Finding the perfect balance between comfort and weight for my pack is always a challenge. I’ve tried everything from foam pads to self-inflating mattresses, but I’ve always been drawn to the ultralight inflatable options. So, when I came across the Naturehike Nylon TPU Sleeping Air Pad, I was excited to see if it could deliver a decent night’s sleep without taking up valuable space or adding significant weight. It promises a lot in a small package, but can it truly be a reliable companion for a night on the trail?
The good
- Weighs only 570g
- Packs away extremely small
- Quick and easy to inflate/deflate
- Comes with a repair kit
- Great for minimalist trips
The not-so-good
- Thin material can be fragile
- Not much padding for comfort
- Best for use on soft ground
What You’re Getting
An ultralight and compact inflatable sleeping pad, perfect for backpacking and hiking, featuring a durable nylon and TPU construction and a fast inflation/deflation valve.
Quick Specs
If you’re ready to dive into the details, here are the key specs for this product. The table below gives you a clear and quick overview of everything you need to know.
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Naturehike |
| Model | Nylon TPU Sleeping Pad |
| Weight | 570g |
| Dimensions | 198cm x 59cm x 6.5cm |
| Packed Size | Varies with compression |
| Material | Nylon, TPU |
| Included | Storage bag, repair kit |
First impressions
Pulling the Naturehike sleeping pad out of its small sack, I was genuinely shocked at how compact it was. It felt barely bigger or heavier than a standard water bottle. The grey colour is practical, and the nylon material has a smooth, soft feel to it, which was a nice surprise. I was most curious about the inflation process.
I had my Flextailgear Tiny Pump ready to go, and it inflated the pad in a matter of seconds. As it filled up, the 6.5cm thickness became apparent, promising a decent buffer from the ground. My first thought was that this would be the perfect backup pad for longer trips or a primary pad for a backpacking adventure where every cubic centimetre and gram matters. It felt almost impossibly small for a full-size sleeping pad.
Materials & Build Quality
The pad is constructed from a nylon fabric with a TPU inner layer, a common combination for inflatable sleeping pads. The nylon feels thin, which is the key to its lightweight nature, but it also means you need to be mindful of where you lay it down. You definitely wouldn’t want to use this directly on a bed of sharp sticks or rocks.
The valves are a simple two-piece design, one for inflation and one for rapid deflation. Both feel well-integrated and secure. I appreciated that it comes with a small repair kit, which shows that the brand understands the nature of ultralight gear and the potential for punctures. The seams appear well-welded, and I didn’t notice any leaks during my time with it, which is the most important test for an inflatable pad.
Ergonomics & Weight
This is where the Naturehike sleeping pad really shines. At just 570g, it’s one of the lightest pads I’ve ever used. The difference in my pack’s total weight was noticeable immediately. When it comes to ergonomics, the 198cm x 59cm size is generous enough for most people to get a comfortable night’s sleep. I’m able to toss and turn a bit without sliding off.
The 6.5cm thickness provides enough cushion to keep me off the ground, but it’s not a plush, luxurious mattress. It’s firm, and while it will work well on softer ground like grass or sand, it’s not going to completely erase the discomfort of sleeping on rocks or bumpy terrain. The small pack size is its most impressive feature and makes it a no-brainer for minimalist packing.
Performance & Features
The primary function of any sleeping pad is to provide insulation and comfort, and the Naturehike pad does both reasonably well, especially for its weight. I found it to be a good insulator on mild nights, preventing the cold from the ground from seeping through. The air baffles provide decent support, but as mentioned, it’s not a miracle worker on rough ground. The inflation valve is a simple yet effective design. It has a one-way valve to prevent air from escaping as you inflate it, which is a great feature.
Deflation is a breeze; you just pop open the larger valve, and the air rushes out, allowing you to quickly roll and pack it up. The included storage bag is well-sized and has a drawstring closure. Overall, it performs as a reliable, no-frills air mattress that prioritises packability above all else.
Gear That Complements Your Camping Setup
Pairing your sleeping pad with other ultralight gear can make your whole setup much more efficient. If you’re carrying this for its low weight, you’ll also want a lightweight sleeping bag. We have plenty of reviews on different types, from ultralight quilts to compact down bags.
Additionally, to make inflation even easier, consider a small, battery-powered air pump, which can save you a ton of time and breath after a long day of hiking. And to truly make your campsite comfortable, be sure to check out our reviews of ultralight pillows and hammocks, which can be the difference between a restless night and a restorative sleep.
The Naturehike Nylon TPU Sleeping Air Pad is a fantastic piece of gear for the weight-conscious adventurer.
While it isn’t the most padded or robust pad on the market, it excels in portability and ease of use. It’s an ideal choice for those who need a reliable and compact sleeping pad without the bulk and weight of traditional mattresses. The quick inflation and deflation, along with its minimal packed size, make it a true winner for anyone looking to lighten their load on a hiking or cycling trip. This is a sleeping pad that performs exactly as advertised, delivering a great night’s sleep for its size and weight.
This sleeping pad is best for minimalist backpackers, cycle tourists, and fast-and-light hikers. It is perfect for those who are willing to trade a little bit of plush comfort for a significant reduction in weight and pack size. It also makes for an excellent emergency or backup pad to keep in your daypack for spontaneous overnighters.
For its price, the Naturehike inflatable sleeping pad offers a good value proposition. While it may not be as durable as some high-end alternatives, its ultralight design and functionality make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who values portability. It's a reliable and effective pad that proves you don't have to spend a fortune to get a good night's sleep in the great outdoors.
