Colin Snow
Choosing the right sleeping bag can be a confusing task, especially when it comes to picking the right temperature rating. Sleeping bag temperature ratings are based on an average sleeper and are meant to help buyers compare bags. However, real-world comfort may not match lab-tested temperature ratings due to various factors, including clothing, gear, body type, weather conditions, and more. It is recommended to give yourself a buffer of 10–15 degrees when choosing a bag, and to pay attention to the comfort rating, which is the temperature at which the average female can sleep comfortably. The limit rating is the temperature at which the average male can sleep without excessive perspiration or shivering. Warmer sleeping bags tend to be heavier and more expensive, so it's important to balance weight, compressibility, and warmth when selecting a bag.
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag ratings are estimates
The EN (European Norm) and ISO (International Standards Organization) ratings are the most widely recognised. Both use a heated mannequin wearing light clothing and a well-insulated pad to test the bag. However, EN/ISO ratings are still voluntary in the EU, and not all sleeping bags have them.
The EN/ISO standards include three temperature thresholds: a comfort rating, a limit rating, and an extreme rating. The comfort rating is the temperature at which the "average female" can sleep comfortably through the night. The limit rating is the temperature at which the "average male" can sleep for eight hours in a curled position without waking. The extreme rating indicates how cold the air could be before there is a serious risk of death from hypothermia.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider the lowest expected temperature and then subtract 10 degrees to be safe. For example, if the lowest expected temperature is 30°F, a sleeping bag with a rating of 20°F would be suitable. It is also important to consider the shape and features of the bag, such as a snug-fitting hood, which can make a bag much warmer.
In addition to temperature ratings, other factors to consider when choosing a sleeping bag include weight, compressibility, and budget. For backpacking, a lightweight and compressible sleeping bag is ideal, while for car camping, weight and bulk are less of a concern, and the focus can be on warmth and comfort.
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EN and ISO ratings are trustworthy
The EN/ISO testing protocols involve placing a heated, sensor-rich manikin into a sleeping bag, which is then placed in a cold chamber on a basic foam mat. The manikin wears a specific base layer, similar to what a camper might wear. As temperatures drop in the cold chamber, corresponding measurements are taken from the manikin. The test looks for key benchmarks such as when the manikin's heat accumulates in the sleeping bag, the range where its temperature remains relatively steady, and the point at which heat begins to be lost. This helps ensure that the sleeping bag will provide adequate warmth for users in various temperature conditions.
The EN/ISO ratings also take into account physiological differences between traditional genders. The "comfort" rating, which is the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, is typically used for women's bags. The "lower limit" rating, which is always lower than the comfort rating, indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still feel comfortable and is used for men's bags. This distinction is important because, at a given temperature, most women's bags weigh more than men's bags due to the increased insulation needed to achieve the same comfort level.
While EN/ISO ratings are generally trustworthy, it's important to remember that they are estimates and may not perfectly match your real-world comfort. Lab testing can't account for all variables, such as differences in clothing, gear, body types, weather conditions, and individual preferences. Therefore, it's always a good idea to give yourself a buffer when choosing a sleeping bag and consider other factors such as reviews, down fill power, and external design.
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Consider your sleeping bag's features
When choosing a sleeping bag, it's essential to consider its features to ensure a comfortable and safe outdoor experience. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:
Temperature Ratings:
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is a crucial factor. It represents the lowest temperature at which the bag can be used comfortably. For example, a 35°F bag will keep you warm down to around 35°F, and below that, you may start feeling uncomfortably cold. It's important to remember that temperature ratings are estimates and don't account for individual variations, clothing, or environmental conditions. Choose a bag with a rating lower than the expected low temperatures to ensure comfort.
Hood:
The presence of a hood in a sleeping bag is essential for colder temperatures. A snug-fitting hood can make the bag significantly warmer, and they are more common in bags with lower temperature ratings. Ensure the hood fits well around your head to prevent discomfort and avoid breathing water vapour into the bag, making it damp.
Zipper:
Zippers with multiple sliders allow for easy ventilation adjustment. Look for bags with features that prevent zipper snagging, such as a full-length guard or a zipper cover.
Pockets:
Some sleeping bags offer handy pockets for storing small items like watches or lip balm.
Compressibility and Weight:
If you're backpacking, the weight and compressibility of the sleeping bag become crucial. Aim for a lightweight bag that can be easily compressed and packed without taking up too much space. Balancing weight and compressibility with warmth is essential.
Shape:
Sleeping bags come in various shapes, including rectangular, semi-rectangular (modified mummy or barrel shape), and mummy (snug) styles. Rectangular bags offer the most room to move around, making them popular for camping. Semi-rectangular bags offer a balance between warmth and space, while mummy bags are snug and efficient for retaining heat, making them common for backpacking.
Insulation:
The type of insulation used in sleeping bags varies, with down fills lasting longer than synthetic fills but being more expensive. The quality and amount of insulation, often referred to as fill power and fill weight, respectively, are also important considerations.
Length:
Ensure you choose a sleeping bag that fits your height. A bag that is too short will compress the insulation around your head and feet, reducing its effectiveness.
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Real-world comfort may differ from ratings
Real-world comfort may differ from the temperature ratings of a sleeping bag. Temperature ratings are estimates, not exact measurements. While lab testing simulates how a sleeping bag should be used, it cannot account for all variables. For example, a sleeping bag's comfort level may differ due to variations in clothing, gear, body type, weather conditions, and food intake.
Additionally, temperature ratings are not always standardised across brands. In the past, companies tested sleeping bags in their own labs using different methods, making it difficult to compare products. While most brands now use independent labs that follow the EN (European Norm) or ISO (International Standards Organization) standards, not all manufacturers adhere to these testing regimes. Some companies may choose to forego ISO testing for bags intended for mild conditions or casual use, instead providing their own temperature estimates.
Furthermore, individual factors such as metabolism, body shape, and sleep habits can affect how warm or cold one feels in a sleeping bag. For instance, a person who sleeps cold will likely require a bag with a higher temperature rating than someone who sleeps hot. Similarly, a person with broader shoulders and narrower hips may prefer a bag with a different shape to accommodate their build.
To ensure you purchase a suitable sleeping bag, it is recommended to give yourself a buffer. For example, if the forecasted low is 30°F, consider choosing a bag rated for temperatures down to 20°F. Reading reviews, evaluating the down fill power and weight, and considering the shape, features, and age of the product can also help you make an informed decision.
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Ratings are based on an average sleeper
Sleeping bag temperature ratings are based on several factors, including the anticipated coldest conditions, the type of sleeping pad, clothing, and individual differences in body types and metabolism. While temperature ratings provide a guide, real-world comfort may differ from lab-tested ratings due to various variables.
The EN (European Norm) and ISO (International Standards Organization) ratings are widely used to standardize the warmth of sleeping bags. The ISO 23537 test, for instance, utilizes a heated mannequin with temperature sensors in a climate-controlled room to determine thermal resistance. This test has three temperature ratings: comfort, limit, and extreme. The comfort rating is for a "standard woman" who is just not feeling cold, the limit rating is for a "standard man" who is not yet feeling cold, and the extreme rating is where there is a risk of health damage by hypothermia.
It's important to note that the numbers on bag names might not match their exact temperature ratings. For instance, a bag named "Men's Snugglebuggle 15 Bag" might have an ISO lower-limit rating of 18 degrees Fahrenheit. Brands often round up or down to a number ending in 0 or 5 for simplicity. Therefore, it is crucial to look at the actual test rating rather than relying solely on the bag's name.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is recommended to consider the lowest expected temperature and subtract 10 degrees to ensure comfort. For example, if you anticipate temperatures around freezing, a bag with a 28°F ISO Comfort rating (16 °F Lower Limit) would be a suitable choice. Additionally, factors like the bag's shape, features, and age can impact its performance. A snug-fitting hood, multiple zipper sliders for ventilation, and a stash pocket are features to look for when selecting a sleeping bag.
Sleeping bag temperature ratings are based on an "average sleeper," but it's important to remember that individual factors can affect one's comfort. The ratings provide a comparative guide, and it's up to the user to decide how warm of a bag they need based on their specific requirements and conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
The temperature of your sleeping bag depends on the weather conditions you plan to camp in. It is recommended that you subtract 10 degrees from the lowest expected temperature to be safe. For example, if you are camping in 30-40 degree weather, you should get a 20-degree sleeping bag.
A summer bag (32 degrees Fahrenheit and up) can be a great way to save weight, space, and money.
The length of your sleeping bag depends on your height. If your sleeping bag is too short, your feet and head will compress the insulation at the ends of the bag, making it less effective.
Camping bags are usually roomier and heavier, whereas backpacking bags tend to be lighter and more snug.
Some other factors to consider are the shape, weight, and features of the bag. You should also consider the bag's fill power (quality of the down) and fill weight (total amount of down).
