Foam mats

Foldable, portable and thin, foam mats are practical for hiking and backpacking

In addition to self-inflating and inflatable mats, you can also find foam mats. More affordable, they are also recognized for their practicality and lightness for hiking and trekking. Rollable or foldable, usually accordion style, they are a little bit more cumbersome as they need to be fastened to your backpack with straps, on the side or bottom. The foam takes care or your comfort, in some cases you’ll find memory foam. Of course, the insulation is not as good as with other types of mattresses. The R-Value is generally between 1 and 2, meaning you can use your foam mat only in spring or summer conditions. They are especially remarkable for their ruggedness. Unlike inflatable and self-inflating mats, no need to worry about punctures. They are also more resistant to friction. Lots of people even use a foam mat under an inflatable pad for better insulation and protection. A foam mat is perfect if you’re looking for a lightweight solution and don’t worry too much about comfort.