Testing The Cold Rating on a New Sleeping Bag

We all know that the temp rating on sleeping bags is, shall we say … optimistic. This is especially true of synthetic bags which tend to quickly lose their loft making them colder than rated only a couple of years into their lifespan. (This is, in part, why down is a superior fill.)

I picked up a new bag from MEC last weekend which is rated at -9C. Wanting to make sure the rating was accurate, I set up the tarp in my backyard last night and slept out. I even moved the canoe into place to help with drafts … a true simulation of being ‘out there.’

The bag is the Draco from Mountain Equipment Coop here in Canada. It’s a down filled bag and is the Long/Wide version to fit my man sized body.

It went down to at least -8C (about 17F) … so within the bag rating. I’m happy to report that I stayed toasty warm. There are a few things I noted:

• the drawstring which cinches the hood closed was constantly tangling up around my face. Not a fan of that system.
• the zipper pulls easily but did get caught in the bag material initially. It happens.
• the pillow situation needs work. As usual, the biggest discomfort for me is due to crappy pillows. I was using my Thermarest pillow (not sure the model,) but it was not good enough. I will fix this.
• the tarp needs side flaps to stop drafts and hide the very bright moon
• the hood on my hoodie was more comfortable than a toque. Leave off the toque next time.
• cats will jump on you in the night …

All in all, this was a very successful test and I am pleased with this bag. I expect it to last many years and now have the confidence to use it when the temps really dip in the fall.