How to choose a hiking sleeping pad: a buyer's guide

In short: the most important thing when choosing a hiking sleeping pad is the R-value, the measure of thermal insulation, which has to match the season. R-value 1-2 is enough for summer, 3-4 suits spring and autumn, and winter calls for 5 or more. After that, decide on the type (inflatable or foam), thickness and weight.

Your sleeping pad directly affects how well you sleep and how much energy you have the next day. A good pad keeps the cold ground away, adds comfort and helps you recover after a long day outdoors. Hiking BaltNorth offers sleeping gear for sale and for rent. You can browse the sleeping gear category, and if you want to try before you buy, take a look at rental sleeping pads and sleeping gear.

What is the R-value of a sleeping pad?

R-value shows how well a pad insulates. The higher the number, the better it protects you from the cold ground. The ground draws body heat away even when your sleeping bag is warm, so the insulation of the pad is as important as the bag itself.

R-value	Suitable for
1-2	summer hikes
3-4	spring and autumn
5 and above	winter hikes
7 and above	extreme cold

For winter trips, highly insulated pads such as the Exped Ultra 7R or Ultra 10R work very well.

Inflatable pad or foam pad?

Inflatable pads

Pros: very comfortable, compact and well insulated. Cons: they can puncture and need to be inflated.

Foam pads

Pros: very durable, no inflating needed and cheaper. Cons: less comfortable and bulkier to pack.

A simple rule: if comfort and a small pack size matter most, choose an inflatable pad. If you want something reliable and affordable that does not mind thorns or sharp stones, choose a foam pad.

How thick should a hiking sleeping pad be?

• 3-5 cm: minimalist hiking
• 6-8 cm: very comfortable hiking
• 10 cm and more: camping and car trips

Side sleepers usually prefer a thicker pad, because hip and shoulder are less likely to press through to the ground.

How much does a sleeping pad weigh?

• ultralight pads: 400-600 g
• mid-range pads: 600-900 g
• winter pads: 900-1200 g

On a long trek every gram counts. For car camping you can pick comfort over weight.

How to use and store your pad

Do not inflate an air pad with your mouth. Moisture from your breath stays inside and causes mould. Use a pump or an inflation bag instead, and store the pad dry with the valve open.

Choosing a sleeping pad in four steps

1. Pick the R-value for the season.
2. Decide between inflatable and foam.
3. Choose a thickness that suits your hiking style and sleeping position.
4. Check weight and packed size, especially if you carry everything on your back.

If you are planning a winter trip or a colder outing, choose a pad with a higher R-value for a warm and comfortable night even below freezing. You will find all the gear in the Hiking BaltNorth shop, and if you have questions, get in touch. If you would rather borrow gear, see our hiking gear rental, and if you want to hike with us, check the guided trips.