ADVERTISEMENTIn my opinion, there’s one specific kind of self-inflating pad that’s still useful, especially for ultralighters, and that’s the thin, torso-length mummy pad. Make a pad like this, and it will be lighter than just about any full-length air pad. For the pattern, find a pen or pencil to trace with, as well as a big sheet of paper or cardboard to serve as your pattern piece. One will be the exact size of the foam piece you want to use. Your new pad might not be on the cutting edge of sleeping pad technology, but it will be durable and dependable.