OEX Flux 5.0 Sleeping Mat with Drawstring Pump Bag, Lightweight Inflatable Sleeping Mat for Camping, Ideal for Hiking, Backpacking and Wild Camping, Camping Equipment, Blue, One Size

Product Information

Though Alpkit say 'self-inflating' we'd suggest the Airo 180, in common with most foam-filled mats of this sort, does actually need a fair bit of puff to help it on its way.

Because the two layers can be pressurized independently, the top layer can be inflated to your personal comfort, while maintaining a high-pressure base layer for protection from rough or uneven terrain. The horizontal baffles won't be everyone's favourite, and it is very loud, but it doesn't feel like a mat you have to handle with too much care.

in Nemo’s high-performing tensor, which is ideal for campers who like to venture far from the madding crowds with their tent. Yes it is only a 3 season mat but with the ThermaCapture and Triangular Core Matrix inbuilt in the Trekker it will keep you nice and warm. Yes it is only a 3 season mat but the fact it can still be comfortable to sleep on even in -20°C temperatures just says it all really. In cold weather it doesn't matter how good your sleeping bag is; without sufficient insulation underneath too, you are likely to suffer. The comfort deluxe is ideal for tents but was actually designed with campervans in mind – it’d work brilliantly in both.

Its shiny surface makes the Airo very slippy on a groundsheet or sleeping bag, so if pitched on a slope you might well wake up against the wall of the tent. The Downmat inflates/deflates via a single valve, a robust and effective system that Exped have used for years (we've always liked it). Sierra Design’s shadow mountain mat props you over 7cm off the ground, which really helps with all-night comfort, especially if you often toss and turn, and at 410g is still compact enough to travel anywhere.Overall verdict: If you are after the best self-inflating 4 season sleeping mat then this is the one for you. If you want something for general camping and less rigorous 2-3 season hill use, and don't fancy splashing too much cash, it's a winner. Because it's a flat surface rather than ridged or dimpled, like the other mats on test, you can use all of the space on the Airo, which may help it feel larger than it really is.

Ultralight and easy to pack into the dinkiest daysack, this mat unrolls to provide great comfort and warmth in the wild and holds you 8cm off the ground, which really helps side sleepers get a comfy night’s sleep. The Trekker is a perfect mat if you are looking for something that will keep you warm but also comfortable. This mummy-shaped design reduces unnecessary weight and packed size, and if you're on the move every night or only out on a short trip then that's a definite plus. We also like that you can attach a Sea to Summit pillow to the mat so that it stays put during the night. These not only raise you off the ground but provide insulation and help you sleep comfortably all night long.

We would not recommend this mat as a first choice for anyone aiming to camp regularly in temperatures around or below freezing point; it's better viewed as a budget choice for general valley camping and less-rigorous hill use.