Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Information On Buying A Sleeping Bag

By Mark Walters

Because sleeping bags are available in a variety of types and styles, it is hard to choose the right one. First, you have to consider what the environment will be like that you will be using it in. Warmer weather requires a more lightweight bag, but if you will be using it in a colder climate, then you may want to decide on a thicker sleeping bag or you can opt to just wear warmer clothes as added protection. Another thing to consider is your personal tastes. Choose a bag made from a material that you like, is that appropriate size and shape, and also leaves you room to move around.

Sleeping bags generally come in two shapes, the rectangular bag and the mummy bag. The rectangular bag is the traditional style, and features a rectangular shape that zips on 3 sides and is roomy and unfitted around the feet. This kind of sleeping bag can sometimes be unzipped and used as a comforter. If both parents or more than one child wants to share a bag, two bags can be zipped together to provide more room inside for multiple sleepers; or zipped together to provide a double size comforter for a bed.

The mummy sleeping bag functions much like it sounds. It is a more of a recent design that encompasses the sleeper much tighter than the rectangular bag. The premise is to use much less fabric and material to produce a greater amount of heat. The lack of material (and weight) comes in handy if backpacking for long distances. A mummy bag is best suited for colder climates. If you will be camping in temperatures below 40 degrees, this bag is the best choice.

Most sleeping bags come in one of three sizes. So choose whichever size that will provide the most comfort. The first size, is the child or junior size, which is perfect for smaller children. The next size up, is standard. Most adults fit in it comfortably, but it can also be used for children if you want a sleeping bag that will last longer. The third size is extra long which is generally used by individuals that are six feet or taller. But it can also be used by anyone who likes the idea of having a little extra room in their sleeping bag.

Today's sleeping bags are made using synthetic fibers, rather than goose down that was used in the beginning. The synthetic fibers make sleeping bags easier to maintain and less expensive. And they still offer the same, if not more, warmth that down bags offer. But there are still some higher quality sleeping bags that use down. Down sleeping bags are best for dry cold weather and when something more lightweight is desired. But the upkeep on them is more difficult and they are more expensive as well. Therefore, a sleeping bag made from synthetic fibers is often the best choice for most campers.

About the Author:

0 comments:

Post a Comment

Related Posts with Thumbnails