A good selection of travel equipment for a long trip can solve a lot of problems. Along with a capacious backpack, reliable shoes and a stable tent, it is very important to prepare a quality sleeping bag. Not only health support in the harsh conditions of the wilderness will depend on him, but also the possibility of a full recovery of the forces that are so necessary in travel. But how to choose a sleeping bag so that it really performs the basic functions of protection and at the same time provides comfort during rest? On this issue, there are many recommendations from experienced tourists, the most important of which will be discussed below.
Optimal shape and configuration
It is advisable to start the selection with the design of the product. Basically, a device is classified into three groups:
- Sleeping bag cocoon.
- Sleeping bag-blanket.
- Sleeping bag with headrest.
Cocoon models are made to fit a person with a narrowing in the area of the legs. Some modifications for greater convenience have an extension in the knee area. From the point of view of maintaining optimal thermal conditions, this is the best option, although there are disadvantages. For example, a sleeping bag-blanket has a simpler design that allows you to form a pair. On the other hand, the volume of the cocoon model is smaller, which facilitates their transfer. The advantages of such sleeping bags include the presence of a hood with a bottom. An optionally insulated door, as well as a thermally insulated valve along the entire length of the fastener, may be available.
Blanket-shaped sleeping bags are usually round. This is a convenient and familiar design that gives more free space, but at the same time takes up more space. Basically, it is these models that represent the segment of full-fledged 2-sleeping bags, some modifications of which can be unfastened and made single. The same family features headrest versions. The general device corresponds to a sleeping bag in the form of a blanket, but a pillow is additionally fastened to the base.
Thermal insulation
Resistance in certain climatic conditions is one of the main operational parameters of a sleeping bag. At a basic level, products are classified by season. For example, a sleeping bag for the summer is designed for high temperatures at night. Winter models receive effective insulation that can maintain comfort at -50 ° C and below. But temperature is far from the main factor determining the microclimate characteristics in a bag. For a comprehensive account of various factors, the following classification of sleeping bags is used:
- Maximum A category of models that are comfortably used at high temperatures. Such products exclude the sensation of excess heat and increased sweating. But here it is important to emphasize that the main advantage of Maximum sleeping bags is the good ventilation of materials, which eliminates the need to open the zipper in hot weather.
- Comfort. Sleeping bags designed for temperatures close to negative. An indicator of quality in this case will be the ability of the product to provide an 8-hour continuous sleep.
- Extreme These are winter sleeping bags designed for use in harsh climates. In this case, we are talking about the ability of the material to maintain relative comfort for at least 6 hours. The main objective of such models is to prevent the risk of hypothermia.
The above characteristics are calculated on the conditions under which a person sleeps naked or in thermal underwear. At the same time, bag tests are carried out with the participation of people with hardening, which should also be borne in mind when buying a particular version of a sleeping bag.
Basic manufacturing materials
Typical sleeping bags are formed by two layers - the upper and the inner. As for the first, it is important to consider wear resistance, strength, moisture resistance and ventilation in his choice. These properties are especially important when choosing a downy sleeping bag, the wetting of which will make it practically unsuitable for use before drying. Suitable for these requirements are polyester and nylon. If strength and durability are at the forefront, it is recommended to give preference to polyester. Nylon is good for breathability and moisture resistance. Do not completely ignore other materials. The main thing is that they reliably protect the filler and at the same time let air through. These functions need not be directly supported by the material of the top layer. Some manufacturers modify quite capricious fabrics thanks to thin film membranes, getting very attractive performance.
The inner layer is also selected with the expectation of air circulation, and strength fades into the background. According to many tourists and travelers, the inside is important feeling of a pleasant and soft material. Therefore, a sleeping bag-blanket is more often made using cotton fabrics. On the contrary, “cocoons” are made of polyester and nylon in order to optimize the shape. Combined materials are also popular - for example, from cotton and synthetics.
Thermal insulation material
Perhaps the most critical layer on which thermal comfort in the bag will depend. How to choose a sleeping bag for insulation? It has already been said that natural fluff can be laid in the foundation, and this is a good option. Properly processed goose down is characterized by elasticity, compressibility, lightness and the ability to retain heat. Studies show that such sleeping bags can maintain optimal thermal conditions at an ambient temperature of about –30 ° C. But the fluff is afraid of moisture, so in case of heavy rainfall there is a risk of being left without comfortable conditions for spending the night.
In order not to be afraid of high humidity, it is worth giving preference to synthetic materials. In this category, the choice is very rich - sintepon, firebertek, holofiber, tinsulate and others. Each of these heat insulators has its pros and cons, but common characteristics are distinguished. This is practicality, the ability to quickly restore and then keep in shape, as well as attractive heat-saving properties. That is, a winter sleeping bag from a combination of nylon-fiberberts, for example, can protect against frost and waterlogging even at extreme temperatures. The only drawback of this solution is the lack of environmental safety. For those who are involved in different areas of tourism and extreme sports, universal bags can also be offered. The peculiarity of such models is that their filler varies depending on the current requirements for the campaign.
Destination selection
For different categories of tourists there are separate types of sleeping bags. Separation can take place according to gender, age, occupation, etc. For example, there are army sleeping bags that are carried out according to the standards of the armed forces of different countries. The advantages of pseudo-war models include high strength, functionality and ease of maintenance. In such products, special materials are used that do not get dirty, hold heat well and do not allow moisture to pass through. For hunters and fishers this is the best solution.
As for the division by gender, far from all manufacturers make such accents in the classification. Nevertheless, there are comfortable tourist models of sleeping bags for women, characterized by expansion in the hips and an additional layer of thermal insulation in the legs. Children's sleeping bags, which have formed a separate class, have their own characteristics. Of course, in the first place they differ in size, but also in such models a thicker heat insulator and bright colors are provided.
Accessories for a sleeping bag - what to consider?
Compressor fabric capacity is included in the standard package, which allows you to compactly pack the product in a backpack. This accessory minimizes the volume of the bag, making it easy to transport. By the way, some modifications of army sleeping bags can themselves be transformed into bags and backpacks so that the outside is covered by a waterproof layer.
Hermetic bags are also recommended. This is especially true for down models of sleeping bags. The hermetic shell creates an additional barrier to moisture, keeping sensitive materials dry. To maintain cleanliness and hygiene, it is worth considering the presence of special inserts. These accessories are usually equipped with a children's sleeping bag - for example, microfiber will protect the structure of the fibers of the inner layer from sweat and sebum.
How to evaluate the quality of the product in appearance?
Having decided on the key parameters of the sleeping bag, you can proceed to the purchase. But at this stage, some nuances should be taken into account so as not to be disappointed in the operation process. When familiarizing yourself with a specific instance, pay attention to small details - for example, the quality of the seams. They should be smooth and in a minimum amount. Separately, lightning is checked as a responsible functional element of the product. How to choose a sleeping bag with clasps? It is advisable to give preference to reinforced zipper, which does not capture third-party fabric. The risk of seizing is also minimized. Further, cold bridges should not form already buttoned up. This property depends on the density of convergence of the sides and the fit of the outer lining.
Manufacturers
The leading representatives of the sleeping bag segment include Alexika, Trek Planet, Bergen Sport, Trimm, Alaska, etc. In the family of each of these manufacturers you can find models for different purposes, but some of them focus on specific qualities. For example, the best sleeping bags, in terms of thermal insulation, are manufactured under the brand name Alexika. The Canada Plus version is also equipped with a comfortable headrest and special lacing, requiring minimal effort for a tight grip. The Trek Planet line offers optimal solutions for easy walks in moderate temperatures. These are the sports options for sleeping bags, characterized by practicality and ease of use.
The Czech model Trimm Walker 230 is also popular. It is used by camping enthusiasts at moderate temperatures. This version of the sleeping bag is able to maintain thermal comfort at -4 ° C. Users note the high-quality exterior finish with fittings and the strength of the polyester shell. As an inexpensive, but acceptable in terms of characteristics, a sleeping bag "Alaska" from the Belarusian factory "Balmax Textile" is also recommended. The assortment of this manufacturer includes both economy-class models and premium versions. The operating temperature range is from -25 ° C to 20 ° C.
Sleeping Bag Care Tips
Preservation of the functionality, insulation and structural reliability of the product will depend, among other things, on the care of it. The problem with servicing sleeping bags is that they do not tolerate normal washing. And this applies not only to natural materials like fluff, but also to most synthetic fillers. Therefore, it is recommended to use liners that protect the base of the bag from contamination. And if the models of the classical form can still be unfastened in parts and washed separately, then, for example, a sleeping bag-cocoon will have to be sent to dry cleaning. Again, this procedure is undesirable, so you should contact it as little as possible. An alternative option is also used in the form of gentle hand washing in water with a temperature of up to 35 ° C. In the future, the bag should be stored in the most expanded form, so that it is well ventilated, but not exposed to direct sunlight. The room itself should be dry and clean.
Conclusion
Despite the great variety of different models of sleeping bags, making the right choice is not difficult if you make a clear list with the requirements. In any case, you can focus on a universal set of principles for selecting a quality model. How to choose a sleeping bag according to these rules? It is preferable to give preference to light, compact assembly, well-insulated and moisture-proof products. Such qualities of materials as hypoallergenicity, environmental friendliness and antistaticity will not be superfluous. Selection problems will arise only at the stage of evaluating specific materials. The fork between natural fluff and synthetics will be fundamental. Which option to stop? Of course, in the long run it is better to rely on natural, environmentally friendly material. But if the requirements of practicality, ease of maintenance and affordable price are important, then it is worth purchasing synthetics. As for the design, size and shape, in these parameters you need to rely on individual characteristics and, on the whole, the conditions of the trip.