How to Select a Sleeping Mat Much of the time sleeplessness outdoors can be traced to what is under the sleeper, not over him. Sleeplessness can be caused by bumpy terrain and/or being cold. A mat can help solve both problems.
The loss of heat when one sleeps occurs in 2 ways: convection (through the air) and conduction (through the ground). In order to thwart conduction heat loss, a barrier must be placed between the sleeper and the ground.
Why Buy a Sleeping Mat?
- Comfort - evens out bumpy terrain
- Adds significant warmth - reduces heat loss through conduction (adds 10° - 15°F)
- More restful sleep
What are the Choices?
Air mattress - can puncture, not good insulator, must be blown up
- Open cell foam
- Closed cell foam
- Self-inflating pad
Open Cell Foam
This polyurethane foam is resilient and flexible. Densities range from 1 - 6 pounds per cubic foot and in compressions from very soft to semi rigid. These foams have consistent cell sizes that make them excellent absorbers and are inexpensive compared to others foams.
- Non-toxic, hypo allergenic, mildew proof
- Compressible
- Extremely lightweight
- Spongy - will absorb water
- Breathable
- Light and air degradation (darker colors degrade less)
- Inexpensive
- Often glued to cross link
Closed Cell Foam
Also known as polyethylene foam and is available in densities ranging from 1.7 lbs. per cubic foot to 12 lbs. This foam has the following characteristics:
- Won't absorb water/non breathable
- Hard surface/hard to roll up
- Extremely durable - abrasion resistant surface, high tear
and tensile strength
- Soil resistant - easy to clean
- Won't degrade in light or air
- Non-toxic, hypo allergenic, mildew proof
Two Types:
- Roll Stock - cell structure much larger and density is much lower (1.7 - 9 lbs.). The increase of air holes can allow for cell break down or popping. Lighter shades of color. Flexible to -45°F.
- Bun Stock - the molecular structure is cross linked through heat. This adds strength, resilience, elasticity and temperature stability (-100°F).
Density ranges from 2 - 12 lbs. with the heavier the pounds the better memory and resilience. Additives such as EVA (Ethal Vinyl Acetate) improves the softness. There are 4 ways to form this mat:
- Straight cut/slice
- Convolute
- Heat stamp - molded on 1 side and smooth on other
- Thermoform - patterns identical on both sides formed by heat. (Inexpensive to moderate prices.)
Self-Inflating Pads A great concept that combines a soft open cell foam with a nylon cover and inflates itself.
- Inner Foam - the core of our mats are made from a special grade of open cell foam that combines low density for minimizing weight and increasing compressibility, but rigid enough for a comforTable sleep.
- Outer Fabric - a high density DWR (Durable Water Resistant) coated nylon top and bottom makes mats both water and soil resistant.
- Bonding - the edges of the mat are bonded together to form a unique air-holding structure that supports you off the ground. Wenzel also offers a spot bonded mat that stops foam from spreading out from side-to-side and top-to-bottom.
- Valve - a durable hi-intake ABS plastic valve permits a greater intake of air for faster inflation. Unlike metal valves, the plastic valve will not freeze to your lips in extremely cold weather.
Overall Features:
- Water and soil resistant
- R-value (resistance to heat transfer) of 4 - double that of closed cell foam
- A bit heavier than foam but still lightweight
- Warm and cushy - high thermal content
- Consumers more aware of benefits - market is growing
How to Choose a Size
- Thickness - Most thicknesses work well. The thinnest ones (1/4" to 3/8" thick) help keep the cold from creeping in. If you want true comfort then choose a pad at least 1/2" thick. The thicker the mat the more comforTable and more thermally efficient.
- Size - To determine the best size you'll want to consider the activity in which the product will be used. Consider a 3/4 length mat for activities like backpacking, biking, or climbing. The width of the mat is dependent upon the person using the mat.