We hope the following information will be useful. Our sleeping bags can be found in the Travel Shop within Sleeping Bags and comfort.
Sleeping bags are rated according to 'Seasons'
- SEASON - +30C to +10C - Tropical Travel.
- SEASON - +5C to 0C - General summer conditions where the early mornings may be chilly.
- SEASON - 0C to minus 10C - Cooler nights and higher altitudes (not mountains).
- SEASON - minus 10C to minus15C - high altitudes.
An explanation of the Ratings given for our Aztec Sleeping bags
Choosing the correct sleeping bag is not simply about getting a good nights sleep. That is why Aztec take Sleeping bag testing very seriously.
The thermal properties for each Aztec Sleeping bag are tested against the requirements of European Standard En 13537. Sleeping bags are tested by three independent testing facilities, each recognised as experts in the field of technical fabric research.
Aztec Sleeping bags have been tested using a number of methods, under standardised test conditions, including a heated mannequin that acts as a thermoregulatory model of the human body. These tests determine the temperature rating for each bag, and are illustrated on the bag using a thermometer diagram showing three disitinct temperatures.
Upper Comfort Temperature - the temperature suitable for the inexperienced camper in normal nightwear.
Lower Comfort Temperature - the lower limit of the Comfort Range. A useful guide for more experienced campers wearing full length top and bottoms and thick socks.
Extreme Temperature - the Extreme Temperature is the lowest temperature at which the bag will perform. Please note: inexperienced users and those who are not dressed for cold weather conditions run the risk of hypothermia at these temperatures. Those wishing to sleep in extreme weather should not use the Extreme temperature rating as an indication of the bags normal use.
The above is a guide as performance may vary during use due to a number of factors such as:- air and ground temperature, posture, whether the bag is used with a sleeping mat, level of clothing worn whilst using the bag or individual metabolic rates.
Tips
Sleeping bags do not generate heat but only retain heat. It is therefore essential when maximum warmth is required to get as warm as you can before climbing into the sleeping bag ie raise body temperature by taking physical exercise and add extra layers of clothes. Using a thermal sleeping mat to separate you from the ground will also help with heat retention.
Down filled sleeping bags give a better heat to weight ratio for travelling light in cooler climates.
Manmade fillings are better for wet conditions.