Her Bag Reviews
Some women have too many pairs of shoes, I have way too many sleeping bags. In my defense my personal Kryptonite has always been the cold. While I am perfectly content hiking in 90+ weather, as soon as it gets below 80 I start layering. Providing Matthew with the excuse necessary to supply me with the following collection.
EMS Mountain Light -20
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light -20 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 800-fill Treated Downtek European Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 15D Pertex Quantum Microripstop w/ DWR |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6’ |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $499 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 13 x 10 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | -20°F (-29°C) |
| Weight: | 3 lb. 11 oz. |
Overview:
Half Empty:
Half Full:
EMS Mountain Light 0
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light 0 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 800-fill Treated Downtek European Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 10D Pertex Quantum Microripstop w/ DWR |
| Length: | Women’s, Max User Height 5’ 6” |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $469 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 10 x 9 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 0°F (-18°C) |
| Weight: | 2 lb. 10 oz. |
Overview:
Half Empty:
Half Full:
EMS Mountain Light 35
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light 35 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 800-fill European Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 10D Pertex Quantum Microripstop w/ DWR |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6ft. |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $329 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 9 x 6 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 35°F (2°C) |
| Weight: | 1 lb. 8 oz. |
Overview:
Half Empty:
Half Full:
EMS Mountain Light 15
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light 15 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 800-fill European Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 15D Pertex Quantum Microripstop w/ DWR |
| Length: | Women’s, Max User Height 5’ 6” |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $369 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 10 x 6 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 15°F |
| Weight: | 2 lb. 2 oz. |
Overview:
Half Empty:
Half Full:
EMS Mountain Light 20
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light 20 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 750 fill European Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 30D Pertex Microlight |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6ft. |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $249 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full Zip |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 9 x 6 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 20°F |
| Weight: | 2 lb. 3 oz. |
Overview:Weighing in at just 2lbs 2oz the EMS Mountain Light 20 offers an impressive weight to warmth ratio. The 30D Shell allows for greater heat retention while maintaining the bags ultralight reputation. I really like the new full length zipper this bag features, as the season prior had a 3/4 length zipper. To me it’s totally worth the extra weight. Keep in mind this full size bag (not a women’s bag) weights just over 2lbs, not to mention the fact that it packs down to a tiny 9x5in. The combination of these two factors make this the perfect 3 season bag, making it one of my most frequently used bags.
In the words of Matthew “everyone needs a down 3 season bag” and despite my objections I do have to admit that he was right. At least about this bag! From cookouts on the beach and car camping to backpacking trips and ultralight overnights this bag is ridiculously durable for down. Its compressibility makes it extremely versatile, fitting easily into my Aura 50, Sirrus 36, and even attaching to the side of my Raptor 14.
Half Empty:
Half Full:
EMS Boreal 0
| Sleeping Bag: | Boreal 0 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | PrimaLoft Infinity, Synthetic |
| Shell Fabric: | 40D Pertex Quantum Microripstop w/ DWR |
| Length: | Women’s, Max User Height 5’ 6” |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $239 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 13 x 11 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 0°F |
| Weight: | 4 lb. 8 oz. |
Overview:Fun fact, the pure volume of loft in this bag led me to give it a (somewhat childish and embarrassing) nickname that Matthew and I to this day fondly use when referring to our sleeping bags. I call it my Poof Poof, I know really mature. But jokes aside, this bag has some serious loft. That being said, the Boreal 0° is a super comfortable bag.
This model features the brand new PrimaLoft Infinity insulation and Weather-Resistant 40D Pertex Quantum Microripstop Nylon shell. Women specific with the same upgraded A-Flex construction, soft taffeta lining, and 3D hood construction as the Boreal 20. The two-way full-length zipper not only offers anti-sang piping but also a antidraft tube for greater heat retention. This bag weighs in at about 4lbs and 8oz, not bad for a synthetic bag but a little on the heavy side for most backpackers.
Matthew surprised me with Poof Poof on our first Post-Thanksgiving hike (a hike that has since become an annual tradition). We were planning on staying overnight at Beaver Brook Shelter after summiting Mt. Moosilauke in New Hampshire’s White Mountains and we were expecting some wet weather. All I can say is that this bag can take a beating. From mud and slush to watching TV with the cat/dogs on the couch, this bag is super durable and washable. After almost 5 years of abuse the Boreal 0° still my go to for car camping and snuggling on the couch when the thermostat cannot keep up with the cold New England weather.
Half Empty:The Boreal 0° does weigh in at 4lbs 8oz, making it a somewhat heavy and bulky choice for most backpackers
Half Full:Did someone say durable? This bag is indestructible. The snow, rain, cat, dogs, and Ben&Jerry’s have all tried and failed. If you do a lot of car camping or do not particularly care about ultralight gear the Boreal 0° is a great all around bag that can offer both comfort and warmth in even the ugliest of weather.
EMS Boreal 20
| Sleeping Bag: | Boreal 20 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | PrimaLoft Infinity |
| Shell Fabric: | 40D Pertex Quantum Microripstop |
| Length: | Women’s, Max User Height 5’ 6” |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $200 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 13 x 7 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 20°F |
| Weight: | 2 lb. 7 oz. |
Overview: At 2lbs 7oz the Boreal 20° women’s sleeping bag is hard beat, as far as synthetic insulation goes. Filled with PrimaLoft Infinity insulation, this bag is one of the loftiest, yet compressible synthetic bags on the market. It’s pretty baby blue shell not only looks nice but is made of Weather-Resistant 40D Pertex Quantum Microripstop Nylon, lined with soft taffeta. The improved 3D hood allows for further adjustment, improving overall heat retention. Bag includes a mesh storage sack and fleece-lined compression stuff sack, which I frequently reverse and use as an additional pillow.
I got this little gem for my 19th birthday, as part of Matthew’s backpacking themed present extravaganza. To be totally honest, I fell head-over-heels for this bag the second I saw the color. Overly excited to test it out I used it about a week later at Monadnock State Park in Jaffrey, NH. We spent the weekend camping and exploring the area, including a mini day-hike up Mt. Monadnock. As is was early March and pm temps were in the low 20’s, I used one of my boyfriends synthetic bags for extra insulation. A perk of car camping. I have used this bag countless times over the past five years and have yet to be disappointed.
Half Empty: N/A
Half Full: Outstanding performance and durability. Maintains ability to insulate regardless of conditions. Lightweight and exceptionally compressible for a synthetic bag.
EMS Mountain Light 40
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light 40 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 725 Fill Power Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 20 Denier Pertex Quantum |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6ft. |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $219 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 10 x 5 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 40°F |
| Weight: | 1 lb. 9 oz. |
Overview: Lightweight and rugged, this water-resistant down bag boasting an impressive weight to warm ratio. 725 European Down Fill with a 20D Pertex Microlight Shell, this bag is the perfect option for hot climate camping or summer nights when pack space is limited.
Half Empty: Keep in mind it is a 40 degree bag and will not keep you warm on most summer nights, at least not in New England.
Half Full: Packs to a impressive 10 x 5 in.
EMS Velocity 35
| Sleeping Bag: | Velocity 35 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | PrimaLoft Sport Insulation |
| Shell Fabric: | 20D Pertex Quantum w/ DRW |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6ft. |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $229 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Half |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 9 x 5 inches, |
| Temperature Rating: | 35°F |
| Weight: | 1 lb. 10 oz. |
Overview: The Velocity 35 is the ultimate synthetic compressible ultra-light sleeping bag. The combination of a ultra-light 20-denier Pertex Quantum shell and Sport insulation provide a impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, while the bag compresses down to a punitive 9 x 5 in. The Half-length zipper saves weight while the zipper draft tube prevents unnecessary heat loss. A-Shingo baffle construction maximizes loft for optimal warmth.
Again, I honestly cannot say enough about these older model EMS Velocity bags. Another treasure my sister adopted a few years back.
Half Empty: This model was discontinued.
Half Full: Reflective webbing foot loops for hanging and airing out the bag. Compresses to a impressive 9 x 5 in.
EMS Velocity 5
| Sleeping Bag: | Velocity 5 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | PrimaLoft Sport Insulation |
| Shell Fabric: | Pertex Quantum |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6ft. |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $249 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Half |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 11 x 8 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 5°F |
| Weight: | 3 lb. 2 oz. |
Overview: Perfect for adventures involving water or unpredictable weather. I have taken this bag out on a few trips where it got 100% saturated and dried out just fine, no lingering smell or material degradation. The highly compressible PrimaLoft Sport insulation is wrapped in a superlight Pertex Quantum shell, resulting in a cold winter bag that compresses down to . The Velocity 5 is a smart purchase for the backpacker looking to shave off some weight without paying the price of a down bag.
While some women have too many pairs of shoes, I have too many sleeping bags. A problem I blame soley on Matthew. Due to this, and the fact that I hate when gear just sits in a closet unused, I have since passed this rare treasure onto my younger sister. Who happened to be looking for a bag that had a competitive weight and size rating, yet could take a beating.
Half Empty: In my opinion the temperature rating is somewhat optimistic. I would say the rating is closer to a 10 degree bag.
Half Full: Exceptionally compressible for a synthetic bag. Offers and amazing weight to temperature ratio.
His Bag Reviews
EMS Mountain Light -20
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light -20 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 800-fill Treated Downtek European Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 15D Pertex Quantum Microripstop w/ DWR |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6’ |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $499 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 13 x 10 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | -20°F (-29°C) |
| Weight: | 3 lb. 11 oz. |
Overview:
Half Empty:
Half Full:
EMS Mountain Light 0
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light 0 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 800-fill Treated Downtek European Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 10D Pertex Quantum Microripstop w/ DWR |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6’ |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $469 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 11 x 9 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 0°F (-18°C) |
| Weight: | 2 lb. 14 oz. |
Overview:
Half Empty:
Half Full:
EMS Mountain Light 35
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light 35 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 800-fill European Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 10D Pertex Quantum Microripstop w/ DWR |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6ft. |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $329 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 9 x 6 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 35°F (2°C) |
| Weight: | 1 lb. 8 oz. |
Overview:
Half Empty:
Half Full:
EMS Mountain Light 15
| Sleeping Bag: | Mountain Light 15 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | 800-fill European Goose Down |
| Shell Fabric: | 15D Pertex Quantum Microrips |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6’ |
| Shape: | Mummy |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $369 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 11 x 6 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 15°F |
| Weight: | 2 lb. 6 oz. |
Overview:
Half Empty:
Half Full:
EMS Boreal 40
| Sleeping Bag: | Boreal 40 |
| Brand: | Eastern Mountain Sports |
| Insulation Type: | PrimaLoft Infinity |
| Shell Fabric: | 40D Pertex Quantum Microripstop |
| Length: | Regular, Max User Height 6’ |
| Shape: | Rectangle |
| Recommended Use: | Backpacking |
| Price: | $189 |
| Zipper Draft Tube: | Yes |
| Zipper Length: | Full |
| Stuff Sack Size: | 10 x 4 in. |
| Temperature Rating: | 40°F |
| Weight: | 1 lb. 12 oz. |
Overview:
Half Empty:
Half Full:
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