[pct-l] down or synthetic

[wandering_bob at msn.com (Bob Bankhead)]

Like Marshall, I too carry a down bag. I got a new Western Mountaineering Hooded Aspen (25 deg F) semi-rectangular. I carry it in an OR waterproof stuff sack so I don't have to worry if I take an unexpected swim. Everything else in my pack can dry out and be used wet, but Murphy says "if it can happen when it will cause the most discomfort, it will. I don't need a wet bag at 6 pm!

I replaced my long-time friend synthetic bag with down because (1) I could finally afford it (2) weight and more importantly, bulk savings, and (3) comfort.

Because I use a silnylon shelter that doesn't breathe, I was concerned about condensation when (not if) my bag touched the shelter during the night. Not to worry - this bag has a micro fiber shell that repels such things. One caveat - sleeping naked in a down bag may feel good on the skin, but deposits trail dirt and body oils on the lining, rendering the bag less "desirable"  (it's dirty and it stinks). Not too many chances to wash and dry a down bag on the trail. Wear shorts and a shirt to sleep in.

Wandering Bob






----- Original Message -----
From: "Marissa Ferejohn" <ferejohn@hotmail.com>
To: <pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Sent: Tuesday, May 06, 2003 1:37 PM
Subject: [pct-l] down or synthetic


> Hello all,
>
> My name is Litha and I plan on hiking the PCT in 2004.  I am looking into
> getting a new, lightweight sleeping bag and I was wondering if anyone who
> has hiked the PCT has strong opinions on down or synthetic bags for this
> trail.  I know the various viurtues/limitations of both, but I am not
> familiar with the weather condition variables in a typical hiking season
on
> the PCT.  Any thoughts?
>
> Thanks!
> -Litha