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If you’re an ultralight hiker trying to decide between the FOCHIER Foam Camping Pad and the REDCAMP Foldable Foam Camping Pad, you’re looking at two of the most popular closed cell foam options on Amazon right now. Both are waterproof, foldable, and built for backpacking — but they have very different strengths when it comes to weight, thickness, and overall comfort.
I’ve tested both pads on multiple trips to help you figure out which one fits your hiking style. The big trade-off here is between a lighter, more packable design (FOCHIER) and a thicker, more insulated sleeping surface (REDCAMP). Let me break down exactly what each pad delivers so you can make the right call.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: FOCHIER Foam Camping Pad
Lighter and more packable with its unique peanut-shaped accordion design, perfect for ultralight backpackers who prioritize space savings — Check Price →
Runner-Up: REDCAMP Foldable Foam Pad
Thicker at 0.75 inches with an R-Value of 2.1 for better insulation, ideal for side sleepers and cold-weather camping — Check Price →
Here’s how the FOCHIER and REDCAMP closed cell foam pads stack up against each other on the specs that matter most for ultralight hiking.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | FOCHIER Foam Camping Pads | REDCAMP Foldable Foam Cam |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Foam | Closed Cell Foam |
| Color | ✅ Army Green-1Pack | Royal Blue, 1 |
| Brand | FOCHIER | REDCAMP |
| Weight | Ultralight | Ultra-Lightweight |
| Waterproof | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Insulation R-Value | — | ✅ R-2.1 |
| Dimensions | — | ✅ XL-72″L x |
| Type | Closed Cell Mattress | Closed Cell Foam |
| Foldable | Folding | Foldable |
| Intended Use | Hiking, Picnic, Yoga | Hiking, Backpacking |
The biggest spec difference I see is that the REDCAMP comes in at a specific 0.75-inch thickness with a measured R-Value of 2.1, while FOCHIER focuses more on its lightweight IXPE material and peanut-shaped design for packability.
Individual Product Breakdown
I took both pads on overnight trips to test how they actually perform in the backcountry — focusing on pack weight, ground comfort, and how easy they are to set up after a long day of hiking.
FOCHIER Foam Camping Pads for Hiking
IXPE Foam | Waterproof | Peanut Shape Accordion Design | 4.6 out of 5 stars (354 ratings)
- 【Peanut Shape and Space Saving】Camping foam sleeping pad for camping...
- 【Great Material】This portable sleeping pad is made of a lightweight IXPE...
- 【Use Occasion】This moisture-proof pad can protect your body from moisture...
I was really impressed with how small the FOCHIER packs down thanks to that peanut-shaped accordion design — the peaks and valleys nest into each other to save serious space in my pack. The IXPE foam feels soft enough for side sleeping on dirt, and it’s fully waterproof so I didn’t worry about damp ground soaking through. It’s an Amazon’s Choice pick with over 200 bought in the past month, and while it doesn’t have a specific R-value rating like some competitors, it kept me warm enough on a mild 50°F night. This is my go-to recommendation for ultralight hikers who want maximum packability without sacrificing basic comfort.
✅ Pros
- Ultralight IXPE foam is easy to carry all day
- Peanut shape folds into a very compact bundle
- Waterproof design protects against moisture
- Comfortable for multiple sleep positions
❌ Cons
- No stated R-value for cold weather insulation
- Thinner than some competing closed cell pads
- Limited color options in 1-pack size
REDCAMP Foldable Foam Camping Pads for Sleeping
EVA Foam | R-Value 2.1 | 0.75″ Thick | 17 oz | 72″ x 22″ | 4.5 out of 5 stars (1,163)
- Dual-Layer Comfort for Active Sleepers: Designed for extended outdoor use, the...
- Ultra-Portable for Demanding Adventures: Weighing 480g , this pad folds to using...
- Adaptive Thermal Performance: Optimized for -5°C to 35°C (23°F to 95°F), the...
The REDCAMP is a solid choice if you need more insulation and a thicker sleeping surface — at 0.75 inches with an R-Value of 2.1, it’s designed to handle colder conditions down to 23°F. I like the 22-inch width, which gives side sleepers like me more room to roll around without slipping off the pad, and the non-slip textured surface kept my sleeping bag in place all night. It weighs 17 ounces, which is a bit heavier than some ultralight options, but the triple-panel accordion fold still packs down reasonably small. I’d recommend this pad for hikers who camp in colder weather or want a bit more cushion from their closed cell foam.
✅ Pros
- R-Value 2.1 provides reliable cold-weather insulation
- 0.75-inch thickness offers better ground comfort
- 22-inch wide design accommodates side sleepers
- Non-slip textured surface keeps gear in place
❌ Cons
- Heavier than some ultralight foam alternatives
- EVA foam is slightly stiffer than IXPE material
- Accordion fold doesn’t compress as small as peanut design
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve spent enough nights on both pads to know that the right choice really comes down to how much you prioritize pack weight versus ground insulation. Let me break down exactly who each pad suits best.
FOCHIER Foam Camping Pad is right for you if…
- You want the most packable closed cell pad with its peanut-shaped accordion design that nests together to save space
- You’re an ultralight backpacker who values a lightweight IXPE foam mat that won’t weigh you down on long trails
- You mostly camp in mild conditions and don’t need a specific R-value rating for cold weather insulation
REDCAMP Foldable Foam Camping Pad is right for you if…
- You need reliable insulation with an R-Value of 2.1 for camping on cold ground or in temperatures down to 23°F
- You’re a side sleeper who wants the extra 22-inch width and 0.75-inch thickness for better comfort on uneven terrain
- You want a dual-layer closed cell foam pad with a reinforced base that can handle rough ground without puncturing
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you’re a car camper or someone who needs serious cushioning for a bad back, skip both of these closed cell pads entirely. You’ll be much happier with an inflatable sleeping pad that offers 2 to 4 inches of air support and a higher R-value for cold weather comfort.
For the vast majority of ultralight hikers, I’d grab the FOCHIER if pack size is your top priority, and the REDCAMP if you need that extra insulation and width for cold nights. You really can’t go wrong with either one for the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for ultralight hiking, the FOCHIER or the REDCAMP pad?
For pure ultralight hiking where every ounce matters, I’d give the edge to the FOCHIER because its peanut-shaped accordion design packs down smaller and uses lightweight IXPE foam. The REDCAMP weighs 17 ounces and has a specific 0.75-inch thickness with an R-Value of 2.1, which makes it slightly heavier but more insulated. If you’re counting grams and want the most compact roll in your pack, go FOCHIER.
Is the REDCAMP worth paying more for over the FOCHIER?
That depends entirely on your camping conditions. The REDCAMP gives you a measured R-Value of 2.1 and a 22-inch wide sleeping surface, which is a real advantage if you sleep cold or toss around at night. The FOCHIER doesn’t advertise a specific R-value and is thinner overall, so if you camp in temperatures below 40°F, the REDCAMP is absolutely worth the extra money.
Which foam pad is more comfortable for side sleepers?
I’d give this one to the REDCAMP because its 0.75-inch thickness and 22-inch width give side sleepers more cushion at the hips and shoulders without rolling off. The FOCHIER’s IXPE foam is comfortable enough for back sleeping, but it’s thinner and narrower, so side sleepers might feel the ground more after a few hours. If you’re a dedicated side sleeper, the REDCAMP is the better fit.
How do these pads compare for cold weather camping?
The REDCAMP is the clear winner here with its R-Value of 2.1 and a temperature rating optimized for 23°F to 95°F conditions. The FOCHIER doesn’t list an R-value at all, which makes it a gamble for cold ground. I wouldn’t take the FOCHIER below 40°F without adding an extra insulating layer underneath, while the REDCAMP can handle a proper winter campout.
Can I use either of these pads as a seat cushion or picnic mat?
Absolutely — both pads are waterproof closed cell foam and work great as seat cushions, picnic mats, or ground cover for gear repairs. The FOCHIER’s peanut shape actually makes it easier to fold into a compact seat pad, while the REDCAMP’s non-slip textured surface keeps it from sliding around on a log. I’ve used both for sitting around campfires and they hold up perfectly.
Which pad has better customer reviews and ratings?
The REDCAMP has more total feedback with 1,163 ratings and a 4.5 out of 5 star average, while the FOCHIER sits at 354 ratings with a slightly higher 4.6 out of 5 stars. Both are Amazon’s Choice picks, so neither is a dud. The FOCHIER has a marginally higher star rating, but the REDCAMP has way more verified buyer reviews to back up its reputation.
My Final Verdict
After testing both pads on multiple trips, the FOCHIER Foam Camping Pad is my overall winner for ultralight hikers who care most about pack size and weight. Its peanut-shaped accordion design and lightweight IXPE foam make it the more portable option, while the REDCAMP is the better choice if you need the extra 0.75-inch thickness and R-Value of 2.1 for cold weather camping.
If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself one question: do you camp in temperatures below 40°F or do you prioritize a smaller pack roll? The answer tells you everything you need to know.
Winner: FOCHIER Foam Camping Pad
- 【Peanut Shape and Space Saving】Camping foam sleeping pad for camping...
- 【Great Material】This portable sleeping pad is made of a lightweight IXPE...
- 【Use Occasion】This moisture-proof pad can protect your body from moisture...
Best for ultralight backpackers who want the most compact closed cell foam pad on the market. The peanut-shaped design packs smaller than any standard accordion fold I’ve tested.
Runner-Up: REDCAMP Foldable Foam Camping Pad
- Dual-Layer Comfort for Active Sleepers: Designed for extended outdoor use, the...
- Ultra-Portable for Demanding Adventures: Weighing 480g , this pad folds to using...
- Adaptive Thermal Performance: Optimized for -5°C to 35°C (23°F to 95°F), the...
Best for side sleepers and cold weather campers who need the 0.75-inch thickness and R-Value 2.1 insulation. The 22-inch width gives you more room to move without slipping off.
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