Quick Answer

If you prioritize low weight, quick setup, and keeping your gear dry on wet ground, the LensCoat GroundMat is the better choice. Traditional ground pods offer more stability for heavy telephoto lenses, but they add weight and setup time. Choose the GroundMat for mobility and simplicity, or a ground pod when you need rock-solid support for long sessions.

What Is the LensCoat GroundMat?

The LensCoat GroundMat is a lightweight, heavy-duty mat made from waterproof Cordura material. It measures 80" x 30" (203cm x 76cm), giving you a clean, dry surface to lie on while photographing at ground level. Unlike a ground pod, it doesn't support your lens directly—it protects you and your gear from mud and moisture, letting you get eye-level shots of wildlife without getting dirty.

Traditional Ground Pods: Stability at a Cost

Ground pods are rigid frames or supports that hold your camera and lens at ground level. They provide a stable platform, which is essential for sharp images with long, heavy telephoto lenses. However, they are bulkier, heavier, and slower to set up. You also need to carry them separately, adding to your pack weight. For photographers who hike long distances, this can be a significant drawback.

Key Differences at a Glance

The GroundMat excels in portability and speed: it folds flat, weighs almost nothing, and deploys in seconds. Ground pods offer superior stability but require more setup and add weight. The GroundMat also protects you from wet or muddy ground, while a ground pod sits on the ground and may not keep you dry. If you often shoot from muddy or damp locations, the GroundMat's waterproof Cordura is a practical advantage.

Tradeoffs to Consider

  • Weight and Portability: The GroundMat is lightweight and folds flat, making it easy to carry in a backpack. Ground pods are heavier and bulkier, adding strain on long hikes. Choose the GroundMat if you prioritize mobility.
  • Setup Speed: The GroundMat deploys in seconds—just unroll and lie down. Ground pods require assembly and leveling, which can cost you precious time when wildlife appears. For fast action, the GroundMat wins.
  • Stability for Heavy Lenses: Ground pods provide a rigid platform that minimizes camera shake, essential for sharp images with long telephoto lenses. The GroundMat offers no direct lens support. If you shoot with a heavy lens and need maximum sharpness, a ground pod may be necessary.
  • Protection from Moisture and Mud: The GroundMat's waterproof Cordura keeps you and your gear dry on wet ground. Ground pods keep your lens off the ground but don't protect your body from moisture. For wet or muddy conditions, the GroundMat is superior.

Product Facts

  • LensCoat GroundMat: Made from hard wearing, waterproof Cordura material, the GroundMat measures 80" x 30" (203cm x 76cm). This size gives you ample room to lie prone and keep your gear off wet ground, so you can stay comfortable during long waits.
  • LensCoat® Sony FE 100-400 f4.5 GM OSS: The LensCoat for Sony FE 100-400mm f4.5 GM OSS offers protection from scrapes and bumps and helps break up the lens shape to be less noticeable to wildlife. Pairing a lens cover with the GroundMat keeps your gear safe and camouflaged, which is useful when shooting at ground level where you're closer to your subject.

Which Should You Choose?

Best for

  • Photographers who hike long distances and want minimal gear weight
  • Wildlife shooters who need quick setup and often lie on wet or muddy ground

Not for

  • Photographers using very heavy telephoto lenses who need a rigid, stable platform for long exposures
  • Those who require adjustable height or angle control that ground pods can offer