Our review: The innovative no-zip sleeping bag is a winner for us: lightweight, great temperature control and packed with impressive technical details.
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USA-based Sierra Designs first began making outdoor gear in 1965. Always pushing the new-ideas boundary, they pioneered women’s specific sleeping bags and have revolutionised zip-free sleeping bag design. This hydrophobic down filled lightweight sleeping bag has broken through expectations to successfully combine the comfort and flexibility of a quilt with the warmth of a sleeping bag. Its no-zip design has been carefully thought out and includes such a wealth of innovative features, you might wonder why other manufacturers haven’t taken a similar approach.
First impressions
You might need some time to get to know this sleeping bag, but it will be worth the effort. Of a unique design that is part quilt and part sleeping bag, it combines the best of both worlds and its DriDown hydrophobic down fill feels dreamily soft. If you’re used to traditional sleeping bags, don’t be put off by the uninsulated back panel or the initially confusing sleeping pad sleeve, it all works together to provide a superbly comfortable and cosy sleep.
How warm is the bag?
Warmth in a sleeping bag is related to several factors. Even for a lightweight bag, the Cloud 800 35’s 268g of down might look thinly distributed but this is high quality 800 fill-power hydrophobic down and the bag offers plenty of warmth for UK summer conditions. If you’re an active sleeper, the sleeping mat sleeve will ensure you don’t lose warmth by rolling off your camping mattress, and the oversized quilt will allow you to move as much as you want whilst staying cosy. With a cinchable hood and insulated shoulder pockets for extra heat, you’re less likely to feel cold in this bag than you might think. Plus, if you’re prone to night-time temperature fluctuations, you’ll appreciate the no-fuss foot vent and easy-open quilt design.
How comfortable?
Once you’re used to the design, this is a super-comfortable sleeping bag. The quilt style allows for free movement as well as super quick temperature control. Compared to the very softest of bags, the outer fabric is slightly crackly, but it still feels comfortable against the skin. The hydrophobic down insulation is soft and feels light as you sleep.
Is the down responsibly sourced?
The down insulation is RDS (Responsible Down Source) certified.
Sustainability?
This sleeping bag is made in Vietnam from new materials. Sierra Design’s DriDown insulation is PFC free.
Are other versions available?
Also available in the UK are the Women’s Cloud 800 20° (comfort temperature –3°C) and Cloud 800 20° (comfort temperature –3°C).
Is it good value?
Yes. If this format works for you but this is a niche design that might not suit everybody.
Best for:
Summer and shoulder season camping for sleepers who prefer a quilt but enjoy the warmth of a sleeping bag.
Similar to:
This one stands alone. You might find another zipless sleeping bag but it won’t have as much technical detail.
Facts at a glance: Sierra Designs Cloud 800 35 Degree Down
- RRP: £284.99
- Shape: Zipless mummy
- Fill: 268g fill weight, 800 fill power hydrophobic down
- Weight: 660g
- Packed size: 33cm x 18cm
- Comfort rating (European standard 13537): Comfort temperature 2°C (lower temperature –3°C)
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Looking for more options? Check out our roundup of the best sleeping bags for every camper in 2023, tried and tested by the experts at Countryfile.
