Guide: How to Choose Your Hiking Mattress?

The main selection criteria for a trekking mattress

While the primary goal of a mattress is to provide comfort, we won’t delve into this criterion as it is subjective and personal. There are other important factors to consider when making your choice. Indeed, you won’t choose the same mattress depending on your activity: summer hiking, long-distance hiking, winter bivouac, or rugged terrain...

• R-Value: The thermal insulation index

The trekking mattress serves two main purposes: providing comfort and insulating you from the coolness of the ground. To measure the effectiveness of a mattress's insulation, there is a standard called the R-Value. The higher the R-Value, the more insulating the mattress will be. Therefore, if you typically camp in warm areas, there’s no need to get a mattress with a high R-Value. On the other hand, those who enjoy winter camping should prioritize a mattress with an R-Value higher than 4.

Important to know: The R-Value has nothing to do with thickness. A mattress can be thick without offering ground insulation, and vice versa.

As you can understand, insulating yourself from the ground is crucial when you sleep. It doesn’t help warm you up but rather limits heat loss. The underside of your sleeping bag is compressed between you and the mattress, so its insulation is not optimal. This is where the mattress plays its role.

For a long time, thermal insulation was calculated independently by each manufacturer, which made the index unreliable. But since 2020, the R-Value has become an international standard, developed by ASTM. When choosing the trekking mattress that will accompany you for several years, you should compare their R-Value, regardless of the brand.

For a warm-weather bivouac (around 15°C at night), a mattress with an R-Value of 1 to 2 will be sufficient. For temperatures between 5 to 15°C, it’s recommended to have a mattress with an R-Value between 2 to 4. Finally, for cooler temperatures, opt for a mattress with an R-Value higher than 4. These values are indicative, as each person has a different sensitivity to the cold.

Important to know: When stacking two mattresses, their R-Values add up. In other words, if you sleep with two mattresses with R-Values of 1 and 3, it’s equivalent to a single mattress with an R-Value of 4.

Good to know: when you stack two mattresses, their R-Values are added together. In other words, if you sleep with two mattresses with R-Values of 1 and 3, it is equivalent to a single mattress with an R-Value of 4

So, as you’ve understood, isolating yourself from the ground is essential when you sleep. It doesn’t help to warm you up, but it minimizes heat loss. The underside of your sleeping bag is compressed between you and the mattress, so its insulation isn’t optimal. This is where the mattress plays its role.

For a long time, thermal insulation was calculated independently by each manufacturer, which led to an unreliable index. But since 2020, the R-Value has become an international standard, developed by the ASTM organization. When choosing the trekking mattress that will accompany you for several years, you should compare the R-Value of the mattresses, regardless of the brand.

For a bivouac in warm weather (around 15°C at night), a mattress with an R-Value of 1 to 2 will suffice. For temperatures between 5°C and 15°C, it’s recommended to have a mattress with an R-Value between 2 and 4. Finally, for colder temperatures, opt for a mattress with an R-Value higher than 4. These values are indicative, as everyone has a different sensitivity to cold.

What dimensions for a mattress when bivouacking?
Once the R-Value is decided, you’ll need to consider the dimensions of the mattress. There are two types of measurements: the dimensions when the mattress is unfolded and the dimensions when it is folded.

Does it need to cover the whole body?
Regarding the unfolded dimensions, they are generally quite similar across all manufacturers. It’s common to refer to the size. Most brands offer the following sizes for each of their mattresses:

• Child size: length from 119 to 130 cm, width from 45 to 51 cm
• Size S (for Small or Short): length 168 cm, width from 51 to 55 cm
• Size R (for Regular): length from 183 to 185 cm, width from 51 to 55 cm
• Size RW (for Regular Wide): length from 183 to 185 cm, width from 55 to 64 cm
• Size L (for Long or Large): length 198 cm, width 64 cm

These are indicative sizes. There is no standard sizing rule, and each brand is free to have its own sizing guide.

Regarding the mattress thickness, this has no impact on thermal insulation as mentioned earlier. It only affects comfort. Some people prefer a thin mattress as it’s often lighter and more compact, while others prioritize comfort with a thicker mattress. This is especially the case for side sleepers. Sleeping on your side concentrates body weight on the shoulders and hips, which creates a feeling of "sinking." A thick mattress, such as the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT, helps prevent your shoulders from touching the ground when you lie down. 

In Search of a Compact Hiking Mattress
When it comes to unfolded dimensions, this is usually what the hiker focuses on. For mattresses with the same unfolded size, some will take up very little space when packed, while others will be quite bulky. And space is the enemy of hikers. It’s up to you to decide how much space you want to dedicate to your hiking mattress in your backpack. Some mattresses are smaller than your water bottle, while others won’t fit in a backpack and need to be strapped on the outside.

A compact hiking mattress comes at the expense of other features: durability, thickness… Each trekker must decide whether they prefer equipment that takes up more space but provides more comfort or one that is more compact but with less thickness.

Ultra-Lightweight Mattresses for More Comfort While Walking
Finally, the last essential factor is, of course, weight. Along with size, these are the two aspects that hikers need to minimize to avoid making the hike more exhausting with a too-heavy or bulky backpack.

When asking "how much should a hiking mattress weigh?" there is no exact answer. As always, it depends on personal preferences. The lightest mattresses weigh less than 300 g, such as the Therm-A-Rest UberLite inflatable mattress, which is also one of the lightest on the market. But does it meet the other criteria you’re looking for (high R-Value, excellent durability...)?

Price is also a factor. Ultra-light hiking mattresses tend to be more expensive because the materials are pricier. We’ll conclude this point with the same phrase that sums up the choice of a hiking mattress: it’s up to you to compare each mattress and make the decision that seems best for you. There are no good or bad mattresses—there are mattresses that suit your needs but may not suit your hiking partner's.

Secondary Criteria for a Good Hiking Mattress
Weight, dimensions, and insulation are the main criteria we look at. But these aren’t the only ones. There are other factors, perhaps secondary, but they can also be important depending on the type of hiker you are.

Durability, a factor to consider
The first secondary factor to consider is durability. Today, we aim to have a mattress that is ever more compact and lightweight. The goal is simple: not to overcrowd or weigh down the backpack. But can this be achieved at the expense of durability? Definitely, yes. Some thin mattresses can puncture easily when in contact with a sharp rock or a thorn. We recommend reading our article on tips to avoid puncturing your inflatable mattress.

Therefore, you should choose a durable material if you want a mattress that will last over time. To do this, you need to consider two indicators: the material and the denier. Nylon is more durable than polyester, for example, but it has the disadvantage of being heavier. Foam, on the other hand, has the advantage of being able to wear out without losing its insulating properties. However, it is also heavier.

Good to know: a material can have several variations. For example, nylon will be less durable than nylon 6, which in turn will be less resistant than nylon 66.

Next, for a mattress made from the same material, you need to look at the denier. A denier is a unit used to determine the thickness of a fiber. The higher the denier, the more durable the mattress will be. Specifically, a 70-denier nylon mattress is more durable than a 30-denier nylon mattress.

In general, if you plan to camp under the stars, it is highly recommended to use at least a tarp or a footprint under the mattress to prevent direct contact between the ground and the mattress. This also helps to keep the mattress clean. The same applies for camping in a tent. In addition to protecting the tent, you minimize the risk of damaging your trekking mattress.

Noise: for those who have a light sleep

If you're used to nocturnal outdoor activities, you know that the mattress can make noise when you move during the night. This is not bothersome for most people, but it can be for those with a light sleep. The friction between the body and the material can cause a slight squeak.

Self-inflating mattresses have managed to reduce this noise by adding a thin layer of velvet or foam. However, this adds weight. It may be a good solution if you want the assurance of a mattress that makes no noise.

Alternatively, to avoid squeaks, you can add layers between the mattress and yourself. This will help dampen the noise when you move during the night. Placing an unused piece of clothing between the mattress and your sleeping bag is an example of a good practice.

Ease of Inflation and Deflation

Before we introduce the different types of camping mattresses, you are likely aware that most need to be inflated. The advantage of an inflatable mattress is that it takes up significantly less space since you can fold it up.

However, after a long day of hiking, we don't always feel like setting up camp for the night. Between the tent and the mattress, it takes a few extra minutes, which can seem very long, especially when it's raining.

The ease of inflating and deflating can therefore be an important factor to consider. In recent years, brands have worked a lot on this aspect. Here are the different options you might find on a mattress:

• Self-inflating: This type of mattress, which we will discuss further, inflates by itself when unfolded. Of course, you'll need to inflate it a bit more to make it fully ready, but it saves a bit of time. Optimized Valves: Brands have been very creative in making inflation easier for you. Most camping mattresses are equipped with a one-way valve. This means that when you remove your mouth from the valve, the mattress doesn't deflate. Some mattresses have two valves: one for inflation and the other for deflation, making it more straightforward. Electric
• Micro-Pump: This is slightly slower than inflating a mattress with your mouth, but it requires no effort. You simply connect it to the mattress, leaving you time to set up your tent or prepare your meal nearby.
• Pump Sack: More and more brands include this with the mattress. Ultra-light and compact, the pump sack allows you to inflate the mattress without blowing into the valve yourself. It’s a time and energy saver. (see video below)

How to use a pump sack ?

Alternatively, you can inflate it manually. While it’s relatively quick, you still need to be careful. The humid air from your breath can cause mold to develop inside the mattress if condensation occurs. In cold weather, this could even freeze and affect its thermal performance.

To summarize this first part, here are the 6 key factors to consider when buying a mattress:

• Main criteria: lightness, insulation (R-Value), and dimensions (both folded and unfolded)
• Secondary criteria: durability, inflation method, and noise.

Of course, comfort is also crucial. However, unlike the other factors, it is entirely subjective. You’ll need to test it yourself or rely on reviews from other hikers who have already used it.

The Different Types of Camping Mattresses

Now let's look at the different types of hiking mattresses. There are three: the inflatable mattress, the self-inflating mattress, and the foam mattress. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here they are.

• The Inflatable Mattress: The Best Weight-Volume Ratio

This is the most common mattress used in hiking. Comfortable, it is especially very compact and ultra-light. In other words, it is definitely not the accessory that will take up the most space in your backpack. In terms of insulation, you can use it for camping all year round. Some inflatable hiking mattresses have an R-Value of 8. This versatility is appreciated by all trekkers.

Regarding its drawbacks, the inflatable mattress is noisier than its counterparts, the self-inflating and foam mattresses. Furthermore, it is more likely to puncture than a self-inflating mattress. The risk is therefore ending up with a deflated mattress, which means you sleep directly on the ground, with no comfort or insulation. With proper care, the risks are still low. And if it does happen accidentally, there are solutions to repair it, such as a quick repair kit (for use on the field) or a permanent repair kit (to be used once you’re back home).

In summary: Although more fragile, its weight/volume ratio makes it the most popular mattress among outdoor enthusiasts

• The foam mattress, durable and affordable

As the name suggests, this mattress is made entirely of foam. The main advantage of this material is its durability. Even if it gets a small scratch, its insulating performance remains the same. Additionally, a foam mattress for hiking is less expensive than the other types.

As for its weaknesses, its compactness is the main drawback. Unlike the other two types, it’s more difficult to fold. Often folded in an accordion style, it takes up a lot of space. This is why many outdoor enthusiasts attach it to their backpack, as shown in the photo below.

Its thinness, combined with the fact that its R-Value rarely exceeds 2, means that this type of mattress is rarely used as the sole mattress on a hike. It is more often used as a supplement. Remember, the R-Value of two mattresses can be added together, so many hikers with a 3-season mattress prefer to buy a foam mattress for winter camping instead of purchasing another inflatable mattress with an R-Value higher than 4 or 5 for winter treks.

In summary: it is common to find hikers with a foam mattress. However, few use it as their main mattress. Generally, it is more commonly used as a supplementary mattress.

• The self-inflating mattress: a mix between the inflatable and foam mattresses?

Okay, the title might be a slight exaggeration. The self-inflating mattress is closer to an inflatable mattress than a foam mattress. But it is truly a middle ground: it is less compact than an inflatable, but more compact than a foam mattress; less durable than a foam mattress, but more durable than an inflatable, and so on.

In terms of use, all you need to do is unroll it. To achieve maximum inflation, you should allow it to self-inflate. However, it may still require a few breaths to fully inflate, while being careful not to introduce too much humid air. After a day of hiking, it’s always nice not to have to put in extra effort. After the night, it deflates, folds, and rolls up just like an inflatable mattress to be stored in your backpack.

In terms of insulation, it is less efficient than an inflatable mattress, but it still works well for 3-season use. In terms of price, it is generally cheaper than an inflatable mattress.

In summary: it’s a good alternative for an intermediate hiker.

In summary
Although the criteria have been divided into two categories, each person has their own sensitivity, as mentioned multiple times in this hiking mattress buying guide. Insulation should be the primary criterion. If you hike 9 times out of 10 in the summer, it may not be necessary to choose a mattress with an R-Value of 6. For the rare occasions when you need a mattress for winter, it may be possible to borrow one from friends or even rent one.

After selecting your R-Value, it is up to each individual to prioritize certain criteria. Some ultra-light hiking (ULH) enthusiasts will choose a compact and lightweight hiking mattress, while others will focus on comfort with greater thickness or ease of inflation.

Nevertheless, when choosing, make sure to read the product descriptions, especially if you are shopping online. At lyophilise.fr, we take pride in providing detailed and factual descriptions. It's up to you to compare and find the perfect fit for your needs. If you're still unsure, our teams are available by email or through social media to answer your final questions.

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Simplified Buying Guide - Short Version

There are three types of mattresses:

• Inflatable: require inflating to take shape
• Self-inflating: inflate themselves when unrolled
• Foam: unroll without any inflation needed

Before comparing them, let's go over the different criteria to consider when choosing your hiking mattress.

1. R-Value

A mattress has two main objectives: providing comfort and insulating you from the cool ground. The first factor to consider is the R-Value. This index calculates the thermal insulation of your mattress. It is an international standard that all manufacturers must follow. By stacking two mattresses, you add their R-Value.

Here’s the recommended R-Value based on outdoor temperatures:

• Warm night (over 15°C): 1 to 2
• Moderate night (between 5 and 15°C): 2 to 4
• Cold night (below 5°C): over 4

2. Dimensions

Make sure to distinguish between the unfolded dimensions and the folded dimensions. For the unfolded dimensions, choose a mattress that is long enough to avoid having your feet hang off. Also, pay attention to the mattress thickness. While many hikers are fine with a thick mattress, it's not the case for everyone!

For the folded dimensions, this is the information most trekkers care about. The larger the folded dimensions, the more space the mattress will take up in your backpack, reducing space for other gear.

3. Weight

Volume goes hand-in-hand with weight. Test your fully packed backpack in real conditions before heading out. Keep in mind that as the days pass, the weight of the backpack will feel more noticeable due to accumulated fatigue.

An ultra-light mattress is typically compact as well. However, it tends to be thinner and less durable. Only you can decide which trade-off works best for you.

4. Durability

Next up is durability. Compare materials to judge durability. Foam is more durable than nylon, which is more durable than polyester. For the same material, look at the denier count. For example, 70-denier nylon is stronger than 30-denier nylon.

Additionally, when setting up your base camp, it’s advisable to use a tarp or footprint under your tent or directly under your mattress if you’re sleeping outdoors. This prevents damage from thorns or rocks on the ground.

5. Noise

A factor often overlooked, but important. If you’re a light sleeper, be aware that inflatable mattresses tend to make a slight squeaking noise when you turn over. This could wake you up or disturb your trekking partner.

6. Inflation and Deflation

Mattresses come with different options to make inflation and deflation easier: self-inflating, optimized valves, electric micro-pumps, pump sacks, etc. These features help you inflate your mattress with minimal effort and time.