Herbie Murray
Sleeping bags are an essential part of camping gear, and down sleeping bags are a popular choice for backpackers. Down sleeping bags are highly sought after by campers due to their superior warmth-to-weight ratio, compressibility, and lightweight construction. However, a common concern among campers is whether these bags are waterproof, as waking up in a damp sleeping bag can be unpleasant and hinder a good night's rest. While some companies advertise waterproof down sleeping bags, others question the efficacy of these claims, suggesting that water-resistant options may be more realistic. This distinction is crucial, as completely dunking a sleeping bag in water will likely result in moisture seeping through seams. Additionally, there are concerns about the long-term durability of water-resistant treatments on down materials. As a result, some campers opt for synthetic bags or quilts, which are more affordable and continue to insulate when damp. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference, anticipated weather conditions, and individual backpacking needs.
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What You'll Learn
Waterproof down sleeping bags are rare
Down sleeping bags are filled with a combination of down clusters and tiny feathers. The fluffier the down cluster, the more air and heat it can trap, providing warmth. However, this fluffy structure also means that down feathers are highly absorbent and susceptible to clumping when they come into contact with water. This can result in a dense, heavy sleeping bag that loses its insulating properties and takes a long time to dry.
Some companies have attempted to create waterproof down sleeping bags by treating the down with a water-repellent coating. However, there are concerns about the longevity of this treatment, with some reputable sources questioning its long-term effectiveness. Additionally, a completely waterproof sleeping bag would require sealed seams, which would hinder air permeability and ventilation, leading to a stuffy and uncomfortable sleeping experience.
Instead of aiming for complete waterproofness, sleeping bag manufacturers often focus on moisture resistance. This helps manage condensation and light humidity while still allowing for adequate air circulation. A popular strategy is to use a lightweight synthetic "overbag" in conjunction with a down sleeping bag. The synthetic outer bag captures any moisture, protecting the down bag underneath while still allowing for breathability.
While some users have expressed interest in completely waterproof down sleeping bags, the reality is that such a product would likely be impractical and uncomfortable. As a result, manufacturers and consumers tend to favour water-resistant options or synthetic alternatives for cold and damp conditions.
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Water-resistant down sleeping bags are available
Some popular options for water-resistant down sleeping bags include the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 and the Western Mountaineering MegaLite. The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 is a lightweight, down-filled sleeping bag suitable for backpacking trips. It offers a good balance between weight and warmth, making it a popular choice for hikers and campers. The Western Mountaineering MegaLite is an ultra-premium sleeping bag that utilizes 12 ounces of 850+ fill power down to create a cozy and comfortable sleeping experience. It is highly regarded for its generous dimensions and impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, making it a favorite among backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Another option for a water-resistant down sleeping bag is the Marmot Women's Teton 15° Sleeping Bag, which has been specifically designed for women and features a rectangular shape that provides ample room for sleepers. It is rated for temperatures as low as 15°F and is known for its warmth and moisture resistance. Additionally, the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag is a popular choice for car campers. It offers a classic rectangular shape, providing plenty of room for sleepers to maneuver, and its smooth polyester shell and lining are moisture-resistant and easy to clean.
For those seeking a lightweight option, the Exped Waterbloc Pro sleeping bag is a water-resistant down bag suitable for cold weather. While it may be expensive, it offers a pack-and-go solution for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the Mountain Hardwear Phantom 15 is a well-made and packable option that provides a good balance between weight and warmth. It is a more affordable alternative to the AlpinLite while still offering excellent performance and durability.
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Synthetic sleeping bags are better for moisture
Synthetic sleeping bags are better at handling moisture than down sleeping bags. Down sleeping bags lose their insulating properties when they come into contact with moisture. The down feathers clump up, and the air pockets between the down, which provide insulation, disappear. This means that down sleeping bags will not keep you warm when they are wet.
Synthetic sleeping bags, on the other hand, are capable of providing insulation even when wet. They are also quicker to dry, making them a better option for wet weather, water activities, or condensation. In addition, synthetic sleeping bags are often much more affordable than down sleeping bags.
While some manufacturers now offer hydrophobic down sleeping bags that have been treated with a water-resistant coating to repel moisture, these bags are even more expensive than regular down sleeping bags. Furthermore, there are concerns about the longevity of down treated in this way, and some sources suspect that it may have a short lifetime.
If you are concerned about moisture, a synthetic sleeping bag or a synthetic "overbag" is a better option. A synthetic "overbag" can be used in conjunction with a down sleeping bag to capture moisture and protect the bag underneath.
Synthetic sleeping bags have come a long way, and today's versions are lighter, warmer, more technical, and better designed than ever. They are a great choice for insurance against unexpected moisture.
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Down sleeping bags are warmer than synthetic
While down sleeping bags are not inherently waterproof, they can be water-resistant to some degree. Waterproof down sleeping bags are also available, but their effectiveness is questionable. If you're looking for a sleeping bag that can handle moisture, a synthetic bag is a better option.
Now, when it comes to warmth, down sleeping bags are generally warmer than synthetic ones. Down is known for its excellent insulating properties due to its structure of fine, branched filaments. The fluffier the down cluster, the more air and heat it can trap, providing superior warmth. This is why down sleeping bags are often favoured for winter camping and cold-weather conditions.
The warmth of a down sleeping bag is typically measured by its loft or fill power. A higher loft means a greater volume of down, resulting in improved warmth-to-weight ratio. So, a bag with high loft down will be more compressible and lighter while providing the same warmth as a similar temperature bag with lower loft down. This makes down sleeping bags highly space-efficient and lightweight, making them a popular choice among backpackers and campers.
However, it's important to note that down loses its insulating properties when it gets wet. Once down becomes saturated, it clumps up and loses its ability to trap air and retain warmth. Synthetic sleeping bags, on the other hand, can still provide some insulation when wet, making them more reliable in damp or humid conditions.
Nonetheless, down sleeping bags can be easily compressed into stuff sacks, making them more convenient for storage and transport. Additionally, the amount of down used can impact the overall warmth of the bag. A careful balance is necessary to ensure the down can fully loft and maximise its insulating properties.
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Down sleeping bags are more expensive
The price of a down sleeping bag can vary depending on the fill power, which is a measure of the volume that down expands to. A higher fill power means a higher price, as it indicates better insulation and compressibility. For example, a 750+ loft down would fill at least 750 cubic inches. The ratio of down clusters to feathers also affects the price, with a higher ratio of clusters being more expensive. The fluffier the down cluster, the more heat it can trap.
The design and construction of a sleeping bag also affect the price. Some bags have extra insulation in the hip areas, which is more expensive but provides a more comfortable sleep. The placement of insulation is also important, as it needs to be strategically placed to avoid cold spots. The Feathered Friends Swallow YF 20 Sleeping Bag is a good example of a high-quality bag that is more expensive due to its lightweight and loftiness. It uses 900-plus-fill RDS-certified goose down, which is the best-quality down on the market.
The brand and features of a down sleeping bag can also impact the price. For example, the Feathered Friends Swallow bag is priced at $629, which is expensive but competitive for the quality. It is built to last, with a durable and water-resistant shell, and comes with a lifetime warranty. Other bags may be more affordable but lack modern features such as a draft collar, pillow pocket, and toe box vent. Ultimately, when choosing a down sleeping bag, it is important to consider the features and quality that are most important to you and your budget.
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Frequently asked questions
No, down sleeping bags are not inherently waterproof. However, some bags are water-resistant, and there are waterproof breathable covers available for purchase.
Synthetic sleeping bags are a good alternative for wet weather as they continue to insulate when damp.
The REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag is a good option for car camping. It has a classic rectangular shape, is roomy, warm, moisture-resistant, easy to clean, and simple to pack away.
For backpacking, you will want a sleeping bag that is light, warm, and compressible. The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 is a good lightweight option. The Montbell Down Hugger 650 #1 and the Marmot Women's Teton 15° Sleeping Bag are also recommended for backpacking.
Fill power refers to the volume that down expands to in cubic inches. The higher the fill power, the better the warmth-to-weight ratio of the sleeping bag.
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