3 key things to consider when choosing your sleeping bag
Here we summarise key standards and recommendations for choosing an ideal sleeping bag for those trips to the mountains, considering the different factors you need to take into account, as well as including some of the following tips that can make things easier for you.
The best sleeping bag
Of course, there is no such thing as the perfect sleeping bag, as the ideal choice varies according to the characteristics of the individual, as well as climatic factors and the type of trip; however, here is an overview of the essential factors to take into account when trying to find the best formula.
1. Temperature
One of the most important points of a sleeping bag is its ability to keep warm (if it is cold) or cool (if it is hot) during the night, which is not only a matter of comfortbut may even be a matter of survival.
There are different measurements, some types of sleeping bags may have one or another standard to define this, the main ones being the following:
European Standard 13537 (EN)
This was a method designed to independently measure the temperature level of a sleeping bag model, particularly in specific conditions inside a thermal chamber, in order to replicate environmental conditions.
Comfort.
It is determined by considering the lowest temperature that a woman can comfortably spend a night; the average being the thermal sensation of a woman of 25 years of age, weighing 60 kg and 1.6 m tall. In other words, it protects well at around -2º C.
Lower limit.
This indicator refers to the same terms as the "Comfort" type, but in terms of the sensation of a man of the same age, 70 kg and 1.73 m tall. In generic terms, it represents a resistance to spending a good night's sleep, even if it is -8.1°C outside.
Extreme.
This type of sleeping bag is not recommended for an outing in normal conditions, as it may be too heavy for the occasion, although they are designed so that a woman in the same average conditions will not suffer from hypothermia, even at -26.3°C.
Upper Limit.
There is also another type that is not always considered in some models, but which is the highest temperature that an average man can go without getting hot and sweaty, even with the hood, zips and arms outside the jacket.
It should be noted that these standards are only approximate recommendations, as sensations can vary greatly from person to person, so it is best to gradually familiarise yourself with the type of protection that might be right for you, although of course it will always be an easier problem to solve if you are a little warm than if you are too cold.
Seasonal system
This is another temperature indicator, which seeks to define a standard according to the time of year:
Summer.
Refers to models that allow you to stay cool and sleep comfortably at temperatures of 0°C or above.
3-season.
This system, designed to be efficient throughout most of the year, is designed to protect well from -12º to 0º Celsius.
Winter.
In this case, it is here that the greatest protection is provided, being efficient for temperatures below -12ºC.
2. Isolation
Another important factor to take into account is the material or materials that make up our sleeping bag, the main ones being the following:
Feathers.
The sleeping bags of duck and goose feathers, are the common ones, on average more expensive, although many prefer them because they are very Slight and capable of be shortened to small spaces.
They are also very comfortable, particularly in dry and very cold conditions, but have some ethical drawbacks due to animal abuse, although efforts have also been made to come up with more socially responsible alternatives.
Synthetics
This type of sleeping bag is usually made of polyester, and is more resistant to the elements. economicas well as hypoallergenicThey can keep you insulated even if they get wet.
They also dry faster and on average have an average of longer durationThe comfort can vary greatly, depending on the quality of the materials and the manufacturing process.
Type and size
It is also advisable to check beforehand other factors, such as the weight y dimensions of the product.
Even more so, if you are a hiker, and you can spend several hours walking with backpack and sleeping bag, it is advisable to look for alternatives that are lightweight and take up as little space as possible when stored.
However, the extended dimensions also matter, as something too tight could be uncomfortable to sleep in, especially if you are a night owl, and something too loose could increase the cold and provide little protection.
Most sleeping bags have this characteristic shape. mummy type; it is advisable to check the measurements for shoulders and hips, which are included in the description of most models.
There are also others with rectangular shapeThese are suitable for those who tend to stretch out or move their feet a lot while sleeping. Please note that this type of sleeping bag is not suitable for cold environments, as heat loss and heat retention is much lower.
Similarly, there are some sleeping bags for couplesThere are also some models designed to be individual, and with the option of joining to form a larger one to protect 2 people, although in this case you must make sure you have the opposing parts compatible for optimum performance.
Accessories
Take into account the hood and the collar is also important, as you will find it convenient to check that they are of sufficient size, according to the type of pillow that is most comfortable for you to sleep on; although of course these details can also be corrected externally.
If you usually travel to warmer places, we also recommend those models with closing long, so that you can open it wide enough for freshness.
It may also be convenient if your sleeping bag has some other advantages such as a carry bag, drawstrings for different types of adjustment, pockets, padding, or the protection some have behind the zip to prevent heat from escaping.
We also recommend you to check beforehand opinions about the model you are interested in, as well as to find out in advance about the weather conditions for the days of the adventure, in order to make sure you always choose the best option.
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