Post History

Source: https://outdoors.stackexchange.com/q/20369
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

<p>Does anyone know of a reasonably simple means of using household items to objectively measure the insulating value of a sleeping pad, in a way that accurately predicts that aspect of performance in the field?  </p>

<p>I would imagine that this would involve creating some of the field conditions (for example compressing the sleeping pad by a realistic amount)—-what would those conditions be?</p>

<p>This could be valuable either if it was able to produce absolute measurements (assigning an R-value under a certain set of conditions that would be the same as one measured by a manufacturer’s lab) or only relative measurements (Pad A is about twice as good as Pad B)</p>

<p>My goal here is to contribute to actual comfort and safety in the field.  I’d like to devise something either so simple people could test their own setup, or if not, then to enable some individual who is so inclined to measure a bunch of common gear and post results.  This is motivated both by appreciation for truly well made commercial products which deserve recognition, but also spotting where very cheap alternatives attain the basic safety and function.</p>