Self inflating mat woes

[tim_n]

I'm off to Munich for a spot of drinking tomorrow, staying on a small campsite in the middle of the city (the-tent.de) where you can even camp in hammocks.

I did have a stormlite self inflating mat (3/4 length) which did the job nicely, however last couple of trips, I've noticed it was flat when I woke. Assuming it had a hole or a leaky valve, I shoved it in the bath fully inflated expecting a small stream of bubbles.

What I did find was the whole mat fizzed - air was leaking out of pretty much everywhere. Is this 'normal' or is the mat defunct? I assume logically it is defunct and time to get another. I only used it a a few times over the last 3 years.

 

[ozzy1977]

I would say it is knackerd, the fabric should not be porous, or was it just the seams?

 

[tim_n]

the main body unfortunately!

 

[dwardo]

Would be worth getting in touch with the manufacturer with some pictures of whats happening. Not saying you will get a replacement but its worth the 5 minutes to upload some photos and send and email.

 

[Ogri the trog]

I have had a similar experience - admittedly with a cheaper mat - it started going down overnight, I got exactly the same result as you in a water-bath, masses of bubbles from all over it. I returned mine and got a replacement which de-laminated in one corner - when I put any weight on it the mat went flat but the corner blew up like a balloon!

Haven't bothered with them since!

Ogri the trog

 

[Stew]

Theres something to be said for foam roll mats. I was using one at the weekend - only about 21 years old and still going strong!!

 

[tim_n]

They're great in situations where space is an issue, like overhead luggage!

 

[tim_n]

Got a replacement from Cotswold with my scout discount only £20 - foam would be fine if not for easyjet!

 

[petrochemicals]

twimc, (to whom it may conern)

there is an exelent review of a camp bed that is light weight to boot, on the mad about gear site.

 

[Bodge]

I have had 2 multi mats go this way. The second one was a replacement for the first and lasted about 2 Years. It is the fabric breaking down I think. It has mostly been used on a hammock.

Sent from my GT-I9300 using Tapatalk 2

 

[Andy BB]

twimc, (to whom it may conern)

there is an exelent review of a camp bed that is light weight to boot, on the mad about gear site.

http://madaboutgear.com/reviews/2013/4/thermarest-luxerylite-cot

I have the slightly larger mesh cot version of this. Packs down small, easy to put up and take down, and very comfy.

 

[tim_n]

Didn't make it to Munich, easyjet cancelled my flights! Never mind...