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The latest, lightest, roomiest and coziest camp gear to make wild spaces feel like home.

Sleeping pads and mats

The latest, lightest, roomiest and coziest camp gear to make wild spaces feel like home.

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Sleeping pads: Why you need one

When it comes to sleeping under the stars, a good sleeping bag will only take you so far. To keep cold from creeping in, you’re going to want a sleeping pad for a little elevation off the ground (and a good amount of cushion). MEC’s selection of sleeping mats from brands like Therm-A-Rest, Exped, Nemo, Sea To Summit, Big Agnes and our very own MEC Label lineup are made by experts in the field to help you sleep comfortably wherever you choose to lay your head. Our article on how to choose a sleeping pad is a great place to start when considering what kind of camping mattress might be right for you.

Types of sleeping pads

Sleeping pads at MEC come in three main types. While deciding on which one to buy, consider the kind of camping, backpacking or bike trips you plan to do and how much weight you’re willing to carry.

Foam sleeping pads are made of dense foam with tiny air pockets. They won’t compress, so they need to be folded or rolled up when you pack up. While they’re lightweight and inexpensive, they’re also quite bulky and aretod better suited for those who car camp just a couple times a year.

Self-inflating sleeping pads are made with a layer of open-cell foam, so air rushes in when you open the valve and makes for an easy camping bed setup. Some are relatively inexpensive, provide great insulation from the cold ground, but are less compact and heavier in your bag. They’re better suited for car campers and less so for backpackers.

Inflatable sleeping pads are usually the most popular choice for campers, thanks to their ability to pack down small while also being easy to inflate with just your breath. They’re pricier than most sleeping pads but are extra comfortable and take up little space in your bag, so they’re a favourite for backpackers.

R-value: what is it?

You may see a number listed on your sleeping pad stating it’s R-value. The warmth of a sleeping pad is indicated by its R-value, which is a measure of a material’s resistance (R) to heat loss. Basically, the higher the R-value, the greater the warmth. You can see the R-value for each sleeping pad on mec.ca in the specs tab.

More great advice when it comes to sleeping pads