Backpacker Magazine – August 2008

Field Notes: North Face Propel Sleeping Bag, Asolo Power Matic Boot, Lanterns, and Vargo Titanium Sierra Pot

The latest word from our testers

by: Kelly Bastone, Berne Broudy, Kristin Hostetter, Dennis Lewon, Steven Roy, Charlie Wood

Sleeping Bag
The North Face Propel This lightweight synthetic 40°F bag is the choice for no-nonsense hikers who want a summer sack that's compact and versatile. The Propel's Climashield Neo fill compresses almost as well as down–stuffed, it's the size of a volleyball–but dries quickly. For that reason, our tester chose the Propel for a sea-kayaking trip in Baja, when an unplanned dunking was a daily possibility. Features are spare but smart: A shortie zipper saves weight and bulk; the minimalist hood closes with scratch-free hook-and-loop patches; and a zipper at the foot allows you to vent the lower bag on warm nights. The wispy 15-denier nylon shell is light, showed no wear, and sheds condensation. The cut is roomy across the shoulders, which is great for roll-around comfort and big guys, but our 150-pound, 5' 10" tester found it made the Propel a few degrees shy of its temp rating. Consider it a 50°F bag if you're a cold sleeper. $209; 1 lb. 10 oz. (regular); 2 sizes. (866) 715-3223; thenorthface.com. Reader service #107
Subscribe to Backpacker magazine
Sign up for our free weekly e-newsletter