Weight: 610g

R-value: R7.3

Best for: Cold sleepers and four-season tramping and climbing.

Overview 

This is a packable four-season mat with an impressive cold-blocking R-value of 7.3. Insulation is provided by 800 fill-power down within this rectangular mat’s air chambers. It is surfaced with grip-embossed 20D recycled polyester fabric and has oversized outer chambers to keep you centred. 

Ease of use

The large pump sack makes inflation fast. However, the low-profile valve integrates both inflation and deflation ports, so care has to be taken not to open the deflation port when removing the pump bag. The valve is too small for finger-tip air-bleeding adjustment, and its position on the mat’s lower side makes it difficult to add air once set up in a tent. After inflation, the mat should be shaken to distribute the down, which reaches full loft in around 30 minutes. The side-opening storage bag is convenient to use and includes a repair kit.

Weight and packed size

610g is light for a rectangular mat with such a high R-value. It’s packable enough to be considered for year-around use, and it beats some three-season mats for weight.  

Shape and comfort

This plush 8cm mat reminded me how much warmer high R-value mats are when you’re used to less insulated ones. The regular size we tested is 183 x 51cm. The shape provides good floor coverage for insulation and wriggle room.   

Durability 

The 20D fabric is at the lower end of durability for sleeping mats, so care should be taken to avoid punctures. 

Value

Alongside other mats in this class, it offers competitive warmth, weight and comfort for the price. 

What we liked: Excellent warmth for weight and cost, rectangular shape, packability for year-around use

Limitations: Valve is poorly designed. 

Why buy the Hypersphere Ultra 7.5? 

It’s not the lightest four-season mat available, but it strikes a convincing balance between warmth, weight and durability, making it a good option for those seeking the comfort of a rectangular mat over tapered shapes. 

Overall Score: 80%