10 bestSleeping Pad R Valuesof January 2026

R-Value

The R-value of a sleeping pad indicates its thermal resistance, or how well it insulates you from the cold ground. This is important because the ground can draw heat away from your body, making you feel cold during the night. R-values typically range from 1 to 10, with higher numbers offering better insulation. For warm weather camping, an R-value of 1 to 3 is usually sufficient. For three-season use, look for an R-value between 3 and 5. For winter camping or extremely cold conditions, an R-value of 5 or higher is recommended. To choose the right R-value for you, consider the lowest temperatures you expect to encounter and your personal comfort level with cold. If you tend to sleep cold, you might want to opt for a higher R-value than the conditions strictly require.