Different types of sleeping mat
Closed cell foam
ADVANTAGES
Durable
Inexpensive
Can't be punctured
DISADVANTAGES
Bulky
Not as comfortable as inflatable mats
Self-inflating foam
ADVANTAGES
Less effort to inflate
Warm
Comfortable
Reasonable cost
DISADVANTAGES
Can be punctured
Above-freezing temperatures only
Insulated airbed
ADVANTAGES
Warm
Very comfortable
DISADVANTAGES
Can be punctured
Expensive
Features
1. Size
Most mats come in two or more lengths. Shorter mats are lighter and lower-bulk but in cold conditions other insulation such as spare clothing will be needed under the lower legs. Most mats are around 51cm wide. Some are tapered to save weight. Women’s specific shapes exist that are shorter and designed around an average women’s body shape. Back sleepers with broad shoulders may prefer wider mats.
2. Thickness
Comfort is related to thickness with mats. Thin ones can be quite hard. With inflatable mats the thickness and firmness can be adjusted for maximum comfor
3. Warmth
How much insulation a mat provides depends on the materials it’s made from as well as the thickness. Closed cell foam, solid inflatable foam, synthetic fill and down fill all insulate well. Cored foam doesn’t insulate as well, unless the holes are offset, as heat can escape through them. Uninsulated air beds are fine for warm weather but don’t provide much insulation.
4. Weight
With inflatable mats weight is a balance between warmth and durability.
MEN'S
by Chris Townsend
Sea to Summit
Ultralight Regular
£90
392g
comfort, light weight
quite expensive
Type: airbed
Materials: 40D TPU-laminated nylon
Dimensions: 183x55cm (Regular)
Thickness: 5cm
Rating: R-Value 0.7
A few years ago Sea to Summit came up with a new
