View Full Version : WM 15 Degree Badger GWS
I recently learned the 10 Degree bag that I purchased, a Slumberjack "Odyssee" which was only like $60 from Campmor, is really like a 40 Degree bag according to reviews, and try to get through a 10 Degree night with it and you will barely survive! I want to replace it eventually (not risk using it in the cold) and have (after looking and comparing different bags and specs) zeroed in on a Western Mountaineering 15 degree Badger bag with the Gore Windstopper fabric. There is plenty of inside room if one wants to wear extra clothes if it were to get super cold, it's fairly light, and it seems like a great bag, but with a hefty price, at like $500. I was wondering if others's owned this bag, and what their opinions are, or if they knew someone who had it and if they really liked it. I considered also the 5 degree Antelope model but it is a tighter cut, and maybe just a little too warm for an AT hike. Thanks
If you're tenting, you don't need the windstopper fabric. I have the WM Versalite, it has the highest loft of the ExtremeLite(?) series. Go for it - you'll have an ultra light wallet, too.
I have the WM Versalite, it has the highest loft of the ExtremeLite(?) series. Go for it - you'll have an ultra light wallet, too.
you got that right, but worth every penny on a cold night
If you're tenting, you don't need the windstopper fabric. I have the WM Versalite, it has the highest loft of the ExtremeLite(?) series. Go for it - you'll have an ultra light wallet, too.
I wasn't sure if the Gore windstopper fabric was better to have in an effort to keep moisture out of the bag, say on a wet AT hike. I am pretty sure it adds a little to the overall weight,also the price.
wandering_bob
06-29-2008, 11:14
For use on the PCT out here in rainy OR and WA, I've always found the WM Microfiber series more than adequate. I love the Sycamore MF (25°) because being semi-rectangular and having two zippers, it has unusually broad ventilating capabilities and can be opened completely to make a very nice quilt for two (the wife and I used it just this week on a 3 day trek) or for when temps get warmer.:)
The Badger is a huge bag, girth-wise (67" shoulder, 58" hip, 41" foot) . Unless your body mass physically fills most of that inner space, I can't imagine using something that big for 10° sleeping. I'd freeze - just too much empty space to warm up with limited body heat.
I always thought that girth and temperature were directly proportional - the lower the temperature, the less interior space was optimal. :-?
What do I know anyway? Buy it. Try it. If it doesn't work, sell it and buy again. The money lost is the price for knowledge gained.
For use on the PCT out here in rainy OR and WA, I've always found the WM Microfiber series more than adequate. I love the Sycamore MF (25°) because being semi-rectangular and having two zippers, it has unusually broad ventilating capabilities and can be opened completely to make a very nice quilt for two (the wife and I used it just this week on a 3 day trek) or for when temps get warmer.:)
The Badger is a huge bag, girth-wise (67" shoulder, 58" hip, 41" foot) . Unless your body mass physically fills most of that inner space, I can't imagine using something that big for 10° sleeping. I'd freeze - just too much empty space to warm up with limited body heat.
I always thought that girth and temperature were directly proportional - the lower the temperature, the less interior space was optimal. :-?
What do I know anyway? Buy it. Try it. If it doesn't work, sell it and buy again. The money lost is the price for knowledge gained.
I believe you are correct, too much air space inside and adequate warming does become more difficult. I originally rejected the idea of using a down bag, as everything I read said it was unwise due to the rainy weather and it becoming wet, however I think with the dryloft or similar coating, I wouldn't be quite as concerned of a little water or dampness affecting the bag. After more consideration I think I may go with the Marmot Helium EQ as it is lightweight, good quality, and has it's own type of water-resistant outer layer, and for around $100 less, however thanks for the info on the microfiber shell material.
I believe you are correct, too much air space inside and adequate warming does become more difficult. I originally rejected the idea of using a down bag, as everything I read said it was unwise due to the rainy weather and it becoming wet, however I think with the dryloft or similar coating, I wouldn't be quite as concerned of a little water or dampness affecting the bag. After more consideration I think I may go with the Marmot Helium EQ as it is lightweight, good quality, and has it's own type of water-resistant outer layer, and for around $100 less, however thanks for the info on the microfiber shell material.
M.B. down upper,lower you have free space and still retain heat and also use for camp.. plus save money on a bag from W.M.
I purchased a WM Apache a few weeks ago. I wanted a 2 lb 3+ season bag for the NW. What I would add to the replies is to find a gear shop that has several brands of bags, and allows you to climb into them to try on for size. I found that sizing / fit can be be quite subjective.
NICKTHEGREEK
08-14-2008, 16:26
Where are all those campmor sleeping bag fans who swear they are true to temp?
Where are all those campmor sleeping bag fans who swear they are true to temp? We are out here. Just can't quite fathom what your point is.
I just bought the WM badger in a long size because I am claustrophobic and wanted the extra room in a mummy type bag. I got just the standard shell with it. It has not been cold enough yet for me to trail test it, but if you are tent camping you can probably save a few bucks and go with the regular shell but if you are spending 400+ for a bag, if you really want the windstopper fabric, what's another few bucks. You will love the bag either way.
I purchased a WM Apache a few weeks ago. I wanted a 2 lb 3+ season bag for the NW. What I would add to the replies is to find a gear shop that has several brands of bags, and allows you to climb into them to try on for size. I found that sizing / fit can be be quite subjective.
Excellent advice. I spent hours reading and comparing the literature and tried on about 20 bags before making a final decision. 1 hour trying on bags is worth 20 reading about them.
I second eastwa and J5. Worth a drive if reasonable to a nice outfitter for trial fit/lay in. Spending big $ on a nice bag is very smart investment, IMO, but it should be the optimal one for you. Fit is crucial. Or, if you get one via the mail, and it doesn't fit they way you think it should, spend the $, send it back, keep on shopping. Most critical piece of new gear, maybe pack would be higher, but you want it right. IMO, the windstopper is waay overkill, and a bivy bag, like from Titanium goat if you need one, is a better choice. More versitile.