Sleeping bags come in rectangular, cocoon, and tapered shapes, with different materials and fillings. Streamlined designs are preferred by experienced campers. Children’s sleeping bags are also available.
Sleeping bags come in three basic shapes: rectangular, “mummy” or cocoon-style, and tapered. The rectangular shape is self-explanatory and offers a spacious design. It comes in a single or double and the double is large enough to accommodate two average sized guests. The Cocoon is a form-fitting style that’s smaller and lighter, but still offers the same temperature rating as comparable rectangular bags. The tapered style is wider in the shoulder area and narrows at the bottom.
While rectangular sleeping bags are probably the most popular and most readily available style, experienced campers and adventure seekers prefer the streamlined and cocoon designs. These styles are easier to pack and transport. They are quite grippy and perform well in intense conditions.
Sleeping bags also come in a range of materials depending on their use. One lined with flannel provides warmth but also offers softness against the skin. Nylon bags “breathe” better and don’t hold moisture, so they’ll dry quicker than other styles. Poly-cotton blends are probably the most durable option and work best in extreme terrain.
There are also differences in how sleeping bags are sewn and filled. The down filling provides great natural warmth, but cotton, polyester and new types of synthetic fillings are also available. Many newer synthetic materials use a “hollow fiber” method which keeps the bags lightweight and allows for good compression when packing, while still offering excellent warmth. Synthetics are cheap and easier to care for than down.
The way sleeping bags are sewn is also important to consider. Some are made like quilts and the entire bag is sewn into small filler pockets. This keeps the fill in place, rather than letting it all fall into one section of the bag. Other styles stitch “tubes” into the design, using long, narrow pockets instead of small squares. Tubular designs are also meant to keep the fill in place.
You can also find great sleeping bags for children. These models are smaller, child-friendly versions of regular sleeping bags. Most are made in the rectangular style and you can find a wide variety of distinctive designs and fonts. Some are made to coordinate with bedroom accessories and are perfect for use as extra sleeping space when your child has a sleepover.
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