Gina Johnson
If you're looking to buy a sleeping bag in Sweden, you'll want to consider the type of filling, temperature ratings, and price. Down is an excellent insulator, lightweight, and has good lofting properties, but it is expensive and unsuitable for humid climates. Synthetic fillings, on the other hand, are more affordable and easier to care for. Scandinavian Outdoor and Army Gross are two stores in Sweden that offer a range of sleeping bags with different specifications to suit your needs, whether it's for a tough hike or a cosy night in a cabin.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of store | Outdoor adventure stores |
| Sleeping bag types | Down, Synthetic |
| Sleeping bag shapes | Rectangular, Mummy, Tapered |
| Sleeping bag features | Moisture-resistant, Waterproof, Lightweight, Compact |
| Temperature ratings | -40°C to 7°C |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag shapes: rectangular vs. tapered vs. mummy
In Sweden, you can find sleeping bags at Nordic Army Gross. They offer a range of durable and lightweight military sleeping bags suited for tough hikes in the mountains or simpler models for guests. The sleeping bags are made from synthetic materials and are available at low prices, starting from 399 SEK.
Now, let's discuss the different shapes of sleeping bags and how they can suit your needs:
Rectangular Sleeping Bags
Rectangular sleeping bags offer a traditional blanket-like shape, providing a uniform width from head to toe. This design results in a more spacious and comfortable interior, allowing for greater freedom of movement. If you're a restless sleeper, prefer different sleeping positions, or like to sleep on your side, a rectangular bag might be the best option. However, due to the larger internal space, rectangular bags are less efficient at retaining warmth, making them more suitable for mild weather camping or indoor use.
Mummy Sleeping Bags
Mummy sleeping bags are characterised by their tapered design, wider at the shoulders and gradually narrowing towards the feet, resembling a mummy's shape. This tapered shape reduces excess space inside the bag, minimising the amount of air your body needs to warm up, making it more thermally efficient. Mummy bags often include a hood that can be tightened around your head for additional warmth. Their snug fit and lightweight, packable design make them ideal for cold-weather camping, hiking, and backpacking, helping you save space and stay warm in chilly environments.
Tapered Sleeping Bags
Tapered sleeping bags are designed to be wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, providing a snug fit for your body. This shape helps retain heat more effectively, similar to the mummy bag design. Tapered bags might be suitable for outdoor activities where weight and space are concerns, such as hiking or backpacking. However, the restricted internal space might limit movement during sleep, making them less ideal for side sleepers or those who change positions frequently.
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Sleeping bag fillings: down vs. synthetic
When it comes to sleeping bag fillings, there are two main types to choose from: down and synthetic. Both have their own unique characteristics and performance qualities, so it's important to understand the differences before making a purchase. In this guide, we will explore the pros and cons of down and synthetic fillings to help you decide which option is best for your needs.
Down sleeping bags have traditionally used goose down as the insulating material. Goose down is the soft, fluffy plumage found underneath the exterior feathers on waterfowl such as ducks and geese. It consists of fine, branched filaments that create a natural barrier to trap heat and keep you warm. One of the biggest advantages of down is its warmth-to-weight ratio. Down sleeping bags are extremely lightweight and can provide exceptional warmth, making them a favourite among backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, down sleeping bags can be easily compressed into a stuff sack, making them convenient for travel and storage.
However, one of the main drawbacks of down is its performance in wet conditions. Down tends to clump up and lose its loft when it gets wet, which significantly reduces its insulating properties. To address this issue, some manufacturers have developed treatments to add water resistance to the down filling and the outer shell. While these treatments can help protect against light moisture, they are not foolproof, and a soaking wet down sleeping bag will still result in a disastrous loss of insulation.
Synthetic sleeping bags, on the other hand, are typically made from polyester fibres that are processed to form a fine network of strands that mimic the structure of down. Synthetic insulation traps air to create a thermal barrier, just like down. One of the biggest advantages of synthetic fillings is their performance in wet conditions. Synthetic material is less absorbent than down, so even if it gets wet, it can still retain some insulating properties due to the structure of the fibres. Additionally, synthetic fillings dry faster than down, making them a better choice for humid or wet environments. Synthetic sleeping bags are also generally less expensive than down, making them a more economical option for those on a budget.
However, synthetic fillings do have some drawbacks. They tend to break down faster than down, often needing replacement within 3 to 5 years. Additionally, synthetic sleeping bags can be bulkier and heavier than their down counterparts, which can be a consideration for those concerned about weight and space.
In Sweden, you can find sleeping bags at outdoor and camping stores, as well as military surplus stores like Nordic Army Gross, which offers a range of lightweight and inexpensive synthetic sleeping bags suitable for both summer and winter use.
When deciding between down and synthetic fillings, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritise warmth, weight, and compressibility, a down sleeping bag might be the best choice. On the other hand, if you anticipate encountering wet or humid conditions, a synthetic sleeping bag could be a more suitable option. Ultimately, both types of fillings have their strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on your individual requirements and budget.
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Sleeping bag ratings: temperature considerations
When it comes to choosing a sleeping bag, the key factor is its temperature rating. Sleeping bag ratings are based on temperature considerations, which indicate the coldest conditions in which the bag will keep you warm. Here are some important considerations regarding sleeping bag ratings and temperatures:
Temperature Ratings:
Temperature ratings on sleeping bags are estimates based on laboratory tests. The tests simulate how a sleeping bag is typically used, with a test dummy dressed in base layers inside the bag and a sleeping pad placed underneath. While this standardised testing method ensures consistency across brands, it doesn't account for individual variations like clothing, gear, body type, and weather conditions. Therefore, the actual comfort level of a sleeping bag in outdoor conditions may differ from its rated temperature.
Rating Scales:
The original standard for sleeping bag temperature ratings was the EN (European Norm) scale. Today, the ISO (International Standards Organization) oversees bag testing, using a method similar to the EN test. The ISO 23537 standard bases its ratings on a "standard woman" and a "standard man" to establish comfort and lower-limit ratings.
Comfort Rating:
The comfort rating indicates the temperature at which a "standard woman" can expect to sleep comfortably in a relaxed position. This rating is typically used for women's sleeping bags because, on average, women tend to feel colder than men in the same conditions.
Lower Limit Rating:
The lower limit rating refers to the temperature at which a "standard man" can sleep for eight hours in a curled-up position without waking. This rating is often listed for unisex sleeping bags and indicates the lowest temperature an average male sleeper would find comfortable.
Extreme Ratings:
Some sleeping bags may have additional ratings like the extreme rating on the EN scale, which means a woman can survive for six hours without dying of hypothermia at that temperature.
Choosing a Sleeping Bag:
When choosing a sleeping bag, consider the coldest conditions you anticipate encountering. Select a bag rated for temperatures at or below the expected low. If you tend to feel cold while sleeping, opt for a warmer bag. Additionally, pay attention to the insulation and construction of the sleeping bag, as these features impact warmth retention and comfort.
In Sweden, you can find sleeping bags at outdoor equipment stores like Nordic Army Gross, which offers a range of military-style sleeping bags suited for various conditions, including summer and winter use. When planning activities such as ski touring or camping in Sweden during winter, it is recommended to invest in a high-quality down bag or consider pairing it with a second bag or a liner for added warmth.
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Sleeping bag liners
A sleeping bag is essential for anyone planning outdoor activities in Sweden, especially during the colder months. While down sleeping bags are considered the best option for very cold temperatures, they can be expensive. Synthetic sleeping bags are a more affordable option, but they may not provide the same level of warmth as down bags. One solution to improve the warmth of a sleeping bag is to use a liner.
Liners are available in various materials, including silk, fleece, microfiber, and wool, each offering unique benefits. Silk liners, for example, are lightweight, breathable, and easy to pack, making them ideal for travel. They can also help regulate temperature, keeping you cool in warm conditions and cosy in cold ones. Other liners, such as those made from Tencel or with a thermal boost, are designed specifically for colder conditions, adding extra warmth to your sleeping bag.
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Sleeping bag care
In Sweden, you can find sleeping bags at Nordic Army Gross, which offers a range of lightweight, inexpensive, and durable military sleeping bags suited for various activities, including hiking and guest use.
Now, here are some tips for sleeping bag care to ensure your bag stays clean, dry, and protected:
Before Use
- Sleep in clean clothes. Avoid crawling into your bag wearing clothes you hiked in as body oils, sweat, and dirt can reduce the insulating power of your sleeping bag over time.
- Change out of the clothes you cooked in, especially if you're in an area with wildlife. Cooking odors can absorb into your bag and attract unwanted attention.
- If you use sunscreen, wash or wipe it off before going to bed to prevent it from soaking into your bag.
- Consider using a sleeping bag liner. Liners act as a barrier between your skin and the bag, keeping it cleaner, and they can also add extra warmth.
During Use
If you're sleeping outside, put a pad down on the ground first to protect your bag from the elements and any sharp objects.
After Use
- Air out your bag as soon as possible after use. Moisture degrades material and saps body heat.
- Check your bag periodically to ensure the seams, zippers, and drawcords are in good condition. Feel the insulation to see if it's evenly distributed, and wash and dry your bag if needed.
Washing and Drying
- Spot cleaning is the best way to avoid wear and tear and decrease in loft. Use a paste of non-detergent soap and water and a toothbrush to gently clean the shell.
- If your bag needs a deeper clean, hand washing in a bathtub or using a commercial washer is recommended. Avoid using too much soap, as it will be hard to rinse out.
- When hand washing, handle with care, especially when the bag is wet. Support the entire bag when removing it from the washer and gently squeeze out excess water.
- Dry your bag by laying it flat in an area with low humidity and no direct sunlight, or hang it up, distributing the weight evenly to avoid putting stress on the fabric.
- You can also use a dryer, but be cautious as the heat can damage the bag. Set the dryer to low heat and add tennis balls to help break up clumps of down and speed up the drying process.
- Reapply a durable water repellent (DWR) finish to your bag's shell fabric to restore water repellency and keep the bag cleaner.
Storage
- Store your bag loosely in a large cotton or mesh storage sack, a large pillowcase, or a sew-your-own cotton bag.
- Do not store your bag compressed in its stuff sack as this will damage the fill over time.
- Ensure your bag is completely dry before storing it for an extended period.
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Frequently asked questions
Scandinavian Outdoor and Nordic Army Gross are two retailers that sell sleeping bags in Sweden.
There are several types of sleeping bags available, including:
- Down sleeping bags
- Synthetic sleeping bags
- Mummy sleeping bags
- Rectangular sleeping bags
- Tapered profile sleeping bags
The price of sleeping bags can vary depending on the type and quality. In Sweden, sleeping bags range in price from 399 SEK to several thousand SEK.
