in Outdoors / Camping    (submitted 2011-02-14)

Synthetic and down fill are the only two types insulation available on the market for sleeping bags, and it is down insulation that is most often considered to be the gold standard for heavy outdoor use. Down insulation is actually is taken from the undercoat of waterbirds, and, when used in sleeping bags, down fill uses these natural properties to create the best bag possible. Listed below are the various advantages and disadvantages of the natural down insulation to the man-made synthetic counterpart.

Benefits of a down sleeping bag
Warmth
Synthetic bags can have the same temperature rating, but down bags have the best size to warmth ratio available.
Breathable
Much like moisture wicking clothing, down fill allows moisture to escape from your body while you sleep. It keeps you warm and dry during cold mountain nights.
Size
Down insulation can be compressed more than man-made fibers of synthetic fill and will thus save space in your backpack for other essentials.
Weight
Because of its natural properties garnered from birds, down insulation is very light. This is a great advantage for backpackers trying to get rid of every extra ounce of off their backs.
Life Span
Over time, synthetic insulation can lose its shape and overall efficiency, but down insulation does not lose its original form and effectiveness if cared for properly.

Disadvantages of a down sleeping bag
Price
All the great features of a down sleeping bag come with the larger price. Synthetic insulation bags are much cheaper.
Performance when Wet
Down fill bags should be kept dry as much as possible. If it gets wet, it will not keep you warm, and if it remains wet for a long time, the sleeping bag could be ruined. In the event that down insulation does get wet, be sure to dry it as soon as possible. You can help prevent the sleeping bag from getting wet by using a good ground sheet on the floor of your tent and by also using a sleeping pad to raise you off of the ground.
Requires experience to clean
Like down comforters, special cleaning products are required to wash your down sleeping bag. When cleaning your sleeping bag, you must follow specific instructions with your washing machine and dryer. We strongly recommend that you use only a dry cleaner who can properly clean your down bag.
Allergies
Better quality sleeping bags usually contain less allergens that could irritate people with allergies. If you are allergic to down jackets or down comforters, it would be wise to consider buying a synthetic bag.

About the Author

To find out more about more about down sleeping bags and how to choose the right one for you, visit http://www.downsleepingbaghq.com to help you find the right bag at the right price!

http://goarticles.com/article/The-Advantages-and-Disadvantages-of-a-Down-Sleeping-Bag/4172090/