Synthetic sleeping bags?

**llanelli** · #1 30 Dec 2003

What do I look for when buying a synthetic sleeping bag? Does price mean better quality? What are the good bags available in Australia?
Many thanks

Andrew + Wendy

**ekaphoto** · #2 30 Dec 2003

Is the bag warm enough/suitable to the worst enviroment it will be used in. The tempture rating is a guide only, not exact. If you sleep cold or warm take that into account.

If in doubt get the warmer bag, its easier to unzip and vent than buy a new bag in the wild.

Make sure the bag fits you. If it is to small it will be uncomfortable. If to big your body can not heat the area inside the bag to warm it up.

**mmaarten** · #3 28 Jan 2004

Hi,

Why syntetic? a good down bag has a much wider temp-range and pack,s smaller. The only disadvantage is: Don,t let it get wet... although it needs to get very wet to loose it,s insulation.

For syntetic, NorthFace, is good. Don,t know any other brand that are available in Australia.
Usualy quality cost,s monye... Go to a good trekking or climbing shop!

And don,t forget: Most of the heat goes into the ground... so get a good matrass (thermarest) !

Maarten

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**Bennett** · #4 10 Feb 2004

Hi,agree with all the comments,especially about ground insulation,go for Therm a rest or simalar product.
Changed to synthetic bag after getting a down bag wet a couple of times takes forever to dry out.Now have a Roman 'Super Trek'(synthetic bag)Have had it for over five years and found it suitable for OZ and New Zealand trips. The zips have a life time guarantee.These bags are a bit bulky but I always ocky strap them on top of the load.
Ben

**Huey** · #5 10 Feb 2004

I'd vote for a good down bag every time (and make damn sure you don't get it wet!).
Alongside the practical pack-smaller, keep-warmer issues you get a far snugger and cosier nights sleep - and who can put a price on that?

the best bags I've owned have been from macpac: http://www.macpac.co.nz/

cheers

Huey