Colin Snow
A good night's sleep is essential for a successful outdoor adventure. A warm down sleeping bag can be crucial for a comfortable night's sleep, especially in cold climates. With a variety of options available, choosing the right sleeping bag can be a daunting task. Factors such as materials, weights, warmth ratings, and applications vary widely, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. This introduction will discuss the different types of down sleeping bags available, their features, and the benefits they offer to help you make an informed decision for your next outdoor excursion.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Warmth | -10° F rating, 25° F rating, 20° F rating, 31° F rating, 30° F rating, 21° F rating, 14° F rating, 36° F rating |
| Weight | 1 lb. 4 oz, 1 lb. 11 oz, 2 lb. 7 oz, 2 lb. 11 oz, 1 lb. 12.7 oz, 1 lb. 13 oz, 16.8 oz, 17.3 oz, 23 oz, 14 oz, 24 oz, 19 oz, 16 oz, 22 oz, 24 oz |
| Price | $629, $300, $240, $440, $600, $500, $550, $380 |
| Brand | Alps OutdoorZ, Kelty, Nemo, Zpacks, Western Mountaineering, Feathered Friends, REI |
| Specific model | Redwood, Cosmic Down 20, Disco 15, Classic 30, MegaLite, Hummingbird UL 20, Swallow YF 20, Egret YF 20, Magma 15, Hyperion, Disco, Classic 30, MegaLite, SummerLite, FlyLite, Hummingbird UL 30, Egret UL 30, Magma 30 |
| Additional features | Double draft tubes, offset stitching patterns, zippered internal pocket, "spoon”-shaped concept, 360° draft collar, full-length draft tube, mummy shape, pillow pocket, draft tube and hood |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag warmth and weight
When it comes to sleeping bags, warmth and weight are two of the most important factors to consider when choosing the right one for you.
Warmth is a critical feature of a sleeping bag. A warm sleeping bag can make your outdoor overnights more comfortable and fun, and a good night's sleep will leave you feeling rested and ready for winter sports or other activities. Temperature ratings are a key factor when choosing a sleeping bag, and most bags feature these ratings to indicate the range of temperatures the bag is suitable for. The EN and ISO tests use a heated mannequin with temperature sensors to represent a sleeping person. The tests involve placing the mannequin, dressed in a base layer, inside the sleeping bag, which is then placed inside a cold chamber. As the temperature drops, measurements are recorded via the sensors, and these results are used to calculate the temperature ranges and limits. It's important to note that these ratings are based on 'average' users and should be used as a guide, as real-world comfort may differ from the lab-tested temperature ratings.
Weight is another crucial aspect of sleeping bags. A bag that's too heavy and bulky can negatively impact your trip, and packability is essential for most backpackers. Lighter bags are generally more expensive, but they are worth the investment if you want to avoid being weighed down by your gear. The weight of a sleeping bag is often determined by its fill power and the amount of insulation used. Bags with higher fill power tend to be lighter and more packable, while those with lower fill power may be heavier and bulkier.
When considering warmth and weight together, it's essential to find the right balance for your needs. If you prioritise warmth, keep in mind that warmer sleeping bags tend to be heavier and more expensive. However, struggling with a sleeping bag that doesn't provide enough warmth can ruin your night's sleep. To find the right balance, consider the lowest temperature you're likely to encounter and your own internal thermostat—do you tend to feel cold or run hot? If you often feel cold, opt for comfort ratings as your baseline, choosing a bag with a lower comfort figure than the coldest expected temperature. If you sleep warm, you may rely on lower-limit ratings, but it's still advisable to allow for a buffer of a few degrees Celsius.
Some sleeping bags stand out for their exceptional warmth-to-weight ratios. The Western Mountaineering UltraLite is an excellent example, featuring a no-snag zipper, a 360-degree draft collar, and a full-length draft tube, ensuring superior warmth retention while remaining lightweight. The Feathered Friends brand is also renowned for its premium down, high-quality construction, and impressive warmth-to-weight ratios. Their Swallow UL bag, for instance, is stuffed with over a pound of 950-fill goose down and has a water-resistant shell, all while weighing just 1 pound and 11 ounces.
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Budget down sleeping bags
When it comes to budget down sleeping bags, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, down sleeping bags offer superior warmth, lightweight construction, and compressibility compared to synthetic insulation. However, they tend to be more expensive, and it's important to prioritize features like weight, packability, and temperature ratings based on your specific needs. With that in mind, here are some detailed suggestions for budget down sleeping bags:
Kelty Cosmic Down 20:
Kelty is known for offering inexpensive gear that delivers pleasant surprises in terms of quality. The Cosmic Down 20 is one of the more affordable down sleeping bags available from a major manufacturer. It boasts an ISO Comfort rating of 31 degrees Fahrenheit, suitable for most 3-season conditions. It features a zippered internal pocket, a supple recycled nylon shell, a draft tube, and a collar to minimize heat loss. While it is heavier than premium options and not as packable, its latest update reduced weight without compromising fill power.
Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass:
This sleeping bag strikes a nice balance between price and features. It offers a cozy 26-degree Fahrenheit ISO Comfort rating at 2 pounds 5.4 ounces, making it lighter than bags with similar specifications. The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass is well-built and comfortable, featuring a generous draft collar and a soft liner. It offers excellent value, providing many of the benefits of a high-end model at a fraction of the cost.
REI Co-op Magma 30:
The REI Co-op Magma 30 is another budget-friendly option, especially if you catch it on sale. It offers a lightweight construction, averaging around 25 ounces, and utilizes 850 fill power water-resistant down. It comes in nine different sizes, providing an almost custom fit. Additionally, it includes an interior pocket, enhancing its functionality.
Coleman Kompact 30F:
The Coleman Kompact 30F is a budget-friendly option that expands on the classic rectangular design, offering ample room to move around. It features a vibrant colorway and is designed to provide a cozy experience for car camping trips. While it's not suitable for backpacking due to its weight, it still offers decent packability considering its roominess.
Western Mountaineering MegaLite:
If you're looking for a lightweight option for backpacking, the Western Mountaineering MegaLite is a great choice. It utilizes 12 ounces of 850+ fill power to create a cozy and comfortable down cocoon. It's an ultra-premium model that delivers an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio.
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Sleeping bag features
When choosing a down sleeping bag, there are several features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs.
First, it is important to think about the temperature rating of the bag. This will depend on the climate you plan to use it in. For example, the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 is rated to 31°F, making it suitable for most three-season conditions. However, if you're looking for a bag to use in colder weather, the Feathered Friends Swallow UL 20 is rated to 21°F, and the Western Mountaineering MegaLite is suitable for temperatures as low as 20°F.
The weight of the sleeping bag is another crucial factor, especially if you plan to carry it on backpacking trips. Lighter bags tend to be more expensive, as they use more expensive materials and less filling. For example, the Hummingbird UL 20 is a lighter and more affordable option than the Feathered Friends Swallow UL 20, but it may not be as warm.
The size of the sleeping bag is also important, as you want to ensure you have enough room to move around comfortably. The Nemo Disco has a "spoon” shape that provides more room for sleepers who toss and turn, while the Coleman Brazos has a smaller fit, so it may not be suitable for taller individuals.
Other features to consider include draft tubes and collars, which help to prevent heat loss, and interior pockets for storing small items. Additionally, the type of filling and the quality of construction can impact the warmth, weight, and durability of the sleeping bag. For example, bags filled with goose down, such as those from Feathered Friends, tend to be warmer and softer but come at a higher price point.
Finally, the price is an important consideration, as down sleeping bags can range from budget-friendly options like the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 to premium bags like the Feathered Friends Swallow UL 20, which retails for $629.
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Mummy-shaped sleeping bags
Feathered Friends Swallow UL/YF 20
The Swallow UL 20 is a premium option for backpacking. It is stuffed with over a pound of 950-fill goose down, has a durable and water-resistant Pertex shell, and weighs just 1 pound 11 ounces. The Swallow YF 20 is a similar model, filled with responsibly sourced 900+ fill-power goose down, which is exceptionally soft and comfortable. Both bags feature a generous draft tube, a draft collar, and a fitted cut that eliminates dead space, making them ideal for colder temperatures. The Swallow bags are pricey, but their quality and warmth make them worth the investment.
Western Mountaineering MegaLite/UltraLite 20
The MegaLite is an ultra-premium model that utilizes 12 ounces of 850+ fill power to create an exceptionally comfortable and warm cocoon. The UltraLite is another excellent option, featuring a no-snag zipper, a 360-degree draft collar, and a full-length draft tube, giving it one of the best warmth-to-weight ratios available. Both bags are highly recommended for their combination of warmth and lightweight design.
Kelty Cosmic Down 20/Cosmic Ultra 20
The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 is one of the most affordable down sleeping bags on the market, offering a comfortable ISO rating of 31 degrees Fahrenheit. It features a zippered internal pocket, a recycled nylon shell, and a draft tube and collar to minimize heat loss. The latest update reduced the weight by 3 ounces, making it even more portable. The Cosmic Ultra 20 is the updated version, which offers improved warmth and weight specifications.
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Backpacking quilts
If you're looking for a backpacking quilt, there are a variety of options to choose from. Here are some of the best options on the market:
Enlightened Equipment Revelation
The Revelation is a versatile backpacking quilt that can be left open like a blanket or closed up tight to retain warmth. It's lightweight and has a great warmth-to-weight ratio. It features an adjustable footbox and a 1/4 length zipper, allowing it to be used like a blanket or a traditional sleeping bag. You can also custom order the Revelation to your desired colour, size, and temperature rating. It's a great option for hikers looking for something that can be used in a variety of conditions.
Enlightened Equipment Enigma
The Enigma is another offering from Enlightened Equipment, featuring a sewn-closed footbox like a traditional sleeping bag, allowing it to retain more warmth. It's a zipperless quilt, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a lightweight option.
Loco Libre Ghost Pepper 20
The Ghost Pepper 20 is an excellent choice for cold sleepers and winter wanderers, as it's one of the only quilts on the market with sub-zero temperature ratings. It features unique chevron baffles that prevent the down from shifting away from areas where heat retention is crucial. You can also choose the insulated "Hot Box" footbox option to boost warmth in frigid conditions.
Katabatic Gear Flex
The Flex is an ultralight down quilt that can be securely closed to block out cold air or completely opened to let in a breeze, making it perfect for thru-hikers and folks who need one bag for multiple temperatures. It features a patented pad attachment system that keeps the quilt in place, even if you toss and turn during the night.
UGQ Bandit 20
The UGQ Bandit 20 is an excellent option for those on a budget, offering a great balance of warmth and weight at a more affordable price.
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Frequently asked questions
The Alps OutdoorZ Redwood is a rugged yet comfortable option for car camping. It has a cosy flannel interior and is warm, but it is too heavy to carry on the trail.
For backpackers seeking a lightweight, comfortable, and warm bag, the unisex Western Mountaineering MegaLite is a great option. The Feathered Friends Swallow UL 20 is also a good choice, although it is pricey.
The Coleman Brazos is a good option for those on a budget. It has an excellent zipper that does not snag, but it is not as comfortable or high-quality as premium sleeping bags. The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 is another inexpensive option.
The Feathered Friends Swallow UL 20 and women’s Egret YF 20 are some of the highest-quality down bags for cold temperatures. They are very light and soft, and are filled with responsibly sourced 900+ fill-power goose down. The Nemo Disco 15 is another good option, rated to 3°C.
The Western Mountaineering FlyLite is a good option for warmer weather trips – it’s rated to 36 degrees and weighs just 14 ounces.
