Your Czech mountain tailor
Česky
Your Czech mountain tailor
Česky   polski

What kind of mattress should I choose?

"I am a traveler, climber, waterman and tour guide. And as an outdoor clothing manufacturer, I know what you can use in the outdoors. That's why I offer a carefully curated collection of outdoor mattresses, from foam to inflatable to self-inflating options. And something more to choose from."

  • how often will I sleep on it?
  • What will the temperature be like outside?
  • Will I carry it in my backpack?
  • How much do I want to spend?
  • I'll be driving, I want to get a good night's sleep - a big, thick self-inflating or inflatable mattress (takes up more space and is heavier).
  • I will walk or ride a bike - as light and thin as possible.

    The mattress insulates from the ground - therefore the thermal resistance (R, coefficient of thermal conductivity) is decisive.

    The higher the R, the better it insulates the cold from the ground. The thermal resistance depends on the thickness of the mattress and the insulation used. But with higher R, the weight and size of the mattress usually increase.
    How does this R help us?
    R1 - summer conditions, R2 to 4 - spring to autumn, R4 to 6 even for winter sleeping, R6 and more - arctic and alpine conditions, sleeping on snow.

    Types of car mattresses - foam, inflatable and self-inflating.

    Foam - classic, lower price, high durability.

    Sleeping comfort is determined by the thickness of the mattress (above min. 1 cm, better 1.4 cm) and the foam used.
    Do not take polyethylene. It does not last, sucks water, tears. Max. for the beach.
    The best quality foam is EVA. It lasts a lot and won't crack.
    We'll roll up a foam mattress.
    Or go for the folding option. These have a perforated wave profile. Holds more heat, more comfortable.
    The advantage of foam mattresses is price + durability, light weight.
    The disadvantage is the large volume after packing and the lower level of comfort.

    Inflatable - ensures high comfort, relatively light weight and small volume after packing.

    The greater the thickness, the more air. And you sleep better.
    But the surface under the mattress is important. If you puncture it, you're at 0 cm thickness, lying directly on the ground.
    Some models have an insulating foam layer. It will increase the insulation, but also the weight and the volume.

    Self-inflating - unlike inflatables, they also have insulating foam in the construction. Best to protect against cold.

    Compared to inflatable models, they can usually be slept on even if punctured.
    The mattress inflates itself to 50%, you have to inflate the rest.
    Better with a pump, because we breathe in moist air through our mouths. There's a risk of mould. Even the thermal insulation is dry air.

    More info.

    Inflatable and self-inflating mattresses are moulded. They save space and weight where you'll appreciate it.
    Foam mattresses don't compress much and their thermal resistance is constant.
    With inflatables and self-inflatables, the thickness can fluctuate depending on inflation or load. The insulation is less at the point of indentation.
    It is important to take good care of your mattress to ensure it lasts a long time. Make sure that the mattress is always clean and dry, especially after use in rain or damp conditions. It is a good idea to store foam and inflatable mattresses unfolded so that the material retains its elasticity.
    Finally, it's not just about the mattress. The sleeping bag also plays an important role.

    Pack your mattress, pack your sleeping bag and put on your Faramugo jacket. Get out there! Dreams are best when they are lived to the fullest!