View Full Version : Zero Or Twenty
Monkeywrench
09-10-2008, 09:22
I am planning to start at Springer next year around March 18 or so. I have a small collection of sleeping bags and need to choose between my 0* down bag and my 20* down bag to use at the start. Both bags weigh the same, so that is not an issue. Once the weather warms up I will change to my WM Summerlite bag for most of the trail, though I expect I will switch to the 20* bag for New Hampshire and Maine.
The 0* bag appeals to me for the start, but as the weather warms a bit, but not necessarily enough to switch to the Summerlite, it may be uncomfortably hot and the 20* bag may be more bearable. Decisions, decisions.
Anyone have any thoughts?
If both bags really weigh the same, then take the warmer bag. Personally, I'm a bit skeptical of that claim -- but if it's true, then the decision would be an easy one, for me -- as long as it can be unzipped.
Monkeywrench
09-10-2008, 09:47
If both bags really weigh the same, then take the warmer bag. Personally, I'm a bit skeptical of that claim -- but if it's true, then the decision would be an easy one, for me -- as long as it can be unzipped.
They really do weigh the same. They are both Mountain Hardwear bags. The 20* bag uses 600 fill down while the 0* bag uses 800 or 850 fill down (I forget which), so it ends up weighing the same.
They really do weigh the same. They are both Mountain Hardwear bags. The 20* bag uses 600 fill down while the 0* bag uses 800 or 850 fill down (I forget which), so it ends up weighing the same.
Well, that explains it. (MH makes nice bags.) As long as the 0* bag can be opened up (for warm nights) I'd go with that one. Switch 'em out after a few weeks or whatever.
Johnny Swank
09-10-2008, 10:49
I'd carry the 0 myself. You'll not have a weight penalty, and it's beyond nice to get some real sleep when the temps go below freezing. I froze my butt off in a 20-degree bag, but I didn't finish my SOBO until the middle of January.
bigcranky
09-10-2008, 20:01
Yeah, mid-March is usually when I swap out my winter bag for my 30-F bag, but if there's no weight penalty, the 0-F would be nice.
Stick with the 800 fill. Usually the cheaper bags have less volume of down resulting in a exaggerated temperature rating. Mont Bell's 650s end up having less volume than their 800s. The volume should be the same for a temp rating but even in the same company their standards can be different.
Blissful
09-10-2008, 21:07
My son had a 20 degree Cats Meow for a March 5th start, though he did bring a liner just in case. Worked out fine. I think 0 degree would be way too warm.