Reviews You Can Rely On

How We Tested Sleeping Pads for Men

Friday August 23, 2024

To create the best and most thorough review of backpacking sleeping pads, we examined user reviews, researched updated products, and drew on a large body of experience from our gear testers. After compiling a list of the best sleeping pads available, we bought them at full retail price and put them through their paces. We meticulously reviewed each pad, looking for strengths and weaknesses. In short, we had some rough nights out, so you won't have to.

sleeping pad - getting solid sleep is critical for recovery and performance in the...
Getting solid sleep is critical for recovery and performance in the mountains. A quality sleeping pad that works for you is one of several important pieces of equipment to get that precious sleep.
Credit: Brian Martin

Comfort


There was no substitute for getting out into the wilderness and spending time logging Zs to assess the comfort of a sleeping pad. Spending night after night on different sleeping pads revealed significant variations in each pad and showed which could perform in any given environment. Was there enough padding for side sleeping? Could we feel debris from underneath? Did we feel like we had enough space to shift while we slept? These were all critical questions that became clear throughout the testing process.

sleeping pad - the thickness is one of many elements that affect how comfortable a...
The thickness is one of many elements that affect how comfortable a sleeping pad will be for you.
Credit: Sam Schild

Weight


To test weight, we weighed each sleeping pad on the same scale and compared it to common items such as Nalgenes or other water bottles to give an idea of its packed size. We also considered the use of each pad and whether the weight was justified or not, depending on its intended use.

sleeping pad - we weighed every sleeping pad on our home test lab's scale.
We weighed every sleeping pad on our home test lab's scale.
Credit: Brian Martin

Warmth


To test warmth, we compared the stated R-value of each pad to our individual testers' experience while sleeping on them. The R-value given for each pad is a solid indicator of its insulating properties since it's become standardized.

While individual experience is entirely subjective, we were able to discern patterns through the utilization of multiple gear testers. If there was a consensus that a given pad was indeed very warm, we felt comfortable giving it a stamp of approval.

sleeping pad - some pads with a low r-value aren't suitable for freezing weather...
Some pads with a low R-value aren't suitable for freezing weather, but they're lightweight and, therefore, a better option for light and fast missions when the temperatures are warmer.
Credit: Brian Martin

Packed Size


We assessed packed size by measuring each sleeping pad packed into its included stuff sack. After measuring the length and width of each sleeping pad when packed, we calculated the volume in cubic inches. We then converted that number into liters since it's an easier volume measurement to comprehend.

sleeping pad - packed size is measured in liters, but we also compared every pad to...
Packed size is measured in liters, but we also compared every pad to standard outdoorsy water bottles.
Credit: Sam Schild

Quality of Construction


To establish how well each pad is made, we considered several factors. We assessed how durable each pad is by examining the materials and the quality of welds or seams, and we looked at the valve system. We scoured each pad, looking for weaknesses and strengths. We also threw down on bare ground most nights, not because we recommend treating your equipment this way but to test what each pad could take.

sleeping pad - if your sleeping pad can withstand the rigors of the trail and is...
If your sleeping pad can withstand the rigors of the trail and is easy to use, then you're more likely to have a good time on your next backpacking trip.
Credit: Brian Martin