I'd rather sleep every day. Recommended sleeping bags for mountain climbing this season and how to choose the sleeping bag that suits you wisely
written by Yasushi Hisatomi
A comfortable sleeping bag will make you look forward to nights in the mountains.
A night when you crawl into your favorite sleeping bag under a quiet, star-filled sky and fall asleep, surrendering to the ultimate comfort. Although you often sleep in a tent, sleeping while feeling connected to nature is definitely one of the best parts of camping in a tent.
A sleeping bag (sleeping bag/sluff) is essential for a comfortable night's sleep while sleeping in a tent. Unlike regular camping sleeping bags, mountain climbing sleeping bags are made to be lightweight and compact, minimizing the burden of carrying them while providing maximum comfort and warmth.
Like many other mountain gear, each manufacturer offers a variety of models with different materials, structures, shapes, and weights depending on the use, purpose, season, location, etc. and are designed to fit a variety of needs. Choosing the best sleeping bag for you from a wide variety of factors and variations is never an easy task. If you end up using a model that doesn't fit or is of poor quality, your trip will be ruined, as you may not get enough sleep or get tired. It's not a cheap purchase, and once you buy it, it's an important companion that you'll likely continue to use for years, so you should choose it carefully.
Therefore, this time, as someone who has been mountaineering for over 20 years, has tried many sleeping bags, and sleeps in sleeping bags every day at home, I will compare and evaluate this season's popular, standard, and new models based on my own standards, based on my goals and preferences. We have selected the best models. In the second half, we summarize the points to keep in mind when choosing the best sleeping bag for mountain climbing. We hope that we can help you find the perfect one for you from the many options available.
table of contents
- [By category] This season's best sleeping bag (sleeping bag/sluff)
- Best Hiking (Practical) Category: Dry Seamless Down Hugger 900/ISUKA Air Plus/THERM-A-REST Hyperion/NANGA AURORA light SPDX
- Best Hiking (Warmth) Category: PAJAK RADICAL/Western Mountaineering Ultralight
- Best Hiking (Lightweight) Category: Rab Mythic Ultra/Sea To Summit Spark Sp
- Best/comfort category: Western Mountaineering Tellarite/NEMO Disco
- Best Quilt Half-Length Type Category: Highland Designs UL DOWN QUILT/ENLIGHTENED EQUIPMENT Revelation
- Best value down category: Takemo sleeping bag
- Vest/Synthetic fiber (non-down material) category: mont-bell Seamless Alpine Burrow Bag/OMM Mountain Core 125/Gruezi Biopod DownWool
- Best for women: NEMO Kayu 30 W's
- How to choose: 6 points to wisely choose a sleeping bag for mountain climbing and hiking
- Point 1: Select the corresponding temperature range ~Be careful not to be too hot or too cold~
- Point 2: Filling material: Should you use down or synthetic fibers? There are countless options available from there.
- Point 3: Resistance to getting wet ~ Some kind of protection against getting wet is essential in Japan ~
- Point 4: Shape, size, and structure - Based on the mummy shape, as you get used to it, eliminate waste in your own way.
- Point 5: Other elements/parts ~ Considering ease of use when actually using it ~
- Point 6: Bedding used in combination ~A sleeping bag is not the only thing you need for a good night's sleep~
- summary
[By category] This season's best sleeping bag (sleeping bag/sluff)
*For all of the models recommended here, some manufacturers have multiple models available with different temperature ranges, lengths, and genders. Please pay close attention to them when choosing.
Best Hiking (Practical) Category: Dry Seamless Down Hugger 900/ISUKA Air Plus/THERM-A-REST Hyperion/NANGA AURORA light SPDX
This model has a well-balanced and high level of various elements such as the sufficient heat retention required of an excellent sleeping bag, comfort, ease of use, and light weight and compactness, making it flexibly compatible with a wide range of seasons and activities. It's easy to use, and combined with its easy-to-use features that will satisfy both beginners and veterans, it's the perfect choice for many people. I couldn't narrow it down to 4 models as this season's best hiking (practical) models with overall excellence that I can recommend to anyone. All models have a high quality base, but each has its own unique strengths.
Dry Seamless Down Hugger 900 Series A revolutionary model that is lightweight and highly insulated, as well as being waterproof and breathable.
Favorite points
- Lightweight, waterproof and breathable yet highly insulating
- Comfortable fit and freedom of movement
Go to detailed review of Dry Seamless Down Hugger 900 series
ISUKA Air Plus Series A model sleeping bag for the mountains that is based on the basics but also has the latest features.
Favorite points
- High-quality goose down is lightweight and has excellent resilience.
- Few defects, carefully crafted down to the smallest detail
THERM-A-REST Hyperion Series Utilizes cutting-edge technology to combine heat retention, lightness, and practicality
Favorite points
- High-quality, water-repellent down with a clever baffle structure that increases heat retention while being lightweight.
- It is made with consideration to the fit with the mattress, and has practical features such as a compression stuff sack.
NANGA AURORA light SPDX series High quality down model of standard waterproof and breathable sleeping bag
Favorite points
- High quality goose down and a clever box structure that does not create cold spots, finished with waterproof and breathable material.
- Lifetime warranty with free repairs
Best Hiking (Warmth) Category: PAJAK RADICAL/Western Mountaineering Ultralight
This overall quality is on par with the four models above, but in particular it stands out in terms of the quality of the down. If you want to do this, this is the department for you. Both models are made with plenty of the highest quality goose down from Eastern Europe, one of the world's leading down production areas, and their resilience is excellent compared to other manufacturers' models of the same FP, and the moment you take them out of the bag, you can instantly I was a little surprised at how vigorously it inflated as if it was about to explode (this is just my personal opinion). You can enjoy not only the amazing down, but also the careful baffle structure that takes advantage of the down, and the careful attention to detail to make it lightweight and compact. can.
PAJAK RADICAL series Achieves lightness and comfort by making the most of the highest quality Polish goose down
Favorite points
- Overwhelming quality of Polish white goose down 900+FP
- Incredibly lightweight and compact, made using ultra-thin and lightweight fabrics.
Western Mountaineering Ultralight Supreme comfort and practicality backed by high-quality materials and expert technology
Favorite points
- Made with carefully selected 850FP+ white goose down, which has long boasted the highest quality in North America.
- Smart baffle structure allows temperature control over a wide temperature range while being lightweight and compact
Best Hiking (Lightweight) Category: Rab Mythic Ultra/Sea To Summit Spark Sp
Similarly, this one also has an excellent overall quality. However, what is different from the models we have introduced so far is that it is made to be a great choice for those who want something extremely light, even if it slightly upsets the overall balance. Of course, the quality of the down (insulation) and comfort are both on par, and although it has the basic shape of a mummy-type sleeping bag, it has been made to be lightweight by eliminating waste as much as possible. Perfect for fast and light activities. Personally, I feel most comfortable with this category, and I recommend it to experienced climbers who don't need that kind of help anymore.
Rab Mythic Ultra Series Ultra-high-tech model that uses heat-reflective thermo-ionic lining technology to reduce weight by 1 gram.
Favorite points
- The industry's first coating of fibers with titanium. A structure that reflects radiant heat into the bag without compromising the breathability of the fabric, resulting in an amazing weight reduction.
- The 900FP RDS-certified European goose down, the fluorine-FREE water-repellent treatment co-developed with NIKWAX, and all the materials are all on point.
Sea To Summit Spark SP Series In addition to high quality down, amazing specifications that are extremely lightweight and compact.
Favorite points
- 850+FP Ultra Dry premium goose down with high resilience and water repellent finish
- Incredibly lightweight and compact with a total weight of approximately 500 grams, despite being able to withstand sub-zero temperatures.
Best/comfort category: Western Mountaineering Tellarite/NEMO Disco
Of course, light and warm down is essential for the best sleeping comfort, but in reality, mountaineering sleeping bags that are packed to the limit with space are generally cramped. It is difficult to sleep curled up on your side or turn over, so it is not structurally comfortable to sleep on. In this category, we have selected models that have been devised to make your sleep as comfortable as possible in a comprehensive sense. Each supports maximum freedom of movement within a limited weight and space.
Western Mountaineering Terralite High-quality down and spacious space provide the ultimate in sleeping comfort.
Favorite points
- A semi-rectangle shape that is looser from the shoulders to the waist than the regular mummy shape.
- Light and warm padding made from the highest quality European goose down
NEMO Disco Series Unique shape that makes it easy to move, allowing you to sleep on your side or turn around as you like
Favorite points
- The Spoon Shape™️ is not only loose overall, but also has extra room around the elbows and knees, making it easier to sleep on your side and turn over.
- Numerous mechanisms that enable fine temperature control when it's too hot or when you feel cold
Best Quilt Half-Length Type Category: Highland Designs UL DOWN QUILT/ENLIGHTENED EQUIPMENT Revelation
When you get used to traveling to a certain extent and understand what is unnecessary for you, a ``quilt'' or ``half-size'' sleeping bag may be the perfect choice. Its features will be described later, but by making full use of these features, it is possible to make it even lighter than the lightweight mummy-type sleeping bag mentioned earlier, so it is a very popular type among hikers who prefer ultralight and fast packing. is. In addition, these newly shaped sleeping bags are not only lightweight and warm sleeping bags, but also can be used as blankets or as additional sleeping bags in winter, so in recent years they have become popular among a wide range of people, including bikepacking and solo camping.
Highland Designs UL DOWN QUILT The best balance of lightness and comfort achieved in the actual field
Favorite points
- The balance between heat retention and weight has been optimized through trial and error, with areas that need heat retention and areas that can be made lighter.
- Super water-repellent UDD down that combines high loft and water repellency for peace of mind even in humid seasons.
ENLIGHTENED EQUIPMENT Revelation High-quality materials can be freely customized to suit your preferences. The joy of creating your own piece
- Highly customizable, allowing you to choose your own specifications, including down quality, amount of down, size, color, etc. *However, you must purchase directly from the home English website.
- It is so versatile that it can be turned into a quilt by fully opening the zipper at the foot.
Best value down category: Takemo sleeping bag
For those who are on a limited budget but still want a down sleeping bag, we recommend this Takemo. The founder of this new brand, established in 2015, originally worked for a domestic outdoor bedding manufacturer, so you can trust their quality. Made of 750FP natural white duck down, it has a box structure, draft tube/neck tube (shoulder warmer), and three-dimensional structure at the feet, making it as sturdy as premium products in terms of heat retention efficiency (somewhat similar to SUKA's) ), yet its affordable pricing is appealing.
Vest/Synthetic fiber (non-down material) category: mont-bell Seamless Alpine Burrow Bag/OMM Mountain Core 125/Gruezi Biopod DownWool
For mountain climbing or long treks where bad weather or getting wet is unavoidable, synthetic fibers are safer to carry than down, no matter how waterproof they are. Synthetic fiber batting, which used to have problems with being "heavy and bulky," has recently become much lighter and more compact than in the past due to remarkable technological innovations, and thanks to its inherent low price and ease of care, the latest synthetic fiber sleeping bags are now available. It's definitely not a bad option. There are two best models of such synthetic sleeping bags. Montbell's Burrow Bag is an ambitious product that uses unique sewing technology to make it even lighter and warmer. OMM Mountain Core is lightweight and comfortable to the touch, and uses cutting-edge high-performance insulation "Primaloft® ACTIVE" insulation, which is warm and prevents stuffiness, and is excellent as a stand-alone jacket or as an inner sleeping bag. The third product, Gruezi, is a unique high-performance sleeping bag that uses a hybrid material of wool and down instead of synthetic fibers, compensating for the weaknesses of down while achieving the benefits of natural materials. This is also a non-down model that you cannot miss.
mont-bell Seamless Alpine Burrow Bag Unique seamless structure provides unparalleled warmth and lightness
Favorite points
- Seamless construction eliminates seams as much as possible to ensure lighter weight and higher loft
- Extremely lightweight and compact despite its low operating temperature range
OMM Mountain Core 125 Primaloft® ACTIVE padded sleeping bag for consistent comfort
Favorite points
- Primaloft® ACTIVE batting provides adequate heat retention while providing excellent ventilation, quick drying, and texture.
- Ultra lightweight and compact
Biopod DownWool subzero 175 *185cm model is backordered
- "Wool x down" filling material provides just the right amount of warmth and comfort, neither too hot nor too cold.
- The zipper line and pockets are also easy to use. Even more environmentally friendly
Go to detailed review of Biopod DownWool
Best for women: NEMO Kayu 30 W's
There are quite a few manufacturers (especially overseas brands) that have a lineup of models tailored to women, who are generally said to be sensitive to the cold. In many cases, these sleeping bags that are labeled as being for women are actually just one size smaller to match your height, but if you go a little further, you may want to make sure that there is room in the shoulders and waist to suit your body type. and so on. The NEMO Kayu 30 W's is even more appealing than other women's models in that it is filled with more padding to provide even more warmth. It has excellent heat retention and storage capacity, and the quality of the down is water-repellent. The ease of use has been taken into consideration in every detail, such as the thermogills that accelerate temperature regulation and the waterproof and breathable material on the toes and hood, and I think the performance is quite satisfactory for the price.
How to choose: 6 points to wisely choose a sleeping bag for mountain climbing and hiking
Point 1: Select the corresponding temperature range ~Be careful not to be too hot or too cold~
When choosing the best sleeping bag, the most important thing is to choose temperature range The compatible temperature range is a guideline for the temperature at which you can comfortably sleep in a sleeping bag, and it can be said to represent the sleeping bag's thermal performance.
Sleeping bags have long been classified into the following three categories based on temperature.
- Summer (1 season): A sleeping bag intended for use on low mountains in midsummer or on flatlands from early summer to early autumn (approximately 5℃ or higher) .
- Spring to Autumn (3 seasons): A sleeping bag suitable for low mountains in spring and autumn and high mountains above 3,000m in summer (approximately -5 to 5 degrees Celsius) .
- Winter (4 seasons): A sleeping bag suitable for winter mountains and high mountains during the snowy season (approximately -5 degrees Celsius or below).
This shows that the three types of sleeping bags used for general mountain climbing are basically sufficient if you have the three types listed above, but it is not necessary to have all of them from the beginning . The one I want is for 3 seasons. The reason for this is that although it is a bit too hot in the low mountains in midsummer, it does not prevent you from using it, and the period of coverage is the longest. After that, the best way to reduce waste and failure is to add summer and winter versions depending on the frequency of use and budget. Some people are serious about using two types of clothing: one for winter and one for summer. The point is that from this point on, there are various ways to devise ways to do things.
In recent years, even within the same 3-season sleeping bag, the warmth varies depending on the brand and model, so more detailed checks are required to choose the optimal sleeping bag. For this purpose, each model has a corresponding temperature range display. In the past, each manufacturer presented different standards, but in recent years, international standards are becoming more widespread. That is the European gnome, which I will explain below.
Let's use the convenient index "European Nome (EN) 13537" to judge insulation properties.
Many of the latest sleeping bags have a reference temperature range based on a standard called European Norm (EN) 13537. EN13537 began to be used in EU countries in the 2000s, but has now spread around the world as the most reliable indicator. (Currently, there are some manufacturers that have not yet adopted the system.) This criterion displays a set of three indicators:
- T-Comfort is a temperature range in which a typical woman can sleep without feeling cold.
- T-Limit (lower limit) is the temperature range in which a typical man can curl up and sleep for 8 hours.
- T-Extreme is the temperature range that a typical woman can endure for six hours while curled up on her knees. In some cases, hypothermia may occur, which is extremely dangerous.
[Caution] Be careful how to read the EN13537 specifications (don't rely 100% on the numbers as they are)
If you know this, you should check the weather forecast for the approximate temperature of the place you are going to, and choose a model that falls within the temperature range indicated by EN. However, when you actually purchase and try out various models, you realize that things are not so simple. Simply put, almost every model I've tried doesn't feel as warm as EN claims .
Image: Kansas State University
The main reason for this is the testing method. EN13537 is simply the result of measurements taken in a laboratory environment on a specific body type (male: 25 years old, 173 cm, 73 kg; female: 25 years old, 160 cm, 60 kg) wearing long-sleeved underwear and socks. . This does not take into account various variables such as the user's nationality, body shape, constitution, condition of the day, clothes worn, mat laid down, and compression rate of the batting. To give a rough analogy, it's like the ``catalogue fuel efficiency'' of a car; it doesn't necessarily mean that you can actually drive at that fuel efficiency, and it's just an indicator for comparison.
In other words, these numbers are unfortunately not values that everyone can accept at face value, but even so, in the sense that they are calculated using a unified measurement method, they are different from each manufacturer as in the past. This should be considered better than disparate standards. At the very least, it is possible to compare the heat retention capabilities under the same conditions, so the smart way to choose at this point is to make good use of that.
So how do you actually judge?
What should you do to avoid being misled by the displayed temperature range? this is, and will probably continue to be, to ``always choose warmth that is more generous than indicated unless you have proof.''
It is better to consider that there will be a certain amount of error depending on individual differences and environment, and if you are not a familiar brand or an expert, it will be 5 to 10 from the EN notation ("comfortable" for women, "lower limit" for men). I think it's definitely a good idea to consider the temperature with some leeway Specifically, you should choose a warmer model, or bring extra winter clothing in case it's cold. Even so, I think there may be a chance that things don't go as planned, but in that case, even if you make mistakes like being too heavy or too hot, you should be able to avoid the serious risk of hypothermia. If you think that you can apply the lessons learned to your next choice, you can be positive.
Depending on the manufacturer, the temperature range may not be indicated by EN yet, but the basics remain the same. Unless you are sure, it is best to choose a warmth that is comfortable.
Point 2: Filling material: Should you use down or synthetic fibers? There are countless options available from there.
Once you have narrowed down the candidates based on the compatible temperature range, the next step is to consider the type of batting. A sleeping bag's ability to retain heat comes from the fact that when the filling expands, a layer of stationary air (dead air) is warmed by your body heat, and it also becomes an insulating layer that blocks out the outside air and wraps around your entire body. In other words, the heat retention ability depends on how much dead air can be stored. By the way, the degree of expansion of the space that stores dead air is called loft (bulkness), and batting plays an extremely important role in ensuring as much loft as possible.
Materials used for batting include natural down and synthetic fibers, but currently down has the highest heat retention per weight . If you choose a down sleeping bag that is light, compact, and warm, you will almost never go wrong with it for regular mountain climbing. However, it is not without its weaknesses. Below is a comparison table of advantages and disadvantages.
| material | down | synthetic fiber | hybrid |
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| merit |
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| Demerit |
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| Suitable situations and usage |
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Although down has high performance, it is expensive and is sensitive to moisture . For this reason, synthetic fibers may be more suitable than down for people who value price over lightness and size, or for people who often engage in activities where the backpack is likely to get wet, such as mountain climbing. Fortunately, however, recent advances in synthetic fiber filling have been remarkable, and we are now in a situation where we can no longer complain that synthetic fibers are heavy or uncomfortable. We highly recommend that you try it out at a store and compare the actual products.
On the other hand, down clothing continues to evolve day by day. ``Water-repellent down'', which has been treated with a strong water-repellent treatment to overcome its weak point of getting wet, has become more common. However, water-repellent down still has its limits against getting wet, so in Japan, where there is a lot of rain and humidity, it is better to consider some form of water protection as essential.
Choosing high-quality down makes it lighter and warmer (about type, production area, FP, ratio)
As for the quality of down, it's not the kind of duvets you see on TV or the radio, but there are actually a surprising number of factors that affect the quality. We will not introduce each of them in detail here, but instead will focus on the points you need to know in order to choose a high-quality down sleeping bag.
Types and production areas of down
Down from European goose is often said to be of the highest quality, with a larger loft, superior bulk, excellent heat retention, and little odor. On the other hand, down from waterfowl raised in other regions, or from ducks rather than goose, is often (though not always) of medium to low quality. When it comes to producing the highest quality goose down, the number of days the goose is raised has a big influence, and it is said that the highest quality down can be obtained from a goose that has been carefully raised for 21 weeks.
Down FP (fill power) ratio
FP is an index that expresses the restoring power of the loft in down.The it can be said that it exhibits high heat retention. The higher the FP, the lighter and more compact the sleeping bag can be made. In relation to the types of waterfowl mentioned above, it is possible to collect only 750 to 800 FP of down from ducks, whereas high quality down of 900 FP or more can be collected from larger geese. It is said that it can be done.
Generally speaking, anything over 650 is high quality, but the higher the value, the higher the price, so when choosing down, you have to make a tough choice between the price and the warmth/portability. I need to go.
Also, although it is simply called down, it actually has some feathers mixed in to increase loft, and the ratio is displayed as 90/10 (90% down, 10% down). feather). Feather is not a material that increases heat retention, so naturally the higher the proportion of down, the better the heat retention, the softer the touch, and the higher the quality .
Animal Welfare and Down
With the trend toward product development that has a lower impact on the environment from various aspects, the manufacturing process for down has come to require a great deal of reflection. The act of collecting down from waterfowl is actually nothing more than plucking the feathers that grow on the waterfowl's skin, and to put it simply, it is an act of cruelty to animals. In the past, when efficiency was paramount, waterfowl were forced to eat a lot of food (force-feeding) in order to grow quickly. On many occasions, they were forcibly removed by machines.
Currently, as the concept of "Animal Welfare", which aims to create a breeding environment with less stress and pain for livestock, has become widespread, some sleeping bag manufacturers are reconsidering these inhumane breeding and harvesting methods. are appearing one after another, and almost all down products distributed in the European and American markets in particular have come to adopt standards based on this idea.
Therefore, the main points that we as consumers should be concerned about in the future are:
- Do not force-feed the animals by continuously feeding them a large amount of food in a small cage.
- No "live plucking," which involves plucking the feathers from live waterfowl.
It depends on whether or not the product uses down filling purchased from a feather supplier that adheres to the following two points.
However, it is not only time-consuming for consumers to check every time whether these standards are being followed, but it can also lead to confusion if each manufacturer creates its own standards. Manufacturers responded by creating a global third-party organization that audits the entire manufacturing process and provides easy-to-understand certifications. The certification is " RDS (Responsible Down Standard) ," and down products from overseas manufacturers, including not only sleeping bags but also jackets, may have a tag attached to them.
Point 3: Resistance to getting wet ~ Some kind of protection against getting wet is essential in Japan ~
There is no doubt that a sleeping bag is the most important tool for a comfortable sleep in a tent, but you must avoid the situation where the sleeping bag loses its heat retention above all else. In other words, you must take measures to prevent your sleeping bag from getting wet when camping overnight in a tent.
I mentioned earlier that down has a weakness in that it cannot provide insulation when wet. For this reason, in the past, if you were worried about getting wet, you would have had to cover your down sleeping bag with a sleeping bag made of waterproof and breathable fabric, or choose a synthetic cotton sleeping bag that would not lose its heat retention even if it got wet. . Of course, these are still effective and reliable ways to prevent sleeping bags from getting wet, but they did not take advantage of the advantage of down, which is its lightness, and the situation continued to be really troublesome. That situation has been gradually changing recently.
Countermeasure against down getting wet No. 1: Shruff with highly waterproof and breathable outer material
If your sleeping bag is made of waterproof and breathable material, you won't have to worry about moisture, water droplets, or submersion.
The first thing that determines the quality of the surface fabric of a sleeping bag for mountain climbing is how thin and lightweight it is while still being durable. What's more important to look for is whether or not it has been treated with a ``down-proof'' treatment that closes the gaps between the threads to prevent the down from falling out, and whether it has been treated with a ``DWR (durable water repellent)'' treatment that makes it easy to repel water. However, this alone is not enough to prevent wetness.
A sleeping bag that has sufficient protection against moisture, for example, uses waterproof and breathable material for the surface fabric, and in addition to the waterproof and breathable material, the seams are also treated with seam tape to prevent water from seeping in. This refers to a model that seems to be completely shut out. With these, you won't need a sleeping bag cover to prevent it from getting wet, and you can enjoy the lightness and comfort of down with peace of mind.
Countermeasures against down getting wet part 2: A sleeping bag that uses "water-repellent down," which is treated with water-repellent down.
Next, as I mentioned earlier, something that has undergone remarkable innovation in recent years is ``water-repellent down,'' which is processed to further enhance down's inherent water-repellent ability. the Nikwax Hydrophobic Down introduced in the video above , down is being developed one after another, with highly water-repellent treatments applied to the down filling itself, so that it does not lose its resilience even when wet. As far as I can see from the video, it seems like it will maintain some loft unless the down gets soaked with water, so it can be said that it is highly practical for now unless the situation is that severe.
However, even so, these water-repellent downs still inevitably have lower resilience (warmth retention) and shorter product life than high-quality pure down. I have experienced the reality that the DWR processing of rainwear etc. gradually deteriorates due to washing, etc., and if you use water-repellent down down many times, the water-repellency will almost certainly decrease. . In that sense, I am still skeptical whether water-repellent down jackets will be a good product from a long-term perspective. It's true that the practicality has improved considerably, but I don't think you should choose this option outright just yet, and I think you need to look carefully.
Point 4: Shape, size, and structure - Based on the mummy shape, as you get used to it, eliminate waste in your own way.
The basics are "mummy type". Also pay attention to new shapes that are useful for specific applications.
If you think broadly about things like car camping and sleeping in a car, there are envelope-shaped (rectangle-shaped) sleeping bags that look like regular futons, but when it comes to mountain climbing, the most common shape of sleeping bags is almost certainly The basic shape is called a mummy shape is intended to completely cover everything except the face while
Various three-season sleeping bag shapes (from left): mummy type, no-hood mummy type, modified mummy type, half-quilt type, quilt type, wearable type, two-person mummy type
For beginners purchasing a sleeping bag for the first time, this mummy type is recommended as it is safe and functional. However, with the recent diversification of activities and needs, it cannot be overlooked that various shapes derived from the traditional mummy shape have been born.
These models take the efficiency of the traditional mummy model even further, being leaner and more tailored to specific needs.
For example, the ``quilt type'' (4th and 5th from the left in the photo above), which has been designed to be used in conjunction with a mattress, has a short cut on the back side, and is not only lightweight but also offers a flexible sleeping position (although the most (When closed, body movement is restricted), it allows for temperature regulation, and is a perfect shape for ultralight and fastpacking in relatively warm weather.
In addition, the ``half-length type'' (second from the left in the photo above), which is designed to be worn while sleeping while carrying a cold-weather jacket, achieves weight reduction by omitting parts from the shoulders and chest up, or the entire upper body. Masu. These can be used as inner sleeping bags in the winter mountains in conjunction with other sleeping bags to add warmth, so you may be able to reduce waste in your equipment as a whole.
size
If you are trying to maximize the heat retention effect, it is better to have no extra space between the sleeping bag and your body, but if it is too snug, it will be cramped and difficult to sleep. The best thing is that you can custom-make a bag that fits your body perfectly and has the perfect balance of warmth and ease of movement, but of course such a dream-like service doesn't exist yet, so for now, What you can choose now is to choose the size that fits you from among the regular, long, and short variations available by many manufacturers for different heights and body types (Highly recommended as it is designed to accommodate this).
In addition, one solution to avoid creating dead space is to create a model with stretchable fabric. For example, Montbell's Spiral Stretch System and Deuter's Inside Thermo Stretch Comfort System are famous, but when you try them out, it's obvious that the filling sticks to your body, so you can feel the warmth from the moment you put it on, and it's true that they have excellent heat retention. It's a few steps higher than usual, and doesn't obstruct movement, making it convenient to cross-legged while wearing a sleeping bag.
structure
Even if you use a large amount of high-quality batting that can withstand low temperatures, that alone cannot guarantee stable heat retention. In the unlikely event that the filling enclosed within the fabric moves inside and becomes uneven, dead air will not be able to be created in areas where the filling is insufficient (cold spots), and the overall heat retention will be significantly reduced.
Checking for cold spots through light
To prevent this, we have continued to improve the way sleeping bags are filled with padding. Here we will introduce the main filling structures of sleeping bags, so you may want to check whether the model you are considering has a structure that is suitable for your purpose.
| material | Single structure | box structure | Trapezoid box structure |
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| image |  |  |  |
| merit |
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Point 5: Other elements/parts ~ Considering ease of use when actually using it ~
Lastly, I would like to list some detailed checkpoints that could not be covered in the explanation so far.
Storage ability
Sleeping bags are made of synthetic fibers rather than down, winter is better than summer, and depending on the quality and quantity of the filling, it can take up a lot of volume, so it is definitely better to be as light and compact as possible. One thing to note, however, is that the storage size listed in the specifications in the catalog is only ``the size when it is in the included stuff sack.''
As shown in the photo below, some models are large when purchased, but can be further compressed by using a compression stuff sack ( ). Also, depending on the manufacturer, the standard stuff bag itself may have a compression function, so it is a good idea to check before purchasing.
Making the food
It is said that a lot of heat is dissipated from the neck to the head, and it is surprisingly important for ensuring heat retention. Some models are cut because it is not so important for summer or ultra-light models. For models with 3 seasons or more, it is a good idea to check that the hood that covers the head is made to fit naturally, and that the drawcord at the face opening is easy to tighten and does not get in the way and create a feeling of pressure In addition, some models designed for use at lower temperatures include a padded tube placed around the shoulders to prevent cold air from entering, providing greater comfort with less weight.
Models with more three-dimensional hoods and tube-shaped padding around the hood and neck depending on the temperature range are more comfortable.
zipper
Zippers have two main roles in sleeping bags. One is to make it easier to get in and out of the sleeping bag, and the other is to control ventilation and temperature by opening and closing. easier to use if you open it as wide as possible . However, if you think about it from the standpoint of wanting to make it as light as possible, it is better to have no parts. For this reason , models that emphasize weight reduction only have a length of about 1/2 to 1/3 of the total length, or there are models that do not have it at all, so it is best to choose according to your preference.
Short zippers (the dotted line) greatly contribute to weight reduction, but you also have to accept the inconvenience of being difficult to get in and out of and difficult to adjust the temperature.
In order to be used at lower temperatures than others, some models have a "draft tube" filled with batting placed on the inner line of the zipper (see photo below) to prevent cold air from entering through the zipper.
Furthermore, if the zipper can be operated from the inside of the sleeping bag, or if it has a double zipper design that can be opened from both the top and bottom sides, it will be more convenient. Easy to adjust, further improving usability.
Some models come with an anti-bite mechanism to prevent thin fabrics from being caught and damaged when the zipper is raised or lowered. Zippers on sleeping bags that have not been treated in any way are easy to chew.
Making the foot box
which is sensitive to the cold, is sewn loosely and three-dimensionally, and a large amount of padding is filled in that area , which equalizes the pressure on the feet and improves heat retention. As a result, you can sleep more comfortably.
Includes plenty of feathers around your feet, where you can easily feel the cold. In addition, the three-dimensional structure that matches the shape of your feet keeps your entire foot evenly warm.
Point 6: Bedding used in combination ~A sleeping bag is not the only thing you need for a good night's sleep~
Sleeping bags can be used on their own, but there are many great tools that can be used as a set to keep you dry and maximize your comfort and warmth. There are some essential gears, so don't forget to prepare them.
sleeping bag cover
As mentioned earlier, the downside of down is that it loses heat retention when wet, but unlike everyday life, there is a surprisingly high risk of getting wet outdoors. The risk of flooding comes when you forget about the risk of flooding, such as accidentally not waterproofing your backpack during a sudden heavy rain, spilling water inside your tent, or condensation water dripping from the top. Unless you are in low-risk areas such as high-temperature low mountains, you should consider some type of waterproofing measures essential in Japan, where it rains a lot . The first step is to separately prepare a sleeping bag cover (sluff cover) made of waterproof and breathable material. By the way, this cover also helps to improve the heat retention to some extent.
liner sheets
A liner (inner sheet) that you put inside your sleeping bag mainly to improve heat retention is not worth buying a new sleeping bag, but it is useful when you feel that the heat retention power of the equipment you already have is not enough. there is. Also, due to the coronavirus pandemic, more and more mountain huts are now requiring liner sleeping bags even when staying in a mountain hut, and the use of liner sleeping bags is also increasing for the purpose of improving hygiene and comfort.
In any case, liner sheets are convenient, compact, inexpensive, and easy to use, so there's no harm in having one. Make sure to use synthetic fibers or silk instead of cotton. I personally found it useful for a long time, but I actually used it as a summer sleeping bag instead of as an inner layer. From school days to the first year of working life, it is not impossible to get through the year by combining this with a sleeping bag cover for 3 seasons.
pillow
If you have the time, you may want to consider using an inflatable pillow, which is useful for outdoor activities, for an even better night's sleep. Nowadays, there are pillows that can be compressed quite compactly, so it certainly doesn't put that much of a burden on your luggage.
However, I personally don't think inflatable pillows are all that comfortable, and I think it really depends on the person whether it's worth the trouble of bringing one. Even if you don't bring your own, you can make an improvised pillow by putting a change of clothes, towels, etc. in a stuff bag, so unless you're really particular about it, you don't have to worry about it that much.
My personal favorite outdoor pillow is the THERM-A-REST compressible pillow filled with bits of mattress foam. However, it is not compact enough to take to the mountains.
sleeping pad
matter how fluffy the down is, it won't hold up to your weight, and the part that touches the ground will be hard and uncomfortable, and a lot of heat will escape, greatly reducing the thermal performance of your sleeping bag, so place a mat under your sleeping bag. is required . There are various sleeping pad models depending on purpose and style, and you need many tips to choose the model that is best for you.
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summary
It's light and small, provides just the right amount of warmth at all times, and is resistant to wetness and moisture, making it durable and tear-resistant. If you can find such a dreamy sleeping bag, you won't have to worry about it, but in reality, the best one for each person depends on the season and purpose, individual constitution and preferences such as sensitivity to heat or cold, and balance with other equipment to be combined with it. There are various types of sleeping bags. This is also the difficulty in choosing a sleeping bag (not just sleeping bags, but mountain gear in general). The best models listed here are all excellent sleeping bags that we can recommend with confidence, but we hope this will also help you share the fun of finding the best one for yourself.
