New mats for demanding outdoor adventures
Vaude is presenting two new sleeping mat series for next spring, which are designed to take sleeping comfort on outdoor adventures to a new level. The super-lightweight air mattresses in the Allround and Performance series promise maximum comfort with minimum weight and pack size - a combination that should be particularly interesting for bikepacking tours and ultra-light trekking adventures. As usual with Vaude, only sustainable materials are used for the new sleeping pads: the mats are made entirely from recycled polyester, which reduces the ecological footprint without compromising on robustness. The new chamber design with a special baffle construction is intended to offer significantly more stability compared to conventional longitudinal chambers and thus increase sleeping comfort, especially for restless sleepers.
Performance series with Reflect technology
The flagship of the new mat collection is the Performance series, which is equipped with innovative Reflect technology. This uses an aluminium-coated inner surface to significantly reduce heat loss to the ground. The functional principle is as simple as it is effective: body heat is reflected back through the reflective layer, while at the same time the cold is repelled from the floor. This system enables the mat to achieve an exceptional R-value of 5.5 for the Ultralight class at an astonishingly low weight of just 497 grams. The R-value is the decisive indicator for the insulation performance of a sleeping mat - the higher this value, the better the insulation against cold from the ground. This makes the performance mat suitable for use in all four seasons and offers reliable protection against the cold even at low temperatures.
Flexibility thanks to different sizes and intelligent valve system
To cater for the different body sizes and needs of users, Vaude offers the new sleeping mats in two different lengths: 183 centimetres and 194 centimetres. This selection enables weight-oriented trekkers to choose the optimum mat length for their body size without having to carry unnecessary weight.
The valve system of the new mats is also particularly well thought out. All models have a flat valve that is compatible with the VAUDE pump bag. This allows the mat to be inflated efficiently in just a few seconds. The pump bag not only offers convenience when inflating, but also fulfils an important function for the longevity of the mat, explains Benedikt Tröster from Vaude:
Its use prevents breathing moisture from entering the inside of the mat. This moisture could otherwise lead to mould growth or even attack and dissolve the TPU coating inside the mat. This sophisticated system considerably extends the life of the mat, which makes both ecological and economic sense.
First assignment at the Overnighter
I have already been able to use the new Performance 9 L on my first overnighter and was thoroughly impressed. At 497 grams in size L, the Vaude is not one of the ultra-lightweights - a Thermarest Neo Air, for example, weighs around 100 grams less - but its pack size is certainly competitive. With three fillings from the practical pump bag (sold separately), the mat is quickly inflated. The high R-value seems to be immediately noticeable, as the sleeping pad feels as if it has integrated underfloor heating. With an outside temperature of around ten degrees, I could easily sleep with just a blanket. Even for a side sleeper like me, the thickness is absolutely sufficient. However, to get all the air out of the system, you have to roll up the sleeping pad very carefully.
Vaude Performance 9 L - Info & Price
- TechnologyReflect technology with aluminium-coated inside
- Material100 % recycled polyester
- ConstructionBaffle construction with rounded corners
- R-value: 5.5
- Weight: 497 g (size L)
- Available lengths: 183 cm and 194 cm
- Valve systemFlat valve, compatible with Vaude pump bag
- PricePerformance 9 M 180 Euro / Performance 9 L 200 Euro
- Availability: from spring 2026!!!
Stefan Frey
Editor
