Backpacker Magazine – August 2009

Gear Review: GoLite Venture 40 Sleeping Bag

800-fill down keeps this bag toasty, while breathable nylon shell fabric and a two-way zipper prevents stuffiness in warmer temps.

by: Annette McGivney

Tags:
• Gear
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• Sleeping bag
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Best Warmth to Weight
"A ton of toastiness in a bread-loaf-size package" reported three testers who passed this bag around on a month-long trip in Joshua Tree National Park. Temps hit a low of 38°F, but even the cold sleeper among them stayed warm, thanks to generous amounts of high-lofting 800-fill down evenly distributed on the top and bottom (great for side sleepers).

The hood cinches comfortably around the face and a full-length draft tube seals in warmth. Waterproof Pertex Endurance on the hood and footbox repelled tent-wall condensation. And, thanks to the breathable nylon shell fabric in the rest of the body and the long two-way zipper, the Venture was never stuffy on mild (500F) nights. Despite the economical packed size, the Venture is pleasantly roomy through the hips and shoulders.

$250; 40°F; 1 lb. 10 oz.; 2 men's and 2 women's sizes; golite.com.

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