Colin Snow
When it comes to sleeping bags, the most important factor is its temperature rating. This indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep you warm. For instance, a rating of 35° Fahrenheit means the bag can be used in any weather that is 35° Fahrenheit or higher. Temperature ratings are determined by standardised laboratory tests, which produce a rating range for each sleeping bag. The two temperature ratings within this range are the comfort rating and the lower-limit rating. The former is the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, while the latter is the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable. However, temperature ratings are only estimates, and individual experiences may vary. Mummy-shaped sleeping bags are generally recommended for colder climates, while rectangular bags offer more comfort. Synthetic insulation is usually cheaper, while goose-down insulation provides better durability and warmth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature rating | -40°F (-40°C) |
| Shape | Mummy-shaped |
| Insulation | Synthetic, Down-fill, Water-resistant Down |
| Additional features | Pillow pockets, blanket collars, hood, zips |
| Examples | Stephenson's Warmlite Triple Bag, Big Agnes Crosho UL -20, Sea to Summit Ascent |
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What You'll Learn
Temperature ratings are estimates, not exact
Temperature ratings on sleeping bags are based on standardised tests, which give a more precise and comparable system than a season rating. However, it's important to remember that these ratings are estimates and not exact measurements of a bag's warmth.
The ISO International Standards Organization oversees bag testing, which involves placing a heavily instrumented electronic mannequin, dressed in long underwear, inside the sleeping bag. The temperature of the air is then lowered, and the amount of electrical energy needed to maintain the mannequin's initial temperature is measured. This test produces a rating range for each sleeping bag, with two temperature ratings within that range: a comfort rating and a lower limit rating. The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, while the lower limit rating is always lower than the comfort rating and indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable.
It's worth noting that not all sleeping bags have an ISO rating. The test standard isn't valid for bags designed for extreme cold or children's bags. Additionally, brands might not choose to get ISO testing on bags intended for mild conditions or casual use. When a sleeping bag doesn't have an ISO rating, the temperature rating is likely the brand's estimate and not a result of standardised testing.
Furthermore, the standardised tests use an "average" user, so the ratings should be used as a guide rather than an exact measurement. Individual experiences may vary due to factors such as clothing and gear, body type, weather conditions, and food intake. For example, women's sleeping bags typically have more insulation than men's bags, as the average woman sleeps colder than the average man. Therefore, when choosing a sleeping bag, it's essential to consider your own preferences and needs.
While the ISO testing provides a useful guide, it has some limitations. It does not test temperatures below -25 degrees Fahrenheit, certify bags for children, or allow for hoodless sleeping. Additionally, it is primarily designed for mummy-shaped sleeping bags, which can be frustrating for those who use quilts or rectangular bags.
In conclusion, while temperature ratings on sleeping bags can provide a helpful estimate of their warmth, they are not exact. It's important to consider your own needs and preferences and choose a bag that best matches your comfort level.
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Shape and warmth
The shape of a sleeping bag is an important factor in determining its warmth. Mummy bags, for example, are designed with a hood and a tapered sarcophagus shape that minimises material while maximising thermal efficiency. This makes them a popular choice for backpacking as they offer greater warmth in a smaller, lighter package. However, the tapered shape can reduce legroom, so some people may find them uncomfortable. Mummy bags are also tested using the ISO 23537-1:2022 standard, which is not the case for quilts or rectangular sleeping bags.
On the other hand, rectangular sleeping bags offer more room to move around, making them ideal for side sleepers or those who toss and turn at night. They are also generally cheaper to manufacture due to their shape. However, they are less thermally efficient than mummy bags and require more material and insulation to build, resulting in a heavier bag.
The continuous baffle system found in some sleeping bags offers versatility and customised warmth. It allows users to redistribute the down within each baffle, moving it to areas where extra insulation is needed. This feature is particularly useful for cold nights, assuming a warm sleeping pad is used.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is crucial to consider its temperature rating, which indicates the range of temperatures the bag is designed for. The EN (European Norm) and ISO (International Standards Organisation) ratings are standardised laboratory tests that provide a comfort rating and a lower-limit rating. The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, while the lower-limit rating is the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable. It's important to note that temperature ratings are estimates, and real-world comfort may differ due to various factors such as clothing, gear, body type, and weather conditions.
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Insulation materials
When choosing a sleeping bag, the key factor is its temperature rating. The EN (European Norm) was the original standard for rating sleeping bags, but today, the ISO (International Standards Organization) oversees bag testing. The ISO testing method is almost identical to the EN test, so you can compare old EN-rated bags to newer ISO-rated bags.
Standardized laboratory tests produce a rating range for each sleeping bag, with two temperature ratings within that range: the comfort rating and the lower-limit rating. The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable, and the lower-limit rating (always lower than the comfort rating) indicates the temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable. The comfort rating is used for women's bags, while the lower-limit rating is used for men's bags. It's important to note that temperature ratings are estimates, and real-world warmth and comfort can vary based on several factors, including humidity, wind, type of shelter, ground conditions, clothing, and personal preferences.
Now, let's discuss the insulation materials used in sleeping bags:
Down Insulation: Down insulation is made from animal feathers, typically duck or goose. It has an excellent weight-to-warmth ratio, meaning it provides exceptional warmth for its weight. Down is also highly compressible, making it ideal for backpacking as it can be packed down to a small size. In addition, down insulation is generally more durable than synthetic insulation, retaining its loft and warmth for decades with proper care. However, down insulation is more expensive and requires more maintenance. It can "wet out," meaning it gets wet and loses its insulating properties. When choosing a down-insulated sleeping bag, look for a higher fill power, as this indicates higher-quality down that generates greater warmth for its weight.
Synthetic Insulation: Synthetic insulation is typically made from polyester and resembles cotton candy. It is less expensive, easier to care for, and more breathable than down insulation. Synthetic insulation works even when wet, making it a good choice for outdoor use where gear may get wet. Synthetic insulation is also heavier and harder to compress than down, so it may not be as suitable for backpacking. Branded synthetics, such as Thermolite®, retain their loft for longer than generic synthetics. The construction of synthetic insulation also varies, with basic bags using flat layers and higher-quality bags using layers sewn diagonally (called shingles) to trap extra air.
Hybrid Insulation: Hybrid insulation combines high-quality down with loose-fill synthetic insulation. This blend offers the ultralight warmth of down along with the moisture resistance of synthetic insulation. Hybrid sleeping bags can get wet and still retain their loft, ensuring you have a warm sleeping bag even in wet conditions.
When choosing an insulated sleeping bag, consider the temperature ratings, the type of insulation, the weight, and the features that are important to you, such as adjustability and pad compatibility. Additionally, keep in mind that a sleeping pad is crucial for a comfortable night's sleep, as it blocks the ground temperature from affecting your sleep system.
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Testing standards
The ISO 23537-1:2016 standard specifies the requirements, test methods, and labelling provisions for adult-sized sleeping bags used in sports and leisure activities. It does not apply to sleeping bags intended for specific purposes, such as military use or extreme climate zone expeditions, and it does not include children's sleeping bags. The standard focuses on the thermal and dimensional requirements of sleeping bags, with a limit temperature of -20°C for extreme climate conditions.
The testing protocol for sleeping bags involves placing a heated test mannequin dressed in standardised base layers into a sleeping bag, which is then placed on an insulated sleeping pad in a cold chamber. Measurements are taken at multiple points on the mannequin's surface to determine the energy required to maintain standard skin temperature, and this data is compared to reference sleeping bags. This results in three ratings: comfort rating (for women), lower rating (for men), and extreme rating. It's important to note that these ratings are estimates, and real-world comfort may differ due to various factors that a lab cannot simulate, such as clothing, gear, body type, weather conditions, and individual differences.
Some sleeping bag manufacturers choose not to use ISO ratings, believing that their own testing and experience are more reliable than the simulated ISO environment. However, without ISO or EN ratings, it becomes challenging to compare their products with other brands. Additionally, ISO testing has some limitations, such as not testing temperatures below -25°F, not certifying children's sleeping bags, and not allowing for hoodless sleeping bags.
To ensure the accuracy of temperature ratings, it is essential to look for ISO-rated comfort and limit temperatures on the sleeping bag manufacturer's website. Some manufacturers may state the comfort rating, while others may provide the limit rating. It is also worth noting that some manufacturers use Celsius instead of Fahrenheit, which can be confusing if not properly understood.
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Additional features
When it comes to choosing a sleeping bag for cold weather, the key factor is its temperature rating. This indicates the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep you warm. For example, a temperature rating of 35° Fahrenheit means the bag can be used in any weather that is 35° Fahrenheit or warmer.
However, temperature ratings are estimates, and there are several factors that can affect how warm a sleeping bag keeps you. Here are some additional features to consider when choosing a sleeping bag for cold weather:
Shape
The shape of a sleeping bag affects how much warm air it can trap around your body. Mummy-shaped bags are more restrictive but are great for colder climates as they trap warm air more effectively. Rectangular or barrel-shaped bags offer more room to move around but may not keep you as warm.
Hood
A lot of heat can escape from your head, so some sleeping bags come with a built-in hood to keep your head warm. This feature is especially useful in colder temperatures.
Shell and Lining
The outer material of a sleeping bag is called the shell, and the inner material is the lining. A shell with a water-repellent finish will ensure that cold water does not soak into the fabric. The lining should have wicking properties to disperse your body's moisture during the night.
Insulation
The type of insulation also affects the warmth of a sleeping bag. Synthetic insulation is typically made from polyester, which is durable, hypoallergenic, and less expensive. However, it is bulkier and harder to transport. Goose down is more expensive but offers better durability and warmth, and it can be easily compressed into a small pack. Water-resistant down combines the benefits of down with added protection against moisture.
Insulated Sleeping Pad
If you're looking for a sleeping bag for extremely cold temperatures, consider using it in conjunction with an insulated sleeping pad. The R rating of a sleeping pad indicates its ability to block the temperature of the ground from seeping through to your body. A higher R rating means better insulation.
Other Features
Some additional features that can enhance your comfort include pillow pockets, blanket collars, and zips for ventilation. These features can improve your overall sleeping experience and help you get a better night's rest.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping bags can be rated for temperatures as low as -40°F (40°C). Bags in this temperature range are considered "extreme cold" sleeping bags.
Temperature ratings are determined through standardised laboratory tests. A sleeping pad is placed under the bag, and a test dummy inside the bag is dressed in base layers. This protocol ensures that all bag tests are done the same way, but it can't account for variations like differences in body types, gear, weather conditions, etc.
EN (European Norm) was the original standard adopted by the sleeping bag industry. Today, ISO (International Standards Organization) oversees bag testing, using a nearly identical method. Lab-tested temperature ratings (as indicated by "EN" or "ISO" ratings") allow for easy comparisons between sleeping bags from different brands.
The temperature rating you need depends on the coldest conditions you anticipate encountering. Mummy-shaped bags are typically better for colder climates, while rectangular or barrel-shaped bags offer more room but may not keep you as warm.
The Stephenson's Warmlite Triple bag is a top-notch camping and backpacking sleep system. It covers a wide temperature range due to its dual tops design and is attractively priced. Other recommended options include the Sea to Summit Ascent (women's and men's versions available), the Sidewinder (for side sleepers), and the ALPS Mountaineering Blaze series.
