We compared two very different camping sleeping mats: the folding closed-cell foam Therm-a-Rest Z Lite and the inflatable Klymit Static V.
What we looked at
Foam versus inflatable design, durability, packed size and weight, extras such as layering, and price.
The verdict
If you want a pad with nothing to inflate or puncture that also layers under an air mat and doubles as a seat, the Z Lite is the tough, simple pick, though it costs more and the listing gives no weight or size figures. If you would rather pay less for a lightweight inflatable that packs to 3 x 8 inches and inflates in a stated 10-15 breaths, the Klymit Static V is the value option.
A folding foam pad described as virtually indestructible that layers and doubles as a seat, but it costs more and has no weight or size figures.
A lighter, cheaper inflatable with a stated 3 x 8 inch packed size, but it needs inflating and lists no warmth rating.
Therm-a-Rest Original Z Lite Sleeping Pad — Most Durable
Intended for: Marketed as a folding closed-cell foam sleeping pad described as virtually indestructible, compact to pack, and usable on its own, layered under another pad or as a sitting pad.
What we liked
- Closed-cell foam described as virtually indestructible
- Folding design is compact and easy to pack
- Stated to add 1.7 R-Value and puncture protection when layered under another sleeping pad
- Doubles as a sitting pad
Worth knowing
- Costs more than the Klymit Static V on these listings
- The listing gives no weight, thickness or packed-size figures
Best for
- Campers who want a pad with nothing to inflate or puncture
- Anyone who wants to layer a pad under an air mat
- Walkers who also want a sitting pad
Not ideal for
- Buyers who want a stated weight and packed size
- Anyone who wants the lower price
Klymit Static V Lightweight Sleeping Pad (Navy Blue) — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as an affordable, lightweight inflatable camping pad with a V-chamber design to limit air movement and heat loss, made of 75D polyester, packing to 3 x 8 inches at 18.6 ounces.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite on these listings
- V-chamber design stated to limit air movement and heat loss for better support and comfort
- Packed weight of 18.6 ounces and packed size of 3 x 8 inches
- Quick-use valve for inflation and deflation, stated to take 10-15 breaths
- Inflated size of 72 x 23 x 2.5 inches, in durable 75D polyester
Worth knowing
- Needs inflating, unlike a foam pad
- The listing gives no R-Value or insulation rating
Best for
- Backpackers who want a small packed size at a lower price
- Anyone who prefers an inflatable mat
- Buyers who want a stated weight and inflated size
Not ideal for
- Anyone who does not want to inflate a pad
- Campers who want a stated warmth rating
