The Best Sleeping Bag Brands for a Great Sleep

You can tell a lot about a sleeping bag by looking into the sleeping bag brand. Brands have become recognizable for using certain fabrics, proprietary insulation materials, shapes, or extra features in their sleeping bags. Each brand caters to a different section of the market.

From affordable synthetic sleeping bags for music festivals to ultralight goose-down sleeping bags for long-distance trails, there are many different models and brands of sleeping bag out there.

Every sleeping bag is designed for the same, simple purpose to keep you warm and comfortable when you are sleeping in the great outdoors. But the technology that goes into sleeping bags is anything but simple.

To help you find the perfect sleeping bag for your next adventure, we’ll cover the best sleeping bag brands on the market.

Best Sleeping Bag Brands List

• REI
• Western Mountaineering
• Marmot
• Therm-a-Rest
• Nemo
• Sea to Summit
• Mountain Hardwear

The above are all good sleeping bag brands and any of their bags will be good quality. And here are the individual review.

Western Mountaineering

Western Mountaineering has become one of the most famous outdoor brands in the lightweight backpacking industry. The company has been around for over 30 years.

Down-filled garments and sleeping bags are the main product lines of the brand. Almost all Western Mountaineering sleeping bags use 850+ fill power down.

Moreover, the brand only uses high-quality goose down. All Western Mountaineering down sleeping bags are 100% RDS certified. The RDS label guarantees that the down in your sleeping sack has been ethically sourced.

Most of the brand’s sleeping bags have a semi-rectangular or mummy bag shape. To ensure the highest possible quality, the brand still makes its sleeping bags in the USA. All of the brand’s sleeping bags come with a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

My Pick: Western Mountaineering UltraLite

As an avid backpacker and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve always prioritized lightweight and compact gear. After recently spending several nights in the Western Mountaineering UltraLite down sleeping bag, I can confidently say it has exceeded my expectations in terms of warmth, comfort, and packability. Here’s a detailed breakdown of my experience with this top-notch backpacking sleeping bag.

Warmth & Temperature Rating

The UltraLite down sleeping bag is rated for temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C), and I found this to be quite accurate. During my recent trip in the Sierra Nevada mountains, nighttime temperatures dropped to around 25°F (-4°C), and I stayed warm and cozy throughout the night. The 850+ fill power goose-down insulation provides excellent loft and heat retention, making this a warm sleeping bag suitable for cold weather and one of the best in its weight class.

Weight & Packability

Weighing in at just 1 lb 13 oz (820 g) for the regular size, the UltraLite down sleeping bag is a dream come true for ultralight backpackers. When compressed in the provided stuff sack, the mummy bag packs down to a surprisingly small size, leaving ample room in my pack for other essentials. This makes it an ideal choice for long-distance hikes or minimalist adventures.

Comfort & Fit

The UltraLite down sleeping bag features a mummy bag shape, which helps to maximize thermal efficiency without sacrificing comfort. The sleeping bag is designed with a full-length zipper and a draft collar to prevent cold air from sneaking in. I found the 5-inch loft to be incredibly comfortable, and the continuous baffles allowed me to adjust the down distribution to suit my sleeping preferences easily.

Materials & Durability

Western Mountaineering is known for its high-quality materials and construction, and the UltraLite mummy bag is no exception. The outer shell is made from a lightweight, water-resistant, breathable fabric that feels soft. The bag’s stitching and construction are impeccable, and I have no doubts that it will stand up to years of use in the great outdoors.

Price & Value

The Western Mountaineering UltraLite sleeping bag comes with a higher price tag compared to some other sleeping bags on the market. They don’t make synthetic sleeping bags. Only the best down is used. However, considering the excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, top-quality materials, and overall performance, I believe it’s a worthwhile investment for serious backpackers seeking a reliable and comfortable sleeping solution for their adventures.

The UltraLite is one of the warmest 3-season sleeping bags on the market, so not so great as a summer sleeping bag. It’s a great choice for mid to high-elevation environments as well as shoulder seasons.

To help with ventilation in the summer, the UltraLite features a two-way zipper. It also includes a cozy draft collar that helps seal out the cold.

The sleeping bag has continuous horizontal baffles. This means that you can put it underneath you if you want less warmth or on top of you for more warmth. If you think this model might be too warm for you, check out the MegaLite.

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Marmot

High-quality tents, backpacks, outdoor clothing, and sleeping bags have been Marmot’s main product lines since 1974. As well as being one of the best sleeping bag brands, Marmot is one of the go-to brands when it comes to lightweight backpacking. It was one of the very first brands to use Gore-Tex in its products.

Thanks to Marmot’s proprietary materials and innovative technology, the brand’s sleeping bags are considered to be very reliable. With proper care, Marmot gear can last for decades.

Aside from high-quality down, the brand uses a proprietary synthetic insulation material called the Eco Featherless. Compared to most outdoor brands, Marmot goes to greater lengths to ensure its means of sourcing and production are sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Our Pick: Marmot Phase 20

As an avid outdoor enthusiast and experienced camper, I have tried a variety of backpacking sleeping bags over the years. The Marmot Phase 20 sleeping bag is one of the most impressive I’ve used, and I’m excited to share my experience with you.

Warmth and Insulation

The Marmot Phase 20 is rated for temperatures down to 20°F (-7°C), making it an ideal 3-season sleeping bag. The 850-fill-power goose down insulation provides impressive warmth-to-weight ratio. Marmot’s Down Defender treatment ensures the sleeping bag down stays dry and lofty, even in damp conditions. I found the bag to be incredibly warm and comfortable during chilly nights in the mountains, without any cold spots or drafts.

Weight and Packability

Weighing in at just 1 pound 7.3 ounces (656 grams), the Phase 20 is one of the lightest sleeping bags in its class. This is a fantastic feature for backpackers looking to shed weight without sacrificing warmth. The included compression sack allows the bag to pack down to a compact size, making it easy to fit in a backpack without taking up much space.

Comfort and Fit

The Phase 20’s anatomically designed footbox and 3D hood provide excellent comfort and warmth retention, so you don’t need to wear a warm hat to get a good night’s sleep. The smooth-curved baffles and anti-snag slider on the full-length YKK zipper make getting in and out of the bag a breeze. The bag’s mummy shape offers ample room in the shoulders and tapers down toward the feet, providing a snug and cozy fit without feeling too restrictive.

Material and Durability

The sleeping bag features a 10-denier Pertex Quantum shell, which is both lightweight and durable. The shell is water-resistant and windproof, ensuring you stay protected in various weather conditions. The high-quality materials and construction give me confidence that the Phase 20 will withstand the test of time.

Price

The Marmot Phase 20 comes with a premium price tag, but I believe the investment is worth it. The combination of lightweight materials, warmth, and packability make it a fantastic choice for backpackers and campers who value performance and comfort.

Compared to other sleeping bags that weigh the same, the Phase 20 packs down really small.

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Rei Co-Op

It may seem a bit unusual, but one of the biggest retail chains in the US is also one of the best sleeping bag brands. REI makes and designs some of the best camping and hiking gear on the market, and the brand’s sacks are no exception.

The gear that REI manufactures varies greatly in both quality and price. The brand’s higher-end quilts and sleeping bags are often praised by experienced backpackers and hikers.

Our Top Pick: REI Co-op Magma 30

I’ve tried various sleeping bags in search of the perfect blend of warmth, weight, and packability. After spending several nights in the REI Co-op Magma 30 sleeping bag, I’m delighted to say that it checks all these boxes and more.

Warmth and Comfort

The Magma 30 boasts an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio with its 850-fill-power goose down insulation. I found it to be extremely cozy in temperatures as low as 35°F, while still being breathable enough for warmer nights. The bag’s draft collar and cinchable hood kept drafts at bay, and the trapezoidal footbox provided ample room for my feet to stay warm and comfortable. The 15D Pertex Quantum shell and lining not only feel soft against the skin, but they’re also water-resistant and durable, ensuring a dry and pleasant experience even in damp conditions.

Weight and Packability

One of the Magma 30’s sleeping bag shining features is its weight. Tipping the scales at a mere 1 lb. 7.2 oz. for the regular size, it’s a lightweight champion in its class, making it an ideal companion for long treks and multi-day adventures. The included compression sack allows the sleeping bag to be packed down to an impressively small size (approximately 7″ x 14″), freeing up valuable space in my backpack for other essentials.

Fit and Sizing

The Magma 30 comes in three sizes: regular (up to 6′), long (up to 6′ 6″), and women’s (up to 5′ 6″). I opted for the long version, and at 6′ 2″, I found the fit to be spot-on, with enough room to move around without feeling constricted. The women’s version features additional insulation, making it even more suitable for those who tend to sleep cold.

Value

Priced at $329 for the regular size, the Magma 30 isn’t the cheapest sleeping bag on the market, but it delivers outstanding value for its high-quality materials, warmth, and ultralight design. If you’re a serious backpacker looking for a reliable and cozy sleeping bag that won’t weigh you down, the Magma 30 is well worth the investment.

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Therm-a-Rest

This outdoor gear company became famous when it invented the self-inflating sleeping pad way back in the ’70s. Therm-a-Rest’s innovative approach to camping and backpacking gear gave the competition a run for its money.

Today, most hikers and backpackers love Therm-a-Rest for its super comfortable hammocks, camping pillows, backpacking quilts, as well as sleeping bags. NeoAir pads are arguably the brand’s best-selling product line.

In terms of technical performance and warmth-to-weight ratio, Therm-a-Rest’s Fast & Light sleeping bags outperform most of the competition. Like most other high-quality outdoor sleeping bag brands, Therm-a-Rest only uses RDS certified down.

The brand’s sleeping bags feature patented elastic straps known as SynergyLink connections. They allow you to easily and securely attach your sack to your sleeping pad.

Our Top Pick: Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20

I’m always on the lookout for gear that is lightweight, compact, and reliable. Therm-a-Rest’s Hyperion 20 sleeping bag recently caught my attention, and after putting it to the test, I’m happy to share my thoughts on this ultralight and comfortable sleeping bag.

Warmth and Comfort

The Hyperion 20 boasts a temperature rating of 20°F (-6°C), making it suitable for three-season use. The 900-fill power goose down insulation, with its incredible warmth-to-weight ratio, kept me toasty during chilly nights. The bag’s zoned insulation design strategically places 70% of the down on the top side, which helps retain body heat without compromising weight or packability. The ThermaCapture Lining further enhances the warmth by reflecting radiant heat back to the user. However, for those planning on venturing into colder temperatures, a liner or a warmer sleeping bag might be necessary.

Weight and Packability

Weighing in at just over 1 pound (16 oz / 454 g for the regular size), the Hyperion 20 is incredibly lightweight, making it an excellent choice for ultralight backpacking enthusiasts. The included compression sack allows the bag to pack down to a compact size (roughly the size of a small melon), saving precious space in your backpack.

Fit and Features

The mummy-shaped design of the Hyperion 20 helps conserve warmth by reducing dead air space. The bag comes in three sizes (small, regular, and long), catering to various heights, ensuring a snug fit for most users. The SynergyLink Connectors, a unique feature of the Hyperion 20, allow you to secure the sleeping bag to your sleeping pad, preventing you from sliding off during the night. I found this to be especially helpful on uneven terrain. The bag also features a draft collar, a full-length zipper, and a drawstring hood, which help seal in warmth and allow for easy temperature regulation.

Durability and Materials

The Hyperion 20 features a 10D ripstop nylon shell and lining, which makes the bag lightweight yet durable. The water-resistant Nikwax Hydrophobic sleeping bag down treatment adds another layer of protection in damp conditions, although it’s worth noting that the bag is not fully waterproof. The materials have held up well during my adventures, but as with any ultralight gear, proper care and handling are essential for longevity.

Conclusion

Overall, the Therm-a-Rest Hyperion 20 sleeping bag is an excellent choice for backpackers seeking an ultralight, packable, and warm sleeping bag for three-season use. With its impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, compact size, and innovative features, the Hyperion 20 is a great choice. Just be mindful of its limitations in colder conditions, and treat it with care to ensure it lasts for many trips to come.

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Nemo

New England Mountain Equipment, or NEMO, was started only 19 years ago. But, even though the company has a short history, it made waves with its unique designs in backpacking pillows, hammocks, 4 person tents, sleeping bags, and more.

Nemo is all about making creative and thoughtfully designed outdoor gear. The brand’s sleeping bags often feature creative and experimental twists that you won’t see anywhere else.

For example, “thermo gills” is a trademark of the brand. Essentially, these “gills” are two zippered vents that allow you to easily regulate warmth. Many of Nemo sleeping bags also come with a “blanket fold.”

Nemo Riff and Jam sleeping bags are also particularly innovative. They are unique mummy bags that are designed for side sleepers who feel too cramped when sleeping in regular mummy bags.

Our Top Pick: Nemo Riff 30

I’m always on the lookout for the best backpacking sleeping bag to accompany me on my adventures. The Nemo Riff 30 Sleeping Bag has been making waves in the outdoor community for its innovative design and features. I recently had the opportunity to test it out on a week-long backpacking trip, and I’m excited to share my thoughts on this game-changing sleeping bag.

Design and Material

Nemo has done an exceptional job with the Riff 30. The bag sports a unique spoon-shaped design that allows for a more comfortable and natural sleep position, especially for side sleepers. It combines the warmth of a mummy bag with the spaciousness of a rectangular bag, a perfect fusion for a cozy night’s sleep.

The shell of the Riff 30 is made from 20D Nylon Ripstop with a water-resistant DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. This material is lightweight and compressible, making it ideal for backpacking trips. The interior is lined with 30D Nylon Taffeta, which is soft to the touch and provides a pleasant sleep experience.

Insulation and Temperature Rating

The Nemo Riff 30 is filled with 800-fill-power responsibly-sourced down, providing excellent insulation and warmth for its weight. The bag is rated for temperatures as low as 30°F (-1°C), making it suitable for 3-season backpacking and camping trips. The vertical baffles help to distribute the down evenly and prevent cold spots, ensuring consistent warmth throughout the night.

Features

One of the standout features of the Riff 30 is its Thermo Gills. These zippered vents on the top of the bag allow for easy temperature regulation by letting out warm air without exposing you to drafts. This feature is particularly useful for those who tend to sleep hot or during warmer nights.

The bag also includes a full-length YKK zipper, which allows for easy entry and exit. Additionally, the built-in draft collar and draft tube prevent cold air from seeping in, maintaining the warmth inside the bag. The integrated pillow pocket is a nice touch, allowing you to stuff a jacket or small pillow for added head support.

Packability

The Nemo Riff 30 is highly compressible and comes with a stuff sack, making it easy to pack down into a compact size. At just under 2 lbs, it’s a lightweight option for backpackers who prioritize both comfort and packability.

Conclusion

The Nemo Riff 30 Sleeping Bag is a fantastic choice for backpackers and campers seeking a comfortable, lightweight, and versatile sleep system. With its innovative spoon shape, high-quality materials, and thoughtful features, this sleeping bag has earned its place among my top recommendations. Whether you’re a side sleeper, a cold sleeper, or someone who needs extra space to move around, the Nemo Riff 30 is sure to provide a cozy and restful night’s sleep in the great outdoors.

If you are a side sleeper, the Riff 30 is undoubtedly one of the best sleeping bags you can go for.

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Sea to Summit

This brand was started in 1983 in Perth, Australia. From sleeping pads to collapsible silicone cooking pots, Sea to Summit makes unique and functional outdoor gear. Sea to Summit sleeping bags are designed to be compact, lightweight, and durable.

The brand’s gear is designed for adventures at every altitude. The brand proved this when it designed the gear for Tim Macartney-Snape’s audacious Mount Everest expedition. McCartney started his adventure at sea level, hence the name of the company.

Our Top Pick: Sea to Summit Spark SPII

I was eager to test out the Sea to Summit Spark SPII sleeping bag. Having used it on multiple trips in varying conditions, I am happy to report that this sleeping bag is a fantastic addition to any backpacker’s gear collection. It boasts an impressive combination of warmth, weight, and packability that make it perfect for 3-season outdoor adventures.

Warmth and Comfort

The Spark SPII sleeping bag is rated for temperatures down to 35°F (2°C), which is accurate for most conditions. Its 850+ loft premium goose down insulation provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, and I have found it to be comfortable in temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). The ultralight 10D shell material feels soft and comfortable against the skin, while the half-length zipper helps retain heat during colder nights.

Weight

Weighing in at a mere 16.4 ounces (465 grams) for the regular size, the Spark SPII sleeping bag is truly featherlight. This makes it an excellent choice for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers who are looking to shave off precious ounces from their pack.

Packability

The Spark SPII sleeping bag compresses down to an unbelievably small size, thanks to its included Ultra-Sil compression sack. When fully compressed, it occupies a minuscule volume that takes up minimal space in your backpack, making it a dream to pack.

Features

The Spark SPII sleeping bag comes with a few essential features that enhance its usability. The 3D hood design ensures a snug fit around the head, which is crucial for trapping heat during cold nights. The half-length YKK #3 side zipper allows for easy entry and exit, while the draft tube prevents cold air from seeping through the zipper. Additionally, the sleeping bag is equipped with an internal pocket for storing small items like a headlamp or mobile phone.

Durability

The ultralight 10D shell material, while not as robust as heavier materials, holds up well to normal wear and tear. With proper care and handling, the Spark SPII should last for many seasons of adventure, making it one of the best sleeping bags.

Price

The Sea to Summit Spark SPII does come with a premium price tag, but considering its excellent performance, low weight, and compact size, it is a worthwhile investment for serious backpackers who prioritize lightweight gear.

Conclusion

The Sea to Summit Spark SPII sleeping bag is a top choice for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers who need a reliable, lightweight, and packable sleeping bag for 3-season adventures. Its warmth, comfort, and impressive packability make it an outstanding option for those seeking a high-performance sleeping bag that won’t weigh them down. While it may be pricey, the investment pays off in the long run for those who prioritize lightweight gear.

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Mountain Hardwear

The company has been focused on achieving the highest level of quality and performance in its gear since its foundation in 1993.

The brand teamed up with the legendary mountaineer, Ed Viesturs, soon after it was founded. Viesturs provided both the expert design consultation and the hands-on research needed to build Mountain Hardwear’s elite tents, clothing, sleeping bags, and other gear.

He also used the same equipment to ascend Annapurna, Mount Everest, and other summits successfully. So, you know you are buying from a great sleeping bag brand.

Even to this day, the brand continues to associate with elite alpine athletes. These athletes are the source of inspiration and feedback that leads to exceptional Mountain Hardwear gear, including sleeping bags.

Our Top Pick: Mountain Hardwear Phantom 30

I’ve had my fair share of nights spent shivering in my sleeping bag, wishing for something warmer and more comfortable. When I finally decided it was time to invest in a new sleeping bag, I came across the Mountain Hardwear Phantom 30. After using it on multiple camping trips and backpacking excursions, I feel confident in sharing my experience with this excellent sleeping bag brand.

Warmth

The Phantom 30 sleeping bag has an EN comfort rating of 30°F (-1°C), making it a fantastic option for three-season backpacking. I’ve used this sleeping bag in temperatures ranging from 25°F to 50°F (-4°C to 10°C), and I have been consistently warm and comfortable. The 850-fill Q.Shield DOWN insulation provides a high warmth-to-weight ratio, ensuring that you stay warm without being weighed down by a heavy sleeping bag.

Weight and Compressibility

One of the standout features of the Phantom 30 sleeping bag is its weight. At just under 2 pounds (0.9 kg) for the regular size, it is an impressively lightweight option for backpackers. Additionally, the included compression sack allows the bag to compress down to a small and manageable size, making it easy to fit in my backpack with all my other gear.

Comfort

The Phantom 30 is lined with a soft and comfortable 10D nylon fabric, making it pleasant to crawl into after a long day on the trail. The mummy-style cut provides a snug fit without feeling constricting, and the ergonomic draft collar and hood do an excellent job of keeping cold air out while trapping warmth inside. I particularly appreciated the glow-in-the-dark zipper pull, which made it easy to locate and use in the middle of the night.

Durability

After several months of use, the Phantom 30 has held up remarkably well. The 20D nylon ripstop shell is both lightweight and durable, showing no signs of wear or damage even after being stuffed in my backpack and used on rocky and uneven terrain. The Q.Shield DOWN insulation also retains its loft and warmth, even after being compressed and expanded multiple times.

Price

While the Mountain Hardwear Phantom 30 down bag is not the cheapest option on the market, I found it to be a worthwhile investment. The combination of warmth, weight, comfort, and durability make it a high-quality sleeping bag that will last for many adventures to come.

Overall

The Mountain Hardwear Phantom 30 sleeping bag is an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight, warm, and comfortable sleeping bag for three-season backpacking. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of warmth, weight, and durability, and I can confidently recommend it to fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Happy trails, and may you enjoy many cozy nights under the stars with the Phantom 30!

Where Next

Well, that is my list of the best sleeping bag brands. Here are some other interesting posts. Get tips on cleaning your sleeping bag or have a read of my review of synthetic sleeping bags vs down.