What You Need To Know…

Insulation – Synthetic and down insulations are great, but they are only designed to trap warm air from your body and slow the movement of air. It is this trapped air that insulates you and helps keep you warm. It is important to remember that sleeping bags are not heaters; if you are cold when you get into a sleeping bag, chances are you will remain that way. Follow the tips provided to improve your chances of a warm night’s sleep.

Storage – You should store your sleeping bag loosely in a large breathable bag, or hang it in the closet. Another good tip is to unroll it on your sleeping pad and store it all under your bed. Storing your sleeping bag this way will help your insulation maintain its integrity, and give it longer life. *Do not store your sleeping bag in its stuff sack when you are not on an adventure!

Repacking into compression stuff sack - grab a handful of the sleeping bag at the bottom (foot) of the sleeping bag and start "stuffing" into the compression bag. Make sure the first few handfulls are all the way to the bottom of the stuff sack - any dead space at the bottom of the stuff sack will mean spill over at the top and the sleeping bag may not fit. You can always upgrade to a larger compression stuff sack if you need to - discuss with your independent outdoor retailer.

Cleaning – For best results hand wash in lukewarm water with mild detergent. Flush and rinse thoroughly. Press water from bag…do not wring. Do not air dry your sleeping bag on a single rod or line. Use multiple rods or lay flat and towel dry. Do not handle the sleeping bag in a localized spot, especially when wet; the integrity of the insulation will be affected.

*To restore some of the loft lost over time you can tumble dry for a few minutes using a large heavy duty dryer on low or no heat and delicate cycle. Make sure to check the sleeping bag many times to reposition - this will ensure to avoid hot areas that can damage the fabrics and insulation.

 If your sleeping bag is likely to need frequent washing, consider using a liner which can be washed on its own.

A Word on Temperature Ratings…

There are no North American standardized temperature testing criteria for sleeping bags. Most manufacturers agree that temperature ratings are merely a starting point for the discussion of comfort.

Temperature ratings are not absolutes; there are many factors contributing to how warm a person sleeps. Be realistic with your expectations and err on the side of caution regarding temperature ratings.

Metabolism - consider age, fitness level, body size, warm or cold sleeper, male or female (females generally are colder sleepers). Also consider your physical condition upon retiring - if you are dead tired and out of energy you are much more likely to be cold during the night.

Equipment - temperature ratings assume the use of a proper sleeping pad, appropriate tent for the season and conditions, and proper use of the sleeping bag. Discuss this equipment with your outdoor retailer.
If your sleeping bag has a hood then it must be used correctly for maximum warmth. Also the draw cord around the neck/ shoulders needs to be snug to minimize the loss of heat through the top of the sleeping bag. If you are a cold sleeper consider buying a sleeping bag that is form fitting to your body.
*unstuff your sleeping bag early, well before retiring, so the insulation can regain its loft.

Clothing - use only synthetic or merino wool underwear and socks. Do not wear any cotton as this will hold moisture and cause you to feel cold. Use a fleece or wool cap as necessary - you can loose a lot of heat through your head.

Food intake - eat some food before retiring to stoke your internal engine. Avoid alcohol and empty your bladder before retiring.

*With all these variables the perception of warmth and comfort can vary.

Discuss these factors with your retailer when choosing the best sleeping bag for your needs.

Tips for A Warm Night’s Sleep…

• Unstuff your sleeping bag early so it can regain loft.
• Wear suitable clothing to bed, even a toque. No cotton underwear.
• Eat some food before retiring.
• Consider light exercise to create body heat before going to sleep.
• Use the hood when available. If no hood we encourage the wearing of a fleece or wool toque.
• Use a proper sleeping pad.
• Use a suitable shelter and site for the season and conditions.
• If you are normally cold in the early morning, keep a silver "emergency" space blanket nearby for a quick warm up. An inexpensive solution to this common problem.