Finding Your Perfect Match: How to Pick the Right Temperature Rating for Your Sleeping BagUpdated 7 months ago
Check the Weather
Always check the weather forecast before heading out on your trip to ensure you have the right gear. Temperature swings can be extreme in certain environments, especially in high-elevation areas or deserts, where it can get very cold overnight. In these cases, packing extra layers of clothing is crucial for staying warm. Knowing the expected temperatures not only helps you choose the right sleeping bag but also ensures you remain comfortable and safe throughout your trip.
Survival Ratings vs. Comfort Ratings
TETON sleeping bags are rated by their survival temperature, which is the lowest temperature the bag can handle to keep you alive, but not necessarily comfortable. For a good night's sleep, we recommend choosing a bag rated at least 30 degrees lower than the coldest nighttime temperature you expect. This will help you stay warm and comfortable rather than just surviving the cold.
For example, if you're expecting temperatures around 40°F, a sleeping bag with a 10°F survival rating would be a great choice. It's also important to factor in your personal comfort level, as some people tend to sleep colder or warmer than others.
Understanding Comfort Ratings in TETON Sleeping Bags
Our sleeping bags are rated based on their survival temperature, which is the lowest temperature at which the bag will keep you alive, but not necessarily comfortable. To find the recommended comfort temperature, we suggest adding 30 degrees to the survival rating.
For example, if a bag has a survival temperature of 0°F, then its comfort rating would be around 30°F. This is the temperature at which you can expect to sleep comfortably throughout the night without feeling too cold. Remember, the comfort rating is a more realistic guide for most users when choosing a sleeping bag.
EN Rated Bags:
Both of our Altos Down Sleeping Bags are EN Rated, meaning they have undergone standardized testing to provide accurate temperature ratings.
The EN (European Norm) rating is a system used to measure and compare the warmth and comfort levels of sleeping bags. It gives you a clearer idea of how well a bag will perform in specific temperatures. Two main ratings are provided:
Comfort Rating: This is the temperature at which a “cold sleeper” can sleep comfortably. It reflects the average temperature at which a person is expected to sleep soundly without feeling too cold.
Lower Limit Rating: This is the temperature at which a “warm sleeper” can sleep comfortably. It represents the lowest temperature at which someone can still sleep comfortably without feeling cold.