Herbie Murray
Sleeping pads are an essential part of camping gear, providing comfort and warmth during sleep. When choosing a sleeping pad, it is important to consider your height, weight, sleeping style, and intended use. The length of the sleeping pad should ideally be a few inches longer than your height to accommodate your feet, while the width should provide enough space for movement during sleep. Most regular-sized sleeping pads are 20 inches wide and 72 inches long, catering to average-sized campers. However, wider and longer options are available for those who require more space. It is recommended to have a 1-3 inch difference between your height and the length of the sleeping pad to accommodate your sleeping bag. Additionally, the type of sleeping pad, such as air pads, self-inflating pads, or closed-cell foam pads, should be chosen based on factors like comfort, weight, durability, and ease of inflation.
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What You'll Learn
- Sleeping pad length: Choose a pad that's a few inches longer than your height
- Sleeping pad width: Most pads are 20 inches wide, but wider options are available
- Sleeping pad shape: Mummy-style pads are lighter and pack down smaller, but rectangular pads offer more room
- Sleeping pad thickness: Thicker pads provide more comfort, but are bulkier and heavier
- Sleeping pad weight: Air pads are the lightest option, followed by self-inflating pads, then closed-cell foam pads
Sleeping pad length: Choose a pad that's a few inches longer than your height
Sleeping pads come in a variety of sizes, and choosing the right one for you will ensure you get a good night's sleep in the backcountry. Your sleeping pad should be a few inches longer than your height so that your feet don't hang over the end. Even a few inches of contact with the ground can sap body heat throughout the night.
If you're on the taller side, consider a size large sleeping pad, which is around 6 feet 5 inches in length. A size regular is usually around 6 feet in length. Both of these are considered "full-length" mattresses. However, some campers prefer a small-sized pad, which is about 3 feet long. This saves weight and space in their pack, and they can use a backpack, climbing rope, or extra clothing to insulate their feet and legs.
If you're taller than 6 feet or like extra legroom, look for a large version. This typically pushes the length to 77 inches, or even 80 inches in some cases. Women's-specific pads tend to be 66 inches in length, which is quite short. Finally, there are "small" pads that are roughly 47 inches in length—these go down just past your butt and greatly reduce weight.
As a general rule of thumb, most sleeping pads come in Regular and Large versions. Some pads also come in an X-Large version, a Women's version, or a Small version. Beyond this, individual pads may have other variations.
It's worth noting that the length of your sleeping pad is not just about your height but also about how you travel. For example, if you're on a long, ultralight trip or are a thru-hiker who prioritises weight and packability, you might opt for a smaller pad and put extra clothes or a pack under your legs for insulation.
When choosing a sleeping pad, it's essential to consider not just your height but also your preferred sleeping position. If you're a side sleeper, for instance, you'll need more space than a back sleeper. Additionally, if you tend to roll around a lot when you sleep, you may want to choose a wider pad or a rectangular-shaped pad to give yourself more room to move around.
In summary, when selecting a sleeping pad, consider your height, weight, preferred sleeping position, and whether you move around a lot in your sleep. Choose a pad that's a few inches longer than your height to prevent heat loss through your feet, and consider a wider or rectangular-shaped pad if you need more space.
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Sleeping pad width: Most pads are 20 inches wide, but wider options are available
Sleeping pad width is an important consideration when choosing the right pad for you. Most pads are 20 inches wide, but wider options are available.
If you're a side sleeper, a wider pad might be a good option. This will give you more room to shift around during the night without falling off the pad. It will also provide more space for your arms and elbows, which might otherwise fall off the sides of a standard-width pad.
Some manufacturers offer "large" or "extra-wide" pads that are 25 inches wide. There are also "couples" pads available that are 40 to 52 inches wide. These wider pads can add some weight and bulk to your pack, so they may be more suitable for car camping than for backpacking.
Your body size and shape will also play a role in determining the ideal width of your sleeping pad. If you're a broader person or prefer to have extra space while sleeping, you might want to choose a wider model. Additionally, if you tend to roll around a lot when you sleep, a wider pad could be a good option to prevent you from falling off the pad.
It's worth noting that the standard width of 20 inches may not be wide enough for everyone. If you find that you need more space, don't hesitate to choose a wider option. Your comfort is key when purchasing outdoor gear, so it's important to select a sleeping pad that suits your individual needs.
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Sleeping pad shape: Mummy-style pads are lighter and pack down smaller, but rectangular pads offer more room
When it comes to sleeping pad shapes, there are two main options: mummy-style and rectangular. Mummy-style sleeping pads are designed to follow the contours of your body, with a narrow shape, rounded corners, and a tapered end. Rectangular sleeping pads, on the other hand, offer a more traditional rectangular shape with straight edges and right angles. So, which one is right for you?
Mummy-style sleeping pads are a great choice if you prioritise weight and packability. Their tapered shape means they use less material and are therefore lighter than rectangular pads. This weight difference can be significant, often around four to five ounces. For example, the mummy-shaped version of the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT pad in regular size weighs just 12.5 ounces, while the rectangular model weighs 1 pound 2 ounces. If you're fastpacking or hiking with a full backpack, those extra ounces could make a big difference. Mummy-style pads also take up less space in your pack, as their smaller inflated size means they roll up into a more compact package.
However, rectangular sleeping pads have their advantages too. They offer more sleeping area, making them a better choice for side sleepers, front sleepers, or restless sleepers. With a mummy-style pad, you may find yourself rolling off the pad or having your feet touch the ground, which can be uncomfortable and defeat the purpose of the insulating pad. Rectangular pads are also more versatile, accommodating different types and sizes of sleepers. Additionally, the price difference between the two shapes may not be significant, as it depends more on the brand, model, and technical features than the shape itself.
Ultimately, the decision between a mummy-style and a rectangular sleeping pad comes down to your personal preferences and sleeping style. If weight and packability are your top priorities, a mummy-style pad is the way to go. But if you prioritise comfort and want more room to move around, a rectangular pad might be the better option.
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Sleeping pad thickness: Thicker pads provide more comfort, but are bulkier and heavier
When it comes to sleeping pads, thickness is a key factor in determining the level of comfort and insulation you'll have while sleeping outdoors. While a thicker pad will provide a softer surface and better protection from the cold ground, it will also be bulkier and heavier to carry. So how do you decide on the right thickness for your needs?
Thicker sleeping pads, typically ranging from 2 to 4 inches in thickness, offer a plush barrier between you and the ground, making them ideal for campers and backpackers seeking the ultimate comfort. The additional cushioning helps alleviate pressure points, ensuring a good night's rest even on uneven or rocky terrain. Thicker pads also provide better insulation, as the increased distance from the ground reduces heat loss, making them suitable for cold weather camping.
However, thicker pads come with some trade-offs. They tend to be heavier and bulkier, which can be a challenge if you're backpacking or hiking long distances. Thicker pads may also be more expensive and take up more space in your pack. So, if you're looking for a lightweight and compact option, a thinner pad might be a better choice.
When choosing a sleeping pad thickness, consider your priorities for comfort, weight, and packability. If you prioritize comfort and aren't concerned about carrying weight, a thicker pad will provide a more luxurious sleep experience. On the other hand, if you need to keep your pack light and compact, a thinner pad might be a better option, especially for minimalist backpacking or thru-hiking.
Additionally, keep in mind the time of year and the temperature range you'll be camping in. If you're winter camping or camping in cold weather, a thicker pad with higher R-values will provide better insulation. In contrast, if you're camping in warm weather, a thinner pad with lower R-values might be sufficient.
Ultimately, the decision on sleeping pad thickness depends on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your outdoor adventures. Consider your intended use, the weight you're willing to carry, and the level of comfort you require for a good night's sleep. By balancing these factors, you can choose a sleeping pad thickness that provides the right combination of comfort and portability for your outdoor excursions.
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Sleeping pad weight: Air pads are the lightest option, followed by self-inflating pads, then closed-cell foam pads
When it comes to sleeping pad weight, air pads are the lightest option, followed by self-inflating pads, and then closed-cell foam pads.
Air pads are incredibly lightweight and compact, making them ideal for backpacking and minimalist backpacking. They offer a high level of comfort and customisability, as you can adjust the firmness to your liking. However, they tend to be more expensive, and there is a risk of punctures or rips. They are also more susceptible to temperature changes, which can affect their firmness.
Self-inflating pads, which combine open-cell foam and air, strike a balance between comfort and weight. They are more durable than air pads and offer excellent insulation. However, they are heavier and more expensive than simple foam pads, and they take up more space when packed.
Closed-cell foam pads are the heaviest option among the three types. They are made of dense foam filled with tiny closed-air cells, providing consistent insulation and durability. These pads are highly affordable, lightweight, and easy to carry, as they can be attached to the outside of your backpack. However, they offer less comfort due to their firmness and thickness.
Each type of sleeping pad has its advantages and considerations in terms of weight, comfort, insulation, durability, and cost. When choosing a sleeping pad, it is essential to consider your specific needs, such as intended use, weight constraints, comfort level, and budget.
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Frequently asked questions
Your sleeping pad should be a few inches longer than your height so that your feet do not hang off the end. This is important because your body heat can be sapped away from contact with the ground.
Most sleeping pads are 20 inches wide, but wider options are available, including 25 inches and 30 inches.
Sleeping pads come in rectangular and mummy shapes. Mummy-style sleeping pads taper toward the head and feet and weigh less, but rectangular pads offer more sleeping area.
If you move around a lot during your sleep, a rectangular pad may be the best choice. If you are looking to save weight and space in your pack, a mummy-style pad might be preferable.
