Backpacker Magazine – October 2005

Sleeping Bag Review: 4 Down Bags

Sleep warm, carry less with these 20-degree sacks.

by: Mike Lanza, BACKPACKER Northwest Editor

Tags:
• Gear
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• Sleeping bags
|

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©Mitch Mandel

GoLite Feather

Get warmth, weight savings, and the fit you want.

When a March night in the Sawtooths dipped to 2°F, I figured I was in for a long, cold, sleepless evening. But inside this cocoon, I had only to add a second layer on top of long underwear and a balaclava to stay warm. Why the great warmth-to-weight ratio? Three essentials: Lofty 800-fill down; a hood that cinches cleanly around the face to trap heat; and an efficient cut that's just big enough to allow you to change clothes inside (for a little more space, get the regular width instead of the trim). Plus, the highly compressible Pertex Quantum shell repels drafts and condensation. Side sleepers will like the short chest zip, as it keeps drawcords off your face--but it also limits venting. Stuffiness is mitigated by a nifty self-sealing footbox baffle, which lets you cool your feet without zipper fuss. The stuff sack drawcord blew out early, a bummer at this price.

Price: $300

Sizes: 3 lengths, trim and regular widths

Weight: 1 lb. 14 oz. (trim).

Contact: (888) 546-5483; www.golite.com

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