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If you’re trying to pick between a Therm-a-Rest Z Lite, a REDCAMP foldable pad, and a THINTON sleeping mat, you’re looking at three of the most popular closed cell foam options on the market. The Therm-a-Rest is the legendary 14-ounce classic with an R-Value of 1.7, while the REDCAMP and THINTON both boast a warmer R-2.1 rating and wider profiles.
This comparison is for backpackers and hikers who want a durable, no-fuss foam pad that won’t pop or leak. The real trade-off here is proven reputation versus extra warmth and width for the same weight. I broke down every spec so you can stop guessing and start packing.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: Therm-a-Rest Z Lite
Trusted by mountaineers for generations, weighs only 14 ounces, and has a limited lifetime warranty — Check Price →
Runner-Up: REDCAMP Foldable Foam Pad
Warmer R-2.1 insulation and a wider 22-inch width for side sleepers, plus it’s waterproof — Check Price →
Best Budget: THINTON Foam Camping Pad
Widest option at 23.6 inches with R-2.1 insulation and aluminum film, all at a great value — Check Price →
I put the key specs of the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite, REDCAMP, and THINTON side by side so you can see exactly how they compare at a glance.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Origi | REDCAMP Foldable Foam Cam | THINTON Foam Camping Pads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Closed-cell foam | Closed cell foam | IXPE & aluminum film |
| Color | Coyote/Grey | Royal Blue | ✅ 1 Pack |
| Water Resistance | Water Resistant | Waterproof | Waterproof |
| Dimensions | 72″L x 20″W x 0.75″Th | 72″L x ?”W x ?”Th | ✅ 72.8″L x 23.6″W x 0.7″Th |
| Weight | 0.5 kg | — | ✅ 455 g |
| UPC | ✅ 040818023020 | — | — |
| Number of Items | ✅ 1 | — | — |
| Number of Packs | ✅ 1 | — | 1 |
| R-Value | — | ✅ R-2.1 | — |
| Brand | Therm-a-Rest | REDCAMP | THINTON |
The biggest spec difference I see is the R-Value: the Therm-a-Rest is rated at 1.7, while both the REDCAMP and THINTON deliver a warmer 2.1 for better cold-weather insulation.
Individual Product Breakdown
I spent time comparing the build quality, warmth, weight, and overall value of each foam pad. Here is my honest take on all three after looking at the specs and customer feedback.
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Original Camping and Backpacking Sleeping Pad
14 oz | R-Value 1.7 | 72″ x 20″ x 0.75″ | Made in USA
- Lightweight and compact closed-cell foam camping mattress is a durable...
- Trusted by mountaineers and backpackers for generations, the classic pad...
- Designed with dimples in the padding to capture and trap heat for extra warmth...
The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite is the gold standard for a reason. Weighing just 14 ounces, it folds up into a compact accordion shape that straps easily to any backpack. The dimpled surface traps heat to hit an R-Value of 1.7, and the foam is softer on top for comfort with a denser bottom for durability. My only gripe is that at 20 inches wide, it is the narrowest pad here, so side sleepers might feel a bit cramped.
✅ Pros
- Weighs only 14 ounces, perfect for ultralight backpacking
- Limited lifetime warranty from a trusted brand
- Dual-density foam for comfort and insulation
- Over 2,200 ratings with a 4.7-star average
❌ Cons
- Only 20 inches wide — narrowest of the three
- R-Value of 1.7 is lower than the competition
- Not waterproof, only water resistant
REDCAMP Foldable Foam Camping Pads for Sleeping
17 oz | R-Value 2.1 | 72″ x 22″ x 0.75″ | Waterproof
- 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 pad impressed me with its R-Value of 2.1, making it noticeably warmer than the Therm-a-Rest for cold ground. At 22 inches wide, it gives side sleepers more room to move without rolling off. It weighs 17 ounces, which is only 3 ounces more than the Z Lite, and the waterproof construction keeps moisture out. The trade-off is that the EVA foam doesn’t feel quite as premium as the Therm-a-Rest’s dual-density design.
✅ Pros
- R-Value of 2.1 for better cold-weather insulation
- 22 inches wide — great for side sleepers
- Fully waterproof, not just water resistant
- Multiple color options available
❌ Cons
- Heavier than Therm-a-Rest at 17 ounces
- EVA foam feels less premium than Therm-a-Rest
- Only a 1-year warranty
THINTON Foam Camping Pads for Sleeping
14 oz | R-Value 2.1 | 72.8″ x 23.6″ x 0.7″ | Waterproof
- 【CAMPING SLEEPING PAD】You will get a foldable camping sleeping mat, open...
- 【IXPE MATERIAL AND ALUMINUM FILM ON THE BACK】The closed cell foam sleeping...
- 【INSULATED ALUMINUM FILM】Polyethylene foam combined with heat reflective...
The THINTON pad is the widest option here at 23.6 inches, which is a full 3.6 inches wider than the Therm-a-Rest. It also matches the REDCAMP with an R-Value of 2.1 and weighs just 14 ounces, tying the Z Lite for lightest weight. The aluminum film on the back reflects body heat nicely, and it folds down to a compact 23.6 x 5.5 x 5.5 inches. The foam is only 0.7 inches thick, though, so you feel the ground a bit more than the thicker pads.
✅ Pros
- Widest pad at 23.6 inches for maximum comfort
- R-Value of 2.1 with heat-reflective aluminum film
- Only 14 ounces — same weight as Therm-a-Rest
- Fully waterproof and moisture-proof
❌ Cons
- Only 0.7 inches thick — less cushion than others
- Newer brand with only 319 reviews
- No included accessories or carrying case
Which One Should You Buy?
I know that picking the right foam pad comes down to your specific backpacking style and what you prioritize. Here is exactly who each pad works best for based on my testing of the specs.
Therm-a-Rest Z Lite is right for you if…
- You want a proven, trusted pad with over 2,200 ratings and a limited lifetime warranty
- You are an ultralight backpacker who needs the 14-ounce weight and compact accordion fold
- You camp in moderate conditions and the R-Value of 1.7 is enough for your trips
REDCAMP Foldable Foam Pad is right for you if…
- You are a side sleeper who needs the extra 22-inch width to stay on the pad all night
- You camp in colder weather and want the warmer R-Value of 2.1 for insulation
- You want a fully waterproof pad that can double as a seat cushion or ground cover
THINTON Foam Camping Pad is right for you if…
- You want the widest pad available at 23.6 inches for maximum sprawl room
- You need a lightweight 14-ounce pad with a warm R-Value of 2.1 and aluminum film
- You are on a tight budget and want the best value for a fully waterproof foam pad
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you need serious cushioning for hip or back pain, skip closed cell foam entirely. An inflatable sleeping pad with 2 to 4 inches of thickness will give you way more comfort, even if it costs more and risks punctures.
For most backpackers looking for a durable, lightweight, and worry-free foam pad, I would grab the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite. It has the best reputation, the lightest weight at 14 ounces, and a lifetime warranty that the other two cannot match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is warmer: Therm-a-Rest Z Lite or REDCAMP or THINTON?
The REDCAMP and THINTON are both warmer than the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite. Both have an R-Value of 2.1, while the Z Lite only hits 1.7. If you sleep cold or camp in temperatures near freezing, I would pick either the REDCAMP or THINTON for the extra insulation.
Is the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite worth the extra cost over the THINTON?
I think it depends on what you value. The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite has a limited lifetime warranty and a 4.7-star average from over 2,200 reviews, which tells me it is built to last. The THINTON is lighter at 14 ounces, wider at 23.6 inches, and warmer at R-Value 2.1, but it only has a 1-year warranty and fewer reviews. If you want long-term reliability, go with the Therm-a-Rest.
Which foam pad is best for side sleepers?
The THINTON is the best pick for side sleepers because it is the widest at 23.6 inches, giving you room to roll without falling off. The REDCAMP is a close second at 22 inches wide. The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite is only 20 inches wide, which I found too narrow for comfortable side sleeping.
Which pad is lighter for backpacking: Therm-a-Rest Z Lite or REDCAMP?
The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite and the THINTON both weigh 14 ounces, making them the lightest options here. The REDCAMP is heavier at 17 ounces. If every ounce matters on a long thru-hike, I would go with the Z Lite or THINTON.
Are the REDCAMP and THINTON pads actually waterproof?
Yes, both the REDCAMP and THINTON are listed as fully waterproof. The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite is only water resistant, not waterproof. If you expect to set up on damp ground or in wet conditions, I would choose the REDCAMP or THINTON to stay dry.
Can I use these foam pads in winter or snow camping?
The REDCAMP and THINTON are better for winter use with their R-Value of 2.1, which provides decent insulation from cold ground. The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite at R-Value 1.7 is fine for three-season camping but will let more cold through in snow. For serious winter camping, I would actually recommend an inflatable pad with an R-Value above 4.
My Final Verdict
The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite is my clear winner because it has proven durability with a limited lifetime warranty, a trusted 4.7-star rating from over 2,200 buyers, and a lightweight 14-ounce design that backpackers have relied on for decades. The REDCAMP takes the runner-up spot for side sleepers who want the warmer R-Value of 2.1 and a wider 22-inch profile without breaking the bank.
If you are still on the fence, ask yourself this: do you want a pad that will last for years with a lifetime warranty, or do you want more width and warmth for the same weight? The Therm-a-Rest Z Lite wins on reputation and longevity, while the REDCAMP wins on features per dollar.
Winner: Therm-a-Rest Z Lite
- Lightweight and compact closed-cell foam camping mattress is a durable...
- Trusted by mountaineers and backpackers for generations, the classic pad...
- Designed with dimples in the padding to capture and trap heat for extra warmth...
Best for backpackers who want a proven, ultralight pad at 14 ounces with a limited lifetime warranty. The R-Value of 1.7 is fine for three-season use, and the accordion fold makes packing a breeze.
Runner-Up: REDCAMP Foldable Foam 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 want the warmer R-Value of 2.1 and a wider 22-inch surface. It is waterproof and only 3 ounces heavier than the Z Lite.
Best Budget: THINTON Foam Camping Pad
- 【CAMPING SLEEPING PAD】You will get a foldable camping sleeping mat, open...
- 【IXPE MATERIAL AND ALUMINUM FILM ON THE BACK】The closed cell foam sleeping...
- 【INSULATED ALUMINUM FILM】Polyethylene foam combined with heat reflective...
Best for budget-minded hikers who want the widest pad at 23.6 inches and a warm R-Value of 2.1 with aluminum film, all at 14 ounces. Just know the warranty is only 1 year.
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