Re: [Paddlewise] sleeping bag question

From: <JSpinner_at_aol.com>


> I need to replace my sleeping bag with something that will be good for
> 55º-20º or in that area, not for real winter camping. I want something that
> will still do if damp but will pack down as small as a down bag for taking in
> the boat. Any thoughts or experience for or against anything?
>

If there's a synthetic that packs like down, I'd like to know about it!
I've had good results with both Polarguard 3D and Primaloft.  I think
3D has been replaced by HV.  There was (is?) a 3M fill called Lite Loft
that was generally condemned a few years ago.  If you seen something
made of it, walk away.

I've used a down bag on trips as well.  I have a Cascade Designs
Black Canyon compression dry bag that I keep it in.  No problems so
far, but I rarely have to deal with fog.

My favourite approach is like Bill Mason's (famous Canadian canoeist).
He advocates several very light sleeping bags nested together rather than
one do-it-all.  In your case, two light bags would likely suffice.  You'll only
need one of them in the summer and add the second in the cooler seasons.
 That way, you can have one, two or three layers on top, depending where
in the "sandwich" you sleep.  If you're lucky, you can find two bags that will
pack almost as small as one bigger one, but can be stuffed into two smaller
nooks in the kayak.

Also, consider a two-sided version.  I haven't seen one of these in a mummy,
only in a tapered rectangle (aka barrel).  These have one side that is light and
one side that is heavier.  If it's warm, sleep with the light side up.  If it's cool, use
the heavier side on top.  I don't know of US brands like this offhand, but MEC
has a couple.  Check:
http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_listing.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=189051
and scroll down to the Dervish and Oasis models.  Unfortunately, the latter is only
rated to 32F, but there may be another company with such a beast.  If you add
a fleece liner to that, it might be just the thing.

Also, don't trust the rated temperatures.  What's comfortable for me is freezing for Amie.
Women usually prefer a heavier bag for the same air temp.

Mike




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