Herbie Murray
When it comes to choosing the right size sleeping bag, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the bag should be sized according to your body size, particularly your height. Most sleeping bags come in standard lengths such as small (5 ft 6 in), regular (6 ft), and long (6 ft 6 in). It is recommended to choose a bag that is one size longer than your height to ensure a comfortable fit. Another important consideration is the shape of the sleeping bag, which can be rectangular, semi-rectangular, or mummy-shaped. Rectangular bags offer more roominess, while mummy-shaped bags are more tapered towards the feet, providing a snugger fit and maximizing warmth. The insulation type and weight of the sleeping bag also play a role in determining the size, with more efficient insulations providing greater warmth for less weight. Other factors to consider include the temperature rating of the bag, the presence of a hood, and the specific measurements of the shoulder and hip girth to ensure a comfortable fit.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fit | A sleeping bag that is too tight or too loose will result in loss of warmth. |
| Length | Sleeping bags come in standard lengths of 5'6", 6'0", and 6'6". The length chosen should be one size longer than your height. |
| Shoulder girth | The circumference of the sleeping bag across the shoulders. |
| Hip girth | The circumference of the sleeping bag across the hips. |
| Gender | Women's sleeping bags are wider in the hips and narrower at the shoulders. |
| Temperature rating | The lower limit rating is for warm sleepers, and the comfort rating is for cold sleepers. |
| Insulation | Synthetic insulation is cheaper, dries faster, and keeps you warm even when wet. Down insulation is more expensive, lasts longer, and is more water-resistant. |
| Shape | Mummy, rectangular, and semi-rectangular are the three basic shapes. Mummy is the most popular, warmest, and lightest, but it is also the most restrictive. Rectangular bags are less efficient at heating but provide more room. |
| Hood | A hood adds warmth, especially when cinched tightly around your head. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag shape: mummy, rectangular, or semi-rectangular
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider its shape as this will determine its warmth, weight, packability, and comfort. The three basic shapes of sleeping bags are mummy, rectangular, and semi-rectangular.
Mummy bags have a tapered form, wider at the shoulders and narrower at the feet, resembling a mummy's shape. This sleek and snug fit minimises the amount of air that needs to be heated, making them the warmest and lightest option. They are also the most packable, making them ideal for backpacking or technical adventures where space is limited. However, the mummy bag's restrictive design can be uncomfortable for those who move around in their sleep or prefer to sleep in different positions.
Rectangular bags, on the other hand, offer maximum roominess and freedom of movement. Their non-tapered design makes them less efficient at heating but more comfortable for those who prefer a less restrictive sleep. Rectangular bags are often a more budget-friendly option. However, their bulkiness makes them less ideal for hiking or backpacking where weight and space are important considerations.
Semi-rectangular bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They cover a variety of shapes that provide more space than a traditional mummy bag while being more efficient at retaining heat than a rectangular bag.
Ultimately, the decision between mummy, rectangular, or semi-rectangular depends on your personal preference, camping needs, and sleeping style. If you plan to camp in colder weather or need a lightweight and packable option, a mummy bag is ideal. If you prioritise comfort and freedom of movement, a rectangular or semi-rectangular bag may be a better choice. Additionally, consider the insulation type and temperature rating to ensure your bag provides adequate warmth for your camping conditions.
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Temperature rating: lower limit or comfort
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the temperature rating. There are two types of temperature ratings: the “lower limit” and the “comfort” rating. The former is for warm sleepers, indicating the temperature at which they might still feel comfortable, while the latter is for cold sleepers, indicating the temperature at which they might feel comfortable.
The "lower limit" rating is always lower than the "comfort" rating. For example, a unisex sleeping bag with a lower limit of 14°F (-10°C) means a man should be comfortable down to air temperatures of 14°F (-10°C). The same bag will also have a comfort limit of 27°F (-3°C), so a woman would be comfortable down to an air temperature of 27°F (-3°C). These ratings are based on standardised ranges and are useful for making comparisons between sleeping bags from different brands.
However, it's important to remember that these temperature ratings are just estimates and not precise measurements. Lab testing simulates how a sleeping bag should be used, but it can't account for all variables such as differences in clothing, gear, body types, weather conditions, and more. Therefore, the comfort level you experience in real-world conditions may differ from the tested temperature rating.
When choosing a sleeping bag, consider the lowest temperature you're likely to encounter. If you often feel cold, use the comfort ratings as a baseline and select a bag with a significantly lower comfort figure than the coldest expected temperature. If you sleep warm, you may rely on lower-limit ratings, but it's advisable to give yourself a buffer of a few degrees Celsius.
Additionally, ensure you have the proper sleeping gear, such as a sleeping mat with an appropriate R-value for the expected ground temperatures, to complement your sleeping bag and enhance your warmth.
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Insulation type: synthetic or down
When choosing a sleeping bag, one of the first things to consider is the insulation type. The two main types of insulation are synthetic and down.
Synthetic insulation is made from man-made materials, usually some form of polyester fibre. Synthetic sleeping bags are generally more affordable, and they continue to insulate when wet, making them ideal for damp climates. They are also easier to clean and dry faster than down sleeping bags. However, they are typically heavier and bulkier, which is an important consideration for backpackers. Synthetic insulation is perfect for car camping, as weight and packed size are less important factors.
Down insulation, on the other hand, is made from the soft, wispy plumage found underneath the exterior feathers of waterfowl, such as geese and ducks. Down sleeping bags are known for their superior warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility. They can be packed down to a fraction of the size of a synthetic bag, leaving more space in your pack. Down is also more durable than synthetic insulation, retaining its insulating properties for decades if properly cared for. However, down sleeping bags are generally more expensive, and they lose their insulating properties when wet.
The decision between synthetic and down insulation depends on various factors, including your camping style, budget, and the climate you'll be using it in. Synthetic bags are ideal for those starting with car camping or backpacking, as they are more affordable and perform well in wet conditions. Down bags are favoured for their lightweight and compressibility, but they come with a higher price tag and require more careful maintenance.
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Fit: length, shoulder girth, hip girth
When it comes to finding the right fit for a sleeping bag, several factors come into play, including your height, build, and preferred sleeping position. Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate these considerations and choose a sleeping bag that offers both comfort and efficiency:
Length:
The length of a sleeping bag is crucial for ensuring your comfort and maintaining thermal efficiency. Most bags are designed to accommodate individuals within a certain
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Hood: size and fit
The hood of a sleeping bag is an important feature to consider when purchasing one, as it adds considerable warmth by trapping heat that would otherwise escape from your head. A proper-fitting hood should wrap comfortably and naturally around your head. Some hoods include "differentiated drawcords," which have different thicknesses so that you can easily adjust the neck fit and hood opening to your preference.
When trying on a sleeping bag, it is important to test the hood by fully snugging it around your head. This will ensure that the hood fits snugly and securely, providing warmth without being too tight or uncomfortable. A sleeping bag that is too tight or too loose can result in a loss of warmth. Therefore, it is crucial to find a balance between a snug and comfortable fit when it comes to the hood.
The shape of the hood can also vary. Some hoods are designed to be slightly tapered, allowing them to house a standard pillow comfortably. Other hoods, such as the "pillow barn" or "loose hood," offer more space and can accommodate a larger pillow or even two pillows in the case of queen-size sleeping bags. The size and shape of the hood can impact the overall warmth of the sleeping bag, so it is important to consider your preferences and needs when making a purchase decision.
Additionally, the hood's adjustability is an important feature. Look for hoods with cinchable features or drawcords that allow you to tighten or loosen the opening based on your comfort level and the temperature conditions. This adjustability can help trap heat in colder weather and provide more ventilation in warmer climates.
Finally, consider the ease of use and accessibility of the hood. Some hoods might have features that make it easier to get in and out of the sleeping bag, ensuring convenience and comfort during your outdoor adventures. When trying on different sleeping bags, pay attention to how the hood feels, how easy it is to adjust, and whether it provides the warmth and comfort you need for a good night's sleep in the great outdoors.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping bags are sized by their length, so the correct length for your bag should correspond with your height. For example, if you’re 6 feet tall, you should be sleeping in a bag that is roughly 6 feet 8 inches long. This will give you the extra room needed for a correct fit, as when we lay flat, our bodies tend to spread out.
Men’s sleeping bags come in two standard lengths, regular (which fits people up to 6 feet in height) and long (up to 6 feet 6 inches). A short version is sometimes available, which usually fits people up to 5 feet 6 inches. Women’s bags also come in a regular and long, though the measurements vary by brand and style.
The three most important size dimensions to consider are length, shoulder girth, and hip girth. The better a sleeping bag fits, the warmer it will be, as you want to minimise the amount of air space around your body. However, there is a trade-off between warmth and comfort, as roomier bags allow for more freedom of movement.
While a tighter-fitting bag will be warmer, a roomier bag may be preferable for restless sleepers as it allows you to sleep in a more natural position and roll over more easily. A bag that is too tight may also create a sense of claustrophobia.
You should also consider the temperature rating of the bag, the type of insulation, and the shape of the bag. The temperature rating will depend on whether you are a warm or cold sleeper, the type of insulation will impact the weight, durability, and performance of the bag in wet conditions, and the shape of the bag will affect the warmth and roominess.
