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Best Winter Sleeping Bags
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Insulation
How warm your sleeping bag will be is determined by the type of material used to fill the insulation on the bag, the volume or loft of that filler, and how the bag is designed. Typically, bags designed with greater loft or volume fills will boost warmth better than those sleeping bags with lower loft or volume fills because the loft and volume fill provides insulation to protect you from low temperatures.
Most insulators used in sleeping bags use your own body heat to regulate the thermal temperatures within the bag, and the overall design of the bag will also tell you how spacious that sleeping bag will be. Some people prefer roomier sleeping bags when they rest because they are allowed more freedom of movement, which can work out well for people that toss and turn often as they sleep. Also, many people like sleeping with extra layers of insulation as well, and if that’s the case, then some extra room can certainly help.
One of the most important things you’ll want to consider when taking a look at sleeping bag warmth is the type of filler material your sleeping bag uses to create insulation and warmth. Most winter sleeping bags come with one of two types of insulation, either down or synthetic. Which type of insulation you need can depend on a variety of factors including budget, what weather you are likely to encounter when outside, and how much insulation you’re looking for.
Sleeping bags made with synthetic insulation do a better job than down as far as retaining their loft and their warmth because down is known to lose its insulative capabilities when it gets wet. Also, synthetic insulation dries out much faster than down. However, when compared to down insulation, synthetic insulation is not as durable, and also weighs far more. So, if you know you’ll be packing down your sleeping bag to carry it along with you, you might want a more lightweight down insulated sleeping bag.
Also, while synthetic insulation does try out faster than down, and it insulates better than down when it gets wet, it still is affected by moisture in its ability to produce warmth when it is wet. Synthetic insulation also weighs at least two times more than down insulation does and also packs down much larger, which is another factor to consider in regards to packing and carrying your sleeping bag.
Many brands that use down insulation also waterproof the sleeping bag or the insulation itself using some materials or coatings, which means down is starting to compete with synthetic insulation’s primary selling point: the ability to keep you warm when the bag gets wet. However, if you do know you’ll be sleeping outdoors in very wet climates, then synthetic insulation might be the better option.
Comfort
The main factor that dictates how comfortable your sleeping bag will be is the type of materials found on the inner area of the bag, how well the bag feels when you are inside it, and how much interior space the bag provides compared to how much room you really need. Most wide style sleeping bags tend to feel more comfortable when you sleep inside them since they give you the freedom to move around. If you are an active sleeper, then a wider-style sleeping bag probably will work better for you, since you’ll want that extra flexibility for a good night’s sleep.
However, if you are primarily a back sleeper, you can probably skip going for a wide-style sleeping bag, and get a smaller sleeping bag. If you don’t need the extra space, you’ll feel much warmer in a smaller sleeping bag. The more space in a sleeping bag, typically the more difficult it is for the bag to insulate and keep you warm, so you have a trade-off between space and warmth.
Still, the vast majority of people prefer to have room to move in their sleeping bags, since they like to sleep however they want. If you feel like that, and what options for your sleeping positions, then a wider-style sleeping bag will probably work better for you.
Durability
As far as durability is concerned with a sleeping bag, lighter bags tend to not be as durable and strong as heavier bags. However, most sleeping bags will suffer if they make contact with rocks or other items that can puncture holes in them. One measurement that helps dictate the level of durability in the sleeping bag is the denier rating, which measures how thick a fabric is in a sleeping bag.
With punctures and abrasions, both high and low denier sleeping bags will still tear depending on what they encounter, but higher levels of denier typically do mean a sleeping bag can last longer than a sleeping bag with a lower denier level. The vast majority of people prefer to have room to move in their sleeping bags since they like to sleep however they want. If you feel like that, and what options for your sleeping positions, then a wider-style sleeping bag will probably be more durable for your liking.
Value
You’ll need to factor in the type of value you are getting out of your sleeping bag when you purchase it. Of course, this is especially important if you are shopping on a budget and want to purchase a high-quality sleeping bag at a cheaper price. In our list above, we’ve recorded the types of values you’ll get with the various products on our list.
Typically, you’ll have a choice between a more durable, longer-lasting bag that costs a bit more versus a less expensive sleeping bag that won’t last as long. Depending on where you camp, and how often you spend the night in the great outdoors, you’ll want to consider your budget as well to help you make your decision. If you do spend more money, your sleeping bag will last longer and save money in the long run. However, if you can’t afford to spend the money, buying a decently affordable sleeping bag might be right for you.
Top 10 Picks
1. Big Agnes Storm King 0
If you need an affordable bag that brings a lot of space and comfort to your outdoor world, then you’ll enjoy the benefits the Big Agnes Storm King 0 Sleeping Bag has to offer.
Read moreInsulation
Made with 24.5 ounces of 650-fill down, this bag is made to keep the down in place as you move around in your sleep. Although not as warm as some other sleeping bags on the market, for the price, this bag will work well in the cold weather.
Comfort
The Big Agnes Storm King 0 Sleeping Bag brings you plenty of room to move as you sleep, no matter what position you enjoy sleeping in.
Durability
While this bag isn’t as durable as some of the other sleeping bags we’ve provided on our list, it does give you a well-priced option in sleeping bags that will keep you warm for some time.
Value
The Big Agnes Storm King Sleeping Bag is manufactured to be priced affordability, which makes it a great option for those shopping on a budget. Plus, the features you get for the price will help give you what you need if you don’t want to burn a hole in your pocketbook.
2. Rab Ascent 900
If you’re shopping on a budget and want a high-quality, affordable sleeping bag that will still keep you cozy on those cold winter nights, then the Rab Ascent 900 Sleeping Bag just might be the choice for you. It’s also very cost-effective for the features you get since it will keep you warm whenever you sleep outdoors in the cold weather.
Read moreInsulation
Designed with 650-fill European duck down, this bag offers quite a bit of thermal insulation for the price, although it isn’t quite as lightweight and warm as some of the more expensive options on our list.
Comfort
Rab’s Ascent 900 Sleeping Bag is made to offer a lot of comfortable space and flexibility, so the bag allows for movement as you sleep.
Durability
While the materials designed into this bag are descent and this sleeping bag will last for some time, this bag isn’t made with as many durable materials as some other bags on our list.
Value
Rab’s Ascent 900 Sleeping Bag is priced to be affordable, while still giving you plenty of other benefits and features that will help you stay warm on those cold winter nights.
3. Marmot Lithium 0
Weighing in at just two pounds, the Lithium 0 from Marmot is quite an impressive sleeping bag. It has great breathability, warmth, and comfort. Even though it is made from goose down, it is protected on the outside to help prevent the insulation from getting wet in inclement weather.
Read moreInsulation
There is no doubt about it- this is a warm sleeping bag. It is filled with 800+ goose down. It has a temperature rating of 0 degrees Fahrenheit. There are many extra features that add to the overall insulation of the bag including a drawstring hood, strong YKK zippers, and a wrap-around construction foot box.
Comfort
If you’re in the right climate, you will find plenty of comforts here. If the weather is slightly less cold, there is a second zipper that can be folded down to provide ventilation. To keep your necessities inside the bag with you, there is an internal stash pocket. Additionally, if you are tall, there is a tall size available.
Durability
Through the tests of time, this has proven to be a strong sleeping bag. The exterior is made from Pertex quantum 20D 100% nylon ripstop. The bag is also finished with down-defender to protect the insulation in wet climates. To help keep the bag in good shape during travel, a stuff sack is also provided.
Value
Well, this is where things get a bit awkward. The price of this bag is exorbitant. However, if you are looking for a lifetime investment, this is a great choice. It is made from quality fabrics, is incredibly warm, and offers great comforts.
4. Coleman North Rim Adult Mummy
Testers and reviewers across the board seem to agree, the Coleman North Rim Adult Mummy Sleeping Bag will keep you warm (some say, too warm) during colder weather camping trips.
Read moreInsulation
The Coleman North Rim Adult Mummy Sleeping Bag has been designed for temperatures as low as zero, and according to many who have tried it, it kept them warm in the winter, if not, sometimes, a touch too warm. The polyester fabric prevents colder weather from entering and the ample polyester fill provides your body with insulation. Not to mention, the mummy-style hood keeps your head warm to prevent heat from escaping. To ensure total warmth, the construction is formed in a quilted pattern with the addition of an insulated foot box, and a Thermolock draft tube.
Comfort
This isn't one of your smaller bags that has trouble fitting taller people, it should comfortably fit someone up to and around 6'2. To keep everything convenient and simple for you and your on-the-go lifestyle, this bag is machine washable.
Durability
Well, the truth is is that this bag has been described as being a bit “bulky.” While that can make for a less comfortable hike on the trails, it also shows that the fabrics integrated will not break down easily. The design of this sleeping bag is great for room, warmth, and quality.
Value
One of the best attributes of this sleeping bag is the price! Considering the warmth and comforts that it provides, we would have expected a much higher price. Coleman has been part of the camping world for many years and continues to produce quality and attainable gear.
5. Hyke & Byke 800 Fill Power Goose Down
Hyke & Byke might be newer to the sleeping bag game, but their products, such as this Hyke & Byke 800 fill Goose Down Sleeping Bag, won't leave you feeling uncomfortable and cold. This company tests in real-life situations and adventures and a life-time guarantee is offered to keep you secure in your purchase.
Read moreInsulation
This bag has an 800 fill of premium goose down, which has been known to keep you warm during cold weather, much like ducks on a frigid pond who swim around feeling great. The Hyke & Byke bag is recommended for weather around 15/0F.
Comfort
As for your comfort, this particular bag that has stellar reviews all across the board, lends a soft place to land after a long day of mountain trekking due to its ample down interior.
Durability
This sleeping bag is not only comfortable and warm, but it is built to keep you dry. It features a water repellent ripstop nylon liner that has two quality, durable zippers. For optimal room and the ability to move comfortably this bag has a wider shoulder area and a larger footbed area. Along with all of these great features, the Velcro is designed to be snag-free and includes a drawstring hood to keep your head warm.
Value
This bag is priced about average for a winter sleeping bag. The goose down offers great warmth and comfort, however, is not a good option in wet or extremely humid environments. This bag is a great all-around colder weather option, and it has been built to last and offer comfort.
6. Western Mountaineering Versalite 10
If you’re searching for one of the lightest sleeping bags on the market that still offers a lot of warmth, comfort, and a bevy of great features, then the Western Mountaineering Versatile 10 Sleeping Bag just might be the product that’s right for you. This sleeping bag offers a lightweight design but features enough warmth and comfort to get you an excellent night’s sleep each time you use it.
Read moreWarmth
Although this sleeping bag is manufactured to be lightweight, it still features about 20 ounces of 850-fill goose down, making its insulation very warm although the bag is still easy to carry.
Comfort
Made to provide you with a lot of freedom to move, you’ll get flexibility out of this bag as you sleep combined with thermal properties to boost that cozy feeling.
Durability
Manufactured with high-quality materials like goose down, this sleeping bag is built to last, giving you more bang for your buck.
Value
While the price of this sleeping bag is on the more expensive end of the market, its high-quality features make it long-lasting. Since you’ll get many seasons of use out of this sleeping bag, it could save you many in the long run.
7. TETON Sports Fahrenheit
The TETON Sports Fahrenheit Sleeping Bag is a highly popular option for many when it comes to heading outdoors into chilly weather, and this is for good reason. This bag has been survival rated for temperatures zero to frozen conditions. However, if you are looking for a sleeping bag to head into something around -25F, you will want a better-suited option.
Read moreInsulation
As mentioned the TETON Sports Fahrenheit will keep you warm in temperatures that are chilly and reaching frozen type conditions, but it is suggested for colder temps that reach down into the twenties plus, to go for a warmer weather suited bag. With this in mind, this sleeping bag is definitely suited for cold weather, but can even be used through other seasons on chillier nights, too.
Comfort
Some other key features of this design are the shoulder and zipper draft tubes. The draft tubes keep you comfortable by preventing the cold from entering and the warmth from leaving. Along with this, there is a semi-circle mummy styled hood that has drawstrings, so that your head stays in a comfortable, protective pocket and off the ground.
Durability
The design of this bag is meant to be sturdy with taffeta shell that is durable. If you have any concerns, before or after purchase, the Teton customer service team is top-notch.
Value
With such great features and versatile insulation, this sleeping bag is worth every penny. Luckily, it is priced quite comfortably. While this bag can't comfortably promise you extreme winter temperatures, it can surely keep you warm and cozy in most colder weather.
8. Teton Sports Mammoth
Designed to fit two people or a small family, this sleeping bag is manufactured to keep you warm even when the temperature outside falls to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Teton’s Sports Mammoth Sleeping Bag is designed to be both roomy and comfortable, so you’ll get great sleep no matter how cold the weather gets.
Read moreInsulation
Made with insulation that features a flannel liner with SuperLoft fiber fill and an outer taffeta shell, the combination of materials will keep either yourself or your family warm when the temperature dips outside. Also, the interior of the jacket is very soft, helping to boost its warmth and coziness.
Comfort
The interior of this sleeping back is lined with brushed flannel, so you’ll feel like you are sleeping in your bed. Plus, you get zipper features on each side of the sleeping bag as well as the bottom, so you can not only easily use the sleeping bag, but create ventilation as needed.
Durability
The materials designed into this sleeping bag promise years of effective use and this sleeping bag comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Value
This sleeping bag comes at a great value since it has a very affordable price and can also fit more than one person.
9. Kelty Cosmic
With some winter sleeping bags costing as much as $500, the Kelty Cosmic offers a more budget-friendly option that will still keep you warm on those cold winter nights.
Read moreInsulation
With an EN rating down to 22F/-7C, the Kelty Cosmic is well-designed for temperatures below freezing. The down filling is designed to be hydrophobic, so you'll still be warm in the event the bag does get wet.
Comfort
The bag has a quite generous design, so even taller folks and those who move around a lot in their sleep will be comfortable. The hood is made with a reasonable amount of depth and holds its shape well. The draft tube on the hood doesn't cinch, but there is a passive top collar to help retain heat.
Durability
It's filled with 550-fill DriDown, which is hydrophobic for enhanced moisture defense and allows it to dry quicker in the event the bag does get wet. The DriDown is designed to be lightweight and comfortable while providing durability. The draft tubing on the 3/4 length zipper is well made, so the zipper will run freely and not catch on the fabric. The outer shell is made of 50-denier polyester fabric, and resist abrasions well.
Value
While the 550-fill down does cut manufacturing costs, the Kelty Cosmic is still warm enough for temperatures below freezing, and the sturdy outer shell means this bag will last you a long time.
10. Kelty Tuck 22
For those on a budget, the Kelty Tuck is a great option that doesn't compromise on warmth and comfort. The synthetic ThermaPro material is designed to keep you warm in temperatures below freezing, and the included pocket is great for keeping the essentials close by.
Read moreInsulation
Don't let its lightweight fool you; the Kelty Tuck is a very warm sleeping bag, EN rated for as low as 22F/-5C. The ThermaPro material is designed to trap heat, while the drawcords on the hood prevent drafts from getting in through the facial opening. You'll sleep soundly knowing that you're properly protected from the cold.
Comfort
The interior is designed to be soft and comfortable, and the slightly narrower body is snug but not overly so. This may be an issue for those with broad shoulders, however, so if this is a concern for you the Kelty Tuck may not be the ideal choice.
Durability
The synthetic outer material resists tearing and abrasions well, and will easily withstand long-term use. The zipper is somewhat prone to getting stuck, however, and could potentially break if you try to force it too much.
Value
Coming in at just under $100, the Kelty Tuck is a budget-friendly option that comes with the same warmth and durability you expect from the brand, and can easily stand up to the more expensive competitors. It also features a small storage pocket so you can have the essentials within easy reach.
Sources
- , 6 Best Sleeping Bags & Quilts of 2017, Informational Hiking Website
- , How to Choose a Sleeping Bag, Informational Camping Website
- , 5 Tips for Picking the Right Sleeping Bag, Informational Camping WEbsite
- , Best Winter Sleeping Bags for Backpacking in 2019, Hiking Blog