The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 sleeping bag offers a compelling blend of affordability and performance for backpacking enthusiasts. This review delves into the practical experience of using this 20-degree bag, examining its comfort rating, weight, and overall suitability for various temperature ranges. Priced affordably around $150, the Cosmic Down 20 boasts 600 fill power dry down, promising improved loft and warmth even in damp conditions. We tested its capabilities in varying temperatures, from chilly Appalachian Trail nights to milder spring conditions, assessing its performance at both its rated temperature and beyond.This detailed review explores the bag's warmth and comfort levels in different scenarios, providing insights into its practical limitations and ideal use cases. We'll discuss its weight, fit for taller individuals, and its overall value proposition considering the price point. Ultimately, this assessment will help prospective buyers determine if the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 is the right budget-friendly sleeping bag for their backpacking adventures.
Pros And Cons
- Relatively inexpensive for a down sleeping bag (around $150)
- Lightweight (2 pounds 12 ounces)
- Good value for the price
- Comfortable down to 30-35 degrees for a grown man
- Good width for side sleepers
- 600 fill power dry down, loftier in damp conditions
- May require extra layers at its 20-degree lower limit
- Not suitable for temperatures significantly below 30 degrees without additional layers or liner
- Only available in one color
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Specs and First Impressions
The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 sleeping bag is a budget-friendly option, typically retailing around $150. I purchased mine on sale for $120. It's a 20-degree bag, boasting a lower limit of 19 degrees and a comfort rating of 30 degrees. These ratings seem accurate based on my personal experience.
Weighing in at 2 pounds 12 ounces, it's lightweight but not ultralight. The 600 fill power dry down is an upgrade from the older model, offering better loft in damp conditions. Aesthetically, it's a rather attractive bag, though it only seems to be available in one color.
Real-World Performance: Appalachian Trail Test
My first test was on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia, where temperatures dropped to 20 degrees. While I stayed warm, it required layering with a down jacket, thermals, and heavy socks. At its lower limit, additional layers are necessary for comfort.
This experience showed that the 20-degree rating is accurate, but it’s not necessarily ideal for use at that exact temperature without additional insulation. I wouldn't recommend using it at 20 degrees without a liner or extra layers.
Comfort and Fit: Spring Backpacking Trip
A subsequent trip in early April provided further testing in temperatures ranging from 35 to 45 degrees. Between 30 and 45 degrees, the bag was incredibly comfortable. Even sleeping in an open shelter on a 35-degree night was perfectly comfortable.
At 45 degrees, it became a bit too warm. I am 6 foot 1 and 150 pounds, and the regular size fits me well. The width is also sufficient for a side sleeper. The bag's dimensions accommodate my height and sleeping style without issue.
Final Verdict: A Solid Value for Shoulder Seasons
The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 is an excellent value for its price. It's ideal for shoulder seasons (spring and fall) where temperatures are between 30 and 45 degrees. While not ultralight, it's lightweight enough for backpacking, and its performance at a reasonable price point is hard to beat.
However, for ultralight backpacking or extremely cold temperatures, lighter and lower-rated options may be necessary, although these will likely come at a higher cost. Overall, this bag provides excellent comfort and performance for its price range.