Thermarest Tough Skin, Trails.com
What To Look For
Sleeping pads may seem inconsequential compared to other pieces of gear such as sleeping bags or tents, but don't underestimate the necessity of sleeping pads. Most of your heat is lost at night through conduction to the ground. It is especially important in winter to insulate yourself from the ground because of this. The best sleeping pads are those that are rated for the specific season you are using them in, those that are the correct size for your height and those that are the easiest to pack and repair in the backcountry. Top brands are Thermarest, Lafuma and Big Agnes. There are many choices in sleeping pads from the more expensive inflatable ones to the closed cell foam pads. Advantages to the inflatable Thermarests are that they pack down quite small in your backpack whereas foam pads must be folded or rolled and often stored on the outside of your backpack, taking away from an otherwise streamlined pack. Inflatable pads can be difficult to fix in the field, however, and if they acquire a tiny leak you may wake up with a deflated and cold bed. You don't have to worry about foam pads getting punctured as much. If you do choose an inflatable pad, self-inflating ones mean you spend less time using your lungs to inflate them.
Common Pitfalls
When shopping for a sleeping pad keep in mind that you will get what you pay for. Pricier pads are usually more expensive because they will keep you warmer and are more compact. If you intend to do a lot of backpacking and want a sleeping pad that will last you a long time, be sure that you are prepared to fix it out in the field. Duct tape will suffice for repairing most foam pads but a specific patch kit is necessary for most inflatable pads. If you don't want to mess with finding and fixing a small leak in an inflatable pad, then a foam pad may be for you. Also make sure you have the length you are prepared to sleep with. Some people like ultra light, small pads that are only three quarters the length of their body. These will not keep you quite as warm in the winter but in summer may be fine. Read the labels; if you are buying a three-season pad, it may need to be doubled with another pad for winter camping.
Where To Buy
Local outdoor gear shops usually stock a rack full of sleeping pads. Some sporting good stores that are oriented more towards hunting and fishing may not have inflatable pads or ones of good quality. If a store sells Thermarest, it is a good place to look for a sleeping pad. Online stores such as Trails.com, Altrec.com or backcountry.com also have a fine selection. Make sure you know what size you want before buying online as you wont be able to unroll it and see it before you buy it.
Cost
Inflatable sleeping pads cost about $40 to $75 for a regular size three-season and around $80 to $160 for a quality regular size four-season pad. Foam pads cost approximately $15 for the cheapest quality to $45 for more suitable ones.
