When shopping for ultralight sleeping bags, you should first determine which type of insulation you want it to have. Ultralight sleeping bags serve a wonderful purpose for the recreational hiker, and can make for a very light, yet warm night of sleep. These are the two major factors in ultralight sleeping bags shopping; Warmth and comfort, and weight. Here are some things to consider before you go shopping for that ultralight sleeping bag as far as insulation:
Insulation - The ultralight sleeping bag is made up of either down insulation or synthetic insulation. Each of these types can be bought in various levels of quality, and it is important to consider which fits you best. Each type of insulation has its advantages and uses. Here is an overview of these two types of insulation:
Down Insulation - Down insulation is the lightest and the warmest available insulation but it has a disadvantage as well. If you live in a very wet climate, or expect to hike in areas that are wet, then down insulation will not be a good choice for you. Down insulation loses its benefit when wet and becomes much less warm and comfy. Waterproof shells, that are designed to make the ultralight sleeping bags more water resistant for down insulation, often create a problem with interior moisture. This is not a big deal in the short term, but over time it can really mess up a hike. One solution is to use a vapor barrier liner. This is a nylon like sack that you put on the inside to prevent moisture from getting to the insulation. These are also used to increase warmth in the ultralight sleeping bag. The rating system for down is called fill power. You want to purchase a down insulated ultralight sleeping bag with a fill power rating of at least 650.
Synthetic Insulation - Synthetic is fairly competitive with down primarily because it is much better in wet climates. The problem with synthetic is that they tend to be more heavy, and more bulky since they do not fold as well as down insulated ultralight sleeping bags. They do have advantages in price as well. A good synthetic bag is considerably less expensive than a good down sleeping bag. With the synthetic ultralight sleeping bag, you also have the chance to use it to dry clothes as well. As the sleeping bag is well insulated, you can place wet clothes, shoes, or other items in it to dry overnight. This can be quite handy.
When you consider the two types of insulation available for ultralight sleeping bags, it becomes clear that the choice is largely based on your outdoor climate. Wet climates should go with the synthetic version, and dry climates should buy the down insulation. Sometimes, however, the benefits of a down insulated ultralight sleeping bag is needed regardless of weather, and you might need to add a supplemental piece such as a vapor barrier liner. Either option produces some fantastic ultralight sleeping bags, and either option should have something that you can make work for you. Just be sure to check the ratings, and that the temperature ratings are appropriate to the season you will be hiking in.
