What's wrong with Open Cell Pads?

**Cogbill** · 11-07-2011, 20:30

Can someone explain to me why no one uses open cell pads? Obviously I just don't know what that reason is. I mistakenly bought a open cell foam pad because the dimensions where bigger. I didn't know the difference. I did find a blue foam pad at walmart that was closed cell and was fairly large I may go get that one it was just very thick and had a weird design.

**Cogbill** · 11-07-2011, 20:40

This is the pad I got, it doesn't say it's open cell foam but I think it is.

**Roche** · 11-07-2011, 20:44

It is closed cell.

**Cogbill** · 11-07-2011, 20:46

Oh it is? Well what's the difference?

**Southpaw** · 11-07-2011, 20:49

I'm guessing so take it for what it's worth, but my Tempur-Pedic is open cell and that's supposed to make it cool to sleep on.

**the_lorax** · 11-07-2011, 20:51

An open cell foam pad won't insulate as well - I think partly because it'll compress more and partly because air can move through it easier (and thus suck heat away from you). Open cell will also absorb moisture while closed won't.

From your picture I'm not sure that that pad actually is open cell - looks like a closed cell that's just got larger cells? Could be wrong though.

[edit] For how do you tell between the two?
Probably open celled if:
-spongy/squishy - if you can compress it easily or could "ring it out"
- if you can easily pinch and tear out a chunk
- it absorbs water
- it's the yellow/tan color of a couch/seat cushion.

Probably closed cell if:
- firm
- plastic/rubbery feel
- not overly squishy/can't compress a lot
- won't absorb water.

I'm sure others will have additional (and maybe more accurate) ways to tell but at least it is a start.

**Cogbill** · 11-07-2011, 20:52

I can't tell. I'm starting to be frustrated because everything I have for my backpacking trip Thursday seems to be wrong.

**Cogbill** · 11-07-2011, 20:53

It is air tight, I tried blowing air threw it with my mouth and couldn't. I think I agree with the_lorax because if it were open cell, wouldn't it be more like a sponge or memory foam? This is very sturdy, I think it's just the large cells that's freaking me out.

**Bic** · 11-07-2011, 21:00

Originally Posted by Roche

It is closed cell.

Yup it's closed cell

**Cogbill** · 11-07-2011, 21:02

Thanks guys, that's a relief. I didn't want to have to go back to the store and exchange it. Now if my WBBB will ever get here!! YAY!! Thanks again everyone.