When to go Down?

[Nalgene Ninja]

Alright I found a deal on a 30 deg down bag ($69). It weighs practically nuthin' (2lb 1oz), almost half the weight of my 20 deg syn bag. ....

Ya know what, I've just now decided I'm not going to buy any more gear until I've had a chance to adequately use all the new stuff I've gotten already (bag, tent, steripen, pack, etc). I know its shocking to me too.

Here's the link, I was going to keep it close to the vest until I had ordered but...  :'(:
http://www.travelcountry....loseout.html/Display/Alt1

I found this deal through spadout.com BTW.

[Nalgene Ninja]

<rocking back and forth in office chair> I've got enough. I've got enough. I've got enough. I've got enough. I've got enough....
 

[Nalgene Ninja]

Ok I guess the original intent was: When is a down sleeping bag beneficial? Is it simply about low weight?

[Skippy]

To me my down bag is just more comfortable to sleep in. It also compresses better making for more room in my pack. I can't tell much difference in which bag sleeps warmer. Both seem about the same.

[Lostsheep]

my down bag is far superior to my synthetic. insulates well, packs really small, and is extremely lightweight.

the only negative i have is that if it gets wet, it gets heavy, clumpy, and looses some of its insulation capabilities.

[Woody]

Down bags generally compress better, are usually lighter, and last longer in most cases.

Syntehtic bags in most cases can keep you warm when wet, dry more quickly, and cost a lot less.

I say "in most cases" becasue low quality down will not compress any better than high quality synthetics, will not weigh less, and won't last longer. You get the idea.

Both have their place and I have one of each and a couple synthetic quilts I made for ultralight backpacking.

[Nalgene Ninja]

http://outside.away.com/o...rguy/200806/20080602.html

Outside mag's Gear Guy seems to think they should be avoided in humid environments.

[Skippy]

Next time I go to Tanzania I will keep that in mind ;)but until then I will stay with my down