Therm-a-Rest

Therm-a-Rest is a pioneering American brand and a leader in the outdoor sleeping equipment market, primarily known for inventing the first self-inflating camping mat in the 1970s. In mountaineering terminology, the term is often used generically to refer to any high-quality insulating sleeping mat or pad used for camping.

Origin and History

• Founded: Established in 1971 in the United States by former Boeing engineers and mountaineering enthusiasts.
• Original Innovation: They combined open-cell foam with an airtight valve to create a mat that inflated itself upon opening the valve.
• Parent Company: Part of the Cascade Designs group of companies.

Main Products

• Sleeping Mats

Self-Inflating : These combine expandable internal foam with air chambers. They offer an excellent balance between comfort and thermal insulation.

Inflatables (NeoAir Line): These use internal structures of triangular air cells (without heavy foam). They are the preferred choice for hikers because they are ultralight and compact.

• Closed-cell foam sleeping mats: Classic models like the Z Lite or Ridgerest. They are puncture-resistant, very affordable, and withstand the harshest conditions.
• Camping accessories: Travel pillows, sleeping bags, and thermal blankets