WM Bags and Condensation

[Dale]

Howdy
I'm interested in feedback from anyone that has used one of the WM extremelite bags in a single wall tent. Specifically I'll be using the WM Summertime in a tarptent sub lite sil in 0-9 degree weather on the Australian Alps Walking Track next month. I'm interested to find out whether the bag deals well with condensation. WM state their bags are water resistant but I'm not sure this is as effective as a DWR treated bag. I have used an Exped Sparrow bag in the tarptent and its DWR treatment has dealt well with the condensation. I have emailed WM but am also interested in feedback from forum members.

[SteveJ]

My WM Summerlite seems to cope in My Tarptent Moment, I have had some pretty heavy condensation in the Moment and am yet to notice any effect on the bag. I kinda curl up a bit when I sleep too so bag touches the wet wall but...all good so far.

Steve

[Dale]

Thanks Steve.

Out of interest what sort of temperatures have you used your Summerlite ?

[Tony]

Hi Dale,

I would not be too concerned about condensation in a down sleeping bag in the Snowy's in April, while the nights can get cold, most days are still warm and sunny which will dry the bag out, I have used my Summerlite in moist alpine conditions without noticeable loss of warmth.

I have been using a Contrail Tarptent for a few years and while I have had condensation inside, it is usually when I camped near a stream or it is raining.

The main problems with condensation inside a sleeping bag is from the moisture given off from occupant and if it is cold and damp for extended period, this can build up but in April which is normally dry I do not think you will have any problems.

If you are worried about keeping warm in cold wet conditions for extended periods of time consider getting a BPL synthetic quilt. (they are out of stock at the moment)

Tony

[under10kg]

My WM Summerlite seems to cope in My Tarptent Moment, I have had some pretty heavy condensation in the Moment and am yet to notice any effect on the bag. I kinda curl up a bit when I sleep too so bag touches the wet wall but...all good so far.

Steve

I place the end of my bag in a parka to overcome this problem as this can happen to me.

[Dale]

Thanks Tony - so far almost all of the trips with my Tarptents have attracted the rain gods. Also I do enjoy camping near rivers so I've been experiencing quite a bit of condensation... Hopefully a bit drier in the Alps !

Under10kg - this is a good idea on the rain jacket wrapped around sleeping bag base I'll give it a shot.

[Jellybean]

Hi Dale,

I have both a WM Summerlite bag and a TT Sub-lite Sil, but can't answer your question as I've only had one opportunity to use both so far and used a lightweight bivvy (Ti Goat Ptarmigan) "just in case". (I wasn't sure how much condensation I was going to get in the Sub-lite or how much moisture the Summerlite would take).

I'd be interested to hear what WM say in response to your email. My understanding was that the WM bags (with the exception of the Gore ones) weren't that water resistant?)

I have to say that, so far, I love the Summerlite - it's: well constructed, with quality materials; light but warm for the weight; versatile - the full length zip allows you to use it as a quilt on warmer nights; and I love the fit (some - with very broad shoulders - complain that the fit is too snug but for me it's perfect, there's room to move but not so much room that cold spots are created. My Marmot Helium - while otherwise a great bag, suffers from that).

Cheers,

JB

[Lizzy]

so could you just spray on a DWR??????
lizzy

[SteveJ]

Thanks Steve.

Out of interest what sort of temperatures have you used your Summerlite ?

Dale, down to 4oC and it was toasty on a 4 season mat (Pacific Outdoor Peak Oyl). I am quite broad shouldered so the bag is a very snug fit (tight almost) but I like it that way as it is very warm.

Steve