How to Choose Sleeping Bags for Backpacking

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The Big Agnes Ethel 0 women's sleeping bag is made for adventurous souls who camp and backpack in the cold, and venture everywhere in between. It feels more like the comforter on your bed than a bag.
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View all Big Agnes Backpacking Sleeping BagsBest Use | Backpacking |
---|---|
Temperature Rating (F) | 0 degrees (F) |
Temperature Rating (C) | -18 degrees (C) |
Shell | Ripstop polyester |
Zipper Location | Right |
Insulation Type | Down |
Water-Resistant Down | Yes |
Fill | 650-fill DownTek down |
Lining | Polyester taffeta |
Sleeping Bag Shape | Semirectangular |
Stuff Sack Size | 9 x 20 inches |
Stuff Sack Volume | 21 liters |
Gender | Women's |
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I bought this bag for a Rainier summit attempt. I tested it on Mt. Adams and it did fine in 30-40 degree windy weather, while pitched on sand/rock. However, pitched on snow it was insufficiently insulated underneath. I purchased the insulated air core pad that goes with the bag but the sleep system had me shivering all night both nights on the mountain. This bag is very warm and cozy on top - I wish so badly that they had not removed the insulation underneath because I love the size and shape of the bag- perfect for my 5' 3" frame and I can still sleep on my side with one leg bent, as I like to do at home. As it stands I will likely have to return this for something warmer.
I'm a cold sleeper and, as such, bought this bag hoping it would keep me warmer than my 20 degree down bag. I paired it with a Big Agnes Insulated Q Core pad, wear appropriate clothing (long sleeve thermal shirt, down jacket, Patagonia R4 long underwear, wool socks, a hat as necessary), and even have a +25 degree liner. BUT: this bag is so roomy (it is a semi-rectangular bag) that if it's below 35 (maybe even 40) I'm still a bit chilly at night, even dressed as described. I've used this bag extensively while bikepacking the Colorado and Arizona Trails (late summer & spring, respectively), as well as backpacking in the Rockies, so I feel that I've given it a pretty good testing. Adding to the 'meh', this bag is also pretty bulky when compressed. Unfortunately I can't recommend it for anyone who is looking for a true 0 degree bag (or even wanting to be comfy when the mercury drop to fall/spring temps in the mountains), but if you're looking for a really comfortable bag that has tons of room and is very cozy in the mid-range temps, then it would be good.
I love this bag! A well insulated pad with a good R value is key to this type of bag as there is no insulation on the back. I was too warm in 40 degree weather but comfy when the weather changed with little warning (gotta love later winter in Appalachian Mountains). I wasn't toasty but I wasn't "I can't sleep because I'm so cold" cold either. Personally, I don't like to sleep hot anyways so this was perfect for me.