Sleeping mats for side sleepers

[The Cone of Silence]

Bushwalking/ Postie Bike touring.

Everything I've ever used, from Thermarests to the hand-pump inflating ones hurts my hips and shoulders at some point in the night because I sleep on my side. Once the pain is in both hips, that's it, no more sleep. For some reason I just can't sleep on my back. Unless I've been at the red wine and I'm sitting in front of the TV.

So, who else is a side sleeper and what inflatable mattresses do you use?

[kogvos]

Have a look at the Exped DownMat 9. They're a pricey piece of kit but really lovely to sleep on and they pack down really small. There is also a DownMat 7 which is thinner (7 cm thick versus 9 cm) but still very good. It might just not be enough for you on your side.

They are full of down (hence the name) and you pump them up with your hands to your desired "firmness". They are also a great insulator from the cold ground.

I'm happy to show anyone if they're "around". I've got a few versions, including an extra long one for my freakish long legs and a short one for my grotty child.

They are frequently on sale at various places so hunt around before buying.

[bitdist]

I sleep on my side and use a neoair and have no problems. Its also very light and folds up small

[The Cone of Silence]

Have a look at the Exped DownMat 9. They're a pricey piece of kit but really lovely to sleep on and they pack down really small. There is also a DownMat 7 which is thinner (7 cm thick versus 9 cm) but still very good. It might just not be enough for you on your side.



I have a Downmat 7 currenlty and while I love the pack-down size and lightness, it's not enough in the thickness dept when I'm sleeping - I even use a thermarest underneath it but still get sore. I wonder if the 9 makes that much difference...might be worth a try.

Cheers

[roverrescue]

get a hammock ;)
I feared I could never sleep in one ... until I tried it
Ultimate in lightweight camping. With a 500gm underquilt I have all my sleeping gear for lightweight trips at 1.5kg and its good for down to sub 5 temps (all I really need)

Most comfortable lightweight sleeping mat I ever experienced!

s

[kogvos]

I have a Downmat 7 currenlty and while I love the pack-down size and lightness, it's not enough in the thickness dept when I'm sleeping - I even use a thermarest underneath it but still get sore. I wonder if the 9 makes that much difference...might be worth a try.

Cheers
Definitely have a look at the 9. It's surprisingly thicker for just two centimetres more. Mountain Equipment in Kent St have them frequently. If not you can have a roll around on mine.

[kogvos]

get a hammock ;)
I feared I could never sleep in one ... until I tried it
Ultimate in lightweight camping. With a 500gm underquilt I have all my sleeping gear for lightweight trips at 1.5kg and its good for down to sub 5 temps (all I really need)

Most comfortable lightweight sleeping mat I ever experienced!

s
I've always feared turning up to a single tree and not knowing what to do! [emoji3]