Best Lightweight Extreme Cold Weather Sleeping Bags for 2019


Our review process

We've taken a look at over 800 sleeping bags, including many different lightweight extreme cold weather sleeping bags. We used our leading artificial intelligence algorithm to score each individual sleeping bag based on a number of data points. These features range from the temperature rating and the number of seasons to type and weight. The following article will discuss lightweight extreme cold weather sleeping bags in particular, of which we found 14. We hope that this guide will help you pick the best one for you.

We've taken a look at lightweight extreme cold weather sleeping bags and wanted to let you in on a few things. Lightweight sleeping bags pack down into a small size, so they are less bulky when rolled up. They are good for beginners, making them great for campers and backpackers who haven't had a lot of experience carrying a large bag for long distances and need something easier to handle on the trail. However, they are generally not as warm, making them impractical for nights when temperatures drop well below zero. A plus is that they are easy to carry, helping you move on the trail faster, farther and more comfortably.

These sleeping bags prevent any heat loss, so you can have a successful winter camp-out. They have zoned insulation, maximizing the thermal efficiency in the most cold prone areas. Extreme cold weather sleeping bags are commonly designed with a draft collar, keeping the warm air around your torso in and cold air out. They have draft tubes, which run the length of the bag behind the zipper to help keep warm air from escaping. Typically made with feather down, they will compress down easily, while still being providing excellent thermal insulation.

Our Top Ranking Sleeping Bags:
Product NameBrandShapeTemperature RatingSize
Best Overall Score
1
An image of Western Mountaineering Lynx Gore Windstopper Sub Zero Degree Down Sleeping Bag
Western Mountaineering Lynx Gore Windstopper Sub Zero Degree Down Sleeping Bag
Western Mountaineering
mummy
sub zero degree
single
Runner Up
2
An image of Outdoor Vitals Summit 0 Degree Down Sleeping Bag
Outdoor Vitals Summit 0 Degree Down Sleeping Bag
Outdoor Vitals
mummy
0 degree
single
Best Affordable Option
3
An image of Suisse Sport Alpine 5RR4302RN Men's 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Suisse Sport Alpine 5RR4302RN Men's 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Suisse Sport
mummy
0 degree
single
For Backpacking
4
An image of Sierra Design Nitro UL 800 Women's 0 Degree Sleeping Bag
Sierra Design Nitro UL 800 Women's 0 Degree Sleeping Bag
Sierra Design
mummy
0 degree
single
5
An image of Alps Mountaineering 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Alps Mountaineering 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag
Alps Mountaineering
mummy
0 degree
single
Our Top Ranking Sleeping Bags
Customer Rating
Brand
Western Mountaineering
Shape
mummy
Temperature Rating
sub zero degree
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Outdoor Vitals
Shape
mummy
Temperature Rating
0 degree
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Suisse Sport
Shape
mummy
Temperature Rating
0 degree
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Sierra Design
Shape
mummy
Temperature Rating
0 degree
Size
single
Customer Rating
Brand
Alps Mountaineering
Shape
mummy
Temperature Rating
0 degree
Size
single
Best Overall Score
An image of Western Mountaineering Lynx Gore Windstopper Sub Zero Degree Down Sleeping Bag

Let's review the Western Mountaineering Lynx Gore Windstopper Sub Zero Degree Down Mummy Sleeping Bag, rated highly by online shoppers. This Western Mountaineering sleeping bag is lightweight, making it great if your number one priority is low volume and weight. It features a down lining, lasting up to a decade with the proper upkeep. Featuring a mummy shape, it is made for optimal warmth-to-weight ratio, since it is fitted so there isn't excess fabric, reducing the weight and making it easier to carry on your back. This Western Mountaineering sleeping bag is made to be compact and has a compressible design, giving you enough extra space to take along your other equipment. It can withstand sub-zero degree temperatures, sealing in heat by maximizing insulation. It uses Gore Windstopper™ fabric, so you will stay warm in windy conditions as this sleeping bag is wind-resistant.

    Pros
    • Folds up compactly
    • Features a compressible design
    • Lightweight construction
    Cons
    • Down needs special cleaning care
    • Mummy shape limits different sleeping positions
Runner Up
An image of Outdoor Vitals Summit 0 Degree Down Sleeping Bag

Before purchasing the Outdoor Vitals Summit 0 Degree Down Mummy Sleeping Bag, it's helpful to know more. This Outdoor Vitals sleeping bag features a down lining, lasting for many years with the proper upkeep. With a mummy shape, it is made with maximum warmth-to-weight ratio, since it is cut closely so there is no extra fabric, cutting down on the weight and making it easier to carry. It is made for camping and is lightweight, making it great for hiking or traveling long distances on foot.

This Outdoor Vitals sleeping bag has a zipper guard, preventing the fabric from snagging when opening and closing the zipper. Featuring a 0°F temperature rating, it can keep out icy drafts from the inside of your sleeping bag. It is made to be compact and has a compressible design, so your sleeping bag will not take up a lot of room, leaving you with enough space to bring along your other equipment. The hood is designed with drawstrings, so you can adjust the fit based on the temperature outside. This Outdoor Vitals sleeping bag has a compression bag, which gives you the perfect space to pack away your sleeping bag and any other small items.

    Pros
    • Folds up compactly, getting rid of the bulk
    • Designed to compress easily
    • Zipper guard prevents the fabric from catching
    Cons
    • Down loses loft when wet
    • Mummy shape restricts different sleeping positions
    • Camping sleeping bags are not suitable for backpacking
Best Affordable Option
An image of Suisse Sport Alpine 5RR4302RN Men's 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag

Sleep comfortably while using the Suisse Sport Alpine Men's 0 Degree Polyester Mummy Sleeping Bag. This Suisse Sport sleeping bag is lightweight and is designed for hiking, so if weight is your priority this could be a great option. With a mummy shape, it is made with excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, since it is very fitted so there isn't excess material, cutting down on the weight and making it more comfortable to carry on your back. It has a polyester shell, which will resist UV light, shielding you from harmful sunlight, and a polyester lining, which is breathable and soft on your skin and does not get as hot as other fabrics during the night.

This sleeping bag features a shoulder pocket, which offers you a convenient and safe place to store your valuable and small items, such as your phone. It is made to be compact and has a compressible design, giving you enough extra space to bring along your other gear. Suitable for winter weather, it is built with durable materials that are highly insulated which withstand extra cold temperatures. Withstanding 0°F temperatures, it can keep out cold drafts from the inside of your sleeping bag. This Suisse Sport sleeping bag features a stuff sack, which will keep your pack organized. The hood has drawstrings, so you can adjust the fit based on the temperature outside. This Suisse Sport sleeping bag has Microtekk Z1 insulation, which keeps you warm at colder temperatures by using synthetic insulation.

    Pros
    • Folds up compactly
    • Compresses easily
    • Drawstring hood gives added cushion by the head
    Cons
    • Polyester absorbs sweat
    • Mummy shape doesn't have extra space to move around
    • Polyester exterior is not very durable
For Backpacking
An image of Sierra Design Nitro UL 800 Women's 0 Degree Sleeping Bag

Use the Sierra Design Nitro UL 800 Women's 0 Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag to stay warm and cozy in the outdoors. This sleeping bag is designed for backpacking and is lightweight, making it great if your number one priority is low volume and weight. It has a mummy shape, which is larger on top and more fitted on the bottom, keeping warm air close to your body. Tailored for women, it has more insulation at the feet and torso as women usually are naturally colder than men. Featuring a nylon ripstop shell, it works well in rugged use since it won't rip or tear. It has a 0°F temperature rating, which keeps out cold drafts from the inside of your sleeping bag. This Sierra Design sleeping bag uses Dridown technology, so the insulating down clusters will be protected from moisture. It is easy to pack, so it will neatly roll up and fit into your bag.

    Pros
    • Easy to pack sleeping bags roll up compactly
    • Women's cut provides extra insulation by your extremities
    • Lightweight construction
    Cons
    • Mummy shape requires you to sleep on your back
    • Women's sleeping bags do not always fit tall women
Additional Picks
An image of Alps Mountaineering 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag

Choose the Alps Mountaineering 0 Degree Polyester Mummy Sleeping Bag to stay warm in the outdoors. This Alps Mountaineering sleeping bag has a polyester lining, which is light and soft on your skin and doesn't get as hot as other fabrics during the night, and a polyester exterior, which is light and comfortable. It has a mummy shape, which is larger on top and more fitted by the feet, keeping warm air close to your body. This sleeping bag is perfect for camping and is lightweight, making it great if your number one priority is low volume and weight. Withstanding 0°F temperatures, it can keep out cold drafts from the inside of your sleeping bag. With a compressible design, it fits easily into a backpack or bag. It has Techloft silver insulation, which uses tiny, silicone-coated, micro-denier fibers that increase insulation, warmth, and compactness.

    Pros
    • Features a compressible design
    • Lightweight construction
    • Polyester lining is strong and colorfast
    Cons
    • Polyester can get dirty easily
    • Mummy shape doesn't have extra space to move around
    • Camping sleeping bags are not suitable for backpacking
An image of Marmot Lithium 0 Degree Sleeping Bag

Choose the Marmot Lithium 0 Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag to stay warm and cozy in the outdoors. This sleeping bag has a mummy shape, which is wider on top and more fitted on the bottom, keeping warm air closer to you. Featuring a lightweight build, it won't be difficult to carry. It features Down Defender, which prevents down from losing loft when exposed to moisture. This sleeping bag can withstand 0°F temperatures and is waterproof, keeping out moisture, so you won't end up soaked if it starts raining.

    Pros
    • Lightweight build, which reduces the weight of your bag
    • Mummy shape has excellent insulation
    • Intended for one sleeper, making it a great space-saving choice
    Cons
    • Mummy shape does not have extra space to move around
An image of Western Mountaineering Bison GWS Sub Zero Degree Sleeping Bag

If you're looking for a new sleeping bag, you might want to consider the Western Mountaineering Bison GWS Sub Zero Degree Mummy Sleeping Bag, which is rated very highly among customers. This sleeping bag has a mummy shape, which is larger on top and more fitted by the feet, keeping warm air closer to you. It features Gore Windstopper™ fabric, which protects you from all windy conditions by utilizing a porous membrane that keeps you warm. With a sub-zero degree temperature rating, this sleeping bag can prevent any icy drafts from keeping you up at night. It has a compressible design, so your sleeping bag will not take up a lot of room, leaving you with enough space to bring along your other equipment. Featuring a lightweight build, it won't hurt your shoulders to carry.

    Pros
    • Compresses easily
    • Lightweight build
    • Mummy shape has great insulation
    Cons
    • Mummy shape is very fitted with no extra room to move
An image of Browning Vortex 4853036 0 Degree Polyester Sleeping Bag

With the Browning Vortex 0 Degree Polyester Mummy Sleeping Bag, you can experience a great night's sleep while on your outdoor adventure. This Browning sleeping bag has a polyester lining, which is light and soft on your skin and does not get as hot as other fabrics during the night, and a polyester shell, which is light and comfortable. It is lightweight and is designed for hunting, so you can get a good night's sleep even in demanding conditions. With a mummy shape, it is made for optimal warmth-to-weight ratio, since it is fitted so there is no extra material, reducing the weight and making it more comfortable to carry on your back.

This Browning sleeping bag is made to be compact and features a compressible design, giving you sufficient extra space to take along your other essentials. It is waterproof and can withstand 0°F temperatures, so the cold won't deter you from spending a night in the wilderness. It uses Techloft Micro-Insulation, so you will have increased insulation and comfort because of tiny, silicone-coated, micro-denier fibers. This sleeping bag comes with a stuff sack, which will keep your pack organized.

    Pros
    • Folds up compactly, so you can travel comfortably without bulk
    • Designed to compress easily
    • Stuff sack will keep you organized
    Cons
    • Polyester stains easily
    • Mummy shape does not have extra space to move around
    • Polyester exterior is not very durable
An image of Big Agnes Daisy Mae Women's 0 Degree Polyester Taffeta Sleeping Bag

Looking for a great camping sleeping bag? You'll want to hear all about the Big Agnes Daisy Mae Women's 0 Degree Polyester Taffeta Mummy Sleeping Bag. This sleeping bag is designed for camping and is lightweight, making long days out on the trail easier to tackle. With a mummy shape, it is made for optimal warmth-to-weight ratio, since it is fitted so there isn't excess fabric, reducing the weight and making it easier to carry on your back. It features a polyester taffeta lining and a polyester shell, which resists UV light, shielding you from damaging sun rays. Designed for women, it has more insulation at the feet and torso as women generally are naturally colder than men.

This sleeping bag can withstand 0°F temperatures, preventing any icy drafts from keeping you up at night. It features a zipper guard, preventing the material from getting caught in the zipper. It is equipped with Downtek, designed to create strong surface tension on the fibers of the down clusters, so they won't collapse when wet and lose their ability to insulate. This sleeping bag features a jacket style hood and a built-in pillowcase, so you can have a designated pocket to hold a pillow, supporting your head and neck.

    Pros
    • Features a built-in pillowcase
    • Zipper guard prevents the fabric from snagging
    • Jacket style hood gives extra comfort by the head
    Cons
    • Mummy shape has a tailored fit which may not be comfortable for all campers
    • Camping sleeping bags are not suitable for hiking
    • Polyester exterior is not very durable
An image of Big Agnes Oliphant 0 Women's 0 Degree Nylon Taffeta Sleeping Bag

Sleep comfortably with the Big Agnes Oliphant 0 Women's 0 Degree Nylon Taffeta Mummy Sleeping Bag. With a mummy shape, this Big Agnes sleeping bag is made for optimal warmth-to-weight ratio, since it is very fitted so there isn't extra fabric, reducing the weight and making it more comfortable to carry on your back. It is tailored for women, providing extra padding at the feet and torso, as women usually have naturally lower body temperatures than men. This sleeping bag is suitable for temperatures as low as 0°F and is waterproof, resisting moisture and keeping you protected from rain or dew. It has a nylon taffeta lining and is designed with a nylon ripstop shell, so it lasts for a long period of time. It features Downtek, designed to repel water even in the wettest conditions. This sleeping bag is ideal for backpacking and is lightweight, making long days out on the trail easier to tackle. It has a mummy-style hood and a mesh storage sack, which offers you a convenient and safe place to stash your important items, such as your phone. It features a stuff sack and a two-way zipper, so you can easily control the airflow inside the sleeping bag.

    Pros
    • Mummy-style hood traps body heat
    • Stuff sack provides a spot to store loose items
    • Women's cut has extra insulation by your extremities
    Cons
    • Mummy shape has a tight fit which may not be comfortable for every sleeper
    • Stuff sack can ruin the sleeping bag's insulation after prolonged use
    • Women's sleeping bags can sometimes be cut too tightly
Understanding More About the Different Types of Lightweight Extreme Cold Weather Sleeping Bags Available:
Which Liner Material Is Best for Your Lightweight Sleeping Bags?
Polyester Sleeping Bags

Are polyester sleeping bags the best choice for you? Take a look at this particular lightweight sleeping bag with a polyester liner that we highly recommend. Polyester sleeping bags are designed to be hypoallergenic, so they don't contain harmful substances that can cause discomfort for people with asthma or certain chemical sensitivities. They are extremely durable, so they will stay in great condition over time. These sleeping bags are easy to clean, so with just a damp cloth and a little soap you can keep them in great shape. They are made with breathable material, causing the temperature inside your bag to stay comfortable and balanced. Polyester sleeping bags dry quickly, so when facing wet conditions, moisture will not soak the fabric.

Down Sleeping Bags

Looking for a long-lasting sleeping bag? A sleeping bag with a down liner may be the solution you want. For your convenience, we recommend one of the great lightweight sleeping bags that come with a down liner. These sleeping bags feature an easily compressible design, so they don't require a significant amount of storage space when you are finished using it. They are designed to be insulated, so they retain your body heat very well, keeping you cozy regardless of the weather. Down sleeping bags are extremely durable, so they will not pill or tear with extended use. Made with breathable material, they won't stick to your skin or leave you feeling overheated on warmer nights. Designed for warmth, they will keep you snug and cozy. They are very comfortable, so you can get a good night's sleep after a long day in the outdoors. Feel ready to pick out the right lightweight sleeping bag for you? You can get started here.

Polyester Taffeta Sleeping Bags

There are four lightweight sleeping bags available that have a polyester taffeta liner. These sleeping bags are breathable, so heat is distributed evenly, making them great when the weather forecast is unpredictable. They are very soft, so you don't have to suffer sleeping in the outdoors.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Temperature Ratings for Lightweight Sleeping Bags
Sub Zero Degree Sleeping Bags

If you're looking for a sub zero degree rating lightweight sleeping bag, then you should consider this great sleeping bag. Sub zero degree sleeping bags dry quickly, so moisture will not soak the fabric, maximizing thermal efficiency even when wet. They are ideal for winter trips outdoors, so you won't have to worry about having to pack tons of extra blankets and layers to stay warm. These sleeping bags are closely fitted, minimizing the amount of air around your body, so you have less overall space to heat up. With advanced technology like Thermotech insulation, they are engineered to deliver outstanding warmth. They have a tight fitted hood design, so they aren't the best choice if you want a lot of free movement around the neck and head. Something to keep in mind is that they are generally expensive, so if you won't be using the bag that often, you might want to think about purchasing a cheaper one. Sub zero degree sleeping bags have an easy access design, so you don't have to struggle with the zipper while dealing with cold weather.

0 Degree Sleeping Bags

If you want a sleeping bag that will stand up to cold weather then 0 degree sleeping bag might be what you want. We looked at two lightweight sleeping bags that come with a 0 degree temperature rating. These sleeping bags should keep you comfortable down to 0°F, although do keep in mind that this doesn't account for variables such as layering, what you're wearing, and various other factors. They are ideal for winter trips outdoors, so they can be depended on for cold nights. Featuring advanced technology like Thermotech insulation, they are engineered to provide an extreme layer of insulation between you and the cold outside. 0 degree sleeping bags come with an easy access design, which will reduce the amount of unnecessary time spent out in the cold while fussing with the zipper. However, they are generally expensive, so unless you're planning on sleeping out in the most extreme weather, they might not be worth your purchase. Now that you know more about 0 degree rating sleeping bags, check out this highly rated lightweight sleeping bag.