Pure & Dry -5 wins best in test of three-season sleeping bags
- Publication:
- TGO June 2016
- Author:
- Chris Townsend
Review:
The Pure & Dry -5 is the lightest of the Pure & Dry expedition series. The warmest is rated to -40. As it is I used the -5 over the last winter and found the rating accurate. I reckon I’d be warm a few degrees below -5 in fact. The bag is much roomier than most mummy bags and doesn’t taper as much to the foot. I can easily turn over in it. I didn’t notice any cold spots though and the extra space did make the bag feel very comfortable. and more like sleeping under a duvet than in a confining bag. For anyone who finds close-fitting sleeping bags restrictive, this bag would be a good choice.
The bag has extra down in the foot area for more warmth here - my feet did overheat one night. The zip is a two-way one so I was able to open it at the bottom and let some heat out. The bag also has a differential cut - the inner is smaller than the outer, which is meant to help the down loft better. The inner lining is soft and feels pleasant against the skin. It has an anti-microbial treatment which would be useful on very long trips. The outer is waterproof (though the bag isn’t taped) which as well as repelling drips and spills should help with the warmth as it slows down warm air escaping. It’s quite breathable however and I’ve not noticed any dampness inside the bag. The zip doesn’t snag and there’s a thick baffle behind it. The hood and draft collar drawcords are easy to use. The shaped hood fits the head well and is very comfortable.
Verdict:
The Great Outdoors Best Buy with five stars. 'The weight of the Pure & Dry -5 is low for the warmth and the price is excellent for a top quality down bag.'