Steph Wetherell is now a CCF mat convert after testing the Nemo Switchback. Find out why.
The Nemo Switchback is a technical Closed Cell Foam (CCF) sleeping mat featuring hexagonal nodes that create more comfort than the width of the foam itself would suggest.
Steph Wetherell recommends
This was definitely more comfortable than expected, and I did feel the cold less than I anticipated.- higher R value than other foam mats
- not cheap
- bulky
| Quick specs |
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| Price: $59.95 / £59.99 (available from WildBounds and NEMO Equipment) Weight: 420g Type: Closed-cell foam Materials: PE Foam Dimensions: 51cm x 183cm Thickness: 2cm Rating: R value 2 Sizes: Regular, short nemoequipment.com |
I was a little concerned that being plus size, the nodes might compress under my weight. However after a good amount of testing over several months, the nodes have shown no sign of squishing, likely because of the dual-density Axiotomic foam that tops a softer lower layer with a stronger and more durable top layer. The nodes are also designed so that as you concertina the mat up while folding it, they ‘egg box’ into each other, helping it fold up compactly, but it’s still bulkier than an airmat. The same nodes also aid in the warmth trapping process – the sleeping bag doesn’t compress completely under you. There’s also a metalized thermal film layer to reflect body heat.
I confess that I don’t normally sleep just on a CCF mat as I get sore hips as a side sleeper. This one was definitely more comfortable than expected, and I did feel the cold less than I anticipated.
However, I personally had more success using it as a second mat under an air mat to add some additional warmth, comfort and puncture protection. I found it made a big difference especially under a thinner mat with a low R value – adding comfort and extending the season I can use that mat for. It felt like overkill when paired with a more insulated mat, so I’d likely opt for a thinner/smaller CCF if I’m just looking for puncture protection.
Testing conditions
Steph tested her camping mats across hills and valleys in South Wales during winter and spring. She is plus-size and 5’10 tall so prefers a wider mat and sleeps cold so tends to opt for higher R-value mats. This review was published in the December 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors.
