Therm-a-Rest

About Therm-a-Rest

Therm-a-Rest began with a simple but game-changing idea: make sleeping outdoors more comfortable. In 1971, three Seattle-based friends — John Burroughs, Jim Lea and Neil Anderson — decided there had to be a better way to sleep outside than on cold, hard ground. Drawing on their background in engineering and outdoor adventure, they discovered that open-cell foam offered the perfect mix of support and insulation. Just a year later, in 1972, they introduced the world’s first self-inflating sleeping pad, marking the official launch of Therm-a-Rest and a new era in backcountry comfort.

Outdoor comfort, wherever you roam

Over the years, Therm-a-Rest has continued to push boundaries in the world of outdoor sleep systems. Their sleeping pad lineup now includes ultra-light inflatable pads for backpacking, self-inflating models that balance comfort and convenience, and rugged closed-cell foam pads ideal for minimalist trekkers and alpine adventures. With a wide range of styles and sizes, there is a Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad for just about any kind of camper, from weekend car campers to long-distance thru-hikers.

Therm-a-Rest’s commitment to comfort does not stop with pads. Their collection of blankets, quilts and camping pillows is designed to bring the feel of home to the outdoors. These lightweight, packable items provide warmth and versatility whether you are lounging at the campsite or turning in for the night. For even more peace of mind, their sleeping pad accessories and repair kits help you extend the life of your gear and stay prepared on the trail.

Responsible design and manufacturing

Beyond innovation, Therm-a-Rest is committed to doing business the right way. Much of their gear is made in-house at their manufacturing facilities in the USA and Ireland, allowing them to maintain high quality standards while minimizing environmental impact. They prioritize using sustainable materials and reducing waste wherever possible, aiming to leave the smallest footprint on the places we explore.

For over 50 years, Therm-a-Rest has helped transform nights under the stars into something you can look forward to. Whether you are packing for a multi-day trek or setting up a basecamp, their trusted gear is designed to deliver reliable rest so you can wake up ready for whatever the day brings.

Frequently asked questions

What makes Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads different?

Therm-a-Rest was the first company to create self-inflating sleeping pads, and they continue to lead with innovation. Their pads are known for comfort, durability and lightweight designs, with options for backpacking, camping and alpine use.

Are Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads good for backpacking?

Yes. Therm-a-Rest offers several lightweight and compact sleeping pads designed specifically for backpackers. Options like the NeoAir series are popular for thru-hikes and backcountry trips where weight and packability matter most.

How do I choose the right Therm-a-Rest pad?

Think about how you plan to use it. For car camping, comfort may be your top priority, so a thicker self-inflating pad works well. For backpacking, an ultralight inflatable or foam pad is often the best choice. Consider warmth, pack size and weight.

Can Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads be repaired?

Yes. Therm-a-Rest offers patch kits and repair accessories for inflatable and self-inflating pads. These help extend the life of your gear and keep it performing well even after years of use.

Therm-a-Rest buyer’s guide

Closed-cell foam pads are an excellent choice for minimalists or mountaineers who need reliable insulation and durability in extreme conditions. These pads can’t be punctured and work well as an added layer beneath inflatable pads in cold weather.

Don’t forget about the extras. Therm-a-Rest camp pillows, blankets and quilts bring extra comfort to your setup. And for gear longevity, carry a repair kit or valve replacement in case you need to fix a pad in the field.

When picking your sleeping setup, consider R-value (a measure of insulation), pad thickness, and packed size. MEC makes it easy to compare specs across different Therm-a-Rest models so you can find the perfect gear for your next camping or backpacking trip.

Helpful resources

• How to choose a sleeping pad

• How to store and repair a sleeping pad