Hammock sleeping bags are a great addition to your hammock camping setup.
For too long now, I have been using my general camping sleeping pad which is great for tent camping or sleeping under the stars.
Oftentimes I have discovered from personal experience though that my sleeping pad slips out of position and it just makes the entire hammock camping process more difficult.
So I spent today researching the best sleeping pads for hammock camping that contour to your hammock which stops it from moving around too much while you sleep.
The shape and design features of hammock-specific pads can help reduce slippage inside the hammock. This can prevent scenarios where you wake up in the middle of the night to find your pad has shifted out from under you.
I even noticed that some hammock brands might offer sleeping pads that integrate seamlessly with their hammock systems. This could include features like attachment points, sleeves, or straps that help keep the pad in place.
Yes, underquilts are the perfect solution to stop these ‘under-drafts’ of wind from making you cold at night. But a good hammock sleeping pad can just about solve this issue. You want to also make sure that you don’t fully inflate the pad when using it in a hammock.
Also if you are still in the market for a hammock we did some research on some of the best hammocks for bike camping that might be of some interest. But it is worth considering getting a hammock that has double layers (like the Warbonnet Blackbird XLC) so you can put the sleeping pad between the layers, if your sleeping pad fits, this stops it from moving about.
Might also be worth considering getting a sleeping pad with sleeping pad sleeves. So it stays with you and your sleeping pad. Gets rid of the slippage issues, and no matter how much you move the pad stays underneath you.
Why you should trust my perspective?
I mean you do not have to, I just want to provide as much value as I can
I have over 8 years of bike camping experience, the majority of that in hammock!
- I have ridden my bike across 6 countries so far and a lot of trips where I live here in Australia!
- Camping in some of the most amazing wild places you could imagine
- Watch my adventure here!
- Lover of bikes and passionate about researching, riding, and writing about adventure-focused bicycles. That’s why I started this blog!
- Have helped over 1 million people find, compare, and decide on their dream adventure bike! Nothing means more to me than getting more people out into the world on two wheels!
This article will touch on different aspects of hammock sleeping pads
We’ll compare characteristics like:
- Price
- R-value and optimized thickness
- Weight
- Packability
- Other features that make these great sleeping pads for hammock sleeping
What are the best hammock sleeping pads?
The best hammock sleeping pad is going to come down to personal preference. All hammock sleeping pads vary in size, weight, and other characteristics.
Do you need a higher R-value for camping in winter conditions?
Ideally, you want to hammock camp in spring or summertime.
But having an often thick and higher R-value sleeping pad is ideal for hammock camping as the wind can make you cold in a hammock.
But these sleeping pads offer great options for all campers and types of camping needs.
There were only two main hammock sleeping pads that we could find available on the market, we listed those first in the list. Then the rest are hammocks that boast hammock-friendly features.
Klymit Hammock V
- Weight: 36 oz (1021 g)
- Material: Durable 20D polyester
- Unfolded Size: 78 x 47 x 2.5 inches (198 x 119 x 6 cm)
- Packed Down: 8 x 5.5 inches (20 x 14 cm)
- R-Value: 4.4 (Moderate levels of insulation and suitable for typical temperature ranges of +10C to -10C)
- Warranty: They offer a limited lifetime warranty, which speaks volumes about their confidence in the product.
I recently stumbled upon a gem of a product that has the potential to make your hammock camping nights a whole lot cozier. Let me share some details about it. A hammock-specific sleeping pad!
First off, it’s packed with Klymalite Synthetic insulation. Without getting too techy, this advanced insulation works wonders in slowing down air transfer within the pad, ensuring that you stay toasty even in cooler temperatures.
What I appreciate most is its universal fit. Whether you swing in a standard single hammock or sprawl out in a double-wide, this pad’s got you covered.
Speaking of staying in place, the pad cleverly features non-slip zones both at the top and the bottom. Say goodbye to those annoying middle-of-the-night adjustments; your sleeping bag and pad will stay exactly where you want them.
Now, I’ve tried a fair share of sleeping pads over the years, but this one truly stands out with its ergonomic design. It gently wraps around you, creating this lovely barrier that shields you from the cold. This is probably due to its unique V-Chamber Design which also limits unnecessary air movement, amplifying warmth.
For those concerned about weight while bikepacking and camping – no worries here. Weighing in at just about 36oz (yep, just a tad over 2 pounds or about 1 kg) and packing down to a mere 8 x 5.5 inches, it’s an absolute breeze to carry.
Kammok Insulated Pongo Pad
- Included: Insulated Pongo™ pad, Stuff sack, Hammock accessory kit, Patch repair kit
- Inflated Dimensions: L 77 x W 27 – 20 x H 3 in (L 195.5 x W 68.6 – 50.8 x H 7.6 cm)
- Packed Dimensions: L 6 x W 6 x H 9.5 in (L 15.25 x W 15.25 x H 24.1 cm)
- Trail Weight: 1 lb 8 oz (24 oz)
- Total Packed Weight: 1 lb 10 oz (26 oz)
- Sleeping Pad Shape: Tapered mummy
- R-Value: 3.1
- Climate: Three-season
Another sleeping pad that has a design suited specifically for hammock camping is the Pongo Pad by Kammok.
The Pongo’s signature tapered design. Isn’t your run-of-the-mill pad. With its expansive shoulder box, it cleverly pushes out the hammock fabric, granting you more room and achieving that elusive flat lay.
And if you’ve ever battled the midnight slide of a disobedient sleeping pad, rest easy. Its savvy non-slip base and accompanying accessory kit guarantee an anchored slumber.
Imagine a three-season wonder tailored specifically for hammock enthusiasts. This isn’t merely about cradling you in warmth during those slightly chilly nights; it’s about redefining airborne comfort.
Masterfully woven with bluesign® approved materials and the pioneering Pinneco Mantle™ synthetic insulation, this pad has a knack for banishing cold spots from your elevated repose. So, even when the night’s breeze tries to seep in, you’re resting atop a shield of full-length insulated perfection.
But as any seasoned hammock camper will tell you, comfort isn’t just about the chill factor. Whether you’re sprawled on your back counting stars or curled up, serenaded by night’s lullaby, those morning aches are now tales of old.
Plus, for those who like a little extra wiggle room up high, this pad stretches its generous confines from your shoulders down to your toes.
Nemo Switchback
- Type: Insulated/Regular
- Weight: 14.5 oz or 415 g
- Packed Dimensions: 20.0 x 5.0 x 5.5 in (or 51 x 13 x 14 cm)
- R-Value: 2
- Thickness: 0.9 in
- Shape: Rectangular
- Color: Sunset Orange
- Materials: Closed-cell Foam & Low-Emissivity Film; PE Foam
Foam sleeping pads make perfect sleeping pads for hammock camping. As often air cell sleeping pads often shift where your body’s weight is positioned and foam is often more comfortable when mounted in a hammock compared to inflated sleeping pads.
NEMO’s Switchback sleeping pad is a refreshing take on the traditional closed-cell foam pads, and it’s clear they’ve taken some innovative leaps forward.
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes this pad special. At its core, Switchback boasts hexagonal nodes, a design inspired by NEMO’s dual-density Axiotomic™ foam. These nodes have been molded to form Hypnoelastic™ zones – a fancy way of saying they adapt to your body, striking that sweet spot between support and plush comfort.
Heat retention is crucial for outdoor sleeping, and NEMO has ensured you’re covered. The pad employs a metallized thermal film layer, purposefully reflecting your body heat back to you. And with 15% more space dedicated to trapping this warmth, Switchback claims its spot as a frontrunner for warmth and comfort in its category.
- Hexagonal nesting pattern, specifically designed to offer increased plushness.
- Efficient tooling that curtails wasted space when folded, ensuring a compact packed size.
- The unique node design promotes maximum heat retention.
- A blend of Axiotomic foam that balances comfort and support.
- Designed for diverse adventures, be it a thrilling mountaineering trip, a long thru-hike, or a simple budget camp-out.
- A folding panel for a hassle-free setup and pack-down.
- You can either use it solo for a lightweight journey or pair it up with another pad for those exceptionally cold nights.
- Last but not least, it’s backed by NEMO’s lifetime warranty. A testament to its durability.
Thermarest Z Lite Sol
Another foam sleeping pad that was popular with fellow hammock campers.
The ultralight community has long been fans of the Original Z Lite, but this new rendition has a few tricks up its sleeve.
First and foremost, it boasts a reflective ThermaCapture™ coating. What’s the big deal? Well, it effectively harnesses radiant heat, boosting warmth by a commendable 15%. Combine that with its unique heat-trapping dimples, and you’re looking at an R-Value of 2.0. This makes the Z Lite SOL versatile – great on its own during those balmy nights or as an added layer for those brisk winter evenings.
The foam used is genuinely thoughtful. It’s plush on top (hello, comfy sleep!) and rugged at the bottom, ensuring the pad stands the test of time.
- Advanced Warmth: The ThermaCapture™ layer gives back some much-needed radiant warmth. Remember, reflective side up!
- Travel-friendly: Its folding nature makes packing a breeze.
- Durability: Made from a special closed-cell foam, this pad is built to last.
- Layering Potential: Boost the R-Value and shield yourself from pesky punctures by pairing the Z Lite SOL with another sleeping pad.
- Versatility: Beyond a sleeping pad, it’s a seat, a makeshift mosquito swatter, and more. It’s all about getting creative with it!
NeoAir XLite
The XLite NXT has taken the stellar legacy of its forerunner and added even more spice. One of the standout refinements is the synergy between their pioneering Triangular Core Matrix™ construction and the heat-reflecting ThermaCapture™ technology. The result? A whopping 83% reduction in noise compared to the previous model. If you’re a light sleeper, this is music to your ears.
A 3-inch thickness combined with horizontal baffles means you’re in for an absolute treat in terms of comfort. And let’s talk specs: with a weight of just 370 g (13 oz) for the Regular size and a solid 4.5 R-value, this pad is ready for adventures across all seasons.
- Quiet Nights: A significant reduction in noise ensures undisturbed sleep.
- Supreme Comfort: With its 3-inch profile, you can adjust its firmness to match your preference, ensuring the coziest rest possible.
- All-Weather Companion: With its 4.5 R-value, the XLite NXT has you covered, whether it’s balmy summer nights or chilly winter evenings.
- Packability: This pad compresses to roughly the size of a standard 1L water bottle—perfect for ultralight enthusiasts!
- WingLock™ Valve: A game-changer, ensuring swift inflation and deflation while still allowing fine-tuned adjustments for that perfect firmness.
- Sizing Options: With four different sizes, you can pick one that seamlessly fits into your sleep setup.
Nemo Tensor
- Weight: 0 lb, 14.5 oz (410 g)
- Packed Size: 8.0 x 3.0 inches dia
- R-Value: 4.2 (perfect for a variety of climates)
- Thickness: 3 inches (sleep like royalty!)
- Color: Torch (stylish and functional)
- Material: 100% PCR PU Polyester, Bluesign Certified
The Tensor by NEMO, is a game-changer in the world of hammock sleeping pads.
So, what sets the Tensor™ apart? Well, its innovative Spaceframe™ baffle construction is where the magic happens. Imagine having a pad that evenly distributes your weight, eliminating those annoying springy sensations.
A popular option with fellow hammock campers
- Eco-conscious Material: Made from 100% bluesign® certified recycled 20D polyester. Sustainability and comfort? Yes, please!
- Peaceful Sleep: With a 3-inch thick cushion, you’ll feel like you’re on a cloud without that typical “waterbed” sensation. And for folks who like their silence, the insulated versions of the Tensor™ are noticeably quieter, thanks to their dual layers of Thermal Mirror™ metallized film.
- Quick & Easy Setup: The Vortex™ pump sack is a life-saver, especially when you’re up in the mountains. Plus, the Laylow™ valve is seamless, intuitive, and lets you adjust the firmness to your heart’s content.
- Eco-Packaging: The packaging isn’t just an afterthought. Made from recycled materials, it’s also 100% recyclable.
Sea To Summit Comfort Plus
The Comfort Plus Insulated Air Sleeping Mat. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill sleeping mat; it stands out in a crowd.
Firstly, it’s worth noting that this mat was honored with the 2015 Backpacker Editors’ Choice award, which speaks volumes about its quality.
What genuinely sets it apart is its innovative Air Sprung Cell technology combined with a dual-layer design.
This ensures that even if you find yourself on an uneven surface, you can adjust the mat’s base for optimal comfort.
And get this, if you ever have the misfortune of puncturing one layer, the other remains functional until you can sort it out. The blend of Thermolite® and Exkin Platinum® insulation ensures that cold grounds won’t be an issue.
You’ll be snug as a bug! One feature I truly appreciate is its user-friendly multi-function valve, which when paired with the included Airstream Pump™/stuff sack, makes inflation and deflation almost effortless.
Built with a durable combination of 30D/40D nylon and treated with an anti-microbial layer, it promises both longevity and a mold-free experience. They’ve even thrown in a PillowLock system to ensure your pillow doesn’t slide away.
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