The Exped Sleeping Mat range has been recently revamped, so we thought it would be a good idea to explain the new mat names and models to help you decide which Exped hike mat is best for you.
Naming scheme
Let's start with the name, as this tells you everything about the mat you are looking at.
The example we're going to use for this is the Exped Ultra 5R M Mummy. Let's dissect the name piece by piece.
Ultra - The first part of the name refers to the series of mats that it belongs to.
There are 3 series of mats in the new Exped range, Ultra, Dura, and Versa.
The Ultra mats are the lightest mats in the range and are made using 20D ripstop polyester. They include an UL Pumpbag to inflate the bed.
The Dura mats are the most durable mats in the range and are made using 75D Polyester on the sleeping surface, and 170D Polyester on the base. These mats are much more puncture resistant. They also include an UL Pumpbag to inflate the bed.
The Versa mats sit in-between the other two and are more of an all-rounder mat. They are constructed from 75D Polyester on both surfaces. Some of these mats include the Pumpbag to inflate, whereas some of the warmer mats in this range include Exped's integrated Pump.
5R - This part of the name refers to the 'R-Value' of the mat (it's insulation rating)
These range from 1R, all the way up to 8R.
1R is a mat with no insulation inside. It only contains the air that was used to inflate it. These mats have no insulation value and are rated for summer use.
3R mats are filled with 60g/m2 of microfiber synthetic insulation. These mats are rated by Exped for 3-season use.
5R mats are also filled with the same microfibre insulation but there is more of it (160g/m2) which gives it a 4-season use rating.
6R mats vary and are either filled with microfiber insulation or down. These are also rated for 4-season use.
7R & 8R mats are both filled with 700 fill power down to provide more insulation. These mats are rated for 'Extreme Cold' use. 8R mats will provide more insulation than the 7R mats.
M - This part of the name refers to the size of the mat.
S means the mat is 'short' in size. These mats are the same width as a regular mat however only 160cm long.
M means that the mat is a 'regular' size. This size is standardised across brands and is 183cm long by 52cm wide.
MW means that the mat is the regular size in length, but Wider than a standard mat at 65cm in width.
LW refers to a mat that is both Longer and Wider than a regular size mat. These are 197cm long by 65cm wide.
Duo M is a regular size mat for two people. These mats are slightly tapered in shape and are 183cm long by 105cm wide (at their widest point).
Duo LW is a Longer and Wider mat for two people. These mats are also slightly tapered and 197cm long by 130cm (at the widest point).
Mummy - This part of the name tells you the shape of the mat
If there is nothing at the end of the mat, then it is Rectangular in shape. If however it says Mummy then the mat is tapered at the head and at the foot. This helps cut down on the weight and helps to fit in smaller tents that are restricted in floor size, however some people prefer sleeping on the rectangular shape with more room.
Common Exped mat terminology
Synmat Technology - Synthetic microfibre insulation (Texpedloft) which is used inside the mats to provide varying levels of insulation.
Downmat Technology - 700 fill power Down insulation which is used inside the mats to provide more insulation than the synthetic fibres.
Schnozzel Pumpbag - This is a pumpbag made to fit the valves on all Exped mats. This provides you with a rapid, moisture-free way to inflate your mattress - without lung power!
Integrated Pump - This is a small, self-inflating of the mattress located under the inflation valve on a few of the mats. This provides a simple way to inflate the mattress by squashing the self-inflating section down to push air into the rest of the mattress without using your breath
Choosing a mat
When it's time to pull the trigger on a new Exped sleeping mat, there are 3 main questions you should ask yourself to help make a decision on what mattress is best for your usage.
1. How much insulation do I need?
Try to consider what time of year and what conditions you will be using the mat in. If you tend to only go during Summer/Autumn/Spring and not during Winter, then you may consider choosing a mat with an R-value between 3-4, but if you tend to still get out during winter then you may need a warmer mat.
2. What size do I need? (And what shape)
Most people end up buying the standard 'M' size which is perfect for most people, however there are variations. You may consider a 'S' size or a 'mummy' shape mat if you were trying to go as lightweight as possible - or alternatively you may choose a larger 'LW' size if you wanted to prioritise comfort over weight.
3. How important is weight and pack size?
Are you counting every gram and trying to pack as light as possible into a smaller pack? Or is the mat for bike touring where size and weight isn't as big of a factor?
If being lightweight is the biggest priority, then the Ultra series might be the best option as they offer the same qualities as the other mats, in a much smaller and lighter package, however they aren't as durable. If you can afford a little extra space and weight to carry then the Versa or Dura may be a better option as they will be more durable and more puncture resistant.
We hope this quick rundown helps you pick the right Exped mat for you!
Leave a comment