Seasonal Ratings for Sleeping Bags
Shopping for a sleeping bag can be daunting for the
aspiring adventurer, with so many different varieties available, and a
wealth of classifications and ratings that could be very confusing if a
person doesn’t do his homework beforehand.
Among the terms that may throw a purchaser off is the concept of the
sleeping bag being rated by season.
The average person would be correct in assuming that this has
something to do with the typical four-season climate, and to which season
the sleeping bag would be most appropriate.
However, the season rating is actually more of an indicator of the
temperature range in which you would be comfortable using the sleeping bag.
That is, if you truly understand the rating system.
The season rating is a number from 1 to 5, with each number standing
for the following values:
- Season 1 –
Summer. Season 1 sleeping
bags are best used in conditions where the maximum low temperature is
between 5 to 10 degrees C. As the
season associated with rating implies, these bags are best used during
the summer months when the weather is relatively warm, or for use
indoors, when you have control of thermostat.
- Season 2 –
Spring/Summer. Season 2 bags
are for slightly colder conditions, such as in the late spring or early
summer before the heat really starts to sink in.
These bags are also satisfactory for early autumn usage.
The temperature range for a Season 2 bag is between 0 to 5
degrees C. These bags are
considered general purpose, and are a safe choice if you aren’t
expecting uncomfortably frigid temperatures.
- Season 3 –
Spring/Summer/Autumn.
Season 3 bags, in spite of the seasons attributed to the
rating, are actually for colder climates, with temperature parameters of
0 to -5 degrees C. Perhaps the
first level of sleeping bags for outdoor use in cold weather, these bags
will keep you comfortable down to freezing point and below.
- Season 4 –
Winter.
Season 4 bags are for serious dips in temperature, with a
range of
- Season 5 –
Expedition.
Casual adventurers need not apply for the harsh climes meant
for Season 5 sleeping bags, which are designed to endure the toughest
weather conditions found on mountain tops and polar regions.
With a comfort temperature range of -10 to -15 degrees C, these
bags are for use by specialists and would be considered too warm for use
in most regular activities.
Season ratings can be a helpful guide to determining
the right sleeping bag to purchase for your own individual needs.
Of course, one should take note that these ratings may differ from
your actual mileage with the bag, as they merely represent calculated
averages. They do not take into
consideration people who are exceptionally susceptible to temperature
changes, the clothes that a person is wearing in the bag, and other such
variables.
Return to Sleeping Bags Guide Home Page