Rant: I think the push for ultralight gear is overrated after my $400 sleeping bag failed in the Sierras | Backpacking Routes

Stella Ross · 2026-04-02T18:45:04.681814+00:00

Everyone says to cut weight, but my fancy 20-degree bag got soaked in a surprise storm near Bishop and I spent a miserable, cold night because the down clumped up, so what's a better way to stay dry without carrying a brick?

the_piper6mo ago

Down's just a bad bet for wet trips.

5

finley_walker574mo ago

Yeah but a bivy sack would've kept your down dry for way less cash.

4

janab876mo ago

That's less about the bag being ultralight and more about down's main weakness. A good waterproof stuff sack or pack liner is non-negotiable for down gear. Synthetic fill would have stayed warm even wet, but it's heavier and bulkier, that's the real trade-off.

1