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      • Best Summer Gear of 2020 - CAMPING

      BACKCOUNTRY NEWS AND FORUMS

      Welcome to your source for the latest news, conditions, and insights on backcountry skiing and adventuring. Explore reports, gear reviews, safety tips, and more to help you make the most of your time in the wild.

      If you sign up as a member this is your chance to tell everyone about everything and anything to do with backcountry skiing. Follow the simple steps to register and WHAMMY, you’re in. If you are pulling your hair out with frustration, have a look at the help forums for answers or take a pause and drop us an email at: info (at) backcountryskiingcanada.com. We’ll do our best to help out as soon as we can (but all bets are off on a powder day, obviously).  


      Best Summer Gear of 2020 - CAMPING

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        2020-05-15 10:50:01

        Best Summer Gear of 2020 - CAMPING

        Best Summer Gear of 2020
        CAMPING
        As the snow quickly melts from the high alpine it’s time to turn our attention to summer adventures like hiking, camping, mountaineering, biking and paddling. To make these activities as enjoyable as possible well-designed gear is a must and that’s where our list of the Best Summer Gear of 2020 comes in.

        We’ve researched all the new gear along with some existing classics to provide you with only the best of the best, which we’ve broken down into three categories: Camping, Apparel, and Accessories. Whether you need to replace an outdated, broken or well-loved piece of gear—or are just in the market for something new, the following list should help ensure that your hard-earned money is well spent. If you are just window shopping that’s ok too, nothing wrong with making a wish list for your upcoming birthday, Christmas or just because.

        Let's start off with the Best Summer Gear of 2020 in the Camping category and then we’ll move onto the Best Apparel followed by the Best Accessories that you should simply not be without.

        Peruse over the list and see what strikes your fancy and if inclined click the ‘Buy Now’ button and get a great deal too!

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        Sea To Summit Women’s Flame Ultralight Sleeping Bag
        Sea To Summit’s ultralight women’s specific sleeping bag line is called the Flame series and consists of four options, the 9°C / 48°F Flame 1, the 2°C / 35°F Flame 2, the -4°C / 25°F Flame 3 and the -10°C / 15°F Flame 4. The Flame Sleeping Bags use down-filled Chambers and body-mapping to maximize warmth for a woman’s physiology. The women’s specific mummy fit is narrower at the shoulder and wider at the hips down to the knees which allows more room for a more natural and neutral sleep position. The shorter overall length and narrower girth in the shoulder area also help to reduce dead space and increase thermal efficiency.

        The Flame series of sleeping bags covers 1, 2 and 3 season use and are all designed to be used with Sea To Summit’s Women’s Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat. Our top pick is the -9°C Flame Sleeping Bag because of its ultralight weight, compact size when compressed down into your pack and also the versatility of the temperature rating. It’s ideal in summer for alpine adventures and the perfect warmth for those spring and fall camping trips at lower elevations. Each of the Flame Ultralight Sleeping Bags comes with an Ultra-Sil (crazy light) compression bag for use in the field and a storage cell to properly store the bag when not in use. (Keep reading to learn more about Sea To Summit's Women’s Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat.)

        Sea To Summit Women’s Flame Ultralight Sleeping Bag

        Fabrics:
        Insulation: Ultra-Dry Down 850+ Loft
        Shell: Ultralight 10D Nylon Shell
        Zipper:  #3 YKK zipper

        Features:
        ULTRA-DRY Down 850+ Loft 90% Down Cluster Premium Goose Down certified Responsible Down Standard (RDS)
        10D shell and 7D liner materials help to achieve the incredible lightweight and compact packed size
        Includes lightweight Ultra-Sil compression bag and storage cell
        EN Temperature rating (Women’s comfort level) 15F/ -10C
        Fully baffled construction for optimum loft and warmth (15F bag)
        Full-length lightweight #3 YKK zipper
        Women’s shape is wider between the hips and knees to allow a natural sleeping position without compressing the down insulation and creating cold spots.

        Specs:
        Price: $729CAN / $549US
        Weight: 890g / 1lb 15.4oz (size regular)
        Temperature Rating: -10°C / 15°F
        Season Rating: 3 Season
        Insulation: Ultra-Dry Down 850+ Loft
        Fill weight: 650g / 22.9oz
        Sizes: 170cm / 5ft 7in (Size Regular); 183cm / 5ft 10in (Size Long)
        Compressed Volume: 7.1L

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        Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite Sleeping Pad
        Weight is a big factor in the choice of any backcountry camping gear and Therm-a-Rest knows this, which is why they created the NeoAir UberLite Sleeping Pad. Updated for 2020, the NeoAir UberLite is the lightest insulated air sleeping pad available today and at just 340g / 12oz it’s impressively light yet still provides an R-value of 2.3. The Triangular Core Matrix used in the NeoAir UberLite provides the best warmth-to-weight ratio with a thickness of 6.4 cm / 2.5 inches which provides an incredible amount of comfort. To help optimize inflation/deflation Therm-a-Rest integrated their new high-performance WingLock valve into the NeoAir UberLite Sleeping Pad allowing it to inflate three times faster thanks to the large opening and one-way value.

        This ultralight sleeping pad comes with a breath-saving pump sack to help speed up inflation without introducing moisture into the mat. There is also a compact stuff sack and field repair kit and like all Therm-a-Rest pads, the NeoAir UberLite is made in the USA. 

        Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite Sleeping Pad

        Fabric: 15D Nylon 

        Features:
        Featherweight, weighing just over half a pound
        Minimal Pack Size
        2.5 inches (6.4 cm) of cushioning
        Reliable NeoAir Construction built using our trusted Triangular Core Matrix 
        WingLock Valve maximizes airflow for easier inflation and quicker deflation
        Pump sack, stuff sack and repair kit included

        Specs:
        Price: $294.95CAN / $224.95US
        Weight: 340g / 12oz
        Dimensions: 196 x 64 x 6.4cm / 77 x 25 x 2.5” (L x W x H)
        Size: Small, Regular, Large
        R-Value: 2.3
        Included: Pump sack, stuff sack and repair kit 
         

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        Rovr RollR 60
        Rovr is a relatively new company in the ever-popular cooler space but what makes their products different is that they have taken the standard cooler and made it not just tough as nails but also much more mobile. Their RollR 60 is a 60-quart rotationally moulded cooler that can retain ice for up to 10 days thanks to its use of high-density foam insulation. The patented design is so burly that it is certified grizzly bear-resistant and uses an airtight gasket and rubber latches to keep the contents secure.

        Transporting the Rovr RollR 60 is made easy given that it has integrated all-terrain wheels that can go virtually anywhere you can. The 9-inch rubber tires have interchangeable tubes, aluminum hubs with 2 sealed bearings and a 12.5 mm stainless steel axle so they are as tough as the cooler itself. Just lift up the built-in aluminum pull handle with dual motocross-style grips and you can easily get the RollR 60 to where you need it regardless if it is a distant camp site in the woods or just over to the roadside picnic table.

        Rovr includes the 'Wagon Bin' with the Rollr60 which allows you to carry all those items you need for a day at the beach or to enjoy a good meal in nature with friends. This collapsable fabric storage bin is affixed to the top of the RollR 60 so it’s always there when you need it and when you don’t it folds nicely out of the way.

        If you want to accessorize the RollR 60 then our tops pic is the Essentials Pack ($69.99US) which includes the Dual Cup Holder, Prepping  Board, and Stash Bag. The Dual Cup Holder can hold your beverage of choice or perhaps a bluetooth speaker with-out hampering access to the cooler itself, while the Prepping Board is ideal for making a sandwich or snack. The Stash Bag is a great place for all the small items you need and want to keep close at hand. Each of these accessories easily affixes to the Rollr 60 with Rovr’s innovative AnchR point system which provides multiple secure fixtures for any of these add-ons.

        Rovr RollR 60

        Features:
        Certified grizzly bear resistant rotationally moulded body and lid with anchor pins for attaching prep station and accessories.
        Up to 10 days of ice retention depending on use.
        Capacity: Without Deepfreeze dry bin installed: 60 cans and 20lbs. of ice. With Deepfreeze dry bin installed: 40 cans and 10 pounds of ice in the main compartment and 4-6 bottles of spirits upright with meats, breads, fruits and vegies in dry compartments.
        High-density foam insulation
        High-performance wheel assembly: 9-inch all-terrain rubber tires with interchangeable tube, aluminum hubs with 2 sealed bearings
        12.5 mm stainless steel axle
        Aluminum pull handle with dual motocross-style grips 
        Deep Freeze removable Dry Bin with 2 compartments 
        Airtight gasket
        Rubber latches
        Fast Flow drain plug with gasket
        Wagon Bin/removable storage bin
        Rubber non-skid feet 
        5 year limited warranty

        Specs:
        Price: $549.95 / $399US
        Weight: 20.4kg / 45lb
        Colours: Powder, Moss, Desert
        Dimensions: 67 x 22.6 x 50.3cm / 26.5 x 8.9 x 19.8 “ (LxWxH)
         

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        Gregory Paragon 68 Pack
        Gregory has quickly become our favourite brand for packs after reviewing the Gregory Targhee 32 Ski Touring Pack so we thought it only made sense to check out one of their larger backpacking pack and we were equally impressed. The men’s Paragon and women’s Maven packs have gone through a full update for spring 2020 and use Gregory’s innovative new suspension system along with a long list of features.

        Gregory’s adjustable FreeFloat Hybrid suspension system uses two flex panels located in the lower back of the Paragon’s body which attach to the hip belt and allow the pack to move and flex as you do. This Comfort Cradle hip belt with 3D construction provides a hotspot free carry while maintaining a body-hugging fit. In addition to this, the Paragon’s 3D foam back panel is cross-cut which allows air to flow through while minimizing contact with your back to reduce sweat. To ensure a stable carry the bulk of the pack (and its contents) weight are kept close to the pack’s centre of gravity which means you can carry a load comfortably.

        Other features found on the Paragon 68 are the sunglass QuickStow located on the pack’s shoulder harness. This provides a quick and secure access to your shades when you need them most. The integrated internal hydration sleeve features Gregory’s SpeedClip system which is designed to accept their 3D Hydro reservoir but if you are a bottle carrier then the front and side stretch mesh pockets offer quick access to stay hydrated or easily access additional layers or rain gear if needed. The Paragon’s full-length side zipper offers easy access to the main compartment of the pack so you can easily get to items that always seem to be at the bottom of the pack. 

        The Paragon is also available in a 48 and 58 litre version incase the 68 is simply too much carrying capacity and for the ladies the Maven comes in a 45, 55 and 65 litre size.

        Gregory Paragon 68 Pack

        Features:
        FreeFloat breathable suspension with dynamic flex panels that move with the natural movements of your body
        Adjustable torso length with 3D perforated foam breathable back panel
        3D comfort cradle adjustable hip belt with 3D construction for hotspot free, body-hugging comfort
        Perforated dual-density shoulder harness with sternum strap with hose clip
        Wishbone alloy frame and fibreglass anti-barreling cross-stay for stable load management and torsional flexibility
        Raincover included in a dedicated zippered pocket under top lid for added organization
        Full-length side-loading access zipper for easy unloading and gear organization
        Sunglass QuickStow system on shoulder harness for quick, secure and scratch-free access to your shades
        Internal hydration sleeve with SpeedClip hydration hanger compatible with Gregory's 3D Hydro reservoir (reservoir not included)
        Floating top pocket with large zippered compartment and an underside zippered pocket, reflective attachment points and key clip
        Dual side stretch mesh pockets, one with side trail access, with pass-through for over or under compression
        Front oversized stretch mesh pocket with secure buckle closure
        Quick-pull drawcord closure and top webbing compression
        Zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment with a removable divider
        Adjustable attachment loop and upper shock lock for trekking poles or an ice axe
        Custom comfort-grip moulded zipper pulls and moulded webbing keepers for strap management

        Specs:
        Price: $249.95US
        Weight: 1.6kg / 3.52lb
        Colours: Graphite Blue, Smoke Grey
        Sizes: SM/MD, MD/LG
        Maximum Cary Load: 22.7kg / 50lb
        Dimensions:  75 x 38 x 27 m / 29.5 x 15.0 x 10.6"
         

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        Sierra Designs Meteor Lite 3 Tent 
        For Spring 2020 Sierra Designs has redesigned their Meteor 3 tent and shaved more than a half kilogram off the weight to create the new Meteor 'Lite' 3 Tent which has all the same great features only now with less weight. At just 1.79kg /  3lbs 15oz this two-door, two vestibule freestanding tent is impressively light-weight given how much interior space it provides. The secret lies in the DAC Featherlight hubbed and ridge pole structure which makes the Meteor’s walls vertical creating 29.8 square feet of interior space. 

        The Meteor Lite 3 Tent is very similar in size and shape to Sierra Designs Sweet Suite 3 Tent, only the Meteor Lite 3 is free standing so it provides a quicker more versatile set up when camping conditions don’t allow for a full pegged out tent.

        The upgraded materials used are not only lighter but also provide impressive coverage when storms hit. Once the weather clears roll back the fly to unveil the night’s sky with Sierra Designs unique ‘Stargazer’ feature. This is an ideal tent for enjoying the many faces of summer no matter where your adventure takes you.

        Sierra Designs Meteor Lite 3 Tent 

        Features:
        Fully free-standing
        Full coverage fly with rollback stargazer feature for ventilation and night sky views
        2-door 2-vestibule design for ease of use and gear storage
        Hubbed pole structure with ridge pole to make verticle side walls
        Prebends for increased internal area at head and feet
         
        Materials:
        Poles: DAC Featherlight NSL aluminum
        Fly Fabric: 20D Nylon Ripstop
        Floor Fabric: 20D Nylon Ripstop
        Body Fabric: 15D Nylon No-see-um
         
        Specs:
        Price: $459.95CAN / US
        Weight: Minimum - 1.79kg /  3lbs 15oz; Packaged - 1.89kg / 4lbs 2.75oz
        Number of doors: 2
        Number of vestibule: 2
        Floor area: 3.79 sq m / 40.8 sq ft
        Peak Height: 106.7cm / 42”
        Dimensions: 213.36 x 177.8cm / 84 x 70” (L x W)
        Packed Dimensions: 45.72 x 15.2 x 15.2cm / 18 x 6 x 6” (L x W)
        Design type: freestanding
        Number of poles: 2
         

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        Mountain Hardwear Phantom -9C Sleeping Bag
        Mountain Hardwear updated their ultralight down Phantom series of sleeping bags with a new slimmer performance mummy cut that is more compressible and lighter weight. They use their Ghost Whisper fabric on the outside and nylon taffeta on the inside and now with a more premium look. The 850-fill goose down insulation provide an optimal warmth-to-weight ratio and impressive compressibility. The vertical baffles at the head of the bag limit down migration each time you get in and out of the bag which ultimately helps keep you warmer.

        Even though this is an ultra-lightweight sleeping bag it still has features like a two=way anti-snag #5 zipper, contoured foot box, draft collar, glow in the dark, reflective zipper pull, durable water-repellent finish and more. Mountain Hardwear didn’t skimp on features and yet, was still able to produce such a lightweight bag. 

        If -9°C isn’t adequate for you, the Phantom comes in a -18°C/0°F and -40°C/ -40°F versions as well as less warm 11°C/ 30°F option. Mountain Hardwear has you covered for high-alpine traverses, backcountry hut trips, and multi-week backpacking adventures with their Phantom line of Sleeping Bag.

        If you want to read one of our reviews of a Mountain Hardwear Sleeping Bag then check out this review of the Phantom Spark here.

        Mountain Hardwear Phantom -9C Sleeping Bag

        Features:
        850-fill goose down insulation for optimal warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility
        10D recycled shell is extremely light and highly compressible
        Lightweight but durable #5 zipper with anti-snag for easy entry and exit
        Contoured foot box follows natural foot position for maximum warmth and comfort
        Draft collar blocks the escape of warm air from inside the bag
        Efficient performance mummy cut for maximum warmth and minimum weight
        Four-chamber hood design maintains even loft around head for consistent warmth
        Lightweight nylon compression sack and mesh storage sack included
        Two-way zipper allows for easy ventilation
        Down-filled face gasket comfortably blocks drafts at the hood opening
        Glow in the dark, reflective zipper pull
        Performance Mummy bag shape
        Durable water-repellent finish

        Materials:
        Insulation: 850-fill goose down 90% Goose Down, 10% Goose Feather
        Shell: 10D recycled shell 

        Specs:
        Price: $650CAN / $520US
        Weight: 941g / 2lb 1.2oz
        Temperature Rating: -9C / 15°F
        Insulation: 850-fill goose down
        Loft: 15 cm / 6"
        Fill Weight: 572g / 1 lb 4 oz
        Stuffed Size: 18cm x 38cm / 7 x 15 in
        Inside Length: 218cm / 86in 
        Hip Girth: 132cm / 52in
        Shoulder Girth: 147cm / 58in
        Sizes:  S, M, L
         

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        Sea To Summit Women’s Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat 
        Sleeping Mats are mandatory for any camping trip, that is, if you want to get any sleep at all. For women, this is one piece of gear that will make a clear difference since it’s a Women’s specific Sleeping Mat. The difference between a women’s version and a unisex sleeping mat is that the women’s has additional Thermolite insulation since women sleep colder and it is also narrower in the shoulders and wider between the hips and knees since women have different body shapes than men. Sea to Summit has shaped the Ether Light XT Insulated Air Mat to match their Women's Sleeping Bags perfectly so the two work together in unison to offer the ideal sleep set up (learn more about Sea To Summit's Women’s Flame Ultralight Sleeping Bag at the start of this article).

        The Women’s Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat uses 30D / 40D face fabric which is quiet yet durable and impressively compact and light. Weighing in at just 495g / 17.5oz, this mat has a 3.5 R-Value which is enough to provide three-season warmth for any female backpacker.

        While not new for 2020 we felt that the Sea To Summit Women’s Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat was still worth including in this list and once you get your hands on one we’re sure you’ll understand why.

        Sea To Summit Women’s Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat 

        Fabric:
        30D / 40D nylon with anti-microbial liquid-extruded TPU lamination 

        Features:
        R-Value of 3.5 (ASTM R-Value test standard) makes this an excellent option for 3-season (early Spring to late Fall) use.
        The Women’s specific shape means this mat is narrower at the shoulders and wider between the hips and knees offering a greater comfort level for the natural sleeping position for most women.
        4-inches thick and using looped Air Sprung Cell technology with durable 30/ 40 D face fabric makes this super stable and comfortable.
        Insulated with Thermolite and Exkin Platinum for maximum heat retention, utilizing more Thermolite than the comparable unisex mat.
        Multi-function valve for fast inflation and deflation.
        Features the Pillow-Lock system to secure the compatible Aeros pillows to the mat.
        The Air Stream Pump Sack is integrated into the included stuff sack.

        Comes with:
        Stuff sack with integrated Airstream Pump, Repair Kit, PillowLock

        Specs:
        Price: Regular - $249.95CAN / $199.95US; Long - $279.95CAN / $219.95US
        Weight: Regular - 495g / 17.5oz; Long - 600g / 21.2oz
        R-Value: 3.5
        Dimensions: Regular - 168 x 55cm / 66 x 21.5in; Long - 183 x 64cm / 72 x 25in
        Packed Size: Regular - 11 x 24cm / 4.5 x 11in; Long - 12 x 28cm / 4.75 x 11in
        Thickness: 10cm / 4in
         

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        MSR Front Range Ultralight Tarp Shelter
        If you are looking to go truly “ultra-light” on your next mountain adventure or traverse then MSR’s new for 2020 Front Range Ultralight Tarp Shelter is one piece of new gear you cannot do without. This four-person shelter comes in two pieces the Front Range Ultralight Tarp Shelter and the Front Range Bug Insert—combine the two to have an all-season; all-weather super lightweight camping option for four.

        This compact and ultralight tarp shelter is spacious and versatile, it’s ideal for alpine missions or spring ski traverses since it packs down extremely small and is simple to set up. This frameless and floorless shelter is held up in the centre with the use of a few hiking poles which create a steep canopy that easily sheds snow and water. With a 5’ 4” peak height you can comfortably sleep four inside the Front Range Ultralight Tarp Shelter and with the inclusion of the Front Range Bug/Floor Insert you can turn the tarp shelter into a full-protection tent for wet and/or buggy conditions. The Bug/Floor Insert is made of a micro-mesh canopy with a durable bathtub floor and a zippered door for easy and secure access.

        This two-piece shelter is so versatile that it can be used together or separately to provide both light-and-fast protection on fair-weather summer trips to foul weather camping in all four seasons.

        MSR Front Range Ultralight Tarp Shelter

        Features:
        MSR Front Range Ultralight Tarp Shelter
        Featherweight: Hyper-efficient tarp shelter sleeps four but is ultralight even for two, with a 5’ 4” peak height for gearing up easily.
        Quick Setup: Frameless, floorless design pitches with ski/trekking poles or 5-foot accessory pole (sold separately); ski straps included for easy assembly.
        Easy Access: Zippered door rolls back completely on both sides for sweeping views and easy entry.
        Versatile: Light enough to carry as a solo shelter, dining hall, or emergency shelter. Optional Bug/Floor Insert available for wet & buggy terrain.
        Durable: Steep canopy sheds snow and water and features Xtreme Shield waterproof coating for long-lasting durability.

        MSR Front Range Bug/Floor Insert
        Added Protection: Micromesh body with durable bathtub floor adds bug/mud protection.
        Easy Setup: Pitches with ski/trekking poles or 5-foot accessory pole
        Dry Inside: Gap between fly and mesh prevents drips & boosts ventilation.
        Easy Access: Large, zippered door matches fly.
        Provides full protection in wet and buggy terrain

        Fabrics:
        MSR Front Range 4 Person Ultralight Tarp Shelter

        20D ripstop nylon 1200mm Xtreme Shield™ polyurethane & silicone 

        MSR Front Range 4 Person Bug/Floor Insert
        Canopy: 15D nylon micro-mesh
        Floor: 30D ripstop nylon 3000mm Xtreme Shield™ polyurethane and DWR
        Mesh: 15D nylon micro-mesh

        Specs:
        MSR Front Range Ultralight Tarp Shelter

        Price: $359.995CAN / $279.95
        Minimum Weight: 740g / 1lb 10oz
        Floor Area: 7.52sq m / 81sq ft
        Livable Volume: 4078L / 144cu ft
        Interior Peak Height: 1.62m / 64 in
        Packed Size: 30 x 13cm / 12 x 5in
        Capacity: 4

        MSR Front Range Bug/Floor Insert
        Price: $319.95CAN / $249.95US
        Minimum Weight: 880g / 1lb 15oz
        Floor Area: 4.97sq m / 53.5sq ft
        Livable Volume: 2350L  / 83cu ft
        Interior Peak Height: 1.42m / 56 in
        Packed Size: 30 x 13cm / 12 x 5in
         

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        Therm-a-Rest Hyperion -6C Sleeping Bag
        An ideal lightweight companion to Therm-a-Rest’s NeoAir UberLite Sleeping Pad (mentioned above) is their Hyperion -6C Sleeping Bag. While not new for 2020, this ultra-light high-performance sleeping bag uses thermally-efficient box baffled construction in key areas to provide a -6°C / 20°F temperature rating. The use of RDS 900-fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down not only provides all the warmth you need for a three-season sleeping bag but also stays drier and maintains loft 60 times longer than untreated down.

        Placing the down where it is most effective (70% on the top and sides with 30% on the back) is called Zonal Insulation and maximizes warmth while saving on weight and reducing the overall cost of the sleeping bag. Combining this with an ergonomic shape and a longer zipper provides a comfortable but not confined fit which Therm-a-Rest’s calls their “Comfort Fit”.

        To help keep the Hyperion Sleeping Bag on your sleeping mat, Therm-a-Rest has integrated SynergyLink Connectors which effectively integrate the bag with the mattress below for optimal comfort. If they are not your thing they can be easily removed from the sleeping bag and save a little weight in the process. The Hyperion Sleeping Bag comes with a storage sack and compression stuff sack which helps minimize its size in your pack.

        With a temperature rating of -6°C / 20°F, Therm-a-Rest’s Hyperion Sleeping Bag is ideal for three-season backcountry adventures. It’s light enough to go anywhere and warm enough to provide a good nights sleep even when things get chilly.

        Therm-a-Rest Hyperion -6C Sleeping Bag

        Features:
        Ultralight: One of the lightest pieces in its class, the Hyperion sets a new standard for high-performance outdoor equipment.
        900-fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down: Stays drier and maintains loft 60 times longer than untreated down.
        Unrivaled Packability: Lightweight materials and precise design allow for a smaller packed size than ever before.
        Box Baffled Construction: Uses mesh walls to maximize loft and minimize cold spots in key areas.
        Comfort Fit: Ergonomic shape and longer zipper provide a more human-friendly fit than other ultralight bags.
        SynergyLink Connectors: Integrate the bag with a mattress for optimal efficiency and comfort; removable for versatility.
        Zoned Insulation: Maximizes warmth and saves weight by intentionally placing fill where you need it most, 70% on the top and sides with 30% on the back.
        Responsible Down Standard Certified: Certification that ensures that the waterfowl in the down supply chain are treated humanely.

        Materials:
        Insulation - 900-fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down
        Shell fabric - 10D Nylon RipStop w/ DWR
        Lining fabric - 10D Nylon RipStop

        Specs:
        Price: $509.95 / $409.95
        Weight: 580g / 1lb 4oz
        Sizes: Small, Regular, Large
        Dimensions: 147 x 130 x 117cm / 58 x 51 x 46” (Standard size Shoulders x Hips x Foot Box)
        Packed Dimensions: 15 x 20cm / 6 x 8in
        Temperature Rating: Comfort 0°C / 32°F; Limit -6°C / 20°F; Extreme -23°C / -9°F
        Fill weight: 400g / 14oz
        Fits: 198cm / 78”
         

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        Vaude Marwees 500 Down Sleeping Bag
        New for spring 2020 is Vaude’s Marwees 500 Down Sleeping Bag and while it’s a great choice for those looking for a new sleeping bag, what really sets the Marwees 500 apart is its use of 100% recycled Down insulation, outer fabric and lining. In accordance with VAUDE’s Green Shape standards, the down used in the Marwees 500 Down Sleeping Bag consists of 75% recycled duck down and 25% recycled duck feather which adheres to the Global Recycling Standard. A textile recycler removes duck and goose down from old bedding and clothing then it is washed and sterilized at high temperatures in an energy-efficient process. Once clean it is then sorted and broken feathers are removed so that only the best down is used in the final product. This gives a second life to down that would otherwise not be recovered, which is good for the environment and all concerned. Starting in the Summer of 2019 Vaude has offered 100% recycled down in their sleeping bags as well as there clothing collections.

        VAUDE Green Shape is used to evaluate products with regard to their environmental friendliness and ensure sustainability throughout the entire life cycle of the products they manufacture. These environmentally-friendly products are made from sustainable and innovative materials and are manufactured under fair working conditions along the entire supply chain. 

        The Vaude Marwees 500 Down Sleeping Bag uses asymmetrically positioned H-chambers in order to keep the down in place and prevent cold spots from forming while maximizing sleep comfort. Polyester taffeta is used as the lining which is luxuriously smooth and comfortable. The -3°C comfort rating along with the ergonomic zipper, redesigned thermal collar and anatomically shaped hood with draw-cord means the Marwees 500 can be used in spring, summer and autumn. 

        Vaude Marwees 500 Down Sleeping Bag

        Materials:
        Main fabric: 100% Polyester 50D 300T Ripstop
        Lining: 100% Polyester 50D 300T
        Insulation: 75% recycled duck down, 25% recycled duck feather 

        Features:
        recycled down
        inner pocket for essentials
        body contoured mummy cut for optimal heat management
        warmth collar
        3D footbox
        Thermal collar
        Insterior pocket 
        Anatomic hood with drawcord
        H-Chamber construction
        exceptionally soft and skin-friendly fabric with bluesign standard
        long 2-way zip down to the foot section
        Compression stuff sac

        Specs:
        Price: $310CAN / $220US
        Weight: 1300g / 2.86lb
        Fill weight: 500g / 1.1lb
        Dimensions: 220 x 80 x 55cm
        Stuffed size: 28 x 20xcm / 11 x 7.8”
        Insulation: 100% recycled down
        Temperature Rating: 2°C Comfort / -3°C

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