Backpacking Series: Sleeping Pad

Sleeping pads are the insulation barrier between your sleeping bag and the ground. With backpacking, space and weight are considerations when selecting the pad that serves you best. So, when viewing some of the options available, especially with inflatable models, the thickness may make you drool but the weight and size may be impractical.

Let's look at our options.

Closed Cell: You may come across a "R" with a number beside it when looking at pads. The "R" is its measure of resistance to heat loss. The higher the number the better its insulation properties.

Blue Foam - name comes from its colour. Relatively inexpensive, light, and is a good insulator. Anyone who doesn't find sleeping on hardwood floors and rock piles as comfortable may want to look further. You can determine quality by applying the pinch test. If foam rebounds quickly then it is good quality.

Yellow Foam - name comes from colour also. Basically same as Blue Foam except more durable and performs better in extreme cold.

Ridged Foam - name comes from look. Series of built in ridges (see sample photo) offers a little more comfort and insulation. Some models can be rolled and others folded. The folded model, since it operates on a hinged system, tends to be bulkier.



Inflatables: These pads are the preferred choice of most backpackers. They are lightweight and very comfortable. Most models are self-inflating and contain an open cell foam inside for better insulation. There are many models to choose from. Your frame will determine what length and width is most appropriate. Outdoor retailers will have models already inflated that you can test.

When you arrive in camp, one of the first things to do is release the valve of your sleeping pad and allow it to self-inflate. It does not completely inflate, but requires that you add what additional air you'd like to produce the thickness you find most comfortable.

When storing it at home, open the valve and allow it to self-inflate and put it away in this condition.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir is the model that I now use. It doesn't include a cell foam inside nor does it self-inflate. But, it is extremely comfortable [ridge construction - see photo] , lightweight, and compacts for travel far better than anything else on the market. There is a non-slide lubricant that resists slipping off the pad during your sleep.

The down side is that you have to blow it up entirely - some people hate the fact that you cannot just slide into a new sleeping position - the regular model is not very wide.

May not be for everyone - test drive it before buying.