The Marmot Sawtooth sleeping bag promises a cozy night's sleep even in chilly conditions. This review delves into the performance and features of this mummy-shaped bag, designed for comfort and warmth on outdoor adventures. Weighing in at just over two pounds, its 650 fill power down provides an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for backpacking trips. Equipped with a full-length zipper and additional features like a down-filled hood and internal pocket, the Sawtooth aims to deliver a premium camping experience. Temperature ratings vary depending on gender, with women's and men's versions boasting different lower limits.This detailed review explores the Sawtooth's performance in real-world conditions, including a test in temperatures around -5°C. We'll examine its effectiveness, comfort level, and limitations. Discover whether this sleeping bag is suitable for your next camping trip, and learn about its strengths and weaknesses in both moderate and potentially extreme cold. The review also considers the impact of factors like layering, proper use, and the importance of additional shelter in maximizing warmth. Find out if the Marmot Sawtooth lives up to its promise of comfort and warmth in the wild.
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Specifications and Features
The Marmot Sawtooth long sleeping bag boasts a 650 fill power down filling, measuring 198 centimeters (6 feet 6 inches) in length. Weighing just over 2 pounds (1.2 kilos), its mummy shape provides an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. The bag features a full-length zipper on one side and a shorter zipper on the other for ventilation.
Additional features include a down-filled hood with drawstrings, an internal pocket for small items like a phone or flashlight, and a foot pocket for hand or foot warmers. The manufacturer rates its temperature limits, considering the use of a sleeping pad and shelter from wind and precipitation.
Temperature Ratings and Usage
The Marmot Sawtooth's temperature rating varies by gender. For women, it's rated down to 20°F (-6°C), while for men, it's 8°F (-13°C). The extreme rating, meant for survival rather than comfort, is -27°F (-33°C). It’s crucial to remember these ratings assume the use of appropriate insulating layers, sleeping pad, and shelter from the elements.
Optimizing the sleeping bag's performance involves using proper layering, warming up before entering the bag, and preheating the bag with a hot water bottle. The down filling is treated with Marmot's Down Defender to enhance moisture resistance.
Field Test and Performance
The reviewer tested the sleeping bag in temperatures around -5°C (23°F). He used it in a bivouac, further enhancing its insulation. He reports a very warm and cozy night, highlighting the effectiveness of the sleeping bag in moderately cold conditions.
However, the reviewer notes that direct contact with cold surfaces, even through the sleeping bag's insulation, can affect comfort levels. While exceptionally warm, it is less suitable for extreme winter camping conditions
Conclusion and Recommendation
The Marmot Sawtooth sleeping bag is a comfortable and warm option for a wide range of temperatures. Its mummy shape, high-quality down fill, and additional features contribute to its performance. The reviewer highly recommends this sleeping bag for use in moderate cold weather conditions. The Down Defender treatment is an added benefit.
While suitable for most camping trips, individuals planning extreme winter expeditions might find its temperature rating insufficient for truly comfortable sleep. Other suitable options might be considered for extreme cold conditions.