Herbie Murray
Kelty sleeping bags are a popular choice for camping and backpacking trips. They come in a range of shapes, sizes, and temperature ratings to suit different needs and preferences. One unique feature of some Kelty sleeping bags is that they can be zipped together to form a twin bag, allowing couples to share body heat. This feature is available in the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 men's and women's sleeping bags, which can be joined together. Other Kelty sleeping bags, such as the Catena 30 and the Cosmic Down 0, offer different insulation types, weights, and temperature ratings to cater to various outdoor activities and conditions. When choosing a Kelty sleeping bag, it's important to consider factors such as bag shape, size, insulation type, and additional features like draft-blocking details and extra zippers to ensure a comfortable and functional option for your adventures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping Bag Shape | Mummy, Rectangular |
| Size | Short, Regular, Long, Double |
| Seasons | 3-season, 4-season |
| Weight | 1.50-2.99 lbs, 3-4.99 lbs, 5-7.99 lbs, 8-11.99 lbs |
| Zipper Location | Right, Left/Right |
| Fill Power | Up to 550 |
| Sleeping Capacity | 1-person, 2-person, 4-person |
| Insulation Type | Synthetic, Down |
| Temperature Rating | 0 F, 30 F |
| Price | $20-$49.99, $100-$199.99, $200-$499.99 |
| Color | Blue, Gray, Green, Orange, Red |
| Rating | 4.0/5, 3.0/5, 2.0/5, 1.0/5 |
| Joining Sleeping Bags | Possible with zippers |
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What You'll Learn
Zipper location
When choosing a Kelty sleeping bag, one of the important considerations is the zipper location. The zipper location can be either on the right or on the left side of the sleeping bag.
Right-sided zippers are the most common option, with five out of six Kelty sleeping bags featuring this configuration. This placement makes it convenient for right-handed individuals to open and close the bag. It also allows for easy access and a quick exit from the sleeping bag if needed.
On the other hand, a left-sided zipper can be a more suitable choice for left-handed individuals, offering them the same convenience and ease of use as their right-handed counterparts. Currently, only one Kelty sleeping bag model offers a left-sided zipper.
Additionally, some sleeping bags feature multiple zippers, including extra zippers, to provide even more flexibility and convenience. These extra zippers can be used for ventilation or to connect multiple sleeping bags together, creating a larger space for multiple people to sleep comfortably.
When selecting a sleeping bag, it's essential to consider your dominant hand and personal preferences to ensure easy access and a comfortable outdoor experience.
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Sleeping bag shape
Sleeping bags come in a variety of shapes, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The three most common shapes are rectangular, semi-rectangular or "modified mummy", and mummy.
Rectangular sleeping bags are the most common type, offering plenty of room for both legs and arms to stretch out. Some rectangular bags can be completely unzipped and used as blankets or comforters. They are a good choice for campers who prioritise comfort over warmth as they do not retain as much heat as other shapes. Rectangular bags are also available in double sizes for couples.
Semi-rectangular sleeping bags, also known as "modified mummy" or "barrel" shapes, offer a compromise between warmth and roominess. They are generally more slender than rectangular bags, with a rounded top and slight tapering at the bottom. This shape is well-suited for cool-weather camping when conditions are chilly but not extremely cold.
Mummy sleeping bags are designed to boost warmth and reduce weight, with a slim cut and a contoured hood that can be cinched tight for added warmth. The overall fit is snug, and you typically roll over with the bag rather than inside it. Mummy bags are a popular choice for backpackers as they are lightweight and efficient at retaining heat.
Other factors to consider when choosing a sleeping bag shape include the insulation type, weight, temperature rating, and size. Insulation type and bag shape significantly impact the weight of the sleeping bag, with more efficient insulations delivering greater warmth for less weight. A bag with a sleek shape and a snug fit will be lighter than a roomier bag. The temperature rating is also important, especially if you plan to use the bag in colder months.
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$139.38 $149.95
Sleeping bag size
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider the bag's size specifications for the best fit. Most sleeping bags come in regular and long sizes, with some also offering short sizes. If you are close to the upper limit of a size range, it is advisable to try both that size and the next one up to determine your preference. Generally, a smaller size will provide more warmth and less weight. It is also important to consider the bag's width, as a bag that is too narrow may compress the down filling, creating cold spots.
Kelty sleeping bags are available in a range of sizes, including short, regular, long, and double. The Kelty Catena 30 sleeping bag, for example, has a temperature rating of 30°F and weighs 3.97 lbs, while the Kelty Cosmic Down 0 bag has a lower temperature rating of 0°F and weighs between 4.34 and 4.63 lbs.
The Kelty brand also offers rectangular sleeping bags that can be zipped together to form a twin bag, accommodating two people. This option may be useful for couples who want to share body heat during cold-weather camping.
When choosing a sleeping bag size, it is essential to consider the expected temperatures, the amount of gear you need to store, and your preference for space and weight distribution. A bag that is too large may result in wasted energy warming empty space, while a bag that is too small may feel restrictive and uncomfortable.
In addition to size, other factors such as temperature rating, insulation type, weight, and extra features should be considered when selecting a sleeping bag. The temperature rating, for instance, should be slightly lower than the anticipated low temperatures to ensure adequate warmth. The type of insulation, whether down or synthetic, will also impact the bag's warmth and weight. Finally, features like draft-blocking details, snug-fitting hoods, extra zippers, and stash pockets can enhance durability, warmth, and functionality.
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Sleeping bag weight
The weight of a sleeping bag is an important factor to consider when choosing one, especially for backpacking. The insulation type and bag shape affect the weight of a sleeping bag the most. Down insulation is the lightest insulator, and bags with this type of insulation are also more expensive. If you don't mind carrying a little extra weight, synthetic insulation is a viable option. Synthetics also pack larger than down bags, but they insulate better when wet.
The weight of a sleeping bag is inversely proportional to its temperature rating. Warmer sleeping bags have more down fill and require more shell fabric to contain it, making them heavier. Lighter sleeping bags use less insulation or lighter insulation, such as hi-fill down.
The Kelty Catena 30 Sleeping Bag, for example, has a weight of 3.97 lbs, while the Kelty Cosmic Down 0 Sleeping Bag weighs between 4.34 and 4.63 lbs.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's essential to consider the intended use and the temperature rating. While you don't want to be shivering, it's also important to avoid being too warm or carrying a sleeping bag that's too heavy for your trip.
For backpacking, a lightweight and compressible sleeping bag is crucial to minimize pack weight and space. On the other hand, if you're on a longer expedition or car camping, the weight and size of the sleeping bag are less important.
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Sleeping bag insulation type
The insulation type of a sleeping bag is a critical factor in its performance, and there are two main types: down and synthetic. Down insulation is made of duck or goose feathers, while synthetic insulation is usually made of polyester. Down insulation is generally more expensive, lighter, and more compressible than synthetic insulation. It also tends to be more durable, retaining warmth for decades if properly maintained. However, synthetic insulation has the advantage of continuing to insulate when wet, making it a better choice for damp climates.
The construction of the insulation layers also affects the sleeping bag's performance. Basic synthetic bags use flat layers of insulation, while higher-quality bags, including those by Sea to Summit, use layers sewn diagonally, known as shingles, or a unique construction that creates curves of insulation to trap extra air, called WaveLoft™. Down bags typically feature baffled constructions to distribute insulation evenly and prevent cold spots, while synthetics often use quilted or shingled constructions.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is essential to consider the temperature rating and your typical sleeping conditions. Select a bag with a temperature rating slightly lower than the anticipated low temperatures during your trips. Additionally, pay attention to the bag's shape and size. Mummy-shaped bags are recommended for their warmth retention due to their tapered design, which reduces the space required to warm up. Ensure the bag is not too big for your body, as it will be heavier and more challenging to warm up.
Before purchasing a sleeping bag, it is advisable to test it out in a store. Try adopting your typical sleeping position and rolling over a few times to ensure that your limbs do not compress the insulation. Check the bag's compressibility by stuffing it into its sack and comparing it to other options. While a more compact bag is easier to pack, avoid sacrificing warmth for space.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, some Kelty sleeping bags can be zipped together.
Kelty sleeping bags that can be zipped together are simple rectangular bags.
Face the zippers of the two sleeping bags towards each other and zip them together.
Joining two sleeping bags can create a twin bag, allowing two people to share body heat.
Some people may not want to be that close to their partner after a few days of hiking.
