Hi Greg,
I've worked in outdoor sector for many years and used a variety of sleeping
bags in a variety of climates around the world. I'd suggest that there are
factors to consider before even thinking about brands or specific products-
even the 'best' products are useless if they don't match your needs. There are
a couple of things to be clear about before you go shopping:
What will you be mainly using it in? A swag? A tent? In the open? Indoors/ in a
caravan?
Where will you be using it? Arid-zone? Tasmania? Himalayas? Kakadu?
How will you be transporting it? On your back, (ie.trekking)? In the car?
Basically, if your bag is likely to get wet then you should probably steer
toward synthetic filling which will retain heat when damp. They also resist
compression (which leads to cold spots in a down bag) when used in a swag. The
main problem with synthetic bags is that they are significantly heavier than
down-filled bags of similar warmth ratings. This is only an issue if you will
be trekking carrying the bags. There are some modern synthetic fillings which
are lighter but generally they cost a lot.
If weight is a big issue and you will be using the bag in a tent (so don't
expect to get wet) then duck or goose down is the best option. If you spend a
bit extra you can get a bag with a waterproof shell which will help on the few
occasions you get heavy condensation or a leaky flysheet! Incidentally, down
bags are hopeless in a traditional swag- the canvas presses on the down leaving
you with cold spots everywhere!
The design of bags also varies: mummy-shaped bags with baffles etc. save weight
but many find them uncomfortably restrictive. Traditional rectangular bags are
roomy but need more bulk to achieve the same warmth.
One extra thing I'd strongly recommend getting is a silk sleeping bag liner-
they save you needing to wash your bag so often, they boost your warmth by a
few degrees and they can be used on their own on warm nights when its too hot
for a sleeping bag. They are pricey but last a long time- I am onto only my
second silk liner in 20 years solid use!
Go to a 'proper' outdoor shop (ie.Snowgum, Mountain Designs, Paddy Palin) if
you need advice and ask to be served by the person in the shop who knows most
about sleeping bags. Be alert though- make sure they are listening to your
needs and not just trying to score a big sale by taking you to the priciest
product!
Its an unfortunate fact that there is not (in my opinion) one ultimate sleeping
bag for all situations- regardless of what some retailers may claim! I
personally own 3 sleeping bags: two expensive down bags for trekking, one for
summer, one for winter, and a bulky, heavy but cheap winter synthetic bag for
my swag.
Hope this is useful.
Mark Carter
Alice Springs
http:www.desertlife.com.au
0447358045
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