Herbie Murray
Choosing a backpacking sleeping bag can be a confusing experience. The temperature rating of your sleeping bag is important, but it's not the only factor to consider. Sleeping bag temperature ratings are estimates, not gospel, and are based on lab testing that may not account for all real-world variables. When shopping for a sleeping bag, it's vital to consider the temperature ratings and whether they're based on lab testing such as ISO (International Standard Organization) or EN (European Norm) ratings. Additionally, factors like the shape, features, and age of the product can affect how well it insulates you from the cold ground. For example, a mummy-shaped bag may provide more warmth than a rectangular one, and a bag with a hood will be essential in temperatures below the low 40s Fahrenheit. The type of insulation is another key consideration – goose down provides the most warmth with the least bulk but loses its insulating ability when wet, whereas synthetic insulation is simpler to clean and dries quickly. Finally, reading reviews and evaluating the down fill power and fill weight can help you make an informed decision about your purchase.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature rating | 32°F and above for summer bags; 20 to 32°F for 3-season bags; 20°F and below for winter bags; -20°F or lower for winter camping; -40°F for safety in changing weather conditions |
| Lab-tested temperature ratings | EN (European Norm) or ISO (International Standards Organization) |
| Sleeping pad | R-value of 2 to 4 for 3-season backpacking pads |
| Insulation | Goose down or synthetic |
| Shape | Snug mummy or roomy rectangular |
| Weight | Lightweight bags are ideal for backpacking |
| Gender | Bags for women have extra insulation in areas like the feet |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
There are three main rating categories: international standards from EN (European Norm) or ISO (International Standards Organization), trustworthy homebrew ratings (usually from smaller companies), and untrustworthy companies that cheat the system. EN and ISO ratings are assigned by independent labs that test sleeping bags from various brands. The testing process involves placing a sleeping pad under the bag and dressing a test dummy inside the bag in base layers. The protocol ensures that all bag tests are conducted in the same manner, but it cannot account for variations in people's clothing, gear, body types, weather conditions, and food intake. Therefore, the comfort level of a sleeping bag in real-world conditions may differ from its tested temperature rating.
The EN 13537 standards include the following temperature ratings: Upper Limit, Comfort, and Lower Limit. The Upper Limit is the temperature at which a standard male can sleep without excessive perspiration, with the hood and zippers open and arms outside the bag. The Comfort rating is the temperature at which a standard female can sleep comfortably in a relaxed position. The Lower Limit is the temperature at which a standard male can sleep for eight hours in a curled position without waking. The Comfort rating is used for women's bags, while the Lower Limit rating is used for men's bags.
When choosing a sleeping bag, it is important to consider other factors besides the temperature rating. The sleeping pad, for example, plays a crucial role in insulating you from the cold ground. Look for a sleeping pad with an appropriate R-value, which ranges from less than 1 for minimal insulation to 8 or higher for maximum insulation. Additionally, the shape, features, and age of the sleeping bag can affect its warmth. Reading reviews, evaluating the down fill power and fill weight, and comparing these factors to EN/ISO-rated bags can help you make an informed decision.
Finally, the type of insulation used in sleeping bags—whether goose down or synthetic—is an important consideration. Goose down provides more warmth with less bulk, but it loses its insulating ability when wet and takes longer to dry. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is easier to clean, dries quickly, and is more versatile in wet weather conditions. For winter camping, a goose down sleeping bag with a temperature rating of at least -20° Fahrenheit is recommended, while a rating of -40° provides a larger margin of safety. For summer camping, synthetic bags are a better choice as they dry faster and retain some insulating ability when wet.
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Summer vs winter bags
When choosing a sleeping bag for backpacking, it is important to consider the temperature rating of the bag. The temperature rating of a sleeping bag is based on an "average sleeper" and allows buyers to compare bags to one another. However, it is important to note that real-world comfort probably won't match the lab-tested temperature ratings due to various variables.
Summer sleeping bags are typically rated at 32°F and above. They are designed to be lightweight and maximize compressibility. Summer bags are ideal for warm, summer-like conditions or at lower elevations. Synthetic sleeping bags are recommended for summer camping as they dry fast and don't lose all insulating ability when wet.
Winter sleeping bags, on the other hand, are designed for temperatures below 20°F. They are typically made of goose down, which provides more warmth with less bulk. However, goose down loses its insulating ability when wet and can take a significant time to dry. For winter camping, it is recommended to get a high-quality goose down sleeping bag with a temperature rating of at least -20°F. In colder regions, a bag with a rating of -40°F is recommended for both comfort and safety.
It is important to consider other factors when choosing a sleeping bag, such as the shape, features, and age of the product. Mummy bags, for example, have a snug fit to boost warmth and cut weight. The sleeping pad is also an important consideration, as it insulates the sleeper from the cold ground. The R-value is used to measure the insulation and warmth of a sleeping pad, with higher values indicating greater insulation.
In addition, reading reviews, evaluating the down fill power and fill weight, and giving yourself a buffer when choosing a sleeping bag can help ensure a comfortable and warm night's sleep during your backpacking trip.
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Goose down vs synthetic insulation
When it comes to backpacking sleeping bags, goose down and synthetic insulation are two popular options. Both have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide:
Goose Down Insulation:
Goose down has been traditionally used in sleeping bags due to its excellent insulation properties. It has a high warmth-to-weight ratio, making it lightweight and easily compressible into stuff sacks, ideal for backpacking. The insulation capability of goose down comes from its structure of fine, branched filaments that trap heat in tiny air pockets. The quality of goose down is indicated by its fill power (fp), which measures how much volume one ounce of down can fill. Premium goose down can achieve a fill power of 900 or higher, resulting in lighter sleeping bags. However, goose down loses its insulating properties when it gets wet, and it takes a long time to dry. Therefore, proper precautions must be taken to keep it dry, such as storing it in a waterproof sack or a highly water-resistant backpack. Additionally, down insulation requires careful maintenance, including avoiding household detergents and proper storage when not in use.
Synthetic Insulation:
Synthetic insulation offers some advantages over goose down, particularly in wet conditions. Synthetic materials retain more heat when wet and dry faster than goose down. They are also generally more affordable and require less maintenance. However, synthetic insulation is bulkier and less compressible than goose down, taking up more space in your backpack. Synthetic insulation also degrades over time with repeated use and compression cycles, whereas well-maintained goose down bags can last for decades. The insulating power of synthetic materials is lower than that of goose down, often requiring additional layers in cooler conditions. Lastly, consider the environmental impact of synthetic materials, which are often derived from petroleum-based sources.
In summary, if you prioritise warmth, weight, and compressibility, goose down is an excellent choice for your backpacking sleeping bag. However, if you frequently encounter wet conditions and prefer low maintenance options, synthetic insulation might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences, the climate you'll be camping in, and your budget.
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EN vs ISO ratings
EN, or European Norm, was the original standard adopted by the sleeping bag industry. It was first widely used in 2005 to ensure that consumers could directly compare sleeping bags with a given rating. The EN 13537 standard was updated in 2016 by ISO 23537, published by the International Standards Organization, to make it more consistent. The ISO update now serves as the testing protocol for all certified sleeping bags. The method, however, is almost identical to the EN bag test, so you can compare your old EN-rated bag to a newer bag that sports an ISO temperature rating when you shop.
Not every sleeping bag has an ISO (or EN) rating. The test standard isn't valid for bags designed for extreme cold, nor does it apply to kids' bags. Brands might not choose to get ISO testing on bags intended for mild conditions or casual use. Whenever you see a "temperature rating" spec that's not stated as either "comfort" or "lower limit," that bag spec probably reflects the brand's estimate, not an ISO or EN test. Use that spec as a rough guideline, not a rating you can absolutely compare to similar bags from other bags.
The EN/ISO testing protocols are a standard for all sleeping bags. The ratings from this test allow users to reliably compare bags of similar ratings that test to this standard and safely choose a bag that suits their adventure. The test involves tucking a sensor-rich, heated manikin into a sleeping bag, dressing it in a base layer, and placing it in a cold chamber on a basic foam mat. As temperatures drop in the cold chamber, corresponding measurements are taken from the manikin. The test looks for key benchmarks like when the manikin’s heat accumulates in the sleeping bag, the range where its temperature remains relatively steady, and the point at which heat begins to be lost.
Temperature ratings are estimates, not absolutes. Lab testing simulates how a sleeping bag should be used, but it can't account for variations like differences in people's clothing and gear, body types, changing weather conditions, etc. So, when you use your sleeping bag in the outdoors, its comfort level will probably differ from its tested temperature rating. Numbers on bag names don't match exact temperature ratings: The Men's "Snugglebuggle" 15 Bag, for example, might actually have an ISO lower limit rating of 18 degrees Fahrenheit. For simplicity, in the bag's name, a brand will round up or down to a number that ends in a 0 or a 5.
The key factor when choosing a sleeping bag is its temperature rating. An "ISO" or "EN" temperature rating indicates you can reliably compare any two backpacking sleeping bags. A sleeping bag's temperature rating identifies the lowest temperature at which a bag was designed to keep an "average sleeper" warm. To choose the best sleeping bag for your needs, select a sleeping bag with a temperature rating that's lower than the lowest temperature you expect to encounter. When in doubt, choosing a bag with a lower temperature rating is wise because you can always open up a bag to cool down when conditions are warmer.
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Sleeping pad R-values
R-values for sleeping pads typically range from 1 to 7, with thicker camping mattresses having even higher values. When choosing a sleeping pad, it's crucial to consider the intended use, such as backpacking, car camping, or winter camping. For backpackers, weight and portability are important factors, as every ounce counts when carrying your gear over long distances.
To maximize the effectiveness of your sleeping bag, it's essential to pair it with a suitable R-value sleeping pad. Therm-a-Rest designers recommend using a pad with an R-value of at least 4.0 to optimize the temperature rating of your sleeping bag. For example, if your sleeping bag is rated for 20 degrees Fahrenheit, a pad with an R-value of 4.0 or higher will ensure comfort at that temperature.
When selecting a sleeping pad, consider factors such as your sleeping position, surface, and personal preferences for weight, cushioning, length, and width. If weight is a priority, ultralight sleeping pads made of lightweight materials can help reduce overall pack weight. However, foam-based pads, while effective at trapping air and providing insulation, can add significant weight to your setup.
Additionally, consider the features that enhance your comfort and convenience, such as integrated hand pumps or patch kits for repairs. Trying out different pads in person can help you make an informed decision by allowing you to assess weight, packed size, and personal comfort. Remember, a well-chosen sleeping pad with an appropriate R-value will ensure a good night's rest during your backpacking adventures.
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Frequently asked questions
The temperature rating of your sleeping bag is the most important factor when choosing one for your trip. If you're backpacking in the summer in high mountain ranges, a bag rated to 30-32°F should be warm enough. For three-season camping, a synthetic bag rated to 20°F or less should suffice. For winter camping, a bag with a rating of at least -20°F is necessary, but a -40°F bag will provide a larger margin of safety.
EN stands for European Norm, the original standard adopted by the sleeping bag industry. It typically includes three temperature ratings: comfort rating (for women), lower-limit rating (for men), and extreme rating. Today, a new entity, the ISO (International Standards Organization), oversees bag testing, but the method is almost identical to the EN test.
Aside from temperature rating, you should also consider the shape and features of the bag, such as whether it has a hood, the zipper location, size, length, and jamb protection. Additionally, the type of insulation is important—goose down provides the most warmth with the least bulk, but it loses all insulating ability when wet and takes a long time to dry. Synthetic insulation, on the other hand, is simpler to clean, dries quickly, and is more versatile.
To ensure your sleeping bag will be warm enough, it's recommended to choose a bag rated 20 to 25 degrees colder than the coldest temperatures you plan to encounter. If you don't get cold easily, you may be comfortable with a bag rated 5 to 15 degrees below the coldest temperature. Additionally, consider using a sleeping pad with an R-value suitable for the expected temperatures, as it will provide insulation from the ground.
