Sleeping Bag Ratings

I have always believed that sleeping bag manufacturers just made them up. There is no American Standard rating system for sleeping bags. The European Union however does, and REI will be using it to rate its sleeping bags.

With product availability set for stores and on www.rei.com in Spring 2009, the company will incorporate the European Norm (known as EN 13537) into its new mummy-style backpacking bags above zero degrees. EN 13537 is a standard testing methodology developed and used in Europe that ensures sleeping bag temperatures above zero degrees are consistent across styles and brands. It will be easier for customers to make informed decisions when selecting a sleeping bag that will keep them warm wherever they recreate.

“To date, there has not been a consistent test for temperature ratings among sleeping bags sold in the United States, and we believe this has resulted in customer confusion,” adds Fromson. “By using the EN 13537 rating, we’re removing the guesswork for our customers, and allowing an apples-to-apples comparison to other EN-rated bags, so the customer has a comfortable night’s sleep.”

I think this is step forward.