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By: Andrew Forrest - May 2025
When you're out for a walk, hike or picnic, or even watching your favourite band, having a small cushion to sit on can make all the difference. Sit mats (also known as sit pads or seat cushions) provide you with a comfortable, dry spot to perch on wet grass, cold rocks, snow, or hard ground.
They are designed to be lightweight, compact and durable, so backpackers and day-trippers (and many others) can carry them with ease.
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A quality sit mat provides insulation against cold or damp ground, is waterproof, and can be easily packed away. Essentially, it helps you stay warm, dry, and comfortable without adding bulk to your pack.
Whether you're resting on a summit, watching a game in a stadium, attending a festival, or having a snack at the beach, the right sit mat can
turn a chilly, unpleasant seat into a cosy spot.
We will explore different types of sit mats later, but here are our selections from all categories to fit various occasions.
| Product | Type | Size (Open) | Size (Folded/Packed) | Weight |
| Therm-a-Rest Lite Seat | Self-inflating | 33 × 41 × 3.8 cm | 15 × 6 cm | 119 g |
| Therm-a-Rest Z Seat | Closed-cell foam | 33 × 41 × 2 cm | 30 × 6 × 7 cm | 60 g |
| Klymit V Seat | Inflatable cushion | 37 × 34 × 4 cm | 9 × 4 cm | 73 g |
| Multimat Compact Kumfie | Closed-cell foam | 38.5 × 29 × 0.65 cm | 29 × 9.5 × 2.5 cm | 33 g |
| Trinordic IXPE Sit Mat | Closed-cell foam | 39.5 × 30 × 1.8 cm | 30 × 9.5 × 4 cm | 42 g |
| Highlander Outdoor Sit Mat | Seat with backrest | 40 × 38 × 40 cm | 40 × 40 × 4 cm | 380 g |
| Outdoor World Folding Sit Mat | Foldable padded seat | 35 × 29.5 × 1.5 cm | 29.5 × 8.5 × 5 cm | 110 g |
| Klymit Pillow X | Inflatable | 38 × 28 × 9 cm | 11 × 6 cm | 71 g |
The Lite Seat is a compact, self-inflating foam pad that serves as a mini sleeping mat for your bottom. It is constructed from 50D polyester and contains a 1.5 inch (3.8 cm) die-cut urethane foam interior. A one-way valve permits air to enter, inflating it for enhanced comfort. It now features an integrated bungee loop that keeps it securely rolled up.
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At just 119g and capable of being rolled up into a 15 × 6 cm bundle, the Therm-a-Rest Lite seat is lightweight, compact, and easy to attach to a rucksack or tuck into a pocket.
Upon testing, I found it offered plenty of warmth and comfort while sitting on cold ground. One thing to be mindful of is that although the outer layer is made of durable 50D polyester, if you sit on something very sharp, it could puncture, so do keep that in mind when using it.
I inflated it in about five breaths, and it deflated very quickly with the valve open. As usual with Therm-a-Rest products, it is well-made but at a higher price than the cheaper alternatives. I found that mud and dirt wipe off easily with a cloth.
Overall, it's a comfy, lightweight seat that you can carry anywhere. If you feel you need more assurance that your seat won't puncture, you should consider the closed-cell foam seats mentioned in this article. For the ultra-lightweight backpackers among us, who find 116g to be too heavy (!), this list includes even lighter sit pads.
The Z Seat is a slender, closed-cell foam pad that folds in a concertina style. Therm-a-Rest's Z-Seat is a robust, ultralight closed-cell camping seat featuring a heat-reflective ThermaCapture coating on one side to help keep your bottom warm.
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It is essentially one section of Therm-a-Rest's renowned Z-Lite sleeping pad, trimmed down to a single panel. It is remarkably durable (no punctures) and very lightweight at 57 grams on my scales.
It opens to approximately 33 × 41 cm (the same footprint as the Lite Seat) with a flat thickness of 2 cm. When folded, it measures about 30 × 6 × 7 cm. The material is waterproof crosslinked polyethylene foam, which means it does not absorb water and wipes clean easily.
On rockier ground, you can still feel the rocks a bit, but it's far better than having none for that added comfort. It now features an integrated bungee loop that keeps it securely rolled up.
All that said, I found it warm to sit on, and for just a few extra grams beyond the Multimat (reviewed below), this has become my go-to sit mat for most of my hikes, as it offers more comfort than sitting on thin foam.
When I’m not walking or hiking, for a mat to put on a seat for additional comfort, or sitting watching shows, I do prefer the Therm-a-Rest Lite seat to this Z Seat.
In short, it's an extremely tough, lightweight pad - you can strap it anywhere and it won't get a hole or leak.
The V Seat is a specialised inflatable seat cushion made by Klymit. It is shaped like a V and features a series of raised V-shaped air chambers ('loft pockets') that cradle you no matter where you sit.
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When inflated, it measures approximately 37 × 34 × 4 cm and weighs just 73 g. It is constructed from durable 75D polyester with TPU.
It packs down very small (9 × 4 cm), so it can even fit into larger pockets when deflated. When inflated, it offers cushioning and pressure relief through its bumpy design. Unlike foam, it has no innate R-value (just air), but the durable material used provides some insulation.
I inflated it in six breaths, and it deflated easily. Being light and small, it's convenient to take to shows, concerts, camping, sports stadium seats, benches, while walking the dog, or basically on any wooden, plastic, or metal chairs.
As it is inflatable, although durable, you do need to take more care with it and what you are sitting on, as it could puncture. Overall, it's a very easy-to-carry and inflate sit pad.
It is a simple block of closed-cell foam cut into three segments that fold together (like a small Z-fold pad). It is very light, tough, and durable, weighing only 33 grams (my scales showed it came in slightly under that).
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When opened, it measures 38.5 × 29 × 0.65 cm, and when folded for carrying, it is 29 × 9.5 × 2.5 cm, fitting easily into a backpack or large pocket. The foam is waterproof and does not absorb moisture, so even when placed on wet grass or snow, you and the top remain dry.
Although it is quite thin, it does provide insulation and serves as a barrier against cold, damp ground, as closed-cell foam reduces heat loss. On stony surfaces, you may still feel uncomfortable, but it is certainly better than sitting directly on bare rock.
When I know I'll only be making very brief stops while out walking, or when I don't really plan to stop, I always carry this in my backpack. If I'm stopping for longer, I take my Therm-a-Rest Z Seat.
If you prefer the inflatable seats but want to ensure they don't puncture while using them, you can double up and place a Multimat Kumfie sit mat underneath, which helps prevent punctures and adds extra insulation - you can usually find them for around £7.
This budget sit-mat is quite similar in concept to the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat, as it consists of an accordion-folded pad made from laminated IXPE foam with an aluminium foil top coating.
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Unfolded, it measures 39.5 × 30 × 1.8 cm, and when folded, it is 30 × 9.5 × 4 cm. Its weight is a mere 42 g. The foil layer reflects body heat back to you, while the foam provides insulation from the ground. Constructed from waterproof and durable IXPE foam, it also features a bungee band to keep it securely folded.
Similar to the Z Seat, it features an eggshell structure that boosts comfort and improves insulation by utilising small pockets of air.
Comparing it alongside my Z Seat, my Therm-a-Rest Z Seat was slightly thicker, felt more 'well-built', and appeared to be more durable. I tested it on sharp, lumpy rocks and did get a very small tear in the Trinordic one.
Overall, if you're not planning to perch on sharp rocks, the Trinordic could be ideal for you if you're looking to save a few pennies and want something to keep your bottom warm and dry. Priced at around £10, it is just under half the cost of the Z Seat.
This is more a mini camp chair than a seat pad and is probably better suited for camping, picnics, the beach, festivals, etc., where you require additional support and comfort. You could strap it to the outside of your rucksack if you wanted some back support when you stop.
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It comprises a padded seat panel and a simple fabric backrest frame. When unfolded, it transforms into a small, low-backed stool that sits directly on the ground. It packs flat (40 × 40 × 4 cm) and includes straps to keep it securely closed. When unfolded, it offers a seat with dimensions of 40 × 40 × 38 cm.
Unlike the other sit mats here, it features a semi-rigid back support. As it carries a frame, it weighs more than the other seat pads on this list, at 380 grams. Made from durable 210D Oxford polyester with a PE foam filling, it is resistant to punctures.
The seat itself offers some padding and features a waterproof coating with a wipe-clean surface. If you don't like the gap between the seat and the back that is often found in sports stadiums and theatres, you can place it on your seat, and the backrest fills that gap. Additionally, the seat includes a mesh pocket on the back.
Overall, this seat is appropriate for someone who desires a backrest for various occasions. However, due to its weight (though it isn't particularly heavy) and size, it may not be the best choice for day hikes.
If you're not keen on sitting directly on foam, then this folding seat pad with a cover might be the choice for you. The drawback of the cover is the extra weight, making this one 110 grams, which, although still reasonably light, is nearly twice as heavy as the other folding options.
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This folding padded seat from Outdoor World collapses flat to 29.5 × 8.5 × 5 cm and, when unfolded, measures 35 × 29.5 × 1.5 cm. The insulated foam offers protection from the cold ground, while the waterproof PU backing keeps you dry.
The exterior is crafted from durable 600D polyester material. While it isn't the thickest at just 1.5cm, it does offer some protection from the ground.
In addition to walks and hikes, like many of the others, it can also be used for sitting in parks, on beaches, at stadiums, while camping, during picnics, at festivals, in gardening, and for fishing.
While the Klymit Pillow X is a flat inflatable pillow, many backpackers often use it in a dual capacity, utilising it as both a soft seat cushion and a pillow.
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It features a clever X-shaped design, and when fully inflated, it measures 38 × 28 × 9 cm, cradling the head (or backside) in small air chambers. A larger version is available, which, for an extra 20 grams, measures 43 × 30 × 11 cm.
It compresses down to a compact 11 × 6 cm pack size and weighs merely 71 grams. The fabric is Ripstop Nylon (30D top, 75D bottom) with a TPU coating, ensuring durability. You inflate it using a dual valve - just a few breaths, and it becomes firm. The air inside provides the only insulation.
Overall, I found that its X-shape supported my neck when used as a pillow and felt comfortable enough to be used as a seat pad as well.
Closed-cell foam mats are the simplest option. These mats offer outstanding insulation and comfort while preventing moisture absorption, which is especially advantageous in wet conditions. Their durable and waterproof design ensures they can endure the rigours of outdoor use, making them a dependable choice for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The thin, durable, very lightweight foam of the Multimat sit mat
Composed of dense, closed-cell EVA or polyethylene foam, they are lightweight, waterproof, and indestructible. They often fold in an accordion style (like a foam yoga mat) or are hinged.
Width comparison of the folded Multimat against the folded Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Cushion
Pros: Extremely durable, waterproof, zero setup (unfold and sit).
Cons: Thin (somewhat firm and basic comfort), can get dented on sharp rocks.
Best for: Ultralight backpacking, general hiking, festival seats, and stony ground where inflatable seats may puncture.
Inflatable air mats often provide superior comfort and insulation, making them ideal for use in colder conditions. These mats can be easily inflated to offer a cushioned and warm seating option, perfect for those chilly nights around the campfire.
These are akin to small air mattresses that you inflate (some feature mouthpiece valves). They pack down to a very small size and can be quite plush when inflated.
Pros: Great cushion and insulation, very compact when deflated.
Cons: Potential for leaks/punctures and needs inflation (but only takes a few breaths).
Best for: Backpackers who want maximum comfort and warmth per gram, plane or train travel, or occasional camp seating where bulk is less of an issue.
Self-inflating mats combine the best features of foam and inflatable mats. They are designed for easy setup and enhanced comfort, making them a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
With just a few breaths, these mats can be fully inflated, offering a comfortable and supportive seat. Their versatility renders them suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to picnicking.
Self-inflating mats are a combination of foam and air. They contain open-cell foam inside and have a valve: you open it, and the foam expands to fill with air, then top up by mouth. Generally, they are thicker and warmer than closed-foam variants.
Pros: Comfortable and insulating, adjustable firmness (you can add or remove air).
Cons: Bulkier and heavier than purely foam pads, and they are a little slower to pack (you must roll out slowly to squeeze the air out).
Best for: Camping, backpacking, or other outdoor activities where comfort and warmth are priorities over absolute minimum weight.
Some gear blurs categories. For example, there are foam pads with an inflatable cover (for extra cushioning) or inflatable pads with built-in backs or straps. One niche hybrid is a 'stadium seat', which is essentially a foldable foam pad with a strap, comfortable for seated stands but less focused on compactness. Most classic 'sit mats' fall into the above three categories.
There are even pads that have a backrest, although this does make them a little heavier and bulkier.
Each of these mats is easy to carry, whether by strapping it to the outside of your
rucksack
or tucking it into a pocket. They all keep you dry and provide warmth on cold ground. None of the inflatable ones requires a pump - just a few
breaths and you're done.
Sit mats with effective thermal insulation retain warmth in colder conditions, which proves especially beneficial during early morning hikes or late-night campfires when temperatures can unexpectedly drop while camping.
The difference in thickness when unfolded of the Multimat sit pad and the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat cushion
A sit mat should help keep you warm. Foam pads (closed-cell foam) trap air and block ground chill, and some have a reflective surface to enhance warmth. Even a thin foam cushion can make sitting on snow or cold stone considerably less chilly.
The closed-cell camping seat, which features a heat-reflective ThermaCapture coating on one side to help keep your bottom warm
If you are someone who feels the cold whilst out walking, besides the sit pad keeping your bottom dry and warm, take along some hand warmers to keep your hands warm.
You want a mat that won't easily tear or leak. Closed-cell foam pads (such as polyethylene or EVA foam) are virtually puncture-proof and can be sat on as often as you like.
Inflatable mats (air pads) can be quite comfortable, but they may puncture if you're not careful. However, many are made from durable fabrics (e.g. 75D polyester) and some come with repair kits.
A sit mat should remain dry and not absorb water. Closed-cell foam, by its nature, repels water - it won't absorb moisture even if tossed in puddles. Many pads even have a waterproof coating or foil backing. This means you can sit on damp ground or in light rain without your bottom getting wet. Inflatable mats often use waterproof fabrics as well.
Portability is equally important. Many sit mats feature straps or bungees for easy carrying, and they are of a lightweight design that packs down small.
The height difference between a folded Multimat and a folded Therm-a-Rest Z Seat cushion
The band that ties around the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat cushion to keep it folded when not in use
Lightweight and compact features are vital for hikers. Sit mats vary from around 30g for thin foam models to approximately 150g for self-inflating or padded seats. Extra features like back rests add weight. Small mats pack down to pocket size.
The Multimat weighing only 29 grams
The lightweight Therm-a-Rest Z Seat cushion weighing 57 grams
Even small mats can have clever shapes; textured or 'egg-crate' surfaces trap more air for a bit of cushioning and insulation, as seen in some XPE foam pads. Inflatable pads might feature chambered designs (like Klymit's V-chambers) to distribute pressure. Others are simply flat but come in generous sizes. Consider padding versus bulk: thick self-inflating mats will be cushier, but they weigh more and take longer to pack.
Some sit mats are versatile. Closed-cell foam pads can function as a kneeling pad, a doormat for your tent, or even as an emergency insulation layer beneath part of a sleeping bag. Many people use them as cushions for stadiums or festivals, or even for kneeling while gardening. Consider all the ways you might utilise yours beyond simply as a sitting cushion.
Sit mats and seat cushions are handy in so many outdoor situations in the UK. For example:
In short, anytime you could use a portable seat or want to keep your bum dry, a sit mat is worth pulling out.
In today's eco-conscious world, the materials used in sit mats significantly affect their appeal. Durable, waterproof, and tear-resistant materials such as nylon, polyester, or closed-cell foam not only enhance durability but also ensure that the mat can withstand various outdoor conditions.
Environmentally friendly materials in sit mats minimise environmental impact by reducing waste and promoting recyclability. Many manufacturers
are now opting for sustainable materials, ensuring that their products are both functional and environmentally friendly. This shift towards
sustainability benefits outdoor enthusiasts who care about preserving the environment while enjoying its beauty.
An R-value is a measure of how well a material resists heat loss - the higher the number, the better it retains warmth. For camping gear like sleeping mats and sit pads, it indicates how effectively the pad insulates your body from the cold ground. It's one of the best ways to compare the warmth of different mats. Typically, sleeping mats provide R-values, whilst sit mats and cushions only occasionally do so.
When you sleep or sit on the ground, your body loses heat rapidly through contact. An insulated pad with a good R-value serves as a barrier, helping you remain warm and comfortable. Without that insulation, even a warm sleeping bag won't help much, as the cold ground will draw your body heat away.
R-values typically range from approximately 1 to 7 for sleeping mats. A value of 1 is adequate for warm summer nights, while R-values of 4 or higher are necessary for cold or winter camping. Sit mats generally have lower R-values (around 1–2), which are suitable for short breaks but not for extended periods of sleep.
Match your R-value to the season and conditions. For sleeping mats in summer, R 1–2 is sufficient; for spring or autumn, aim for R 2–4; and for winter or freezing temperatures, opt for R 4–6 or higher. If you're uncertain, it's wiser to choose a warmer option - a bit of extra insulation can make all the difference in staying comfortable outdoors.
Unfortunately, very few sit mats quote R-values. For sit mats and cushions, if quoted, R 1-3 is generally acceptable to keep your bottom warm while you pause, as your stop is typically just a brief one.
Whether you're hiking in the hills, camping by a lake, or enjoying a music festival, a good sit mat can make a world of difference. It keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable while providing a handy barrier between you and the cold, damp, or uneven ground. With options ranging from ultralight foam pads to plush self-inflating cushions and seats with backrests, there’s something for every outdoor activity and personal preference.
Choosing the right sit mat depends on your needs: choose closed-cell foam for durability and simplicity, inflatable for compact comfort, or self-inflating if you prefer a bit of luxury without the bulk. Whatever you choose, a quality seat pad is a small item that adds considerable comfort, and once you've used one, you'll wonder how you ever managed to sit on cold stone or wet grass without it!
Wipe it off with a damp cloth or sponge after use. Foam mats can be rinsed under the tap if muddy, then air-dried before packing. Inflatable pads are typically wipe-clean (the polyester skin won't absorb stains). Allow any foam pad to dry completely to prevent mould.
Avoid storing a pad while it is still wet. Rolls or folds should be done neatly - closed-cell foam pads often fold accordion-style with edges aligned. For inflatables, ensure they are dry and avoid sharp objects during travel. Proper care allows a sit mat to last for years.
Yes - their lightweight and often cute colours make them suitable for children. A small foam sit mat is ideal for kids on picnics or camping, as it keeps them off damp grass. Some brands even produce children's versions or packs of two.
Just be cautious: inflatables can pop, so foam pads may be safer for toddlers. Look for bright, fun colours or patterns to make them more appealing to youngsters.
You could use a rolled-up jacket, a small pillow, or even a folded towel. Some hikers use the back of their sleeping mat as a seat pad (unfold the foot of the sleeping pad to sit on). Camp stools or lightweight portable chairs are also alternatives, but they are heavier and bulkier.
In a pinch, an emergency space blanket (foil emergency blanket) provides some insulation between you and the ground. However, none pack as small or light as a dedicated sit mat.
Most closed-cell foam pads are inherently water-resistant - they won't soak up water. Many also list 'waterproof' or 'moistureproof' among their features. Inflatable cushions are made of fabrics that shed water, so they will remain dry as long as you don't allow them to sit in a puddle for hours.
Always check the product description: terms like 'waterproof', 'water-resistant' or 'moistureproof' indicate protection against dampness. Even if a pad gets wet, foam mats will dry out quickly, and inflatables won't retain water on the surface.
Absolutely. In the snow, a sit mat provides essential insulation - otherwise, you'll lose heat quickly. A closed-cell foam mat is excellent in snow: it won't become waterlogged as snow melts off, and it keeps your clothing dry.
On sand, a sit mat keeps grit out of your clothes and off the mat itself (just shake it out when you're done). Many beach-goers use a foldable foam or inflatable cushion instead of a towel (usually a sleeping mat if you want to lie out full-length); these are easy to brush off sand. So yes - sit mats are very handy in snow, on beaches, or anywhere you'd prefer not to sit directly on the ground.
For closed-foam mats, fold or roll them along their seams and tuck them into your pack (many fit under a pack flap or strap). Inflatable mats should be fully deflated, then folded or rolled to the specified size (some come with a built-in strap or bag).
Store any valve caps (some are attached with a cord to prevent loss). Keep them on the outside or side of your pack for easy access.
Although primarily designed for seating, a foldable foam mat can also function as a mini yoga mat or knee pad. However, it's small, making it suitable only for light stretching or as a knee cushion during exercises. For a complete yoga practice, you would want a proper yoga mat.
May 2025
