Sleeping Pads

The importance of a hiking mattress

When hiking or bikepacking, quality sleep is crucial to recharge your batteries and prepare for the day ahead. The first, and most obvious, is comfort. Sleeping on the ground isn't pleasant and doesn't allow for restful sleep. The second is insulation against the cold. Less well known, it is just as - if not more - important than the first advantage. Cold comes from the ground, not from the air. When you sleep lying down, you compress the part of the sleeping bag between the ground and your back. The mattress acts as a barrier between your body and the ground.

For this, there's an indicator called the R-Value. It's a standard measurement of a mattress's thermal insulation. The higher it is, the better insulated you'll be. For summer bivouacs, an R-Value between 2 and 3 is sufficient. For winter, we recommend a mattress with an R-Value of over 4. Finally, for polar expeditions, an R-Value of around 8 will not go amiss.

Inflatable mattresses: the compact, lightweight option

If lightness and compactness are essential criteria for you, then an inflatable mattress will be perfect. These models are designed for hikers or bikepackers who want to keep the weight of their equipment to a minimum without sacrificing comfort. Leading brands such as Thermarest, NEMO Equipment and Sea to Summit offer ultra-light mattresses that inflate easily and provide ergonomic support. Easy to store, they take up a minimum of space in your backpack, allowing you to add other essential equipment.

Self-inflating mattresses: the sturdy, comfortable option

For those seeking a compromise between comfort, durability and ease of use, the self-inflating mattress is ideal. Thanks to its internal honeycomb foam, it inflates partly by itself as soon as the valve is opened. This model provides effective thermal insulation. Thermarest self-inflating mattresses are particularly popular with hikers and bivouac enthusiasts, as they combine comfort with ease of use.

Foam mattresses: for small budgets or as a complement

Foam mattresses remain an affordable solution for those looking for a reliable, sturdy mattress. They are ideal for bushcraft and hiking enthusiasts, or as a backup to an air mattress. If your air mattress has a somewhat low R-Value for winter, then it may be worthwhile to take a foam mattress as well. Foam mattresses are lightweight and versatile, making them ideal for use in all circumstances. Their durability makes them an economical solution for budget-conscious adventurers.

How to choose the right mattress for your needs?

Choosing the perfect mattress depends on your main activity and your specific needs. If you're a hiker, or practice an activity where weight is important, then an inflatable mattress is the preferred option. For those who don't want to go to the trouble of inflating their mattress, or are worried about it deflating in the middle of the night, then self-inflating and foam mattresses may be an option to consider. To find out more, read our guide to choosing the right hiking mattress.