Free delivery
on orders of $69 and over
Free Pickup
in one of our stores
Best prices guaranteed
take advantage of the lowest prices at all times
Our experts at your side
since 1953
How to choose the right sleeping pad: the ultime guide
6 minutes
Does the idea of sleeping under the stars comfortably seem impossible? With the right sleeping pad, it’s absolutely possible. A sleeping pad that matches your needs will help you rest well and make the most of your outdoor adventure.
Why is choosing the right sleeping pad important?
A sleeping
pad creates a barrier between your body and the ground, protecting you from humidity
and uneven terrain. It also provides a comfortable sleeping surface and
improves your body temperature regulation.
Choosing the right camping mat can also make a big difference when it comes to packing. You need to consider the space available in your backpack. Be sure to select a pad that’s easy to carry depending on your outdoor activity.
Which sleeping pad is right for your needs?
1. The minimalist adventure
For adventures
where every gram counts, you have two main options: foam sleeping pads and
ultralight inflatable sleeping pads.
Foam sleeping pads are extremely resistant to tears, punctures, and general wear. Their
closed-cell foam construction allows you to use them on rough terrain without
worry.
They’re also
incredibly easy to use. Just unfold it to set up camp and fold it
accordion-style the next morning. However, since foam pads are usually thin,
they can be less comfortable, especially on rocky or uneven ground.
Foam sleeping pads are also a great option for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. They’re lightweight and among the most affordable on the market. Therm-a-Rest foam sleeping pads, like the Z Lite, are a favorite among hikers for their quality and price.
Ultralight inflatable sleeping pads are another great minimalist option. Look for thin inflatable pads with no open-cell foam inside. They’re ultra-compact, lightweight, and surprisingly comfortable. Some can even compress down to the size of a 950 ml Nalgene bottle!
That said, they are more expensive than foam sleeping pads. They also take a bit more time to set up once you reach camp. However, they’re still quick and easy to inflate with a pump or stuff sack.
Just keep in mind that inflatable pads require more care than foam pads. Despite durable materials, they’re more prone to punctures. Make sure to sleep on a smooth surface to avoid unexpected deflation during the night.
2. Minimalist, but comfortable
If you’re
looking for a space-saving mat and want a little extra comfort, go for a hybrid
inflatable
sleeping pad.
These pads
include a thin layer of open-cell foam to add comfort beyond what an ultralight
inflatable provides. They offer the same pros and cons as ultralight inflatable
pads, except they’re slightly heavier, but also a bit cozier. It’s the ideal
balance between weight and comfort.
For hybrid
models, Therm-a-Rest’s
inflatable pads are
a solid bet. The classic Trail Pro Max,
for instance, has been upgraded for added comfort while still being easy to
carry.
This type of
mat is also ideal for side sleepers. Foam pads and ultralight inflatables may
be too thin to sleep comfortably on your side. A hybrid pad allows you to sleep
on your side with enough cushioning and without too much extra weight.
3. Comfort above all else
If your top
priority is comfort and you want to sleep like you do at home, then inflatable
sleeping pads with open-cell foam are for you. The foam adds softness
that contours to your body for premium comfort. These are the thickest camping
pads on the market.
However,
they’re heavier and harder to pack down than other type of pads. So, before you
choose, make sure weight and space aren’t major constraints.
Pads like the
Nemo
Roamer and
Therm-a-Rest
MondoKing 3D offer
plush comfort in the outdoors.
Some models even let you connect two pads side by side. It’s perfect for couples who want to sleep together while camping.
Découvrez nos matelas de sols
What is R-Value?
Sleeping pads
don’t just offer comfort, they also act as insulation from the cold ground.
R-Value
represents the pad’s thermal resistance. The higher the value, the better the
insulation. So, if you’re camping in cold weather, opt for a higher R-Value.
For summer trips, a lower one will do.
Here’s a
quick guide:
- R-Value under 2: for summer use
- R-Value between 2 and 4: for three-season use
- R-Value over 4: for winter camping
Always
consider your adventure type and expected temperatures to choose the right
R-Value.
Our pro tips
- Test your sleeping pad at home before your first trip.
- Use a groundsheet or tarp to protect inflatable pads.
- Carry a repair kit if using an inflatable pad.
- Avoid inflating your pad by mouth since moisture from your breath can lead to mold and bacteria inside the pad.
- Don’t place your pad too close to heat sources (like a campfire) to prevent damage.
- Store your pad in a dry, ventilated space.
- Never store your inflatable pad compressed in its stuff sack, instead store it fully unrolled when possible.
Now all that’s left is to pick your sleeping pad and get ready for your next night under the stars. To carry your new sleeping pad and all your equipment safely and comfortably, make sure you have a backpack that suits your needs.
Share this article
Explorez nos conseils
Ski touring, where to start?
Looking to start the year off on the right foot and looking for a new hobby or challenge? Skiing, hiking, or outdoor sports enthusiasts, ski...
How to choose the right alpine skis?
Winter is always more enjoyable when you can enjoy the joys of the snow, and downhill skiing is one of the ways to make the...
My 5 most beautiful off-piste cross-country ski trips of all time
Off-piste cross-country skiing is practiced primarily on untracked trails, using sturdy cross-country skis equipped with steel edges. Discover Normand Pion's favorite trails.
Pro tips for skiing hard
Discover our recommendations for taking care of your cross-country skiing equipment and getting the most out of it on your next outings.
Cross-Country Skis with Integrated Mohair Skins
Ce n’est pas un secret bien gardé, les skis de fond à peau font fureur, et depuis plusieurs saisons. Ils sont devenus la solution idéale...