What size Sleeping Mat

[SteveOh]

Hi folks.

I'm having a dilemma.

I'm trying to buy a Exped Downmat UL 7 M or LW to use in a BA Bivi.
However no one in my area stocks them in any size so I cant try one out.
The M is 183 x 52 x 7 cm
The LW is 197 x 65 x 7 cm

I'm 180cm tall and exactly 52cm at the shoulders whilst standing

Can anyone give me advice on which mat to buy?

thanks for any help

 

[ex-member BareThrills]

I have Exped Downmat UL 7LW amongst others. I find it a great fit for me. I dont like under sized pads. Doubt you will get either in a BA Bivy though with enough room for you and your sleeping bag.

The thermarest neoair and extherm mats are tapered to the foot. They might stand a better chance of fitting in the bivy. I have a bugaboo bivy which is over size and can take a mat (tapered one not exped). They are on offer at needle sports for £99

I prefer the xtherm to the exped if i honest as its much lighter and as a bonus its cheaper too

 

[Limaed]

I would go for the M as it sounds like an exact fit for you - any extra length or width is just extra bulk & weight IMO. If your feet are over the end slightly (which they shouldn't be) you can always make a pillow out of clothes or take one with you (blow up / or pack pillow).

In winter / bothies (hard floor) I use a 3/4 Thermarest and a traditional foam mat cut down to fit me. This combination seems to work well for cold protection & adequate padding. I'm not bothered about damaging the foam mat either as it can withstand rougher treatment. In summer I can usual get away with the 3/4 Thermarest although I am quite short.

 

[widu13]

Do you sleep on your back? I am considerably wider than you (although shorter) and got a 9LW for that reason. I then realised that in fact I sleep on my side in the foetal position most of the time and that the LW is wasted weight. I now use a short Downmat Lite. Just a thought.

 

[SteveOh]

Thanks for the replies fellas. I think the M is the way to go as I am a foetal sleeper like widu13. I never even gave it a thought until I read it. Thanks again


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[BillyBlade]

Dont forget if you use a hammock, the curve means the mat covers less of you than it would if on ground. Thats where the extra width gets useful from the larger sizes.

Just something to consider.