Inflatable mats
Pack lighter and trek further with our premium selection of inflatable sleeping mats and ultralight air pads. Engineered for backpackers, mountaineers, and fast-and-light trekkers, these air pads compress down to the size of a water bottle while delivering plush cushioning off rugged backcountry terrain.
Read Buying Guide: Baffle Designs, Insulation & Inflation Sacks ▼
1. Inflatable Air Pads vs. Self-Inflating Mats
Unlike self-inflating mats filled with foam, inflatable air pads rely strictly on air chambers. This allows them to achieve incredible thickness (6cm to 9cm) while remaining significantly lighter and packing down far smaller in your backpack.
2. Air Baffle Architectures
- Horizontal Baffles: Offer stable, edge-to-edge support that prevents you from rolling off the sides during sleep.
- Vertical Baffles: Cradle your body centrally for a natural sleeping posture.
- Dimpled / Egg-Crate Chambers: Distribute air evenly across pressure points, making them ideal for side sleepers.
3. Insulation Technologies (Insulated vs. Non-Insulated)
Summer air pads feature hollow air chambers, while insulated models incorporate internal thermal barrier films (like ThermaCapture) or synthetic fiber fills to bounce your body heat back to you on cold soil.
4. Using a Pump Sack (Inflation Bag)
Always use a pump sack instead of blowing up your air pad by mouth. Mouth inflation introduces internal moisture and condensation, which can reduce thermal efficiency and cause internal mold over time.