Therm-A-Rest Z Lite Sleeping Pad, Coyote/Gray, Regular

An accordion style closed cell sleeping mat. Not because it makes any sweet noises when you sleep on it, but the way it bellows up to a very nice package.

Designed to be about as light as a closed-cell mat can be, but that's not the whole story: the dimpled design not only reduces weight and packing space, it also creates air pockets between the sleeper and the mat, and the air provides excellent insulation. The bottom is made of harder foam and the top from softer. The mat can be used either side up.

Light: best suited for summer use or as an extra insulation layer with another sleeping pad.

Dimensions and weight

• Measurements opened: 51 x 183 cm / (20" x 6')
• Measurements packed: 51 x 14 x 13 cm / ( 20" x 5.5" x 5")
• Thickness: 2 cm / 0.8"
• Weight: 410 grams / 14.5 oz.
• Material: polyethylene
• R-value: 1.7 (summertime pad)

Does the mat seem a bit short? Remember, you are probably using some sort of a pillow too. This pillow does not have to be on top of the sleeping mat.

Closed cell or air mattress?

Either of these is not better than the other, just better for you and the intended purpose. Here are key points to consider when choosing between an inflatable and closed-cell sleeping mat.

Closed cell

• Absolutely reliable and care-free
• Lightweight
• Takes more packing space
• Cheaper price

Air mattress

• Packs very small
• More comfortable
• The same or usually better insulation-to-weight ratio
• Possibility of punctures

If you're aiming at carrying light, sleeping tight, and consider yourself careful, the air mattress is probably a better choice for you. If you're looking for indestructibility and it's OK to carry the mat outside the ruck and the pack space isn't an issue, the closed-cell model should work just fine. Besides, you can use the mat as a sled and it won't get destroyed.

Made by Therm-A-Rest

Therm-A-Rest is a well-established name among outdoor gear manufacturers. For example, the company can take a humble kip mat and think it over, blowing new life to the simple design. What's best, they make their stuff in USA/Ireland.