Sleeping Bag Reviews & Ratings
It is important to consider different aspects when selecting a right sleeping bag for great outdoors. There are two main considerations that are significant in buying the best sleeping bag. One is whether you want to pack your bag via a backpack, and the second is what the temperature conditions are from which you need to protect yourself.
The history of a sleeping bag was started in Europe when the first commercial sleeping bag manufacturer began his operation in 1890s. Bedrolls were commonly used before the use of sleeping bags. The professional use of sleeping bags was begun by mountaineers. The purpose of their usage was to be light enough to carry and to keep them warm. These are the two main considerations that you should keep in mind while buying a sleeping bag.
When making any purchase of a sleeping bag, consider its weight. If you do not want to buy a sleeping bag that is too heavy to pack on a backpack, then opt for lightweight sleeping bags. However, the lighter the bag, the higher will be its price. On the other hand, if you are not backpacking and weight is not your main consideration then your choices expand greatly.
Since it becomes very difficult to have fun on camping trip when freezing throughout the night; therefore, the main purpose of a sleeping bag is to keep you warm and comfy. It is suggested not to waste your money on any sleeping bag that cannot keep you warm during the cold night.
You can find out if your chosen sleeping bag will keep you warm by following an EN (European Norm) rating system. Although no rating system is perfect, however this one is very helpful in buying the best sleeping bag.
The temperature rating you need to have in your sleeping bag is the minimum you expect to encounter on your outdoor trips. For instance, a 20 degree bag has the ability to keep you warm down to that temperature.
You also need to consider the filling materials used in manufacturing of different sleeping bags. They can either made of down or synthetic materials. There are also different shapes of sleeping bags available in the market, which can either be mummy or rectangular. Apart from this, consider the shell material. The best shell of a sleeping bag can either be made of polyester or rip-stop nylon. Another important feature is its water repellency. Check whether your selected sleeping bag is waterproof so that it can last long.
When it comes to dimensions, there are sleeping bags that are available in different lengths. The lengths in men’s sleeping bags are usually in short (up to 5’6”), regular (5’7″-6′), and long (6’1″-6’6″). Whereas the length in women’s sleeping bags are usually regular and long. Regular can be up to approximately 5’6”, and long ranges from 5’7″ to 6′.
Other factors to consider in buying the best sleeping bag for you include zipper type, hood design, bivy sacks, and so on.
By following the above mentioned guidelines, you will surely be able to find the best sleeping bag that you can carry easily anywhere you want as well as provide you warmth and comfort you desire while sleeping in cold conditions.