This Expandable Sleeping Bag Gives Adventurers a Custom Fit

New from Big Agnes, the expandable Torchlight line of sleeping bags has a unique fit system in a lightweight, efficient mummy.

Everybody sleeps a little differently. We also have different shapes, sizes, and personal quirks like a sore shoulder or propensity for balling up in the fetal position.

This led Big Agnes to develop its Torchlight series of sleeping bags with a custom fit in mind. Where should the bag be tight, and where should it be roomy?

Instead of giving consumers a cookie-cutter sleeping bag solution for everyone, the Torchlight lets the user decide.

Torchlight Sleeping Bag

The Torchlight accomplishes the goal of a custom-fit sleeping bag with two zippered panels on both sides — from shoulders to footbox. These zippers can increase sleep space up to 10 inches.

Side sleeper? Unzip the shoulder area and hip zone to add a little more room to move. Starfish much? Unzip the footbox and lower leg on either side so those legs can stretch out a bit.

“The ability to customize the bag makes it as efficient as possible,” said Sally House, senior designer at Big Agnes. She explained that the zipper system allows the bag to be as comfortable as possible for the most people while maintaining the efficiency of a close-fitting mummy bag.

That means Big Agnes didn’t want to just build a roomier sleeping bag, it also wanted to combine efficiency with a customizable fit. When you hop into a sleeping bag, it takes time and energy for you to heat up any extra space. Big Agnes’ zipped side panels provide the option to create a roomier space without sacrificing heat, energy, or comfort.

DownTek Insulation Repels Water

Big Agnes insulates the Torchlights with DownTek water-repellent down. That adds defense against a little moisture when you need it most. It’s an upgrade over traditional down that can add peace of mind whether you’re close to home or on a multiday trip. Consumers can choose between value-oriented 650-fill down options, or top-end 850-fill down in the Ultralight (UL) models.

“We really believe in this program and wanted to have a more accessible option for people,” House said of the Torchlight line’s tiered pricing. “We thought the tech was super-cool, and we wanted to get it out in as many ways as possible.”

Beyond the zippered side panels, the Torchlight’s baffle construction aims to provide efficient heat distribution with zero heat loss, even when the bag is expanded — yet another nod toward effectiveness in a customizable package.

Which Torchlight Sleeping Bag Is for You?

The Torchlight comes in eight models — four unisex and four women’s-specific — to offer a wide variety of insulation, weight, and price. The women’s-specific models hone the design for women’s physiology.

Next, you can choose between 20-degree and 30-degree models depending on your expected insulation needs. For those who sleep cool or plan to stretch into spring and fall camping, a warmer bag can offer more versatility. But the 30-degree model is a little lighter and less expensive, as it contains less down fill.

Finally, choose between the standard Torchlight and the Torchlight UL (Ultralight) models. The Torchlight comes with 650-fill hydrophobic down, while the Ultralight edition packs super-premium 850-fill down.

The higher fill-power down allows Big Agnes to cut weight while maintaining warmth. Thus, the Torchlight UL 20 weighs a full 4 ounces less than its standard counterpart.

The trade-off is in price, with the high-end down adding $75 to $100 to the price of the Ultralight editions. But for those who plan to carry the sleeping bag in a backpack for many years, there’s a strong argument for spending a little more for a bag that trims weight from the backpack.

The Torchlight bags are just hitting the market now. If you’re looking for a bag that offers unique customization for your sleep style, check them out at your favorite dealer or at BigAgnes.com.

This article is sponsored by Big Agnes. Check out the brand’s other offerings here.