Sweet n' Light

By Joshua Mausolf Ranked #8 - Sleeping Bags March 25, 2008

Out of all the three light-weight bags I own, Marmot Sawtooth (15F), MTH Lamina 45, and MTH Phantom 32, the Phantom is by far my favorite. I have tested this bag in extended days of downpour rain as well as dryer days in sub-freezing weather. Its extremely light weight and very compact (slightly taller and slightly fatter than a Nalgene). Regarding its quality, this bag is top notch. I've owned this bag for over a year, and have stuffed and unstuffed it many times. In that time period, I have only seen maybe two feathers leak through the down proof material. In contrast, my the fabric of my Sawtooth constantly leaks feathers. The fabric has a nice face and a tight weave, and as a result, it is slightly water-resistant. Furthermore, the zipper glides effortlessly without snagging.

As far as comfort is concerned, the bag breaths well, the hood is very comfortable, and unlike other superlight bags in this class, the Phantom has a 3/4 lenght zipper. In contrast to some other bags I have such as the Sawtooth, the Phantom stays dry. The outside is never soaked with condensation, and any that builds up, I have been able to wipe off without it being soaked up. Also, the inside stays dryer, even if I overheat and doesn't feel damp in the morning. The coldest I've tested it has been 28F. I was wearing Patagonia Cap 3 top/bottom, smart wool socks, hat, etc, on Thermarests, no tent and breezy. I wasn't cold the entire night (though I wasn't really warm either). Considering that I was below rating and without a tent in the wind, the bag surpassed my expectations. In weather warmer than about 50F, the bag does get steamy, so consider the Phantom 45 for warm summer trips.

I'm 5'4", and for me the bag is extremely roomy. If you are larger, and like room, you shouldn't have any problems. As of now, I am so impressed with this bag, that I am planning on buying the Phantom 45 as well. If you are looking for a great, light-weight, high-quality bag that doesn't lack comfort, get the Phantom 32, you won't regret it.

View Details: Mountain Hardwear Phantom 32 Sleeping Bag: 32 Degree Down

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