Sleeping Mat

A sleeping mat is the layer that keeps the cold ground from stealing your warmth, and it matters as much as your bag. The range splits into two kinds: closed-cell foam mats that cannot puncture and shrug off rough ground, and self-inflating and air mats that are thicker, warmer and more comfortable. Each product page states the real thickness, the rated R-value where the maker gives one, the packed size and the weight.

Foam or air

• Closed-cell foam: cannot puncture or delaminate, spark-resistant near a fire, cheap and reliable, but thinner and colder.
• Self-inflating and air: thicker, warmer and more comfortable, especially for side sleepers, at the price of puncture risk.

The truth about self-inflating

Self-inflating is the most over-claimed word in camping. A true self-inflating mat draws in most of its air when you open the valve, then a few breaths finish it; some need a few puffs from the start; foam mats do not inflate at all. Each page says which, so nothing surprises you in a dark field.

Warm enough?

Thickness and R-value decide warmth. Thin foam suits mild ground and can let cold through; a thicker or higher R-value mat holds more heat. For hard frosts, stack two foam mats to double the warmth, or choose a self-inflating mat with a higher rating.

Complete the sleep system

Pair your mat with a sleeping bag for warmth, a self-inflating mattress for more depth, a camping pillow for your head, and a bivy bag to keep it all dry.

Free UK delivery and 30-day returns

All UK orders ship free and tracked, processed within 3 to 5 business days and delivered within 10 to 20. If it is not right, return it within 30 days of delivery, unused and in original condition, once the return is approved.