Rating of the best inflatable and self-inflating mats for 2022

A hike in the mountains or a long journey to the shore of a distant river always leaves a sea of ​​emotions, many photographs and memories for many years to come. But an experienced hiker also knows the other side of a long journey: long climbs, heavy backpacks, dragging, bad weather.

A night's rest is the only way to restore spent energy. A comfortable sleep in a warm tent on a comfortable bed can work wonders. Therefore, in addition to a good sleeping bag, the right rug is so important.How to choose a convenient and necessary rug, what they are, and why you should not focus only on price, we will analyze in our article.

Types of tourist rugs

In specialized stores or online sites there are several varieties of isomat:

• karemat - a classic foam made from layers of material with closed cells;
• self-inflating mat - the inside is filled with special foam with many pores. They are filled with air, straightened and create the desired volume;
• models that need to be inflated are filled with only air inside or supplemented with a foam layer.

There is no perfect rug. Each of them has a set of certain characteristics, which under different conditions become necessary or unclaimed.Let's see what is important to consider when buying an isomat in order to avoid mistakes when choosing.

thermal insulation

One of the most important functions that helps to keep the warmth of a sleeping person. Nocturnal roosts occur in different seasons with low temperatures, possibly on snow-covered or frozen surfaces. In a dream, the body temperature drops and the most hardened person can catch a cold.

It is very important to consider the functionality of the purchased product. Well-known manufacturers produce 4-season models, used all year round, and 3-season models for spring-summer-autumn. And do not forget that in Russia March is still a very cold month, and November is almost winter.

R-Value - a value that determines the ability of the product to thermal insulation. The higher the value, the better the mat retains heat. Some manufacturers, in addition to the R-Value, indicate the temperature at which it is recommended to operate a particular model to minimize the risk of hypothermia.

Advice. The R-Value of two isomats can be added together (when used together), thereby increasing the heat retention capacity.

For sleeping on warm ground in the summer or spending the night in a hostel, thermal insulation is not so important. For this, the simplest rugs are suitable - classic foam or non-insulated inflatable equipment.
If you are forced to spend the night on frozen or snowy ground, then it is important to choose a product with a high thermal insulation value. All-weather insulated inflatable or self-inflating models designed specifically for extreme conditions are suitable for this.

Isomat sizes

The comfort of the rug and its weight depend on the size. It is important to consider not only the type of model, but also whether it matches your dimensions.It will be problematic for a large man to sleep on a short and narrow isomat, and there is no need for a fragile girl to drag the extra weight of an elongated model on a long trip. Choose the size right in the store - sit and lie on the isomat.

The preliminary dimension is determined by special marking. True, each manufacturer has its own, but there are some general parameters indicated in the form of abbreviated letters.

• XS(X-small) - 51*91 cm, the shortest models, designed for those who count every gram when collecting a backpack or as children's equipment.
• S (small) - 51 * 119 cm, they are laid only under the tourist's torso and pelvis.
• M (medium) - 51 * 168 cm, the most common length for an average build.
• R (regular) - 51 * 183 cm, also suitable for adult travelers.
• LT (large torso) - 63 * 119 cm, short but wide model.
• L (large) - 63 * 196 cm, elongated isomat, focused on tall tourists.
• XL (X-large) - 76 * 196 cm, like size L is available for non-standard travelers or for camping.
• W (wide) - designation of wide models for some manufacturers.
• WR(women regular) - 51*168 cm, designed specifically for women, shorter in length and insulated, can be used for children.

When choosing which company is better and purchasing several mats, sum up the size of all products and correlate it with the total area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe tent. Sleeping on overlapping mats is very uncomfortable. And if you regularly travel together, then pay attention to double models. The best manufacturers are now releasing them even in the ultralight version.

The form

The different shape of the mats reduces the weight of the equipment and can be:

• cocoon-shaped - narrowed on one side and fits perfectly into tents with a trapezoidal bottom;
• rectangular - more suitable for square tents, and also convenient for the strong half, since it is easier for a broad-shouldered man to settle down on a wide base than on a narrow one.

Comfort

An important characteristic that determines the quality of a person's rest after a long trip. The comfort of the product is expressed in the ability to smooth out uneven ground, the degree of softness and elasticity.
Self-inflating products with a layer of foam inside have the best performance. Such models combine comfort and high thermal insulation on a par with high-quality mattresses, they evenly distribute the load on the spine and help the body relax during sleep.

The degree of elasticity is regulated by a special valve. The foam that fills the internal volume does not allow air to actively move, so that the surface remains flat and you will not slip off the isomat in your sleep. Also, self-inflating models are silent and do not make sounds, which is important if you spend the night in a tent not alone. Popular manufacturers produce large self-inflating models for camping, which are suitable for spending the night in an apartment, even on a cold tile or cement floor.

Inflatable isomats also have a high level of comfort due to their thickness. However, it all depends on the design of the product. If the internal volume is divided into several large longitudinal cells, then the air will noticeably move along with your movements.

It is inconvenient to sit on such products, since part of the air moves under the weight of the body to other chambers and an unstable and uneven surface is created.The smaller the cameras, the more comfortable it is to sleep or sit on the isomat. In modern fine-mesh models, air redistribution is minimal. Some inflatable pads with insulation in the composition have metallized layers. Therefore, when pressed, equipment with foil partitions emits a soft crunch.

 

Reliability of tourist isomats

In conditions of a long hike in places remote from human habitation, the strength of a tourist rug is a fundamental selection criterion. Of course, the most reliable are the usual classic foam rugs. They are not afraid of punctures, and the traveler does not need to take care of the safety of the product during transportation and look for a place on the ground that is safe for isomat.

Self-inflating and inflatable mats are afraid of punctures and cuts. With such defects, thermal insulation properties, elasticity and softness are reduced. However, modern manufacturers make such isomats from durable materials that can withstand spending the night on bare ground without an additional protective layer.

In addition, an experienced traveler always has a special repair kit in stock, which includes glue. Small punctures encountered by hikers are easily repaired on the go.
The best self-inflating models, with proper operation, retain their properties for 20 years or more. Even the classic isomat foam cannot boast of such characteristics, losing thermal insulation after 1-2 seasons.

Air mattresses are considered the most vulnerable. In self-inflating products there is a layer of foam, which performs the function of thermoregulation. Inflatable equipment usually does not have it, so cutting the surface will turn the mat into a deflated bag.It is recommended to use such isomats only in tents or with protective bedding.

Travel mat weight

The optimal weight of the equipment allows you to save the tourist's strength on a long day trip. It is important to understand that the weight of the isomat is evaluated in conjunction with thermal insulation, reliability and size.
The winners in the nomination "Weight + thermal insulation" are inflatable mats with insulation. For mountain hiking, mountaineering and winter tourism, this is the best choice with a minimum weight of 300 grams and high thermal insulation.

The use of inflatable models reduces the melting and destruction of the snow cover under a person during a long sleep. Self-inflating isomats have a weight of 700-800 grams, they are compact when folded and comfortable to use on vacation. At the same time, their price is lower than inflatable models.

Ordinary karemats have a light weight of about 450 grams, but a large volume when packed. Low thermal insulation allows it to be used during the off-season and warmer months. And the price is quite democratic.

When choosing the model you need, keep in mind that the more unique the characteristics of the tourist rug, the higher the price. However, on a long hike, especially in the cold season, a good and high-quality product will provide a good sleep and rest, and possibly preserve the health of the owner. Don't skimp on equipment.

We have prepared a detailed overview of the most popular new inflatable and self-inflating isomats. It is based on the opinions of travelers, experienced tourists, numerous buyers and their assessment. Ratings that include products of different price categories will tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of models and help you avoid mistakes when choosing.

Rating of high-quality inflatable tourist rugs up to 10,000 rubles

Adventure

Rug size 190*60*9 cm and weighing 900 grams can withstand the weight of a person up to 100 kg. Made of polyester and has a rectangular universal shape suitable for men and women. Due to the thickness provides maximum comfort on uneven ground. The model is suitable for camping and hiking. A special cover protects it from punctures and cuts. The cost is 2999 rubles.

• inexpensive product;
• universal model;
• protective case.

• big weight;
• slippery surface;
• low thermal insulation.

Klymit Static V RealTree™ EDGE camo

Made from durable 75D polyester. Dimensions are 183 * 59 * 6 cm, weight is only 530 grams. When folded, the rug has a compact size of 11*19 cm. The color of the surface is in the form of wood camouflage.

The inflatable mat-mattress has an innovative V-shaped anatomical arrangement of cells. This provides maximum support for the body during sleep and complete comfort. The thermal insulation value is 1.3 or 3 seasons. Such a product for travelers can be used at a temperature not lower than +2°C. The average price is 6380 rubles, you can order online.

• in the configuration - a case and a repair kit;
• low weight;
• compact size;
• innovative design.

• no.

Rating of popular inflatable tourist mats over 10,000 rubles

JACK WOLFSKIN TRAIL MAT AIR

Lightweight and compact, ideal for hiking and camping. Rug dimensions: 182*54 cm, weight is 490 grams. A compact roll in rolled form has dimensions of 22*10*10 cm.
Made from quality polyester. The popular model is equipped with two valves and quickly inflates. The entire surface is divided into small cells that communicate with each other, which allows air to move freely inside. The cost is 10999 rubles.

• light weight;
• two valves;
• fine mesh surface.

• high price.

Therm-a-Rest Neoair Camper

Inflatable equipment can be used in mountain hiking, trekking, for a tent. It will provide high comfort during camping holidays. The use of innovative ThermaCapture and WaveCore technologies retains heat as much as possible and provides the product with 2.2 thermal insulation. The mat measures 181*53*7.6 cm and weighs 910 grams.

The outfit is made of polyester. A special device helps to quickly inflate or deflate it. Includes protective case and repair kit. The cost is 14050 rubles.

• high coefficient of thermal insulation;
• universal size;
• fast inflation and deflation.

• high price.

Rating of popular self-inflating tourist rugs up to 10,000 rubles

Tramp TRI-018

The self-inflating model is intended for camping, trekking, city and country recreation. It has dimensions of 190*65 cm, folded - 65*19*19 cm, weight is 2000 g. The filler is polyurethane foam. The cost is 3900 rubles. Can be ordered from China with AliExpress at a budget price.

• non-slip soft surface;
• low price.

• great weight.

Mat Alloy self-inflating "Camp 5.0" (blue)

The self-inflating isomat is made by a Russian company from polyester. The top and bottom sides are finished with a special Diamond coating that creates a non-slip surface. The dimensions of the rug are 188*55 cm, rolled up - 55*14 cm, weight - 1230 g.
According to tourists, this model can be taken for fishing, hunting, country holidays, used for rafting. The kit includes a protective cover and a repair kit in case of a puncture or cut. The cost of the isomat is 4480 rubles.

• budget price;
• non-slip coating;
• protective case;
• repair kit included.

• great weight.

Rating of popular self-inflating tourist rugs over 10,000 rubles

Outwell Dreamcatcher Single

The self-inflating mat has a comfortable thickness of 12 cm and universal dimensions of 200*75 cm, weights of 3300 grams, when folded - 78*21 cm. Made of polyester, the top surface has a special non-slip coating.

The thermal insulation coefficient is 7.5, which, according to buyers, allows you to take this hiking accessory for hiking in the winter. It withstands temperatures down to -34ºС. The double valve type AFC Valve is able to quickly fill or reduce the amount of air inside the product. The internal volume is filled with foam material in the form of honeycombs. A protective case is included in the kit. The cost is 11500 rubles.

• high R-Value;
• non-slip surface;
• double valve.

• high price;
• great weight.

Therm-a-Rest LuxuryMap Large Poseidon

According to the manufacturer's description, the self-inflatable isomat is designed for decathlon, suitable for the inflatable bottom of the boat in year-round conditions. Dimensions are 196 * 64 * 7.6 cm, folded - 66 * 24 cm, weight - 1900 grams. Made from polyester filled with polyurethane foam that won't crumble or mold. Thanks to a complex perforation pattern, it creates maximum support for the body in a horizontal position.

Two TwinLock valves quickly inflate and deflate the mat, and the product itself fills with air to a large part of the volume. The top side has a non-slip coating that is pleasant to the touch. The kit comes with a protective case that protects the rug during transportation. The cost of the product is 16990 rubles.

• light;
• two valves;
• protective case;
• maximum comfort.

• high price.

Tips for choosing the right travel mat

• Penka is the cheapest and most accessible type of isomat. The popularity of the model is due to its low weight, reliability and wide functionality. Yes, and you can change such equipment every season. However, it does not have a high coefficient of thermal insulation, which means that it is not worth taking it on a hike in the cold season, except perhaps as a protective layer for another isomat.
• The self-inflating model for tourism is a good compromise between price, comfort level, versatility and durability. Suitable for almost any type of activity, as well as for camping holidays or temporary accommodation of guests in a country house or apartment. Models with high thermal insulation capacity are applicable for recreation even in severe frosts.
• Inflatable isomat. Choose such equipment if you go to the winter mountains or do mountaineering, that is, where the combination of "light weight-high thermal insulation" is very important.

When deciding where to buy the right accessory, stop at a regular store. In specialized markets you will find a large selection of isomats. Which one to choose and what to pay attention to depends on the conditions of its application. Perhaps you will get by with budget foam, or perhaps consider reliable and expensive equipment. Be sure to "try on" the mat for your height - lie down on it.

In the online store you can find a cheaper option. Consult with experienced tourists, talk to sellers, read reviews on the Internet. And remember, a water mattress designed for a child is not suitable for hiking in the mountains. What is the difference? The fact that the beach type is designed for the warm sea in the summer. Do not save on equipment - not only comfort, but also health depends on it.