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The Trestles
The Trestles

What zero-degree sleeping bag should I get?

I was thinking about buying a zero-degree bag. I winter cp once or twice each year and won't go if the temps will be too low (So far the coldest may have been 10 degrees). I have a buddy who is dead set against inexpensive brands. Is there really a warmth difference between an inexpensive zero-degree bag and an expensive one? I not a warm sleeper but a "cheap son-of-a-gun." Are there any recommendations that you can make? Marty Morgantown, WV

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The Trestles

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Well, I dunno. I hate to say X or Y is no good because it’s a $100 sleeping bag versus a $400 sleeping bag. Often, the penalty you pay is in weight (cheaper bags weigh more for same insulation), and in some cases that is no real penalty at all.

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Moreover, there are good-quality makers who have excellent quality control, an interest in happy customers, and a willingness to cut costs. Besides, 10 F isn’t THAT cold!

So here are three I’d suggest:
’s Snowshoe +0 isn’t a budget bag, but at $189 it’s a good buy for a serious cold-weather bag. Its shell is a blend of polyester and nylon, its filling is polyester long-filament, the weight is decent at three pounds, eight ounces.
’s Katahdin Climashield bag ($149) also is rated to 0 F. It’s similar to The North Face bag—good-quality insulation, good shell, nice design. Same weight.
Most amazingly, —a high-end gear maker—offers a good zero-degree bag for a mere $109. It’s called The Trestles, and although it weighs nearly five pounds it’s an excellent, warm bag.

Spend less than $109? I wouldn’t. C’mon—you want to sleep, don’t you? Just be sure to wear a warm hat as well. And eat a Snickers bar. It’s a great way to generate some extra heat at bedtime. Plus they taste good.

Want to see more on sleeping bags—and other winter gear? Check out our annual Winter Buyer Guide.

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