[pct-l] down or synthetic

[dave at livebythepark.com (David Davis)]

I also use a light balaclava like hat in the bag so hair oils don't build up
and soil the hood area.  The military includes a lightweight green polyester
one with all of its sleeping bags. These are really good and can be obtained
at surplus stores.

----- Original Message -----
From: "Bob Bankhead" <wandering_bob@msn.com>
To: "Marissa Ferejohn" <ferejohn@hotmail.com>; "PCT List Forum"
<PCT-L@mailman.backcountry.net>
Sent: Tuesday, May 06, 2003 10:57 PM
Subject: Re: [pct-l] down or synthetic


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
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