This article details a head-to-head comparison of two high-performance sleeping bags: the KUIU Super Down and the Western Mountaineering Badger. To determine their relative water resistance, a rigorous soak test was conducted under extreme conditions. Both bags were subjected to a prolonged period of rain, snow, and sleet, with their footboxes even partially submerged in water. This demanding test pushed the bags to their limits, simulating a worst-case scenario encountered during outdoor adventures. The results provide crucial insights for discerning buyers seeking exceptional weather protection in their sleeping bag.This comparative analysis goes beyond a simple specification overview. We subjected both sleeping bags to a real-world soaking test, measuring water penetration and assessing the impact on down loft and overall dryness. The findings reveal the impressive water resistance of both bags, even under prolonged and intense exposure to the elements. Discover which bag emerged slightly drier, and understand how their performance translates to practical use in challenging weather conditions. Ultimately, this article helps you make an informed decision based on performance data, not just marketing claims.
Pros And Cons
- Held out more water than the KUIU bag during soak test
- More bulk than KUIU bag
Read more: Best Mummy Camping Sleeping Bags: Top 5 Picks
The Soak Test Setup
To compare the KUIU Super Down sleeping bag and the Western Mountaineering Badger sleeping bag, a rigorous soak test was conducted. Both bags were placed outdoors in anticipation of rain, ensuring a realistic worst-case scenario. They were laid on grass without sleeping pads to maximize exposure to the elements. To further intensify the test, the foot boxes of each bag were submerged in separate pans containing a quarter-inch of water.
A rain gauge was set up to measure precipitation accurately. The face of each bag was folded inward to minimize direct water entry, but the majority of each bag was left exposed. This setup simulated situations such as a bag getting caught in a storm or accidentally dropped during a hike.
The Storm Hits
The test took place during a prolonged period of inclement weather including rain, snow and sleet. Over two and a half hours, the bags were subjected to significant precipitation, accumulating approximately a sixteenth of an inch of moisture in the rain gauge. The bags were visibly wet on the surface, with noticeable puddles forming on top of both sleeping bags.
After the storm, the bags were carefully moved indoors to be assessed for water penetration. Special attention was paid to the areas of each bag where water had pooled.
Results and Analysis
Upon inspection, neither sleeping bag showed significant water penetration. Both bags remained surprisingly dry on the inside, despite the substantial exposure to the elements. The Western Mountaineering Badger exhibited slightly less dampness than the KUIU Super Down, particularly in the foot box area which had been submerged in water.
While a few drops of water were visible on the KUIU bag’s inner lining, the overall dryness was impressive for both. The down fill in both sleeping bags retained its loft, demonstrating good water resistance.
Conclusion: Which Bag Reigns Supreme?
Both the KUIU Super Down and the Western Mountaineering Badger performed exceptionally well in the soak test. Neither showed significant water penetration, retaining their loft and dryness to a remarkable degree. While the Western Mountaineering Badger appeared slightly drier overall, the difference was negligible.
The choice between the two bags will depend on individual preferences and priorities. The Western Mountaineering Badger offers more bulk and warmth, while the KUIU Super Down is a lighter option. Both bags demonstrated excellent water resistance, making them suitable for use even in challenging weather conditions.