Top 11 Best Sleeping Bag Brands On The Market For Hikers
Sleeping bags are often considered essentials in overnight hiking and backpacking kits. This is because they offer warmth and comfort for hikers wherever they may rest their heads for the night, thereby enhancing the overnight hiking/backpacking experience.
When it comes to choosing the best sleeping bags for hikers, there are plenty of factors to consider: price, size, weight, material, and durability all come to mind. Though the brand name is far from the most important factor, knowing the top sleeping bag brands for hikers will surely help you in your search for the optimal sleeping bag for your adventures.
With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to find precisely what would work best for your needs and wants. In this article, we’ll share our take on the top sleeping bag brands to look out for.
Though obviously subjective and prone to biases, we’ve done our best to list out these brands based on the following metrics (in no particular order):
- Company reputation
- Variety of sleeping bags
- Performance of the sleeping bags (in all climates)
- Longevity of the sleeping bags
- Company must currently be in operation
With all that being said, let’s list out the brands.
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top 11 sleeping bag brands for hikers/backpackers on the market
- REI Co-op
- Western Mountaineering
- Enlightened Equipment
- Feathered Friends
- Marmot
- NEMO Equipment
- ZPacks
- Kelty
- Eddie Bauer
- Sea To Summit
- Big Agnes
Let’s get into each of these brands in greater detail and explain why they belong in the top 11 best sleeping bag brands. I’ll share their country of origin, a bit of history, examples of high-end, popular and/or budget-friendly sleeping bag options, and a link to their official website.
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REI Co-op
It’s safe to say that every REI Co-op customer can agree that all the equipment and products manufactured by this company are high-quality and durable enough to withstand any adventure. Even various high-performing athletes have trusted REI gear to summit some of the most difficult mountains.
REI gear is made by mountaineers, and for mountaineers, so you can ensure that their gear is quality, lightweight and as practical as possible.
Travel safe and stay warm sleeping inside an REI sleeping bag.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: REI Co-op Magma 15 Sleeping Bag
This model proudly bears the badge of delivering the most efficient weight-to-warmth ratio in the entire REI line. This water-resistant sleeping bag will keep you warm in temperatures as low as 16 degrees Fahrenheit.
Most popular sleeping bag option: REI Co-op HunkerDown 20 Sleeping Bag
Small compression volume, lightweight, and warm, this sleeping bag is every hiker’s favourite when hitting the road. It features a temperature rating of 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Not to mention, it is made from recycled polyester.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: REI Co-op Helio Sack 50 Sleeping Bag
Completely updated for 2021, this is the best entry point to the REI Co-op sleeping bag line. Use alone for temperatures 50 degrees Fahrenheit or put inside another sleeping bag for added warmth. This sleeping bag is versatile, durable and features a water repellent finish.
Rei Co-op was founded by Lloyd & Mary Anderson in 1938 and its current headquarters are in Kent, Washington, USA.
Official website: rei.com
Western Mountaineering
More than half a century went by since this duo of mountaineers started selling state-of-the-art sleeping bags to the world. During those years of relentless innovation and hard work, they managed to build some of the best sleeping bags on the market.
To this date, Western Mountaineering still produces and distributes top-of-the-line sleeping bags worldwide. Their products are filled with water repellent goose down, allowing gear to keep up its performance for longer.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: Bison GWS Expedition
Capable of enduring temperatures as low as -40°C, this is, perhaps, one of the warmest sleeping bags on the market today. In addition, it is made of Gore Windstopper fabric to keep you safe from the elements no matter the weather.
Most popular sleeping bag option: Sequoia MF
This sleeping bag can endure temperatures as low as -15°C while offering generous room and impeccable breathability. It also features dual zippers to either use it as a mummy sleeping bag or spread it out as a comforter.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: Flylite
Made for temperatures of 1°C and higher, this budget-friendly sleeping bag is dependable, reliable, and virtually weightless.
Gary Schaezlein and Jeff Jones founded Western Mountaineering in 1972. The current company headquarters are in San Jose, California, USA.
Official website: westernmountaineering.com
Enlightened Equipment
The success of Enlightened Equipment is all thanks to the quality and design of their sleeping bags and word of mouth. Tim Marshall started sewing the first prototypes and tinkering with fabric types and design until he found the perfect balance between weight and warmth. What began in his basement, quickly turned into a 50-person operation.
Their first sleeping bag was so impeccably designed that it helped pave the path for the company to expand and grow into the reputable company it is today.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: Convert
With a zipper that goes all the way from top to bottom, turning this sleeping bag into a blanket can be done in a breeze. In both cases, it is pulled with 850fp down to endure the harshest weather.
Most popular sleeping bag option: Revelation
The Revelation is their original design and to this day, is still a best-seller. It is lightweight and compact, making it great for travel and warmer temperatures. As quilts are lighter than traditional sleeping bags, they should be paired with a sleeping pad for additional insulation between you and the ground.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: Revelation APEX Custom
Made with state-of-the-art APEX Synthetic Fill, this sleeping bag and quilt is the best choice for long-distance hikers.
Enlightened Equipment was founded by Tim Marshall in 2007. Currently, the company’s headquarters are in Winona, Minnesota, USA.
Official website: enlightenedequipment.com
Feathered Friends
As with many other success stories, need was the mother of invention for Peter and Carol. They set out on a journey to manufacture the kind of gear they would love to buy but couldn’t afford back in the 70s. Their decision was to cut down on bells and whistles and make the most efficient, convenient, and warm sleeping bags in the world at a price most mountain-lovers could afford.
Not only did they succeed in chasing their dreams, but their business lived on to become a major competitor in the outdoor community. Today it is run by a second-generation family to keep the legacy going.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: Snowy Owl
One of the warmest sleeping bags on the planet, this phenomenal piece by Feathered Friends provides an even loft of 900+ fill down. Plus, it features a revolutionary dual-zipper design that will keep you warm and safe all night long.
Most popular sleeping bag option: Egret UL 20/30
Featuring a warmer foot box and more room in the shoulder area, this is Feathered Friends’ best-selling sleeping bag.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: Flicker YF
For hikers on a budget looking for maximum versatility while keeping their backpack lightweight and their body warm on cold nights, this sleeping bag is a perfect choice.
Peter and Carol Hickner founded Feathered Friends in 1972. Currently, the company’s headquarters are in Seattle, Washington, USA.
Official website: featheredfriends.com
Marmot
Marmot prides itself on innovated, performance-ready gear. From the early adoption of Gore-Tex technology in mountaineering gear to some of the most revolutionary designs in the industry, Marmot established itself as the go-to option for a legion of mountain lovers.
They create gear that everybody wants to buy and that will last long at a price that most people can afford. You cannot go wrong with Marmot gear.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: WarmCube Expedition Sleeping Bag
Extreme conditions demand extreme gear. This 800 fill power down sleeping bag with WarmCube technology (internal layer for added warmth) will keep you warm and safe regardless of the weather conditions.
Most popular sleeping bag option: Trestles 15 Sleeping Bag
Did anyone say cold and wet? Fear not. Hit the road and stay warm and dry with the Trestles, a best-seller by Marmot that can handle any weather inclemency.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: Nanowave 55 Sleeping Bag
All that Marmot stands for at a price even the most novice mountain-goer can afford. If you are on a budget but need a high-quality sleeping out, be sure to check out the Nanowave by Marmot.
Marmot was founded by Tom Boyce, David Huntley, and Eric Reynolds in 1974. Currently, its headquarters are in Rohnert Park, California, USA.
Official website: marmot.com
NEMO Equipment
If working together with NASA to conquer the ultimate frontier for mankind is enough credentials for you, then checking NEMO Equipment is a must. Indeed, thanks to its revolutionary design, uncanny performance, and reliability, NEMO Equipment quickly became the go-to choice for mountain lovers and professionals alike.
If you want the cleverest designs materialized with the best fabrics and top-notch build quality, you need to check NEMO Equipment’s catalogue before you purchase your next sleeping bag.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: Stalker
Extreme weather has found its archenemy: the Stalker sleeping bag by NEMO Equipment. This design is made of 800FP hydrophobic stuffing. It features thermally efficient contours and is waterproof.
Most popular sleeping bag option: Kayu
The newest iteration of this ultralight mummy bag is the best version this best-seller has seen yet. It is thermally efficient, lightweight, and utterly reliable making it ready for any terrain.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: Tempo
According to NEMO Equipment, 70% of the people sleep on their side. Thus, they created a sleeping bag that can also accommodate side sleepers while also staying on budget.
NEMO Equipment was founded by Cam Brensinger in 2002. Its headquarters are currently located in Dover, New Hampshire, USA.
Official website: nemoequipment.com
ZPacks
Simple and lightweight is among the most sought-after qualities backpackers and hikers look for in a sleeping bag. If these are joined with reliability, clever designs, weatherproof quality, and an affordable price tag, then they become the go-to option.
Such is the case with ZPacks. This is a company that built a solid reputation around being the most reliable, affordable, and portable sleeping bag brand in the world. If you haven’t already, be sure to check the out when buying your next sleeping bag.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: 10F Full-Zip Sleeping Bag
This sleeping bag is ready for adventures and comfort. Plus, you can open the bottom zipper and let some warmth out on hot days.
Most popular sleeping bag option: 20F Classic Sleeping Bag
This is not only a best-seller but also an award-winning sleeping bag that will keep you cozy and warm during any trip at an unbeatable weight.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: 30F Solo Quilt
Minimalism meets performance in this budget-oriented, extra-warm, ultra-light quilt that can keep you warm and comfy regardless of the terrain. Be sure to pair this with a sleeping pad for additional warmth between you and the ground.
ZPacks was founded by Joe Valesko in 2005. Its current headquarters are in West Melbourne, Florida, USA.
Official website: zpacks.com
Kelty
A true innovator, Asher Kelty is one of the creative minds behind Kelty backpacks. They continue to amaze the hiking world by never stopping to pursue excellence through creating a catalogue of superb products ready to help any avid backpacker conquer their goals.
Kelty sleeping bags are the optimum balance of simplicity, reliability, and design that make them one of the most important mountaineering brands in the world. If you want a brand you can trust, Kelty is your best choice.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: Cosmic Ultra 0
Kelty took its best-selling model and stuffed it with 800 fill down to make it their most protective, best-designed creation yet. Those in the search for “the best money can buy” should check out the Cosmic Ultra 0.
Most popular sleeping bag option: Cosmic DriDown 20
This is one of the best bang-for-buck sleeping bags on this list (and on the market). Its features have recently been upgraded to make the best-seller even better. The only thing Kelty did not change was the price.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: Mistral 40
Everything you need, nothing you don’t. It features a hood and spacious foot box. This is a perfect sleeping bag for budget, solo adventures.
Kelty was founded by Asher Kelty in 1952. Currently, the company’s headquarters are in Boulder, Colorado, USA.
Official website: kelty.com
Eddie Bauer
Eddie was the founder of the first-ever private company the US Army bought gear from. Moreover, when James Whittaker (the first person born in the USA to summit Mount Everest) reached the top of the highest mountain in the world, he did it wearing an Eddie Bauer parka. The year was 1963, and this company was already making mountain history.
Fast-forward to the present, Eddie Bauer’s name and logo represent the best gear to conquer any goal in all weather conditions and terrains.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: Kara Koram -30º StormDown
From the abrasion-resistant Pertex nylon shell to the lightweight, ultra-warm 850 down fill, this sleeping bag is everything you need and more. In addition, it features a StormRepel finish, making it weatherproof.
Most popular sleeping bag option: Kara Koram 20º StormDown
While the 20º Kara Koram model is not as warm as the -30, it is still of equal quality featuring abrasion-resistant and Stormrepel. This sleeping bag also has inner pockets to help keep electronics from freezing in colder temperatures.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: Comfort Camper 2.0 40º Sleeping Bag
Need a little extra room to stretch a little during a night out? This is the perfect sleeping bag to do so. Plus, it features ThermaFill insulation to keep you warm all night long.
Eddie Bauer founded his brand in 1920. The company’s current headquarters are in Bellevue, Washington, USA.
Official website: eddiebauer.ca
Sea To Summit
Sea To Summit owes not only its name but also its legacy of outstanding quality to an expedition that went from sea level all the way to Everest’s summit in the early 90s. It has been refining its approach and innovating with diverse fabrics for decades to offer one of the well-known and quality catalogues in the industry today.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: Alpine Down Sleeping Bag
This sleeping bag can keep you warm and cozy in temperatures of -40. Moreover, the exclusive design allows extra room for clothing and boots to be worn inside if necessary. If arctic temperatures and harsh weather are ahead, this is the sleeping bag for you.
Most popular sleeping bag option: Ascent AcII Down Sleeping Bag
Sea To Summit’s best-selling sleeping bag is an ultralight, adaptable, and comfortable mummy bag that delivers top-notch protection with minimal weight.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: Trailhead ThII Sleeping Bag
A straightforward design, top-notch materials, and its ability to expand when exposed to heat make this a great choice for the solo traveller on a budget.
Sea to Summit was founded by Tim Macartney-Snape and Roland Tyson in 1983. Their current headquarters are in Boulder, Colorado, USA.
Official website: seatosummitusa.com
Big Agnes
Two men with more miles on them than they can count joined forces to create the ultimate gear for mountain-lovers like themselves. In that quest to create the best equipment possible, they decided to optimize prices as much as they could to deliver top-notch products that wouldn’t break the bank.
After more than two decades of hard work and non-stop innovation, this mountaineer duo can claim to be responsible for releasing some of the best outdoors products in the world. If you are serious about hiking, you have to check out Big Agnes.
Top-of-the-line sleeping bag option: Star Fire UL 0˚
When every bit of space in your backpack counts, you need to have the best, most lightweight equipment in it. Such is the category for this state-of-the-art, high-performance sleeping bag by Big Agnes.
Most popular sleeping bag option: Mystic UL 15˚
Incredibly warm, water-repellent, ultra-lightweight, and technically advanced, this is one of Big Agnes’ best-selling sleeping bags.
Budget-friendly sleeping bag option: Sidewinder SL 20˚
Specially designed for those who sleep on their sides, this is the ultimate sleeping bag for a hiker on a budget.
Big Agnes was founded by Bill Gamber and Brad Johnson in 2000. Their current headquarters are in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, USA.
Official website: bigagnes.com
