We were sent the Kamui Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad a while ago for review and here’s what we think of this bargain priced sleeping mat.

First Impressions:

When we first unboxed the mat we thought it was compact and a little heavy, there seemed to be a lot of mat in a small package.  It looked tough and usable. This is a no-frills, does what it says on the tin type of mat.

Key Features:

Measuring approximately 192cm/75.6 inches long and 57cm/22.5 inches wide and 5cm/2 inches thick. The Kamui sleeping pad provides ample space for most people. That 2-inch thickness allows for a comfortable barrier between you and the ground so that those pesky twigs and cones don’t disturb your sleep. The pad has a simple turn valve mechanism for allowing air in and stopping it from escaping: simply unroll it and open the valve, allowing the internal foam to expand and draw in air. 

In Use:

The initial inflation took a bit more work than I expected, after leaving it to self-inflate for an hour it took an extra 15 big puffs to get it firm, this has eased off as the internal foam has become a bit less compressed. But don’t expect this mat to fully inflate without some additional help, which although not hard (commonly practised to achieve desired firmness in most mats) might be a consideration.

With an R-value of 5.7, it’s a great three-season mat that could be used colder, we haven’t used the mat in negative temperatures (Celsius) but close to, and it insulated fine. I sleep warm but I’m confident that it’s very capable of the three-season claims.

I like the connectability of the mat, if you’ve got more than one you can pop them side by side for a double-width sleeping area, or stack them for 10cm/4 inches of insulation and that extra comfort.  We only had one so couldn’t try this out but I think it would work well.

Sometimes with mats like this there’s a slow deflation, I didn’t experience this with the Kamui mat so the valve and seam welding seem very solid.

Pros:

  • Good Durability: Constructed with high-rebound foam and a 190T polyester fabric, the pad is designed for long-term use. The welded seams are effective and functional, I would expect this to last a long hard life.
  • Connectability: The Kamui pad includes side poppers, allowing you to connect multiple pads. A great feature for couples or families wanting a larger sleeping area or added thickness.
  • Value for money: Priced competitively, the Kamui pad offers a balance between cost and quality, making it an excellent option for those new to camping, on a budget, or car camping with the kids!
  • Comfortable: It’s a comfortable mat to sleep on, plenty of cushioning.

Cons:

  • Bulk and Weight: Weighing approximately 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs), the pad is heavier and bulkier than some alternatives. While manageable for car camping, it’s not ideal for lightweight campers or those with limited space.
  • Slippery Surface: It wasn’t as slippery as I thought it would be but there were a few times I needed to adjust to get my sleeping bag comfortably back on the mat.

Who Is It For?

The Kamui Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad is well-suited for car campers, family camping trips, and bushcraft enthusiasts who prioritise value, comfort and insulation over lightweight gear. Its durability and ability to connect multiple pads make it versatile for various camping setups, particularly if you’re close to your vehicle, or backpackers doing overnighters, where weight and pack size are critical, lighter options may be more appropriate.

Conclusion:

Overall, the Kamui Self-Inflating Sleeping Pad offers a comfortable and warm sleeping solution at an accessible price point. While it has some minor drawbacks, its value makes it a strong contender for those who aren’t worried about a bit of extra weight and bulk.  Ultimately it does what it says it’s going to do and Kamui are upfront about who they’re pitching this mat to.

If I was starting out, or needed a few mats for a group, these would be well worth considering.  If you’re interested in getting a Kamui mat here’s a LINK to Amazon and for more info on products from Kamui have a look at their site HERE