Ashwin Lewis
When it comes to sleeping bags, there are a variety of brands to choose from. Sleeping bags come in different materials, weights, warmth ratings, and applications, so it's important to choose one that suits your specific needs. Some popular brands include Mountain Hardwear, Feathered Friends, Western Mountaineering, The North Face, REI, Big Agnes, Marmot, and Sea to Summit. Factors such as temperature ratings, water resistance, and sustainability are also important considerations when choosing a sleeping bag brand. Some brands offer a range of size options, while others specialize in lightweight or budget-friendly models. Ultimately, the best brand for sleeping bags will depend on your individual preferences and requirements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brands | Feathered Friends, Western Mountaineering, The North Face, REI, Big Agnes, Mountain Hardwear, Alps OutdoorZ, Marmot, Montbell |
| Specific Models | Hummingbird UL 20/30, Swallow, Swift, MegaLite, UltraLite, AlpinLite, Siesta, Sidewinder SL 20°, Down Hugger 650 #1, Teton 15°, Zpacks Classic 30, Puma, Ptarmigan, Snowbunting, Kodiak |
| Temperature Ratings | 15 °F, 20 °F, 30 °F, 650 #1, -20F, -25 F, 0 F |
| Weight | 14 oz, 24 oz, 27 oz, 29 oz, 31 oz, 3 lb 7 oz, 3 lb 12 oz, 2 lb 14 oz, 1 lb 8 oz, 1 lb 9 oz, 1 lb 13 oz, 2.3 lb |
| Materials | Goose down, nylon, cotton canvas, polyester fiber, poly-fill, Pertex Shield EX fabric, Microlite XP microfiber, Taffeta, DownTek 900 fill power water-resistant down |
| Features | Roomy, lightweight, warm, moisture-resistant, easy to clean, spacious, adjustable temperature, rectangular shape, wrap-around zipper, hooded, mummy-style, unisex |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag ratings: EN or ISO standards
When shopping for a sleeping bag, it's important to consider its temperature rating. The EN/ISO testing protocols provide a standard for all sleeping bags, allowing users to reliably compare bags with similar ratings and choose one that suits their needs. The ratings from this test indicate key benchmarks, such as when the mannequin's heat accumulates in the sleeping bag, the range where its temperature remains steady, and the point at which heat begins to be lost. This information helps determine the comfort and lower-limit ratings of the sleeping bag.
The EN 13537 Standard, introduced in 2005, aimed to ensure consumers could directly compare sleeping bags with a given rating. All sleeping bags are independently tested and provided with a "'comfort' and 'limit' rating". In 2017, the new ISO standard was introduced as an updated version of the EN ratings, serving as the testing protocol for all certified sleeping bags. Reputable brands like Marmot and Mountain Hardwear list their products' EN or ISO ratings.
It's worth noting that not all sleeping bags have an ISO or EN rating. The test standard doesn't apply to bags designed for extreme cold or children's bags. Brands might also choose to skip ISO testing on bags intended for mild conditions or casual use. When a "temperature rating" is not stated as a "comfort" or "lower limit" rating, it likely reflects the brand's estimate rather than an ISO or EN test result.
While the EN/ISO testing protocols provide valuable information, they have their limitations. The tests don't account for individual variations, such as differences in body types, clothing, gear, and sleeping pads. Therefore, the comfort level of a sleeping bag in real-world use may differ from its tested temperature rating. Additionally, the numbers on bag names may not always match the exact temperature ratings due to rounding for simplicity.
To make an informed decision when purchasing a sleeping bag, consider both the EN/ISO ratings and other factors that contribute to a comfortable sleeping experience. Look for brands that advertise comfort ratings, as the generic "rating" may only indicate survival rather than comfort. Additionally, pay attention to the materials used, the weight of the bag, and the specific features that align with your camping needs.
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Best sleeping bags for car camping
When it comes to car camping, you don't need to worry about the weight of your sleeping bag, so a synthetic fill will do the job. If you're backpacking, however, you'll want to opt for a bag with a down fill, as it will be lighter and easier to compress.
The best sleeping bag for car camping is the REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag. It's roomy, warm, and made from recycled poly-fill. It's also moisture-resistant, easy to clean, and simple to pack away. The bag comes in two sizes (regular and long) and a double version for couples.
Another great option for car camping is the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood. It's heavy, but it's also rugged, comfortable, and warm, with a cozy flannel interior.
If you're looking for a budget option, the Coleman Brazos is a good choice. It's perfect for those who only go camping a few times a year.
For narrow-bodied people who sleep cold, the Marmot Women's Teton 15° Sleeping Bag is a great option. It's rated to 15°F, and it's among the softest and warmest bags on the market. It's also backed by a lifetime warranty.
If you're looking for a lightweight bag for short hike-in trips, the Kelty Galactic 30 is a good choice. It's rectangular and traditional in shape, and it packs down small.
Finally, for broader-shouldered, narrow-hipped people who tend to sleep hot, the Montbell Down Hugger 650 #1 is a good option. It's comfortable, roomy, and lightweight.
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Top-rated sleeping bag brands
When it comes to top-rated sleeping bag brands, there are several reputable companies that stand out. Here are some of the most highly regarded brands in the market:
REI
REI Co-op is known for its wide range of outdoor gear, including highly rated sleeping bags. Their Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag is a popular choice for car campers, offering a plush and cozy option. It comes in two sizes—regular and long—to accommodate different sleepers, and there's also a double version for couples.
Western Mountaineering
Western Mountaineering is a traditional top-tier manufacturer of sleeping bags. Their bags are known for their high quality and performance. The MegaLite, for example, is a warm, cozy, and roomy option that is popular among serious backpackers. The brand also offers other well-regarded bags, such as the UltraLite and the AlpinLite, which is specifically designed for women.
Feathered Friends
Feathered Friends is another reputable brand that offers versatile sleeping bags suitable for various outdoor activities. Their Hummingbird UL series is highly regarded, with options like the Hummingbird UL 20 and Hummingbird UL 30. The brand also offers the Egret 20, a women's-specific sleeping bag. Additionally, their Ptarmigan EX -25 bag is designed for cold expeditions, keeping users warm and dry in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Alps OutdoorZ
Alps OutdoorZ is known for its durable and comfortable sleeping bags. The Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is a classic, featuring a sturdy cotton canvas shell and a cozy flannel liner. It is spacious and rectangular, making it a comfortable option for those who want a little more room.
Mountain Hardwear
Mountain Hardwear is a reputable brand that offers a range of sleeping bags. Their Bishop Pass 15 bag is a budget-friendly option for occasional backpackers, providing a lightweight and down-filled sleeping solution.
These brands consistently receive positive reviews for their sleeping bags, offering a range of options to suit different needs, preferences, and outdoor activities.
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Sleeping bag shapes and sizes
Sleeping bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and choosing the right one for you will depend on factors such as your height, your sleeping style, and the temperature rating you require.
Firstly, consider your height. Sleeping bags typically come in short, regular, and long sizes. Some bags, such as the Zpacks Classic 30, offer up to seven different sizes, while others, like the REI Co-op Siesta, offer just two options (regular and long). If you're tall, you'll want to look for a bag that caters to your height; the Feathered Friends Puma, for example, is designed for people with broad shoulders. On the other hand, if you're looking for a bag for your child, you might consider the Feathered Friends Swallow, which is a relaxed, wider-fitting option that's very popular for teenagers.
Next, think about how you sleep. If you sleep on your side, you'll want a bag that allows you to move your legs, such as the Big Agnes Sidewinder SL 20°. Mummy-style bags are great for saving weight, but they tend to be narrower and may not be ideal if you like to move around. The MegaLite, for instance, is just roomy enough to allow you to roll over, while the slightly more expensive Western Mountaineering AlpinLite is designed with a wider cut that will be comfortable for a wide range of backpackers.
Finally, consider the temperature rating. This will depend on the conditions in which you'll be using the bag. For colder temperatures, look for a bag with a lower temperature rating, such as the Feathered Friends Ptarmigan EX -25, which is designed for cold expeditions. For warmer temperatures, a bag with a higher rating will do the trick; the Hummingbird UL 30, for example, is designed for summer nights.
Other features to consider include the bag's weight, its pack size, and whether it has a hood. If you're backpacking, you'll want a lightweight bag that packs down small, like the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15. For car camping, weight is less of an issue, and you might opt for a heavier, more rugged bag like the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood, which can double as a picnic blanket or quilt.
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Backpacking sleeping bags
When it comes to backpacking sleeping bags, you'll want something that's lightweight, warm, and compressible. Here are some of the best options on the market:
Feathered Friends Swallow YF 20 Men's & Egret YF 20 Women's
The Feathered Friends Swallow YF 20 and Egret YF 20 are some of the highest-quality down bags for backpacking. They are very light, soft, and filled with responsibly sourced 900+ fill-power goose down. These bags have been tested in frigid conditions and are trusted to keep you warm when temperatures drop. They also offer superior overall performance and are one of the best three-season bags available.
Western Mountaineering MegaLite and AlpinLite
The Western Mountaineering MegaLite is a great choice for serious backpackers. It is warm, cozy, and roomy enough to allow for movement. The AlpinLite is another excellent option, especially for women, with a minimalist build filled with 19 ounces of high-quality, responsibly sourced 850+ goose down and an ultralight ripstop nylon shell.
REI Co-op Magma 15 and Magma 30
The Magma line from REI offers a great balance of quality and affordability. The Magma 15 is filled with 850-fill-power goose down and comes in a range of lengths and widths. The Magma 30 is also available in a 15-degree version. While the Magma bags are bulkier than some ultralight competitors, they offer an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio at a competitive price point.
Montbell Down Hugger 650 #1
The Montbell Down Hugger 650 #1 is perfect for backpackers who want a bag that's broad in the shoulders and narrow in the hips. It has diagonal baffling, allowing for movement in two directions, vertically and horizontally. This bag provides a great balance of comfort and warmth.
NEMO Disco 15 Endless Promise Men's & Women's
The NEMO Disco 15 is a comfortable and eco-friendly option, with a recycled PET shell, PFAS-free waterproofing, and 650-fill power RDS-certified down. It's a versatile bag that's great for both camping and hiking.
Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20 Men's & Women's Cosmic Ultra 20
The Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20 is a great budget option for backpacking sleeping bags. It has a lightweight design and is filled with high-quality down.
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Frequently asked questions
The REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag is a popular choice for car campers. The bag has an updated version available and is roomier than most mummy-style options. Other options include the plush, cozy REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag and the Alps OutdoorZ Redwood, which is heavy-duty and has a cozy flannel liner.
The Montbell Down Hugger 650 #1 and the Marmot Women’s Teton 15° Sleeping Bag are the best bags for backpacking. The Zpacks Classic 30-degree sleeping bag is another great option, weighing just 14 ounces and available in 7 different sizes. The Feathered Friends Hummingbird UL 30 is also a good choice for backpackers, as well as the Western Mountaineering MegaLite.
The Western Mountaineering AlpinLite is a favorite sleeping bag for women, with a minimalist build and an ultralight ripstop nylon shell. The Marmot Women’s Teton 15° Sleeping Bag is another bag designed specifically for women.
