How to Patch a Therm-a-Rest Pad

Cascade Designs makes the Therm-a-Rest series of sleeping pads. Therm-a-Rests are available in the self-inflating style of open-cell foam or the fixed closed-cell foam style. Open-cell foam pads pack down smaller than the closed-cell counterparts but are susceptible to punctures and leaks, often requiring a patch. If you have a Therm-a-Rest you have already patched and find the patch is not holding, try a quick method of repairing the pad to give you the needed sleep in the backcountry.

Things You'll Need

  • Therm-a-Rest patch epoxy
  • Scissors or knife
  • Lighter
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a patch out of the Therm-a-Rest patch fabric that is at least 1/2 inch wider than the existing patch on the Therm-a-Rest. Hold the lighter to the cut edges of the patch and let them melt so no fraying occurs.

    • 2

      Apply epoxy to the back of the patch and then press it over the existing patch so there is at least 1/2 inch overlap on the existing patch. Hold the edges firm for at least five minutes.

    • 3

      Let the epoxy dry for at least four to five hours if you're camping, or 24 hours if you're doing the repair at home.

    • 4

      Inflate the Therm-a-Rest and check the seal on the patch.