, they lose all comfort and insulating properties. They also require more effort to inflate.
Understanding R-Value
If you have never encountered the term "R-Value" before, it might seem like just another technical specification. However, understanding this crucial metric can be the difference between a cosy night’s sleep and a miserable, shivering night in the tent.
R-Value measures thermal resistance - how well a material impedes heat flow. In the context of sleeping mats, it indicates how effectively the mat insulates you from the cold ground. The higher the R-Value, the better the insulation.
When you lie down on a sleeping mat, your body heat begins to transfer to the colder ground through three primary mechanisms: conduction, convection, and radiation. A good sleeping mat counteracts all three. It reduces conduction by creating a barrier between you and the ground. It minimises convection by trapping air (in the case of inflatable and Self Inflating Mats), and some mats even reflect radiant heat to your body using unique materials, such as reflective foil.
What R-value Do You Need?
R-Values between 1 and 2: Suitable for warm weather (summer) camping.
R-Values between 2 and 4: Suitable for three-season use (spring, summer, fall).
R-Values between 4 and 6: Ideal for cold-weather camping.
R-Values of 6+: Necessary for freezing conditions or winter camping and expedition use.
A mat with an R-Value of 4+ will still be okay to use in the summer; you won't overheat as you might with a winter-rated sleeping bag. The gram counter may wish to tailor the mat to the season they intend to hike, as lower-rated mats tend to be lighter. However, the weight savings will be negligible. For example, the Exped Ultra 1R Mummy Sleeping Mat has an R-Value of 1.3 and weighs 387g, while the Nemo Tensor Extreme Mummy Sleeping Mat has an R-Value of 8.5 and weighs 470g. Personally, I will always choose a mat with an R-Value of 4 or above.
Sizes & Shapes of Sleeping Mats
Sleeping Mats come in various sizes and shapes to suit different needs and preferences.
Sleeping Mat Sizes
Regular Mats: Typically, around 72 inches long and 20–25 inches wide, making them suitable for most hikers.
Wide Mats: Around 25–30 inches wide, providing more room for movement.
Long Mats: Usually around 78 inches long, offering extra length for taller individuals.
Long Wide Mats: Combine additional height and width for maximum space and comfort.
Short Mats: Often called petite mats, are also available for smaller framed individuals.
Women's Specific Mats: Generally warmer than men’s, as women tend to sleep colder.
Double Mats: Designed for the couple who wish to sleep on the same mat, they are larger and more cumbersome to carry; the upshot is you only need to have one mat between the two of you.
Sleeping Mat Shapes
Rectangular Mats: Provide ample sleeping space and versatility, ideal for those who move a lot during sleep.
Mummy Shaped Mats: Tapered at the feet to reduce weight and bulk, suitable for weight-conscious hikers.
While longer and wider mats will undoubtedly weigh more than their small and regular counterparts, many opt for a larger rectangular mat to have more room to toss and turn through the night.
The Sleep Surface
The surface design is crucial for comfort and insulation when selecting a sleeping mat. Different sleeping mat surfaces are optimised for various preferences and positions, enhancing the overall sleeping experience.
Horizontally Baffled Surfaces: Mats with horizontal baffles, or chambers, run across the mat's width. This design helps distribute body weight evenly and provides a stable, cushioned sleeping surface. Horizontally baffled mats are particularly comfortable for back sleepers, as they prevent the mat from sagging under the body's heaviest parts.
Examples: Thermarest NeoAir XLite NXT range and Rab Ultrasphere range.
Vertically Baffled Surfaces: Vertical baffles run the length of the mat, creating long channels of air. This design can offer greater stability for side sleepers, preventing the mat from collapsing inward along its length. The vertical baffles also help maintain a flat surface, benefiting those who shift positions at night.
Examples: Exped Ultra range and Big Agnes Divide range.
Quilted Surfaces: This pattern enhances comfort by providing a more contoured surface and improves insulation by reducing air movement within the mat. Quilted surfaces are excellent for all-around sleepers who seek both comfort and warmth.
Examples: Big Agnes Rapide range and Sea to Summit Ether Light XT range.
Oversized Baffles: Some sleeping mats are designed with oversized baffles along the edges. These larger baffles create a raised edge around the mat, keeping you centred and preventing you from rolling off at night. This feature is handy for restless sleepers who move around, providing security and maintaining a comfortable position throughout the night.
Examples: Big Agnes Rapide SL range and Mountain Equipment Mirrostat range.
Inflation Devices
Inflation devices make setting up your sleeping mat easier and more efficient.
Pump Sacks are lightweight sacks that attach to the mat's valve. By capturing air and rolling or pressing the sack, air is pushed into the mat. These don’t require batteries and minimise moisture from breath entering the mat, although they can take longer to inflate a mat. Most mats now come with an included pump sack, though more efficient pump sacks, such as the Nemo Vortex Pump Sack, are available. However, it's worth checking that the pump sack is compatible with your pad.
Electric Pumps: Small, battery-operated devices like the Flextail Zero Pump are designed to inflate sleeping mats quickly. They are fast and effortless, compact, and lightweight. However, they require batteries or charging, which might be inconvenient for long trips without access to power.
Accessories
Enhancing the functionality, versatility and comfort of your sleeping mat can be achieved with various Accessories.
Chair Kits, such as the Sea to Summit Air Chair Kit or the Thermarest Trekker Chair Kit, can convert your mat into a comfortable seat. They provide back support and make it easier to relax around the campsite. These kits are handy for long trips where carrying a separate chair might not be feasible.
Mat Covers, on the other hand, such as the Exped Mat Cover, offer an added layer of protection against dirt, moisture, and punctures, thereby extending the lifespan of your mat. Some covers, like the Thermarest Synergy Luxe Sheet, also add a touch of comfort with soft, padded surfaces, making your sleeping experience even more enjoyable. These are especially useful if you use a quilt instead of a sleeping bag.
Conclusion
Selecting the right sleeping mat can significantly enhance your hiking and camping experience. By understanding the different types of mats, the significance of the R-value, and the available sizes and shapes, you can make an informed choice that balances comfort, warmth, and portability. Additionally, using the appropriate inflation device can make setting up camp a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying the great outdoors.
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Andy Neil |
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Andy has been a keen long-distance hiker and wild camping enthusiast since he completed the Cleveland Way in 2015. Since then, he has walked thousands of trail miles all over the UK and is an active member of the Wild Camping UK community, being an admin of the largest wild camping community on Facebook. He strongly advocates for responsible wild camping and believes it is important to leave no trace when camping in the wilderness. He joined the UOG team in 2021 and works as a website developer and content creator. |
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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.