Ashwin Lewis
When it comes to hiking, choosing the right sleeping bag is essential for a good night's rest. Sleeping bags for hiking should ideally be lightweight, pack down to a small size, and provide ample warmth. The market offers a variety of options, from ultralight bags for long-distance hikes to mummy-shaped bags for colder temperatures. Features such as draft collars, zipper baffles, and full-length zippers can enhance warmth and convenience. Temperature ratings, fill power, and insulation type (down vs. synthetic) are also key considerations. Ultimately, the best sleeping bag for hiking will depend on factors such as anticipated temperatures, weight, packability, and personal preferences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature rating | Choose a sleeping bag rated a little lower than the typical low temperatures you expect on your trip. |
| Sleep system | The R-value of your sleeping pad, the type of shelter, and the sleeper's clothing are variables that affect your comfort. |
| Type of insulation | Down vs synthetic. Down is best for backpacking as it is light, warm, and compressible. |
| Weight | The quality of your insulation and the cut of your bag are the big factors. |
| Size | Backpacking bags pack down smaller than camping bags. |
| Warmth-to-weight ratio | Ultralight bags are bulkier than competing bags. |
| Price | Ultralight bags tend to be more expensive. |
| Zippers | Zippers should be high-quality and not snag. |
| Shape | Mummy-shaped bags are tried-and-true but can be constricting. |
| Bright liners | Bright liners help you see inside the bag. |
| Draft collars | Draft collars help trap body heat inside the bag. |
| Pockets | Stash pockets can be a useful feature. |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
There are a few standard temperature ratings that are commonly used by sleeping bag manufacturers. These include the EN (European Norm) and ISO (International Standards Organization), which are assigned by independent test labs. These labs conduct standardised tests to determine the temperature range at which the sleeping bag will provide comfort to the user.
The Comfort rating, which is often used for women's bags, indicates the temperature at which a cold sleeper might feel comfortable. This rating takes into account the physiological differences between traditional genders, as women tend to feel colder than men in the same conditions. The Lower Limit rating, typically used for men's bags, indicates a lower temperature at which a warm sleeper might still be comfortable. It's important to note that these ratings are estimates, and individual factors such as body type, clothing, and weather conditions can also impact the comfort level of the sleeper.
When choosing a sleeping bag based on temperature ratings, it is generally recommended to select one that is rated slightly lower than the coldest temperature you anticipate encountering. This ensures that you will stay warm and comfortable throughout the night. Additionally, it is important to consider the R-value of the sleeping pad you will be using in conjunction with the sleeping bag, as this can also impact the overall warmth and comfort of your sleeping system.
Some sleeping bags may also have additional ratings, such as the Upper Limit rating, which indicates the temperature at which a standard male can sleep without excessive perspiration, and the Extreme rating, which suggests a woman can survive without developing hypothermia within six hours at that temperature. However, these additional ratings may not be as useful for most users.
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Sleeping bag weight
When choosing a sleeping bag for hiking, weight is an important consideration. The weight of a sleeping bag is largely determined by its insulation and shape. Advanced synthetic insulation and high-fill-power down are more efficient insulators, providing greater warmth for their weight. Mummy-shaped bags, for example, are designed to eliminate dead space, making them thermally efficient and reducing weight.
Ultralight sleeping bags are ideal for long-distance hikes, but they tend to be more expensive and less durable. The lightest sleeping bags weigh just one pound, but they can still keep you warm through the night. Manufacturers achieve this by using light and lofty down insulation, thin shell and lining fabrics, and a streamlined shape to minimize heat loss.
The Feathered Friends Swallow YF 20 and women's 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. The Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20 is another lightweight option, weighing 1 pound 12.7 ounces for the men's version and 1 pound 13 ounces for the women's.
The Western Mountaineering UltraLite is another popular option for hikers, known for its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. It features a no-snag zipper, a 360-degree draft collar, and a full-length draft tube. The Magma 15 is another highly compressible bag with a true mummy shape, weighing 1 pound 6.3 ounces.
In addition to insulation and shape, other factors that affect sleeping bag weight include extra features such as stash pockets and pad compatibility. It's important to consider the temperature rating and type of insulation (down vs. synthetic) when comparing weights, as a bag with a lower temperature rating will require more insulation and thus weigh more.
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Sleeping bag shape and size
Sleeping bags come in a variety of shapes, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The most common shapes are the mummy, rectangle, and semi-rectangle.
Mummy bags are so called because of their resemblance to a mummy's sarcophagus. They are slim at the feet and wider at the top, with a hood that usually covers the head. Mummy bags are often the warmest option because they are designed to be snug, with less empty space for your body to warm up. They are also relatively lightweight and pack down small, making them ideal for hiking and backpacking. The Feathered Friends Raven 10 UL and the Zpacks Mummy Sleeping Bag are popular mummy-shaped options. However, some people may find the confined space restrictive, particularly if they are broader or prefer to sleep on their sides.
Rectangular sleeping bags provide more space to move around and are ideal for those who prefer to sleep on their sides or toss and turn during the night. They are often heavier and bulkier than mummy bags, making them less ideal for hiking where weight and space are important considerations. The REI Co-op Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping Bag is a popular rectangular option for car camping.
Semi-rectangular sleeping bags, also known as barrel-shaped bags, offer a compromise between the warmth of a mummy bag and the comfort of a rectangular bag. They are slightly tapered towards the feet, providing more room than a mummy bag but less than a rectangular bag. The Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20 and the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass are examples of semi-rectangular bags.
In addition to shape, the size of a sleeping bag is an important consideration. Sleeping bags typically come in different lengths, such as short, regular, and long, to accommodate people of different heights. It is important to choose a bag that is long enough for your body, as a bag that is too short can compromise warmth. Some bags also offer different width options, such as regular and wide, to accommodate people with different body types. For example, the Magma 15 is available in short, medium, and long widths.
Finally, it is worth noting that some sleeping bags are designed specifically for men or women, taking into account factors such as height, shoulder width, and hip width. For example, the Feathered Friends offers the Swallow YF 20 for men and the Egret YF 20 for women.
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Sleeping bag features
When choosing a sleeping bag for hiking, it is important to consider the features that will make your bag work best for you. Here are some key features to look for:
Temperature Rating
The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is an indication of the lowest temperature at which it is designed to keep a sleeper warm. It is important to choose a bag with a suitable temperature rating for the conditions you will be hiking in. A good rule of thumb is to select a bag rated slightly lower than the typical low temperatures you anticipate encountering. It is also worth noting that a bag's temperature rating is based on the assumption that the sleeper is wearing long underwear and socks and sleeping on an insulated pad.
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio
The warmth-to-weight ratio is a critical factor in sleeping bags for hiking. The bag needs to provide ample warmth while being lightweight and packable. Down bags generally offer a better warmth-to-weight ratio than synthetic bags, making them a popular choice for hikers. However, synthetic bags can be a more affordable option and are still suitable for warmer conditions.
Draft Collars and Zipper Baffles
Features like draft collars, draft tubes, and zipper baffles help trap body heat inside the sleeping bag, enhancing its overall warmth. These features are particularly important if you plan to hike in colder climates or during the shoulder seasons.
Zippers
The quality and design of the zipper are important considerations. Look for zippers that are less prone to snagging and that provide adequate ventilation. Full-length zippers can be convenient, and some bags even feature glow-in-the-dark zippers or anti-snag zipper sliders.
Size and Shape
Consider the size and shape of the sleeping bag to ensure a comfortable fit. Mummy-shaped bags are popular for hiking as they eliminate dead space, making them thermally efficient. However, some hikers may prefer a roomier bag that allows for more movement. Wider models are available, but they may be heavier and bulkier.
Additional Features
Other features to look for include stash pockets, pad compatibility, and bright liners that make it easier to locate items inside your bag. Some bags also have a sleeping pad attachment system, ensuring that your bag stays in place during the night.
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Sleeping bag insulation
Down insulation is made from the natural feathers of ducks and geese. It has an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, meaning it provides exceptional warmth for its weight. Down is also highly compressible, allowing the sleeping bag to pack down smaller. However, down insulation requires more maintenance and can lose its insulating properties when it gets wet. The quality of down is measured by its loft, or "fluffiness," and its fill power (FP). A higher FP indicates higher-quality down with better warmth-to-weight characteristics.
Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is typically made from polyester and provides a more affordable option. Synthetic insulation works well when wet, as it does not absorb water easily and dries quickly. It is also easier to care for and is generally more durable than down. Synthetic insulation may not loft as high as high-quality down, but certain constructions, such as shingles or Sea to Summit's WaveLoft™, improve loft and warmth. Additionally, synthetic insulation can be heavier and harder to compress than down.
Hybrid insulation combines down and synthetic insulation, offering the warmth of down and the moisture resistance of synthetic fills. This type of insulation ensures that the sleeping bag stays lofted and warm even when exposed to moisture.
When choosing a sleeping bag for hiking, it is essential to consider the expected weather conditions, weight constraints, and your budget. For cold and wet conditions, a bag with high-quality insulation and a good warmth rating is crucial. In such cases, a bag with synthetic or hybrid insulation may be preferable to down. If weight is a concern, ultralight options with down insulation are available but may come at a higher price.
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Frequently asked questions
The key factors to consider are the temperature rating, the type of insulation, the weight, and the sleep system.
Backpacking sleeping bags are more lightweight, pack down smaller, and are more efficient in providing warmth for their weight.
The Magma 15, the Feathered Friends Swallow YF 20, the Kelty Cosmic Ultra 20, and the Western Mountaineering UltraLite are all good options for colder temperatures.
The Western Mountaineering FlyLite, the Feathered Friends Hummingbird UL 30, and the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass are suitable for warmer weather.
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