Naturehike Ultralight Sleeping Mat Review (2024 version)

A good night’s sleep is essential for any outdoor adventure, and the Naturehike Inflatable Sleeping Pad delivers on that promise with a remarkable blend of comfort, warmth, and portability. If you’re serious about your camping experience, having the right sleeping pad can make all the difference.

Naturehike is becoming a well known brand among budget aware hikers, but their sleeping pads have not been very impressive so far. Their pads have mostly been of the thinner uninsulated kind, which were not very comfortable and would not keep you warm (yep, I tested it in Iceland and not impressed…).

HOWEVER, now they have just released a series of inflatable insulated sleeping pads ranging from an R-value of 3 to in impressive 8.8!

I went for the middle ground of 4.6 though, which is enough for most people in most regions of the world as it will keep you warm even in winter (-20C or -4F). In addition, this nicely looking army green pad is also one of the least expensive of the series, going for around 50$ or 40£ and even lower on sale.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Upon unboxing the Naturehike Inflatable Sleeping Pad, I was immediately impressed by its compact design and the soft, durable finish.

The claimed weight of 570 grams turned out to be a bit optimistic; it actually weighs around 790 grams, which is still reasonable for a quality inflatable pad. The construction features eight internal layers, each lined with aluminum foil to minimize heat loss, providing an R-value of 4.6—ideal for conditions down to -20°C (-4°F).

I also measured the pad, as some people have complained about the size not being accurate (read: smaller) than advertised, but that was not the case here. It was exactly the length of 196cm and width of 64cm and thickness of 8cm, which is really big actually.

Real-World Performance: A 3-Night Test

I recently took the Naturehike Inflatable Sleeping Pad on a three-night adventure during early autumn, with temperatures dipping to -2°C (28°F). The pad performed admirably, keeping me warm and cozy throughout the night.

The R-value proved effective, as I didn’t experience any cold spots, thanks to the thermal insulation that traps warmth efficiently.

The ergonomic design cradled my body beautifully, with a multi-point support system that evenly distributed pressure. I found myself sinking into the soft cushioning, a welcome departure from the hard ground that often disrupts sleep on camping trips.

Also, contrary to some of the older pads from Naturehike, this pad did not loose any noticeable air pressure, even after I left it inflated for 3 days!

Comfort and Support

One key feature of the Naturehike pad is its included stuff sack, which doubles as an inflation pump. This simplifies inflation (although I often use a tiny electric pump), allowing you to inflate the pad quickly without the risk of moisture entering.

However, some users might miss having a dedicated pillow; while the pad itself is comfortable, you might want to bring a separate pillow for optimal neck support.

Some people (on Reddit) complain about touching the ground when sleeping on their side, but I did not experience that at all. Even when sitting straight up on the pad, I did not touch the ground!

Weight and Packability

The Naturehike Inflatable Sleeping Pad is well-suited for backpackers and campers who prioritize weight and compactness. When packed down, it takes up minimal space in your bag, making it an excellent choice for longer hikes or multi-day trips. Although it’s slightly heavier than the advertised weight, it still fits comfortably into most packs.

Inflation and Deflation Ease

The double-layer air valve is a standout feature, making inflation and deflation incredibly efficient. To inflate, you simply use the stuff sack, open the outer valve, and watch it fill up. Deflating is just as easy—open the inner valve, and the air releases rapidly. This setup allows you to spend less time on logistics and more time enjoying your adventure.

Other similar pads to consider

The Naturehike Inflatable Sleeping Pad competes with several well-known brands, providing a strong value proposition against more expensive models like those from Trekology, Big Agnes, Nemo, and Therm-A-Rest.

• Trekology UL80 ($40): This budget-friendly pad weighs approximately 750 grams and has a lower R-value of 1.6. While it’s lightweight and affordable, it lacks the warmth and comfort of the Naturehike, making it less suitable for cold conditions.
• Big Agnes Q-Core SLX ($150): This pad boasts a thickness of 3 inches and an R-value of 4.5. While it offers superior insulation and comfort, the price point is significantly higher. Additionally, its weight and bulk may not appeal to ultralight backpackers.
• Nemo Tensor ($160): With a unique Spaceframe baffle design for enhanced stability and a quiet sleep experience, the Nemo Tensor features an R-value of 3.5. However, it comes at a much higher cost and is still less portable than the Naturehike.
• Therm-A-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT ($190): Known for its premium comfort, this pad has an R-value of 4.5 and packs down to a very small size. But again, you pay a premium for this, and while it offers excellent warmth, it may not justify the higher cost compared to the Naturehike pad for casual campers.

Variations of the Naturehike Pad

Naturehike also offers additional variations of their inflatable sleeping pads, catering to different needs:

• R8.8 Version: With a remarkable R-value of 8.8, this model is suitable for extreme cold, rated for temperatures below -30°C (-22°F). It has a thickness of 12 cm, providing luxurious cushioning and excellent insulation. At around 570 grams, it remains lightweight for its performance.
• R5.8 Version: This pad offers a balance of comfort and portability, with an R-value of 5.8 and a thickness of 7 cm. Weighing about 590 grams, it’s ideal for cooler conditions while remaining manageable for backpacking.

If you go to AliExpress, the pad comes in different form factors and colors!

R 5.5 R 3.5/4.5 R 8.8

Types of Insulation: How the Naturehike Compares

When choosing a sleeping pad, understanding the types of insulation used is crucial for optimizing comfort and warmth.

The Naturehike Inflatable Sleeping Pad employs a unique multi-layer design featuring aluminum foil in its construction, which plays a significant role in its thermal efficiency. Let’s delve into the different insulation types and see how Naturehike stacks up against other popular pads.

Types of Insulation in Sleeping Pads

1. Air Chambers with Reflective Layers:
   • The Naturehike pad utilizes an aluminum foil layer between its air chambers. This design not only adds insulation but also reflects body heat back to you, enhancing warmth without adding bulk. The R-value of 3.5 makes it suitable for moderately cold conditions.
2. Open-Cell Foam:
   • Some sleeping pads, such as the Nemo Tensor, use open-cell foam insulation, which provides excellent comfort and warmth. While these pads tend to be heavier, they often feature an R-value around 3.5 to 4.5, making them suitable for cooler weather. However, they can compress over time, leading to reduced insulation effectiveness.
3. Self-Inflating Foam:
   • Brands like Big Agnes often utilize self-inflating designs that combine open-cell foam with air chambers. This provides good insulation while allowing for easier packing and inflation. Their R-values generally range from 4 to 5, providing solid performance in colder conditions.
4. Synthetic Fill:
   • Some pads, like the Therm-A-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT, use synthetic insulation that retains warmth even when wet. These pads offer higher R-values (typically 4.5) but tend to be bulkier when packed. They provide excellent durability and resilience but may come at a higher price point.
5. Hybrid Designs:
   • Hybrid models, like the Trekology UL80, combine air chambers with foam to offer a balance of lightweight comfort and insulation. However, their lower R-value (1.6) makes them less ideal for colder temperatures.

Downsides and Considerations

While the Naturehike Inflatable Sleeping Pad excels in many areas, it’s important to be aware of a few downsides.

Additionally, care must be taken to avoid punctures during setup, as with any inflatable gear. The outer material feels durable, but rugged environments can pose a risk.

Verdict

The Naturehike Inflatable Sleeping Pad stands out as an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a balance of comfort, warmth, and portability without breaking the bank. Its thoughtful design, impressive performance in cold conditions, and competitive price make it a strong contender in the market.

For anyone venturing into colder climates or embarking on multi-day hikes, this pad is a solid investment. It has certainly earned a place in my gear lineup, and I confidently recommend it to fellow adventurers seeking a peaceful night’s sleep in the great outdoors.