Colin Snow
Sleeping bags come in a variety of sizes, from twin to family size, and length is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a sleeping bag. The standard twin-size sleeping bag fits one camper and comes in various lengths to accommodate different heights. Men's sleeping bags typically come in two lengths: regular (for people up to 6 feet tall) and long (up to 6 feet 6 inches). Women's bags also come in regular and long sizes, usually accommodating heights up to 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 10 inches, respectively. It's recommended to choose the shortest sleeping bag that fits your height to maximise warmth, but roomier bags offer more comfort and are better for restless sleepers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Length | Men’s sleeping bags come in two standard lengths: regular (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 (up to 5 feet 4 inches) and long (up to 5 feet 10 inches) option. |
| Fit | A properly fitting sleeping bag will be snug but not uncomfortable. The bag should minimise air space around the body to retain warmth. Roomier bags are available for restless sleepers but are slightly less warm. |
| Shoulder girth | Most men’s sleeping bags have a shoulder girth between 60 and 64 inches, with bags for women usually being slightly narrower. |
| Temperature rating | Choose a bag with a lower temperature rating than the lowest nighttime temperature you expect when camping. |
| Insulation type | Synthetic insulation is more affordable, dries faster, and provides warmth when damp. Down insulation is lightweight, durable, compresses small, and is more expensive. |
| Shape | Mummy-shaped bags are the most popular as they are lightweight, efficient at retaining warmth, and pack easily. Rectangular and semi-rectangular bags are also available and provide more room for added comfort. |
| Storage | Sleeping bags stored in stuff sacks take up less space but can impair their ability to insulate efficiently over time. Cotton or mesh storage sacks are recommended for long-term storage. |
| Liners | Sleeping bag liners help keep the bag clean and add extra warmth. |
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Sleeping bag length
The length of a sleeping bag is an important factor to consider when purchasing one. A sleeping bag that is too small will be uncomfortable, while one that is too large will waste heat. The best-fitting sleeping bag will be as snug as possible without being uncomfortable. The length of a sleeping bag is especially important for backpacking because a bag that is too large will take up more space and weigh more.
Men’s sleeping bags typically come in two standard lengths: regular (for people up to 6 feet tall) and long (up to 6 feet 6 inches). Some brands also offer a short version, which usually fits people up to 5 feet 6 inches. Women’s sleeping bags also come in regular and long sizes, usually accommodating people up to 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 10 inches, respectively. However, it is important to note that these measurements can vary slightly between brands and styles.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is recommended to opt for the shortest length that fits your body. This helps to minimize extra space at the feet, which can reduce warmth. Additionally, a smaller bag will be lighter and take up less space when packed. The ideal sleeping bag length will allow your feet to reach the end of the bag without compressing the insulation.
The shape of a sleeping bag also plays a role in determining the appropriate length. Mummy bags, for example, are tapered towards the feet, providing a snug fit that maximizes warmth. Rectangular bags, on the other hand, offer more room to move but are less efficient at retaining heat. Semi-rectangular bags offer a compromise between warmth and comfort, making them suitable for fair-weather camping and short backpacking trips.
In summary, when selecting a sleeping bag, it is crucial to consider both length and shape to ensure a comfortable and warm sleeping experience. The ideal sleeping bag will be snug enough to retain heat without being too restrictive, and it will have a shape suitable for your camping or backpacking needs.
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Temperature ratings
When choosing a sleeping bag, one of the most important factors to consider is its temperature rating. Sleeping bag temperature ratings are estimates based on lab testing, which simulates how a sleeping bag is used. While this ensures that all bag tests are done the same way, it doesn't account for variations in people's clothing, gear, body types, changing weather conditions, and other factors. Therefore, it's essential to understand how the ratings work to choose the right bag for your needs.
The standardized testing used to assign temperature ratings to sleeping bags is called the ISO Test (International Organization for Standardization standard), which provides three temperature thresholds: Comfort rating, Limit rating, and Extreme rating. The Comfort rating indicates the temperature at which the "average female" can sleep comfortably through the night without curling up for warmth. The Limit rating is based on the temperature at which the "average man" can maintain his thermal equilibrium in a curled-up position without shivering or being in danger of hypothermia. The Extreme rating, indicated by "EN" or "ISO" ratings, means a woman won't die of hypothermia within six hours at that temperature.
It's important to note that the Comfort rating is typically used for women's bags, as data shows that the ""average woman" will feel colder in the same bag as the "average man". Women's bags tend to have more insulation, making them roughly 10–15 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than similarly-rated men's bags. However, these are just stereotypes, and individuals should consider their unique needs when choosing a bag.
When selecting a sleeping bag, it's recommended to pick one with a lower temperature rating than the lowest nighttime temperature you expect. This will ensure that you stay warm and comfortable. Additionally, consider other factors that can affect your comfort, such as the fit of the bag, your sleeping pad, your metabolism, and the weather conditions.
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Insulation types
The insulation type of a sleeping bag is an important consideration when choosing a sleeping bag, especially if you plan to use it for backpacking. The two main types of insulation are down and synthetic. Down insulation is typically more expensive, lighter, more compressible, and more durable than synthetic insulation. It also provides a more consistent level of warmth over a longer period of time, making it ideal for colder climates. However, down insulation loses its insulating properties when wet, which can be a significant drawback in damp climates.
Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is usually made of polyester and continues to insulate even when wet, making it a better choice for humid or wet environments. Synthetic bags are generally more affordable than down bags, but they may not loft to the same degree, which can affect their thermal performance. Basic synthetic bags use flat layers of insulation, while higher-quality bags use layers sewn diagonally, a construction known as "shingling". Sea to Summit synthetic bags feature a unique construction called WaveLoft™, which creates curves of insulation to trap extra air and improve warmth.
The distribution of insulation between the bag's liner and outer shell also varies between down and synthetic bags. Down bags often feature baffled constructions, while synthetic bags typically use quilted or shingled constructions. Some bags even combine the two types of insulation, with synthetic insulation on the bottom to reduce compression and down on top to loft better. However, this combination loses its advantages if the bag is rolled onto its side.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the temperature rating, which indicates the minimum outside temperature at which the bag will keep you warm. It's recommended to select a bag with a rating slightly lower than the typical low temperatures you anticipate encountering. Other factors that can affect the warmth of a sleeping bag include its shape, with mummy bags being the warmest due to their tapered design, and the presence of a hood, which helps retain body heat.
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Bag shapes
Sleeping bags come in a variety of shapes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common sleeping bag shapes:
Rectangular
Rectangular sleeping bags are a classic choice for camping. They offer ample room to move around and stretch out, making them a comfortable option for those who like to roll over during sleep. This type of bag often doubles as a picnic blanket or a quilt for two people to snuggle under. Rectangular sleeping bags are usually lightweight and easy to pack, making them a versatile option for various outdoor activities such as RVing, boating, and backyard camping.
Semi-rectangular or "modified mummy"
The semi-rectangular shape, also known as the "modified mummy" or "barrel" shape, offers a compromise between warmth and roominess. This designation covers a variety of shapes, providing options for those who want a snugger fit than a rectangular bag but not as tight as the mummy-style bag.
Mummy
Mummy-style sleeping bags are designed to boost warmth and reduce weight. They have a snug fit, and you roll over with the bag rather than inside it. This style is ideal for backpacking or lightweight camping trips where minimizing weight and bulk are important considerations. Mummy bags are less roomy than rectangular or semi-rectangular bags, so they may not be suitable for those who prefer more space to move around.
Double
Double sleeping bags are designed for couples or those who want to sleep with a partner. They are typically rectangular and can be zipped together, but it's important to ensure that the bags are the same model and brand. Some sleeping bags can also be zipped together if one person chooses a right-hand zip while the other chooses a left-hand zip. Double bags offer the advantage of extra space and the ability to regulate temperature by unzipping if it gets too warm.
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Extra features
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's important to consider the features that will make your experience as comfortable as possible. Here are some extra features to look for when selecting an adult sleeping bag:
Temperature Rating
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is an important consideration, especially if you plan to use it in colder months or environments. Temperature ratings are based on an "average sleeper" and allow you to compare bags. Look for a bag with a lower temperature rating than the lowest nighttime temperature you expect to encounter. Summer sleeping bags are typically rated 35°F and higher, 3-season bags range from 10°F to 35°F, and winter bags are below 10°F. Keep in mind that your comfort also depends on other factors such as your sleeping pad, clothing, humidity, and metabolism.
Hood
A snug-fitting hood can make a significant difference in warmth retention, especially in colder conditions. Sleeping bags designed for lower temperatures often include a hood to trap heat around your head and neck.
Zipper
Zippers with multiple sliders allow for easy ventilation adjustment. Look for anti-snag features such as a zipper guard or a cover to prevent the zipper from catching and sticking.
Storage Sack and Liner
A stuff sack is essential for compressing your sleeping bag into a smaller size for easy transport and storage. However, it's recommended to use a larger storage sack for long-term storage to maintain the insulation's longevity. Additionally, consider using a soft sleeping bag liner to keep your bag clean and add extra warmth. Liners are particularly useful in hot weather, where you may choose to sleep in the liner without the bag.
Stash Pocket
Some sleeping bags include a small zippered stash pocket, providing a convenient and secure spot to keep small items like a watch, phone, or lip balm close at hand.
Shoulder Girth
The shoulder girth, or circumference of the sleeping bag across the shoulders, varies between models. Men's sleeping bags typically offer a shoulder girth between 60 and 64 inches, while women's bags are usually slightly narrower. Consider your build and comfort preferences when choosing a bag with the right shoulder girth.
When selecting an adult sleeping bag, consider the features that align with your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're car camping or backpacking, the right combination of features will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Men’s sleeping bags come in two standard lengths: regular (for people up to 6 feet in height) and long (up to 6 feet 6 inches). A short version is also sometimes available, which usually fits people up to 5 feet 6 inches.
Women’s sleeping bags also come in regular and long sizes, though the measurements are different: up to 5 feet 4 inches and 5 feet 10 inches, respectively.
The better a sleeping bag fits, the warmer it will be. A bag that fits snugly minimises the amount of air space around your body, reducing the amount of air you need to heat.
Roomier bags make it easier to roll over and move around, which is ideal for restless sleepers. They also reduce feelings of claustrophobia.
