Best Cold Weather Sleeping Pads

If you are preparing for camping in areas where low temperatures are expected, you might want to check this list with best cold weather sleeping pads, all top-notch products from renown brands.

The term cold weather may imply a variety of low temperatures, and this is why the list includes the pads from a rather wide R-value range, roughly from 4 up to 11. This means that the pads are for all seasons and all climates. For extremely low temperatures you should go for the highest possible R-value.

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My list of best sleeping pads for cold weather

The pads are listed here according to their R-value, from lower to higher:

 

Note that some of the pads here in the list are lightweight and backpack portable, so these are versatile pads, but quite generally their R-value is lower. Those with higher R-values are for car camping and they are suitable to be used as basecamp pads.

You have two generally different types of pads here:

• Inflatable pads. These pads usually pack to a really small size and this is what makes them backpack-portable. They are usually lighter.
• Self-inflating pads. This implies that you have an open-cell foam inside that, when decompressed, sucks the air in.

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1. Sea to Summit Camp Plus Self-Inflating Mat

The Sea to Summit Camp Plus Self-Inflating Mat is built for campers who value a comfortable sleep outdoors, regardless of the season. It features a thick 3-inch foam core and an R-value of 4.3, making it ideal for cold weather camping.

While the pad is designed to be self-inflating, the Delta Core technology, which removes 40% of the foam, necessitates some manual inflation to achieve the desired firmness. This design choice helps reduce the mat’s weight and packed size, but it also means you’ll need to exert extra effort during setup.

Available in four sizes, the pad provides versatility, though the larger rectangular models are heavier and bulkier, better suited for those prioritizing comfort over portability.

The 75D polyester fabric with TPU laminate ensures durability, while the Pillow Lock System keeps your pillow in place throughout the night.

Though it may not be the lightest option on the market, the Sea to Summit Camp Plus offers a great balance of comfort, durability, and affordability, making it a solid choice for various outdoor adventures.

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2. Klymit Static V Luxe Insulated Sleeping Pad

This is a very luxurious single pad, insulated and with a 4.4 R-value. The inner insulation is synthetic Primaloft Eco, lightweight and compressible, and they claim that it includes 60% of the recycled materials. Such insulation is known for not absorbing water, it dries quickly and it retains its insulation even if it becomes wet.

The word Luxe in the name describes it great length and width, so if you are a tall guy, this is a pad for you. This is one of the mentioned inflatable pads so its packed size is incredibly small. Such a design makes it far more versatile than most of the pads on the list.

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3. Klymit Insulated Double V Sleeping Pad

This is one of the celebrated Klymit’s sleeping pads with the recognizable V-shaped air chambers. It is essentially a double-size version of the previous pad from this brand shown above. The R-value is 4.4. So this is again a 4-season pad with the Klymit’s Body Mapping technology. It is incredibly comfortable and suitable for couples and for solo use as well.

You might want to know that this is an award-winning design and technology so nothing can go wrong with such a pad. Note that its stuff sack doubles as an air pump. It is with an integrated one-way valve that plugs in the inflation flat valve with a gasket on the pad. So you just roll and press the bag and this will inflate the pad. In such a way you avoid moisture accumulating in the pad (which may happen if you blow the air from your lungs). They build it in one size only, and it is not particularly long.

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4. TETON Sports ComfortLite Sleeping Pad

This TETON Sports ComfortLite Sleeping Pad is insulated and self-inflating. Note that it is built in three different sizes. Its official R-value is in the range 4.4-5.9 and this is dependent on the size.

A great feature here is a Velcro strap on the sides so you can attach it to other pads of this type and create a large continuous sleeping area. You have a carry bag included. The regular size weighs 3.6 lb (1.6 kg), this makes it a bit heavy to carry in the pack. You will want to know also that it is also very affordable.

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5. Klymit Self-Inflate V Sleeping Pad

This sleeping pad is a self-inflating type, and it still has the V shape baffles in the design typical for this brand, although not as prominent as in their other pads. The pad is insulated and you have a 5.3 R-value which is roughly equivalent to the temperature rating of -4 F (-20 C). So this is a sleeping pad for all seasons.

The shell is 30D stretch polyester on the top and 75D polyester on the bottom. The pad weighs 2.9 lb (1300 g) so it is quite lightweight for an insulated pad and it is backpack portable.

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6. Therm-a-Rest BaseCamp Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad

This BaseCamp sleeping pad is with an R-value of 5.8. Its open-cell foam inside gives you good insulation. So the pad is suitable for all seasons. It is light enough to be carried on shorter trails, its R size weighs only 2 lb 8 oz (1.14 kg). Obviously, it is much lighter than most of the pads here in the list and this is a versatile pad.

They build it in three sizes and this is always good to know so you can find your best fit. As the name suggests, this is a self-inflating type. You might want to know also that it is very affordable for such a type and for such a top brand.

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7. Cabela’s Outfitter XL Sleeping Pad

This is a self-inflating sleeping pad and its R-value is 6, so this is the reason for having it here in the list. But this is also a very long and wide pad, its dimensions are impressive 83 x 38 inches (211 x 97 cm).

So if you are a tall person, you will want to check this pad. The weight is 8 lb (3.6 kg), and the pad is very affordable and popular.

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8. Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Extreme Insulated Air Sleeping Mat

This is an extra thick, extra stable, and very warm backpacking and mountaineering inflatable sleeping pad suitable for all seasons and weather conditions. So you have 4 inches (10 cm) that separates you from the ground. The R-value is 6.2 and this is enough for almost any weather.

They build this sleeping pad in 4 different sizes & shapes so you can choose what suits you best and avoid carrying unnecessary weight. For example the mummy-R version weighs 25.4 oz (720 g). It is very stable with its air-sprung design, and it has the PillowLock system. 

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9. Sea to Summit Comfort Deluxe SI Sleeping Pad

They build this sleeping mat in several different sizes. All of them are 4 inches (10 cm) thick with a foam layer and with air trapped inside. So this is a self-inflating pad and with their Delta Core technology.

This gives it the R-value of 6.5 which should be enough for practically any weather conditions. Their pads come with the new ASTM R-Value standard so the insulation should be reliable.

The pad also has their Pillow Lock feature and it is packed in a nicely designed carry bag. The weight of the RW size is 4 lb 6 oz (1995 g), so the pad is for car camping.

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10. ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad

This ALPS Mountaineering Apex Self-Inflating Air Pad comes with an R-value of 6.9 and it is built in three different sizes. The regular size pad weighs 4 lb 14 oz (2.2 kg), and its packed size is 22.5 x 9 inches (57 x 23 cm). So this is not a pad to be carried on the trail.

With its two brass valves, this is an easy to use 4-season pad. It is 3 inches (7.6 cm) thick so this might be good enough even if you are a side sleeper. I have added it also to my list of best self-inflating camping pads.

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11. ALPS Mountaineering Lightweight Self-Inflating Double Air Pad

This is a quite unique pad here in the list because it is a double sleeping pad that can be split into two separate single pads, or you can simply fold it and use as a very thick solo pad. This is because of a hook and loop Velcro connection that runs in the middle.

The official R-value is 6.9 so you can use it in all seasons, and when you fold it, the R-value is higher by a factor of 2 so you can use it in the harshest conditions as a solo pad. The pad weighs 9 lb 7 oz (4.28 kg) so it is most suitable for car camping.

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12. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress

This inflatable Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm Ultralight Backpacking Air Mattress is incredibly light and compact. They build it in two sizes R and L. So the weight for its size R is 15 oz (425 g), and its packed size is 9 x 4 inches (23 x 10 cm).

But in spite of such weight and packed size, this is an insulated pad with an R-value of 6.9. This is why it is here in the lits. The pad comes with a unique valve design and a pump bag. The dimensions of the size R are 72 x 20 inches (183 x 51 cm).

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13. NEMO Roamer Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad

This pad is built in two sizes and they both are 4 inches (10.2 cm) thick. So this is an incredibly comfortable sleeping pad, great even for side sleepers. The pad is self-inflating and this means with foam inside which provides insulation, the temperature rating for this pad is -30 F (-34 C) and this should be around a 7.5 R-value. So this is a pad for all seasons.

The larger version (XLW) is with the dimensions 80 x 30 inches (203 x 76 cm) so it is suitable even for very tall people. It weighs 5 lb 4 oz (2.38 kg) and it is surprisingly well packable. Please follow the link to my full review.

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14. DoD Soto Sleeping Pad

This DoD Soto Sleeping Pad is a self-inflating large and comfortable pad. They build it in three sizes and all of them are very big. The M size in the picture measures 82 x 45 inches (208 x 115 cm). All of them are 4 inches (10 cm) thick. 

The pad comes with a pair of great two-way valves, so both can be used for inflation and deflation. You also get a self-inflating pillow that doubles as a manual pump as well.

But this is not all, you have a polycotton pad cover, and a sleeve for the pillow included in the package. The included carry bag is large and with compressible straps.

The pad is here because of its impressive R-value which is 8.3, so you can use it in the most extreme weather conditions. 

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15. ALPS Mountaineering Outback Self-Inflating Air Mat

This pad comes with an R-value of 8.5 so this makes it clear why it is here. It is incredibly comfortable and large. They build it in two sizes, and both are very thick, you have 4 inches (10.2 cm) of cushion and comfort.

Note that the XL version measures 80 x 32 inches (203 x 81 cm) and it weighs 7 lb 7 oz (3.37 kg). So it is a bit heavy but see the size. This is an excellent self-inflating pad suitable for any weather conditions. I have included it in my list of best self-inflating camping pads.

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16. Exped DeepSleep Mat 7.5 Duo Sleeping Pad

This pad has the R value of 8.5 and this is equivalent to -50.8 °F (-46 C). So now you know why it is here, the pad is suitable for any weather conditions.

It is self-inflating and double wide, the size is 77.6 x 52 inches (197 x 132 cm). Though they build it also in M size that measures 72 x 40.9 inches (183 x 104 cm). The number 7.5 that you see in the name is its thickness in centimeters.

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17. HEST Foamy Sleeping Pad

This pad has an R-value of 8.8 so it is suitable for all seasons and climates. You have a great support and insulation with its temperature resilient memory foam that is built in two layers.

They build it in two sizes, both are 3.9 inches (10 cm) thick. You have a phone pocket, and the cover is machine washable. It is connectable to other pads. 

Note that the bottom fabric is waterproof. The pad is made in USA and the weight is 11 lb (5 kg) and 13 lb (5.9 kg) for the two sizes.

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18. Elegear Self Inflating Sleeping Pad

The Elegear Self Inflating Sleeping Pad stands out as a robust and comfortable solution for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly in winter camping scenarios.

Tested by me in chilly conditions with temperatures hovering around 5-6 degrees Celsius and high humidity, this pad demonstrated its ability to provide a warm and protected sleeping surface.

The self-inflating feature, facilitated by three well-designed valves, streamlines the setup process, and the high-density open-cell memory foam ensures a supportive and restful night’s sleep.

With an impressive R-value of 9.5, certified by ASTM rating, the pad excels in insulation, making it suitable for use in diverse climates.

The 50D stretch knit fabric contributes to a skin-friendly and quiet sleeping experience, addressing the concerns of those who tend to move during sleep.

Despite being slightly heavy, the Elegear Sleeping Pad offers exceptional value for money, making it a top choice for car camping, emergency use, and additional sleeping arrangements at home.

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19. QOMOTOP Ultra Thick Self-Inflating Camping Mattress

This QOMOTOP Ultra Thick Self-Inflating Camping Mattress is here because of its 9.5 R-value. This is a double-size pad and comfortable even for side sleepers with its 4 inches (10 cm) foam.

As the name tells you, this is a self-inflating pad, and its stuff sack doubles as an inflation sack in the case you need to blow more air in. It weighs 13.6 lb (6.2 kg), and its dimensions are 80 x 52 inches (203 x 132 cm).

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20. Exped MegaMat Outfitter 10 LXW

This is a very popular and award-winning camping pad, a great option for side and stomach sleepers. This is definitely one of the most comfortable pads on the market. It is insulated and its R-value is an impressive 9.5, one of the highest in the list.

The weight is 6 lb 15.5 oz (3.16 kg). Its particular distinction is comfort because it is 3.9 inches (9.9 cm) thick.

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21. Exped MegaMat Duo 10 Sleeping Pad

This pad comes with an impressive R-value of 9.5, so this is suitable for the most severe conditions. As the name suggests, this is a double-wide pad suitable for couples, for a mother with a child, or simply for solo use if you have space and want comfort.

Note also that this is a very thick pad, the number 10 describes its thickness, so you have 10 cm of an open cell PU foam, which is Oekotex 100 certified.

The materials are all high quality. So you have 50D polyester on the top and 75D on the bottom, TPU polyether film laminate, hydrolysis resistant, and honeycomb embossed.

The pad comes packed in a smart-pack sack with a height-adjustable roll-top and with a carrying strap so you can carry it also attached to your shoulder. You also have a Mini Pump included. The weight is 163.3 oz (4.63 kg).

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22. WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad

This WELLAX UltraThick FlexFoam Sleeping Pad is a 4-season pad that comes with memory foam, and its official R-value is 9.6. This makes it suitable for any weather conditions.

Note that it is heavy, it weighs 7 lb (3.18 kg), so this is for car camping. It is comfortable and 3 inches (7.6 cm) thick. The fabric is a quiet ripstop, and you have two brass valves. It has an integrated self-inflating headrest that inflates together with the rest of the pad. You will want to know that it is very affordable.

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23. Therm-a-Rest DreamTime Mattress

This DreamTime pad is a three-component system that includes the following elements:

• A memory foam layer.
• A self-inflating core pad.
• On the outside, you have a removable and machine-washable microfiber cover.
• Connect Two system.

Its R-value is 10, one of the highest here in the list. So this is an insulated pad for all weather conditions. They build it in two sizes, and they are both great, Large and Extra Large.

The materials are durable, so you have 75D polyester on both sides. The foam is urethane. If you are puzzled by the side straps which you can see in the picture, this is the Connect Two system, to mate it with another DreamTime mattress for a double-wide configuration.

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24. Coleman Cloudland Self-Inflating Camping Pad

The Coleman Cloudland Self-Inflating Camping Pad is thick and comfortable, and its official R-value provided by the manufacturer is 10+. So now you understand why it is here in the list.

The pad is also self-inflating and you have one dual-use valve with a rotating core which you use both for inflation and deflation.

Its dimensions are very good, you have 77 x 30 inches (196 x 76 cm), and its thickness is 4 inches (10.2 cm). So this is a pad suitable for every type of sleeper, and for any climate and season.

The weight is reasonable for such a type, it weighs 7.2 lb (3.3 kg), and its packed size when rolled up is (L x D) 32.7 x 8.7 inches (83 x 22 cm).

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25. Zempire Monstamat Twin Sleeping Pad

Here you have a double wide outdoor pad with a huge 10.5 R-value. This makes it suitable for any weather conditions. The pad is self-inflating and its dimensions are 79.1 x 52 inches (201 x 132 cm). This is lots of space for two adults.

The insulation is an open cell foam and the top fabric is a 30D super stretch ripstop polyester, and the bottom is a 75D poly pongee. A carry bag is included. The weight is 13.3 lb (6.03 kg).

Note that they also have a single version with the same R-value, the Zempire Monstamat Single Self Inflating Mat, so follow the link to read more.

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26. Exped MegaMat Max 15 Duo Sleeping Pad

This Exped MegaMat Max 15 Duo Sleeping Pad comes with a high R-value of 10.6 and this is with the ASTM F3340-18 approval, and the corresponding temperature rating is -70.6 °F (-57 °C). The pad is one of the thickest on the market, you have 5.9 in (15 cm) of comfortable foam. In view of such a thickness, the high R-value is not a surprise. 

As you realize from the picture and from the name, this is a double-wide pad, and it is not so light as expected in view of its size and thickness, so it weighs 216.8 oz (6.15 kg). Note that it comes with a mini-pump included, and also with a great warranty. 

Note that they also have a single version of this pad, see in my text about the Exped MegaMat Max 15 sleeping pad.

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27. Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Camping Air Mattress

This is an insulated sleeping pad suitable for all seasons, and with an impressive R-value of 11.4 that makes it a pad for all weather conditions. It is built in two sizes and they both are big.

The fabric is a very soft and pleasant 75D reverse diamond polyester on the top and the same durability polyester is on the bottom. The inside foam is urethane, and you might want to know that the pad is built in the USA. Much more is available in my separate review, please follow the link below.

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28. HEST Sleep System Sleeping Pad

The total R-value of this Sleep System is impressive 11.8. This makes it suitable for the coldest weather camping. This is also a very thick set that includes a foam pad and an inflatable pad, so the combined thickness is 18 cm. So I have good reasons to include it in my list of very thick sleeping pads.

The inflatable pad is detachable, and the cover of the upper foam pad is removable and machine washable. The system comes with a unique compression straps system and a carry bag. The total weight here is 26 lb (11.8 kg), and the dimensions are 78 x 25 inches (198 x 63.5 cm).

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How to choose your cold weather sleeping pad

If you are not familiar with this industry, you might want to know that the pads in the list include some of the best-known brands in the world. So you have plenty of options and they all are great.

Because this is about protection from the cold ground, the main criterion is the R-value of course. This is quite related to the weight so make sure that you choose what suits you best. If you need a backpack-portable pad you will choose some of the inflatable pads, but you have noticed that even among self-inflating pads there are a few that are surprisingly light.

But if you expect extremely low temperatures, then the choice is easy, you have to go for a very high R-value, no matter what the weight is. It is best to test such a pad in controlled conditions, to avoid unpleasant surprises when it may be late.

No matter which of these pads you choose, make sure that you have a low-temperature sleeping bag to match. Both components of your sleeping gear must be with an appropriate temperature rating.

Now, the R-value is a convenient way of giving the temperature rating for pads, but sleeping bags rating is always in a temperature scale. There is a (very rough) correspondence between the two given in the table, so this can help if you want to match the pad and a sleeping bag.

R-Value	Temperature F	Temperature C
4	12	-11
4.6	5	-15
5.3	-4	-20
6	-13	-25
6.4	-18	-28
7	-26	-32
8	-36	-38
9.5	-54	-48

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