Sleeping Pads: Folding, Inflatable, Self-Inflating and Seat Pads
Sleeping Pad: How to Choose the Right Type for Your Needs
A sleeping pad separates your body from cold ground and uneven surfaces, so it determines whether you get proper rest at a position, on a hike or in a tent. Before buying, decide how you will carry the pad, how much time you have to set it up, and whether you are ready to protect it from punctures. This determines which type suits you: foam, folding, inflatable or self-inflating.
Foam, Folding or Inflatable: What Is the Difference
A foam roll is the simplest camping mat. It does not fear punctures and unrolls instantly, but it takes up a lot of volume, so it is usually strapped to the outside of a backpack. Some models come with their own cover.
A folding accordion sleeping pad consists of sections made of PE foam (izolon), EVA or polyfoam, often in a fabric cover. With only some of the sections unfolded you can sit on it, and unfolded completely you can lie down. For example, a nine-section model made of EVA and foam rubber in coyote color has an Oxford cover with a polyurethane coating and is secured with two side-release buckles. See other options among the accordion-style folding models.
An inflatable sleeping pad is the most compact when packed, but on rocks and branches you have to protect it. The Westtune has a built-in pump and pillow, so you do not need to bring a separate pump. The self-inflating MIL-TEC has foam rubber inside: when you open the valve, it draws in air by itself.
What to Choose for a Position, a Hike and a Tent
A military sleeping pad is carried constantly and thrown on the ground, so for a position folding models in a cover are chosen more often. A four-section version made of Cordura has MOLLE attachment. Olive, pixel and multicam colors are less visible in the field, while black is more appropriate in the city.
On a long hike, where every bit of free space in the backpack counts, inflatable and self-inflating models are convenient. For a tent any type will do, and an inflatable model with a pillow removes the need to carry a separate pillow. For short breaks take seat pads with a belt: they fasten with a side-release buckle at the waist.
It is worth pairing the mat with a warm sleeping bag; look for other items in the categories camping gear and hiking equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which sleeping pad to choose for the Armed Forces of Ukraine
A folding pad in a fabric cover or a foam one is the best fit: they do not fear punctures and unfold quickly. Choose the color to match the terrain. Models with straps, side-release buckles or MOLLE are convenient for attaching to a backpack.
How a self-inflating pad differs from an inflatable one
A self-inflating pad has foam rubber filling and draws in air by itself when you open the valve. An inflatable one is empty inside, so it is pumped up with a pump — Westtune models have a built-in pump.
How to take care of a camping sleeping pad
After use, clean dirt off the surface and dry the pad before folding it. Store self-inflating models unrolled with the valve open. Wipe the fabric cover with a damp cloth.