The Stone Glacier Chilcoot 0° sleeping bag offers a compelling blend of lightweight comfort and impressive warmth for backpacking adventures. Weighing just 2 lbs 10 oz, it significantly undercuts the weight of many comparable bags without compromising on insulation. This review delves into the performance of this innovative bag, examining its temperature ratings, build quality, and overall suitability for various backpacking conditions. We'll explore its unique features, such as the hydrophobic 850 hyperdry down fill, the roomy design, and the convenient no-stick zipper, while also highlighting potential drawbacks.This in-depth assessment covers the Chilcoot's real-world performance in cold temperatures, its packed size and ease of transport, and its comfort level during sleep. We evaluate the practicality of the magnetic collar and the implications of its single size offering. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Stone Glacier Chilcoot 0° sleeping bag's strengths and weaknesses, helping potential buyers determine if it’s the right choice for their backpacking needs.
Pros And Cons
- Lightweight for a 0° bag (2 lb 10 oz)
- Accurate limit and comfort rating (0° limit, 14° comfort)
- No-stick zipper, accessible from inside and outside
- Vertical baffled construction allows down movement for eliminating cold spots
- Wider design than traditional mummy bags, allowing for more movement
- Articulated footbox provides freedom of movement
- Articulating hood can be cinched down or left wide
- Only available in one size, suitable for taller individuals (6'5" )
- Magnetic neck baffle came undone easily
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Weight and Packability
The Stone Glacier Chilcoot 0° sleeping bag is surprisingly lightweight for its warmth rating. Weighing in at only 2 lbs 10 oz, it's significantly lighter than many comparable bags. This makes it an excellent choice for backpacking trips where weight is a critical factor. The bag packs down neatly into its included storage sack, minimizing bulk in your pack.
Despite its compact packed size, the bag offers ample space. This makes it easy to store for transport and even more convenient when taking it on travels or camping trips.
Down Fill and Water Resistance
The Chilcoot utilizes 850 hyperdry down, a hydrophobic down that dries faster than traditional down if it gets wet. This added water resistance is a huge advantage in unpredictable weather conditions. This means that you'll be prepared for anything while camping or backpacking.
The hydrophobic down offers superior insulation even when damp, ensuring warmth regardless of the conditions. This makes it a versatile choice for various climates and unexpected showers.
Temperature Rating and Real-World Performance
The Chilcoot boasts a limit rating of 0°F and a comfort rating of 14°F. The reviewer tested it down to 6°F and remained comfortable, even with a gap due to the bag's generous length. This suggests the temperature ratings are accurate.
For the 6°F test, the reviewer only wore thermals and a merino wool jacket, highlighting the bag's impressive warmth. This demonstrates its effectiveness in colder temperatures.
Features and Design
The Chilcoot features a no-stick zipper that's easily accessible from both inside and outside, a notable advantage in cold conditions. The vertical baffled construction allows for down movement, preventing cold spots and ensuring even insulation.
The bag's design is a departure from traditional mummy bags; it's roomier, offering 32 inches of shoulder play and 24 inches at the hips, making movement more comfortable. The 18-inch articulated footbox also contributes to freedom of movement.
Additional Features and Considerations
The bag includes a magnetic collar designed to create a draft collar. While the concept is excellent, the reviewer found it to come undone easily during sleep. A button closure might have been a more reliable option.
The articulating hood provides adjustable warmth, and overall, the bag offers significantly more room to move than a traditional mummy bag. However, the single size (suitable for taller individuals) might be a limitation for shorter users.
Conclusion
The Stone Glacier Chilcoot 0° sleeping bag is a high-quality, lightweight option offering impressive warmth for its weight. The no-stick zipper, roomy design, and accurate temperature ratings are significant advantages. However, the potentially unreliable magnetic collar and single size offering limit its appeal to taller users.
Overall, the Chilcoot is an excellent choice for taller individuals seeking a lightweight, warm, and comfortable backpacking bag. Shorter individuals should consider other options or weigh the pros and cons carefully.