Gina Johnson
A sleeping pad is an essential piece of gear for thru-hiking. It provides a barrier between you and the ground, increasing your comfort and preventing the ground from sucking warmth from your body. Sleeping pads come in two basic options: foam pads and inflatable pads.
Foam pads are made of closed-cell foam and are usually around half an inch thick. They are more durable and less expensive than inflatables, but they are also less comfortable and bulkier. Inflatable pads, on the other hand, are more comfortable, pack down smaller, and provide better insulation. However, they require more care and are more susceptible to punctures.
When choosing a sleeping pad for thru-hiking, weight, comfort, durability, insulation, and packed size are important factors to consider. Inflatable pads, such as the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT and the NEMO Tensor, are popular choices for thru-hikers as they offer a good balance of comfort, warmth, and weight. Foam pads, like the NEMO Switchback and the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol, are also viable options, especially for those on a budget or looking for maximum durability. Ultimately, the best sleeping pad for thru-hiking will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Barrier between you and the ground |
| Insulation to prevent the ground from sucking the warmth from your body | |
| Types | Closed cell, Inflatable |
| Closed cell pros | Simpler and sturdier, less comfortable, generally under a pound, more durable, can be used as a sit pad during the day, takes almost no time to set up at camp, cheaper, $30 to $60 range |
| Inflatable pros | More comfortable, more packable, can be used with a pump sack, good for side sleepers |
| Thickness | 2-4 inches |
| Weight | Closed cell: generally under a pound. Inflatable: 6 ounces to about 2 pounds |
| Cost | Closed cell: $30 to $60. Inflatable: $75 to $220 |
| Sizing | Width and length depend on your size and sleeping style |
| R-value | Rating of a sleeping pad's ability to keep you warm. Pads generally fall between ratings of 1 to 7 |
| Inflation | Lungs, inflation sack, integrated pump, self-inflation |
| Noise | Lightest inflatable pads can be noisy due to the layer of Mylar-like heat-reflecting insulation inside |
| Multipurpose | Can be used as a guest bed, pet bed, camp chair, outdoor yoga mat, insulation to guard against door drafts, soundproofing |
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What You'll Learn
Types of sleeping pads
There are three basic types of sleeping pads: manually inflated, self-inflating, and closed-cell foam.
Manually Inflated Sleeping Pads
Manually inflated sleeping pads are simple, reliable, and light. They require you to blow into a valve or use a pump to inflate them. They feature an open-core design with individual baffles that fill up with air, making them lightweight, highly packable, and very cushioned. They are often 2.5 to 3 inches thick. Some are also made with a layer of insulating foam or heat-reflecting materials, which makes them suitable for cold conditions. The main downfall of inflated sleeping pads is the threat of punctures.
Self-Inflating Sleeping Pads
Self-inflating sleeping pads are similar to manually inflated pads but feature an open-cell foam layer that allows the pad to inflate automatically. When you open the valve, the open-cell foam expands and fills with air. Some additional manual inflation is required to achieve your desired firmness. Like manually inflated pads, self-inflating pads can also be punctured.
Closed-Cell Foam Sleeping Pads
Closed-cell foam sleeping pads are the most basic sleeping pad style. They are made using a dense foam filled with small closed air cells and often have a metallic, heat-reflective layer on one side to provide extra warmth. This type of pad is incredibly lightweight, durable, and affordable. They don't need to be inflated and deflated, and they can't pop, so they are great for impromptu breaks. The major drawback is a relative lack of cushion, with only about half an inch of foam. They work best for people who sleep on their backs.
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R-value and warmth
R-value is a measure of a sleeping pad's thermal efficiency, or its ability to resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the pad is at insulating and keeping you warm. R-values for sleeping pads usually range from 1 to 7, with thicker and less portable camping mattresses having R-values in the double digits.
R-values can be tricky to interpret as they don't have a natural relation to temperature. There are many factors at play when it comes to your comfort, including the warmth of your sleeping bag, your metabolism (whether you run hot or cold), your sleeping position, and the weather.
- Summer-only backpacking/camping: R-value of 1 to 3
- 3-season backpacking/camping: R-value of 3 to 5
- Winter/4-season use: R-value of 5 or higher
It's worth noting that R-values are stackable, so you can place a thin foam pad with an R-value of 2 underneath your inflatable pad to increase the overall R-value. This can be a good strategy for winter camping or if you're a cold sleeper.
When choosing a sleeping pad, it's important to consider not just the R-value but also factors such as weight (are you backpacking or car camping?), size (taller folks may need a larger pad), material, and design (are you a stomach, back, or side sleeper?). Experimentation may be necessary to find your perfect level of comfort.
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Weight and packed size
Weight is an important factor when selecting a sleeping pad for thru-hiking. If all other considerations are equal, and one item weighs less than another, it is generally preferable to select the lighter item. However, there are always trade-offs when using ultralight equipment. With sleeping pads, you may have to make sacrifices regarding durability, warmth, or the size of the pad's footprint.
- Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT: 13 ounces (Regular) / 16 ounces (Regular Wide) / 12 ounces (Short) / 17 ounces (Large)
- NEMO Tensor: 14.5 ounces (Regular Mummy) / 15 ounces (Regular) / 19 ounces (Regular Wide) / 21 ounces (Long Wide)
- Klymit Insulated Static V Lite: N/A
- NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated: 17 ounces (Regular Mummy) / 18 ounces (Regular) / 22 ounces (Regular Wide) / 23 ounces (Long Wide)
- NEMO Switchback: 14.5 ounces (Regular) / 10.5 ounces (Short)
- Big Agnes Rapide SL: 17 ounces (Short) / 18 ounces (Regular) / 19 ounces (Long) / 23 ounces (Regular Wide) / 25 ounces (Long Wide) / 37 ounces (Double)
- Therm-a-Rest Prolite Apex: 22 ounces (Regular) / 30 ounces (Large) / 28 ounces (Regular Wide)
- Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Air: 17 ounces (Regular) / 21 ounces (Large) / 15.8 ounces (Women's Regular)
- Gossamer Gear Thinlight: 2.7-3.3 ounces
In addition to weight, it is also important to consider the packed size of a sleeping pad. A pad that packs down to a small size will take up less space in your backpack, leaving more room for other essential gear. Here is a comparison of the packed size of some of the best sleeping pads for thru-hiking:
- Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT: Packs down to the size of a Nalgene water bottle
- NEMO Tensor: N/A
- Klymit Insulated Static V Lite: N/A
- NEMO Tensor Extreme Conditions Ultralight Insulated: N/A
- NEMO Switchback: 51" x 20" x 0.9" (Short) / 72" x 20" x 0.9" (Regular)
- Big Agnes Rapide SL: N/A
- Therm-a-Rest Prolite Apex: N/A
- Sea to Summit UltraLight Insulated Air: N/A
- Gossamer Gear Thinlight: 59" x 19" x 1/8" (Rolled version) / 73.5" x 20" x 1/8" (Folded version)
When choosing a sleeping pad for thru-hiking, it is important to consider both weight and packed size, as well as other factors such as comfort, insulation, and durability.
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Durability and construction
Closed-Cell Foam Sleeping Pads
Closed-cell foam sleeping pads are known for their durability and sturdiness. They are less prone to punctures and other types of damage compared to inflatable pads. This makes them a reliable option for thru-hiking, especially in rugged terrain with potential hazards like sharp rocks or branches. Foam pads can withstand wear and tear, making them a good choice for long-distance hikes and extended outdoor use. Their simple construction also contributes to their durability.
Inflatable Sleeping Pads
Inflatable sleeping pads, on the other hand, require more careful handling due to the risk of punctures. However, modern inflatable pads are designed with durability in mind. For example, the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir series features a 30D thickness that offers better protection against punctures. The NEMO Tensor series also has durable construction, with 40D nylon on the bottom and 20D or 20D recycled polyester on the top, enhancing its resilience.
Repair and Maintenance
Regardless of the type of sleeping pad you choose, proper care and maintenance are essential for ensuring its longevity. This includes regular cleaning, prompt repair of any damage, and proper storage when not in use. Carrying a repair kit, especially for inflatable pads, is highly recommended for thru-hiking to address any issues that may arise during your journey.
Weight and Packability
The weight and packability of a sleeping pad are important considerations for thru-hiking, where every ounce and inch of space in your backpack matters. Closed-cell foam pads tend to be bulkier and often need to be attached to the outside of your pack. However, some modern foam pads, like the NEMO Switchback, are designed to pack down more compactly, making them more space-efficient. Inflatable pads generally offer better packability, with most of them packing down to the size of a Nalgene water bottle or even smaller. Weight-wise, inflatable pads can range from ultra-light options like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite (as low as 6 oz) to heavier, more insulated pads like the Big Agnes Q-Core SLX (16 oz).
R-Value and Insulation
The R-value of a sleeping pad indicates its ability to insulate and keep you warm. For thru-hiking in colder conditions, aim for a higher R-value. Closed-cell foam pads typically have lower R-values, usually around 2.0, which may not be sufficient for cold-weather camping. Inflatable pads offer a wider range of R-values, from around 1.0 to over 7.0, providing more options for insulation. Keep in mind that a higher R-value often comes with a weight penalty, so finding the right balance between warmth and weight is crucial for thru-hiking.
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Sleeping pad tips and tricks
Why You Need a Sleeping Pad
A sleeping pad is a crucial piece of gear for camping and thru-hiking. It provides a barrier between you and the cold, hard ground, adding comfort and insulation to keep you warm. The right sleeping pad will ensure you get a good night's sleep and wake up refreshed for the next day's adventures.
Types of Sleeping Pads
There are two main types of sleeping pads: closed-cell foam pads and inflatable pads. Closed-cell foam pads are simple, sturdy, and low-maintenance, but they are less comfortable and bulkier to carry. Inflatable pads, on the other hand, offer more comfort and packability but require more care as they can get punctured.
Choosing the Right Sleeping Pad
When choosing a sleeping pad, consider your priorities. Do you want a lightweight option, or are comfort and longevity more important? Do you sleep cold and need extra insulation, or will you be camping in warmer weather? Do you move around a lot in your sleep, or do you tend to stay in one position?
The size and shape of the pad are also important. Consider your body size and sleeping position when choosing the width and length of the pad. If weight is a concern, you might opt for a shorter pad and use your backpack to support your legs.
R-Value: Understanding Insulation
The R-value of a sleeping pad indicates its ability to insulate and keep you warm. Pads with higher R-values provide more insulation, which is crucial if you plan to camp in cold weather. In summer, an R-value of 3 or lower may be sufficient, while for colder temperatures, aim for an R-value of 5 or higher.
Inflation Methods
Inflatable pads come with different inflation methods. Some have a simple valve that you blow into, while others have a multi-valve system with separate "in" and "out" options, making inflation easier. Some pads also come with an inflation sack or an integrated pump to make the process quicker and less tiring.
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of your sleeping pad will ensure its longevity. Always clean your pad after use, especially if you've been in areas with insect repellent as it can damage the material. Store your pad in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. For inflatable pads, always store them with the valve open to prevent seam leaks.
Bonus Tips
- You can use your sleeping pad for more than just sleeping! It can double as a game board, a floatie in alpine lakes, or even a yoga mat.
- If you're camping with others, opt for a quieter pad to avoid disturbing your companions with crinkling noises.
- To prevent your pad from sliding around in your tent, add some diagonal rows of seam sealer to the bottom of the pad and the tent floor.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a sleeping pad is a must-have for thru-hiking. It provides a barrier between you and the cold, hard ground, keeping you warm and comfortable.
Sleeping pads generally come in two types: closed-cell foam pads and inflatable pads. Closed-cell foam pads are simple, durable, and less expensive, while inflatable pads offer more comfort and packability.
When choosing a sleeping pad, consider the insulation or R-value, thickness, weight, size, ease of inflation, durability, and price. Select a pad that suits your sleeping position, body size, and the weather conditions you'll be hiking in.
To care for your sleeping pad, clean it regularly, store it properly when not in use, and bring a repair kit for field repairs. Additionally, avoid blowing into the pad with your mouth to prevent moisture buildup, and instead, use a pump sack or integrated pump.
Yes, sleeping pads can serve multiple functions. For example, they can be used as a seat during breaks, a floatie in alpine lakes, or even a game board for checkers or tic-tac-toe.
