Air Mattress R Value: Buying Guide 2024

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Inflatable Camping Pad Sleeping Mat Air Mattress Air Pad with Built-in Inflator 5 R-Value for Outdoor Hiking Camping Backpacking
Image credit: Amazon.com

In the market research sector, we build a team of experts. They work together to execute an annual survey of air mattress r value. They choose 9 versions from reputable companies like N\a, Kingcamp, Big agnes, Sea to summit, Kamui, Klymit, Deerfamy, which is based on nearly 2,344 ratings from consumers.

Our Top Picks

  • Built-In Pillow: Designed with a 7” high integrated pillow to support your neck for a better sleep – no need to bring an extra pillow to save more space in your backpack
  • Designed for Different Sleep Positions: Exclusive interior structure distributes air evenly; the wider design accommodates different sleeping positions
  • Go Camping Anytime: Pack the sleeping mat into a small size that fits in the supplied storage bag for hiking or camping; R-value of 5 keeps you warm when camping in cold conditions
  • EASY-PACK TO TRANSPORT- This lightweight sleeping mat (10.6 lbs) is foldable to be placed into a carry size packing bag (included), with a handle on the top, you can take this pad with you anytime anywhere effortlessly.  Perfect for camping, hiking, car trip, slumber parties and overnight guests. Also pad is a good choice to be given as a gift, we suggest to give our outdoor sleeping mat as a gift to the family, and start an outdoor journey together.
  • LUXURIOUS & LARGE SIZE- KingCamp double size self inflating pad create a luxurious and comfortable feel. Inflated size: 79''x 50”x 3”, package size: 27.6''x 10.4''x 10.4'', weight: 10.6 pounds, suitable for 2 people.Designed for side or back sleepers, the camping sleeping pad won’t bottom out no matter how you like to lay! You can sleep soundly on your side or back! Even you sit on it! and there is almost no weight limit.
  • COMFORTABLE & DURABLE- Our self inflating air mattress use comfortable and durable 30D stretch cloth fabric fits TPU,which provides a good balance between comfort and durability. The PVC-Free cloth is environmentally friendly ,noise-free and rip-resistant. 3’’ thick design ensures that you will not feel rocks or uneven ground below. It is virtually silent, waterproof. No more crinkly or squeaky noise, your perfect pad for using in your tent, sleeping bag, or any floor or hard surface;
  • PILLOWY SUPPORT – Lighter, tougher and more packable: when it comes to superlight, three-season comfort this pad stands alone. The redesigned Q Core SLX ups the ante on quilted comfort in the backcountry with offset I-Beams that create incredible multi-directional support and stability.
  • TOASTY WARM – R Value of 3.2; Three-Season - PrimaLoft Silver insulation works with a heat reflective barrier to trap body heat and reflect it back, so you stay comfortable as the temperatures drop. Sleeping on Frozen Ground? Increase thermal insulation by adding the Big Agnes 3rd Degree Foam Pad.
  • LIGHT & DEPENDABLE – These pads are built with a quilted top that provides a cushioned pillowy sleeping surface. Built of durable, superlight double rip-stop nylon fabric with aviation grade TPU lamination for ultimate weld strength and dependability. No need to sacrifice comfort with these lightweight pads - the Petite 20” x 66” weighs just 17 oz. and packs to 4” x 7”
  • WHAT IS AN R-VALUE? - An R-Value indicates a sleeping pad's ability to resist heat loss. Unlike temperature ratings, R-Values are standard across all pads and are assigned based on quantitative testing designed to give you a better idea of how warm a pad truly is. The higher the rating, the warmer the pad.
  • EASY TO INFLATE - High volume valves with micro adjustments make for fast inflation/deflation and easy fine tuning to your preferred firmness. A pad inflation sack is included. Protective storage sack, replacement valve seal and 3M patches also included with your pad.
  • LIGHT & DEPENDABLE - Built of durable, lightweight nylon double rip-stop fabric with aviation grade TPU lamination for extra durability. Despite its strength, the Insulated Air Core is remarkably lightweight and packable, with the Wide Regular size rolling down to 4” x 8.5” and weighing only 28 oz.
  • Extra-thick 4-inch, lightweight air mattress provides a soft and comfortable sleeping surface for warm-season (1.2 R-Value) backpacking, camping, and bike touring
  • Large size measures 78 x 25 x 4 inches, packs to 4 x 8.75 inches, weighs 1.1 pounds; includes stuff sack, field repair kit, and PillowLock patches for securing a Sea to Summit pillow to mat
  • Multi-function valve for fast inflation in just a few breaths (using integrated Airstream Pumpsack), one-way deflation for quick packup, and fine-tuning of air pressure
  • NO GAP BETWEEN SLEEPING PADS: Multiple air pads can be connected together horizontally and vertically (stack up). Horizontally connect sleeping pads for family, couples, and group camping. Vertically stacked up sleeping pads are suited for extra back support.
  • DESIGNED FOR TENT AND FAMILY CAMPING: The weight-to-thickness ratio (3.5lb-2inch) makes this sleeping pad suitable for car and family camping. This inflatable sleeping pad is comfortable enough to make you sleep longer in your sleeping bag.
  • SIMPLE AND FUNCTIONAL: Our highly talented engineers refined the design for maximum comfort while keeping it simple and functional. This sleeping pad was crafted and compared among various sleeping pads to determine the ideal thickness, size, weight, and features through numerous iterations.
  • QUICKLY INFLATES in just 8-10 pumps from the included air pump/stuff sack - An ideal pad for backpackers and campers looking for a backcountry bed for two
  • LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: Weighs only 40.5 oz, considerably less than other two-person air mattresses and self-inflating pads of the same size, thickness and R-Value
  • The POPULAR STATIC V goes DOUBLE-WIDE - Proven comfort, lightweight design, and rugged performance in a wide 47-inch width camping pad; Perfect for couples camping. Dimensions-47” x 74” x 3” / 119 cm x 188 cm x 7.6 cm
  • ULTRALIGHT & DEPENDABLE – These pads are built with a proprietary patterned random nylon rip-stop made with a high-tenacity yarn and high-filament count to increase fabric tear strength by 25% and decrease material weight. Aviation grade TPU lamination technology for weld strength and ultimate dependability. All this and the Wide Long 25 x 78 inch pad weighs only 18 oz. and packs to 3.5 x 8 inches!
  • WHAT IS AN R-VALUE? - An R-Value indicates a sleeping pad's ability to resist heat loss. Unlike temperature ratings, R-Values are standard across all pads and are assigned based on quantitative testing designed to give you a better idea of how warm a pad truly is. The higher the rating, the warmer the pad.
  • EASY TO INFLATE - Low-profile, single port, two-way valve with micro adjustments make for fast inflation and easy fine tuning to your preferred firmness. Simply insert top of valve into silicone flap for quick deflation. A pad inflation sack is included. Protective storage sack, replacement valve seal and 3M patches also included with your pad.
  • GET A GREAT NIGHT OF SLEEP: This camping pad air mattress provides the optimal Comfort and Warmth your body needs for getting a good night's rest. Your weight is supported by dozens of flexing air cells just like a pocket sprung mattress. The hiking cot air mattress for camping is great for any sleep position. No more sore back or annoying discomfort from every little rocks or leaves underneath!
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLE BACKPACKING PACK: Deflated size is 94 x 28 inches. Folded size 10.2 x 3.9 inches, large inflated size 76.8 x 22.8 x 1.5inches, weighs only 1.1 lbs. Folding the inflatable ultralight sleeping pad into a compact and portable backpack, take it with you anywhere for camping & travel & hiking. Suitable for men, women and kids alike! You won't miss your bed!
  • DEERFAMY Fans - In order to provide the best customer experience to each of our dear fans, we double test our light sleeping pads before shipping. If you have any questions about our products or DEERFAMY, please feel free to contact us. We will help you within 24 hours.

What Details Do You Require In Terms Of Choosing The Ideal List Of air mattress r value?

Some consumers are concerned about ordering air mattress r value. Various aspects should always be explored before making big product choices. Our expertise on air mattress r value will help determine the best possible decision.

We've placed the much more helpful ones to the test. When selecting air mattress r value, it is suggested that you should do extensive research. The following are some questions you might want to consider.

  • What, as per consumers, is the selling-lead product on the market currently?
  • What should you bear in mind while selecting whether or not to invest?
  • Should You choose this item?
  • What benefits does the product provide customers?
  • Where should you come to get guidance?

Especially with the rise emergence of sales websites, consultation forums in today's i.t network, air mattress r value is currently among the most important and valuable products many consumers tend to.

Developers have reviewed and approved almost all of the items on our list. Keep in mind the following:

Inflation Level

Backpacking Light conducted an experiment to determine how inflation affects the R-value real world of a mattress. The pad will be warmer if there is more air. You will also find it uncomfortable to sleep on a firm pad.

Warmth

Warmth is the main reason you should bring along a sleeping pad in colder climates. Your pad should only be one component of an entire sleep system that keeps you warm and alive. This is crucial to ensure that your setup stays as light and warm as possible. Consider the shelter that you will use most often. Double-walled shelters, such as a snow cave or tent made from properly manufactured snow, are much more comfortable than open bivys or other ultralight shelters. Your sleeping pad, and your backpacking sleeping bag are the two most important things that keep you comfortable and warm at night. Many people mistakenly blame their sleeping bag for their sleepless nights and cold temperatures. You need to be warm. But, your sleeping bag is not the only thing that matters. The ground may heat you faster than your pad.

R-Values

Manufacturers assign pads an R-value, which is a measure of how heat resistant they are. A pad that has a higher R-value will feel warmer. This equation can be described as linear. A pad with an average R-value 3 will resist heat loss three times more than one with an R value of 1.

Thickness And Comfort

When sleeping on the ground comfort is subjective. Most people can't bear to camp or backpack at night. The latest gear has improved on this area. Backpacking pads can be thinner than pads and camping pads and are less plush.

Sleep Surface

What surfaces have the best heat retention? This is an important aspect of keeping warm when you're outside. It's best to choose snow over rock if you have to make a choice between them. The majority of the snow you see is made up air. Rock is great at quickly transferring warmth. It is better to sleep on snow than it is rock if the overnight temperatures are below freezing. You can find warm and comfortable places to sleep on soft, soft surfaces, no matter the season.

Durability

Air-constructed sleeping pads have brought with them a serious concern. These air-filled sleeping pads are extremely durable. It is also important to be able to repair them quickly. Every pad we tried came with a small patch kit and all pads had a warranty. It is worth checking before you buy. The thickness of the laminated shell is measured in "denier", with a greater number representing thicker/more dense materials. We have found backpacking sleeping pad denier values as high as 75D, with 15D being the smallest.

Sleeping Pad Dimensions And Shape

Many sleeping pads can be purchased in unisex sizes and are available in either two or three sizes. The average "regular" pad is 72 inches in length and 20 inches wide at its widest point. While the larger pads are between 77 to 80 inches and 25 inches wide, they can be as large as 77 inches and 80 inches. They can be divided into two main categories in terms of their shape: rectangular or mummy pads, which taper toward the feet to reduce weight; and rectangular pads, which are larger and more accommodating for active and comfort-minded sleepers.

Weight

Many backpackers weigh weight. Just look at how fast the ultralight backpacking movement has grown. Like any other piece of gear outdoors, the lighter it is the more delicate it will become. No matter how heavy your gear is, you should take care to set up camp or store it safely.

FAQs

How Should I Store My Sleeping Pad?

The mattress can be self-inflated by storing it unrolled in a dry area with the valve opened. The foam will self-inflate faster when you camp. Mildew can be caused by prolonged storage in damp areas. To protect your mattress from dirt, sharp objects and other debris we recommend that you leave the valve open.

How Should I Inflate My Self-inflating Pad The First Time?

To ensure the best possible performance, fill your mattress with either air from your own breath, or pump, and allow it to inflate for at least 2 hours before you use it.

How Do I Choose The Right Size And Shape Sleeping Pad?

Your height will determine the size of your pad. You should be able lay down on the pad with your head and feet not touching the ground. It is only a matter of personal choice that the shape can be more difficult. Your sleeping bag will not be affected by the shape of your pad.

How To Store A Sleeping Pad?

Closed-cell foam pads can easily be rolled up or folded up. They can also be kept naked or in an enclosed container. You can roll up open-cell foam pads, but it's best to keep them semi-inflated for longer-term storage. After deflating the air core pads, you can simply store them in their case by rolling them up.

What Is R-value?

R-value, which is an abbreviation for resistance value, refers to the pad’s ability to resist heat transmissionence. For colder temperatures, high R-value sleeping pad are more suitable than lower R-value ones.

What Is A Good Weight For A Backpacking Sleeping Pad?

This question really depends on your intended purpose. Ultralight pads should weigh no more than one pound for those who plan to backpack or through-hike. You can probably get away with a pad that weighs less than five pounds if you are only planning to go on a short trip. For car camping, or any other purposes that do not require the pad to be carried, anything over 5 pounds is best.

How Do I Inflate My Self-inflating Pad During Winter?

In freezing conditions, avoid breath inflating your self-inflating pad. Your breath and moisture can cause the mattress to freeze. In colder weather, the mattress might take longer to inflate. If the mattress needs more air, you can use a pump bag or an electric pump.

What Is The Best Way To Clean My Sleeping Pad?

If you are in close contact with your mattress' surface, regular cleaning can extend its life.
Avoid putting your mattress in the washer. It is better to clean your mattress with a hose than in the washing machine. While washing, make sure to seal the valve. A quick scrub with Formula 409 (r), BioClean (tm) All Purpose Cleaner or another general cleaner will do the trick.
Use rubbing alcohol to clean tree sap from the surface. It will be a tedious job and the sap may leave stains. Any remaining stickiness can be removed by dusting the area with baby powder or talc.

Can I Use More Than One Sleeping Pad?

But I do not encourage you to have more than one. This can be done by using a closed cell foam pad for the base, and then putting an air core or open-cell foam pad on top. This can be a fantastic way to increase the R-values especially for frozen terrain.

Our developers make it reliable for the info by their rich experience. air mattress r value data is also kept up to date on any occasion. You might relax knowing that the information is updated and accurate.

Try reporting any air mattress r value problems or inconsistencies so that we can make your life better. Thanks to your feedback, we'll push for even greater quality levels!


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

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