Permissible weight
The maximum weight that the rug can carry without consequences. This parameter is relevant primarily for inflatable and self-inflating products (see "Type"), because mats, due to the dense structure of the material, are highly resistant to loads, and it is almost impossible to overload such a mat during normal use.
Of course, the permissible load must not be exceeded — this can lead to damage to the rug. However, it should also be borne in mind that its value is usually indicated for situations where the weight is distributed more or less evenly over the surface; under point loads, the product can be damaged even by a weight that is less than indicated in this paragraph. To put it simply, if a full-size “sleeper” model (see “Type”) has a load capacity of 100kg, a 95kg hiker can comfortably lie on such a mat, but trying to stand up with their feet can end up sad, since the load at the point of contact will be much higher than calculated.
Dimensions (LxWxT)
The dimensions of the rug in the unfolded position. This parameter allows you to evaluate how much the area of the product will be enough for your purposes, and whether it will fit in the intended location — for example, in a tent.
Each individual size has its own specifics. So, choosing a classic rug (see "Type") in length depends on the height of the user, in width — taking into account the physique (
wide tourist rugs will be a burden for the average person, and narrow ones will be uncomfortable for large people). Among the seats, the situation is simpler, they all have approximately the same size, sufficient for their intended use. The thickness, usually, characterizes the softness of the product: the larger it is, the better the mat smooths out irregularities and the more pleasant it is to lie on it (ceteris paribus, of course). On the other hand, for a thick rug it is more difficult to achieve compactness when folded, so an increase in thickness affects either the dimensions of the product during transportation or the price.
Folding
Folding method, nominally provided for by the design of the rug.
Note that inflatable and self-inflating products (see "Type") do not have a strictly fixed way of folding, and cushion seats do not fold at all. Therefore, this parameter is relevant only for mats (see ibid), and the options here can be as follows:
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Roll. Roll-up rugs are more bulky and not as easy to carry as accordion rugs. On the other hand, such a mat along the entire length has a uniform structure, without cracks and weak points, which ensures high-quality thermal insulation and the best comfort. Therefore, despite its shortcomings, it is this folding method that is the most popular nowadays.
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Harmonica. Rugs from several segments, folded like an accordion. This design makes the product as compact and easy to carry as possible, it is easier to find a place under it than under a roll. On the other hand, the weak point of the “accordions” is the joints between the segments: they protect against the cold worse than the main surface of the mat, and they can also tear as they wear out. Therefore, this type of folding is relatively rare, and it is worth using such mats when compactness and ease of carrying are fundamentally important, and complex conditions are not planned.
Dimensions (folded)
Dimensions of the rug when folded. This parameter determines how much space the product will take up during transportation. Note that in this case, “perfect” sizes are usually indicated, corresponding to the most dense packaging according to all the rules; actual dimensions may be slightly larger, depending on the quality of folding.