Ashwin Lewis
When choosing a sleeping bag, the key factor is its temperature rating. This is because waking up shivering in the middle of the night can ruin your adventure. However, the temperature ratings of sleeping bags are not always accurate. They are based on an average sleeper and are usually tested in a lab, which cannot account for real-world conditions. Therefore, it is important to understand how these ratings work and what other factors can affect how warm you will feel in your sleeping bag. For example, the type of insulation, the presence of a hood, and the use of a sleeping pad can all make a difference.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature rating | The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is the lowest temperature at which the bag can be used. For example, a 35° bag will keep you warm down to around 35° and below that, you will start to feel uncomfortably cold. |
| Temperature rating for women's bags | Comfort rating, which is the temperature for colder sleepers, is the temperature rating used for women's bags. |
| Temperature rating for men's bags | Lower limit rating, which is always lower than the comfort rating, is the temperature rating used for men's bags. |
| Weight | The weight of the bag is important, especially with synthetic bags. A winter bag will weigh 2+ kg (5+ pounds) unless you get a very expensive one. |
| Zipper | A zipper is important to prevent cold drafts. |
| Baffles | Baffles are the chambers that contain the bag's insulation. Synthetic bags' baffles are mostly just for show. Vertical baffles are great for sleeping bags with more dialled-in shapes, while horizontal baffles allow you to move your down insulation around to adjust your warmth level. |
| Hood | The colder the temperature, the more important a hood for a sleeping bag becomes. |
| Sleeping pad | A sleeping pad is important to insulate the bag from the ground. |
| Sleeping bag liner | A sleeping bag liner helps keep the bag clean and adds extra warmth. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
It's important to note that temperature ratings are estimates and are based on an "average sleeper". They are determined through lab testing, which involves placing a sleeping pad under the bag and dressing a test dummy inside the bag in base layers. While this ensures consistency across tests, it doesn't account for individual variations such as clothing, gear, body type, weather conditions, and other factors. Therefore, the actual comfort level of a sleeping bag may differ from its tested temperature rating.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's recommended to consider the coldest conditions you anticipate and select a bag with a temperature rating that matches or exceeds that temperature. For camping in the winter, a 10°F bag or lower is recommended. A 20°F bag will get you through most of the year, and you can always unzip the bag if it gets too warm.
Additionally, you can enhance the warmth of your sleeping bag by using a sleeping bag liner, wearing extra clothing, or adding a fleece blanket or wool blanket inside the bag. A sleeping pad or air mattress is also crucial to insulate the bag from the ground and prevent heat loss.
It's worth noting that not all sleeping bags have ISO or EN ratings. These ratings are not applicable to bags designed for extreme cold or children's bags. Brands may also choose not to obtain ISO testing for bags intended for mild conditions or casual use. In such cases, the temperature rating may reflect the brand's estimate rather than an ISO or EN test result.
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Sleeping bag insulation
Down insulation is made from the natural feathers of ducks or geese. It is known for its superior warmth and compressibility, making it a popular choice for lightweight and compact sleeping bags. Down bags often feature different configurations of baffles, which are the chambers that contain the insulation. Vertical baffles are common in sleeping bags with more dialled-in shapes, while horizontal baffles allow for more flexibility in adjusting the insulation. However, down insulation is typically more expensive and may not perform well in wet conditions.
Synthetic insulation is made from man-made materials and is often a more affordable option. Synthetic bags can provide adequate warmth, especially in milder conditions, but they tend to be heavier and less compressible than down bags. Synthetic insulation may be a better choice for those who prefer not to use animal-derived products or have concerns about the ethical treatment of birds.
It's worth noting that sleeping bag temperature ratings are not always accurate, and individual factors such as metabolism and circulation can affect how warm someone feels. It is recommended to choose a bag with a lower temperature rating than the expected nighttime temperature to ensure adequate warmth. Additionally, using a sleeping bag liner, wearing extra layers, or adding a sleeping pad can enhance the insulation and warmth of the sleeping bag.
When deciding on the insulation type, it's important to consider the intended use of the sleeping bag. For car camping, weight and bulk may be less of a concern, allowing for a warmer and roomier option. In contrast, backpacking or hiking trips require lightweight and compact gear, so a bag with high-quality down insulation may be preferable.
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Sleeping bag liners
Liners can be made from a variety of materials, including silk, fleece, microfiber, wool, and blends of these fabrics. They are available at a range of price points, with some basic models starting at under $50, and higher-end brands and models costing over $100.
The main benefit of sleeping bag liners in the context of temperature is that they add warmth to your sleep system. This is especially useful if you are camping in cold conditions and want to extend the temperature range of your sleeping bag. Liners can also be used independently of a sleeping bag in hot weather.
It's important to note that the amount of extra warmth provided by a liner is difficult to quantify and depends on various factors, including how well the sleeping bag retains warmth, how well the sleeping pad insulates, and external conditions. However, some liners are specifically designed for cold conditions, such as the THERMOLITE Reactor Extreme liner, which is designed to add warmth in colder conditions.
In addition to adding warmth, sleeping bag liners can also help with moisture management in warm and humid conditions. For example, the Breeze liner wicks moisture away from the body, while also being stretchy and easy to care for.
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Sleeping bag weight
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider its weight and temperature rating. If you're car camping, you don't need to worry about the weight of your sleeping bag as your vehicle will be doing the heavy lifting. However, if you'll be backpacking or hiking, you'll want a lightweight sleeping bag that can be easily carried in a pack.
The weight of a sleeping bag is typically influenced by its insulation type and amount. Down insulation is the lightest insulator, but it is more expensive than synthetic insulation. Synthetic bags are a good option if you don't mind carrying a little extra weight, as they are usually heavier and larger when packed. They also tend to insulate better when wet.
To reduce weight, you can opt for a sleeping bag with less insulation, but this may compromise its warmth. Ultralight sleeping bags are those with a base weight under 10 lbs, and some people use quilts instead of traditional mummy bags to save weight, as quilts have more insulation on top of the sleeper.
The ideal weight for a backpacking sleeping bag is around 3 lbs, and such bags are typically rated for temperatures of 20ºF or EN Comfort 32ºF. Sleeping bags with lower temperature ratings will generally be heavier due to increased insulation.
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Sleeping bag shape
Sleeping bags come in various shapes, and the one you choose will depend on your intended activity and personal preference. Here is an overview of the different shapes available:
Rectangular
Rectangular sleeping bags offer ample space for your arms and legs to stretch out, making them a popular choice for campers. They can also be completely unzipped and used as a comforter. However, their roomy design may result in a colder experience, as there is more space for your body to heat.
Semirectangular or "Modified Mummy"
Semirectangular sleeping bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They provide a snugger fit than rectangular bags but still allow for some movement.
Mummy
Mummy bags are characterised by their tightly sculpted shape, which boosts warmth and reduces weight. With this style, you roll over with your bag rather than inside it. Mummy bags are an excellent choice for backpacking due to their lightweight and compact design. However, some people may find them uncomfortable or even claustrophobic.
Double
Double sleeping bags are designed for couples or technical pursuits like alpine climbing or ultralight backpacking. They allow partners to rely on each other's body heat for warmth, resulting in a lighter bag overall.
When choosing a sleeping bag shape, consider the activity you'll be using it for and your personal comfort preferences. If you're camping, a rectangular bag might be ideal for its spaciousness, while backpacking might call for a lightweight, snug-fitting mummy bag. Trying out different bags in a store can help you determine which shape suits you best.
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Frequently asked questions
For winter camping, a 0°F bag will probably be comfortable in a wide range of winter conditions. If you're heading into high-alpine terrain, frigid temps, and/or polar regions, consider a bag in the -20°F to -40°F range.
A bag without a hood will likely be sufficient for summer camping. If you tend to get cold, consider a bag in the 35°F to 40°F range.
In addition to the temperature rating of the bag, factors such as your sleeping pad, clothing, humidity and wind, and metabolism will affect how warm you feel.
Camping sleeping bags are typically more spacious, while backpacking bags are designed to be lightweight and compact. If you plan to carry your bag in a pack, choose a backpacking-style bag.
