Evie Summers
Waterproof shells on sleeping bags are designed to protect the bag from getting wet. While this feature may be useful in certain situations, it is important to consider the potential trade-offs. Waterproof fabrics tend to be less breathable, which can lead to moisture accumulation and reduced insulation. This may result in a colder and less comfortable sleeping experience. Additionally, waterproof sleeping bags are often heavier, more expensive, and less versatile than regular sleeping bags. Some alternative options to consider are using a bivy sack or a compression sack, which can provide water protection without sacrificing breathability. Ultimately, the decision to choose a waterproof 7D shell for a sleeping bag depends on specific needs and preferences, balancing the benefits of water resistance with the potential drawbacks in breathability and comfort.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Waterproof 7D shells on sleeping bags | Not fully effective due to breathability issues, feather loss, and lack of warmth |
| Alternative options | Waterproof/breathable bivy sack, DWR coating, or a higher denier nylon (10D or 15D) |
| Advantages of bivy sacks | Lightweight, compact, destination-agnostic, and protective against dampness |
| Advantages of DWR coating | Repels water droplets, lightweight, and can be reapplied at home |
| Advantages of higher denier nylon | Better water resistance, durability, and warmth |
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What You'll Learn
Waterproof shells reduce breathability
Waterproof shells on sleeping bags are designed to protect the bag from getting wet. However, the addition of a waterproof shell can reduce the breathability of the sleeping bag, leading to moisture accumulation. This is because the enclosed design of most mummy-style sleeping bags tends to trap moisture, which is naturally produced by the body overnight through perspiration and breathing.
Breathability refers to a material's ability to transfer moisture vapour from the inside to the outside. While modern waterproof fabrics are marketed as being 'breathable', they are often far less breathable than non-waterproof shell fabrics. This reduced breathability can cause perspiration to become trapped in the down or synthetic insulation of the sleeping bag, reducing its ability to trap heat and resulting in a colder sleeping environment.
The extent to which a fabric is breathable depends on various factors, including the fabric type, the presence of a laminate or coating, and the level of physical activity. For example, a fabric that is sufficiently breathable during low-intensity activities may not be able to transfer moisture vapour effectively during high-intensity activities, leading to a buildup of perspiration.
To mitigate the reduced breathability of waterproof shells, some sleeping bags use a lighter shell fabric or a waterproof/breathable bivy sack. A bivy sack is a lightweight, compact, and breathable outer shell that can be used to protect the sleeping bag from getting wet. It offers the advantage of being more versatile and adaptable to different trip requirements than a fully waterproof sleeping bag.
Additionally, it is worth noting that fully waterproof sleeping bags are generally more challenging to manufacture, more expensive, and less practical to use. They require the use of shell fabrics with a waterproof coating or membrane, and all seams and stitching must be fully taped or sealed to ensure complete waterproofing.
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Waterproof shells can be too sticky
The stickiness of the fabric is also related to the extent of calendaring, a process of semi-melting the fabric through hot rollers, which gives it a more plastic feel and reduces breathability. Low denier fabrics, like 7D, tend to feel stickier due to their lightweight construction.
To mitigate the sticky feeling, some users recommend wearing wool leggings, as they can be thin and help reduce the stickiness. Alternatively, switching to a higher denier fabric, such as 10D or 15D, for the outer shell can provide better water resistance and reduce the sticky sensation.
It's worth noting that fully waterproof sleeping bags are challenging to manufacture, expensive, and impractical. They often require shell fabrics with a waterproof coating or membrane, and ensuring all seams and stitching are fully taped or sealed is a complex process. As a result, many sleeping bags on the market are highly water-resistant rather than fully waterproof.
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Waterproof shells are expensive
Waterproof shells for sleeping bags are expensive because they are difficult to manufacture. They require the use of shell fabrics with a waterproof coating or a membrane, and all seams and stitching must be fully taped or sealed. This makes the production process more intricate and costly.
Additionally, waterproof shells tend to be heavier and less versatile than regular sleeping bags with lightweight shell fabric. They are often designed for specific activities like high-altitude mountaineering or polar expeditions, making them less suitable for general camping purposes.
The high cost of waterproof shells can also be attributed to their breathability characteristics. While modern waterproof fabrics are marketed as "breathable", they are actually less breathable than most non-waterproof shell fabrics used in sleeping bags. This is because breathability refers to a material's ability to move moisture vapour, and the enclosed design of mummy-style sleeping bags can trap moisture, leading to discomfort during sleep.
Furthermore, the price of a waterproof shell is influenced by its durability. Waterproof shells need to withstand various conditions while maintaining their waterproofing capabilities. This requires the use of more expensive materials and construction techniques, driving up the overall cost.
The demand for effective waterproofing solutions also plays a role in pricing. Well-known outdoor gear brands that offer reliable waterproofing performance, such as Arc'teryx, Marmot, and REI, tend to come with higher price tags. Their products are designed to provide strong protection and performance-oriented features, justifying their premium pricing.
Lastly, the pricing strategy employed by manufacturers contributes to the expense of waterproof shells. By positioning these products as premium offerings, companies can target consumers who prioritize performance, durability, and waterproofing capabilities. This allows them to capture a segment of the market that is willing to pay a higher price for the added benefits and peace of mind that come with a premium waterproof shell.
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Waterproof shells are heavier
Waterproof shells on sleeping bags are heavier than non-waterproof shells. This is because they are often made with a waterproof coating or membrane, and the seams and stitching must be fully taped or sealed to ensure water protection.
The added weight of a waterproof shell can be a trade-off for the benefits of water resistance. Waterproof shells can protect your sleeping bag from getting wet due to condensation, wet gear, or external weather conditions. They can also increase the warmth of your sleeping bag, making them ideal for use in cold or wet environments.
However, it is important to note that fully waterproof sleeping bags are challenging to manufacture and may be more expensive. Additionally, they tend to be less breathable, which can lead to moisture accumulation inside the bag from perspiration and respiration. This reduced breathability can result in a less comfortable sleeping experience, especially in milder or more humid climates.
As an alternative to a fully waterproof sleeping bag, some people opt for a bivy bag, a waterproof but breathable outer shell that can be used to protect your sleeping bag from getting damp. Bivy bags are lightweight, compact, and versatile, allowing you to adapt to different trip requirements. They can be used in conjunction with a sleeping bag to provide added water protection without the weight and breathability issues of a fully waterproof sleeping bag.
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Waterproof shells are impractical
Waterproof shells on sleeping bags are impractical for several reasons. Firstly, they are difficult to manufacture and expensive to produce. The process involves using shell fabrics with a waterproof coating or membrane while ensuring that all seams and stitching are fully taped or sealed, which is a complex and costly undertaking.
Secondly, waterproof shells on sleeping bags tend to reduce breathability. Despite claims of being "breathable", modern waterproof fabrics are far less breathable than their non-waterproof counterparts. Breathability is essential in sleeping bags to move moisture vapour away from the body, keeping the user warm, dry, and comfortable. The enclosed design of most mummy-style sleeping bags already traps moisture, and a waterproof shell exacerbates this issue, potentially leading to an uncomfortable night's sleep.
Additionally, waterproof shells can trap perspiration inside the insulation of the sleeping bag. This trapped perspiration reduces the insulation's ability to retain heat, resulting in a colder sleeping experience. In extreme cases, the insulation may even freeze inside the bag and then melt when the user returns to it.
Waterproof shells also tend to be heavier and more expensive than regular sleeping bags. They are often designed for specific destinations and purposes, limiting their versatility. Instead of investing in a fully waterproof sleeping bag, it may be more practical to opt for a regular sleeping bag and augment it with a lightweight, breathable, and versatile bivy sack for trips requiring waterproof protection.
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Frequently asked questions
Waterproof 7D shells on sleeping bags are not very effective. Breathability refers to a material’s ability to move moisture vapour. 7D fabric may allow more feathers to escape and does not hold heat in. It also has poor water resistance when it touches condensation on a tent wall.
A popular alternative to 7D shells is 10D fabric. This fabric is considered to be the perfect quilt material as it has better water resistance and is less sticky.
Examples of sleeping bags that are highly water-resistant include the Mountain Equipment Snowline, Redline and Iceline bags, as well as the Mountain Hardwear Phantom series.
