Why We Chose It: Excellent value, solid performance, responsibly-sourced down and PFC-free fabrics
Though Kelty isn’t quite so well known in the UK, across the pond it’s one of the biggest outdoor brands in the US – right up there with global mega-corps like Patagonia, Columbia and The North Face. Kelty is best known for its range of rucksacks and tents, but their sleeping bags are also highly regarded, particularly for budget-conscious adventurers. That’s because Kelty gear is well known for providing exceptional bang for your buck, and the Cosmic Down range of sleeping bags is no exception.
Available in 0, 20 and 40° Fahrenheit ratings (that translates to -17, -6 and 4 degrees Celsius respectively – although note those are lower temperature limits), there’s an option for you whether you’re strictly a warm-weather camper or a winter warrior. For us, the most versatile option is probably the Cosmic Down 20, which is a genuine three-season superstar. Stuffed with cosy 550 fill power duck down in a soft yet hard-wearing nylon taffeta shell, this bag offers both warmth and comfort, aided by a draught collar and chunky hood help to lock in the heat.
What Is The Cosmic Down Sleeping Bag Best Suited To?
The Cosmic 20 is rated with an ISO Comfort of 32°F or 0°C and a lower limit of 21°F or -6°C, so it ought to keep you warm even if temps dip just below freezing. That makes this a decent bag for three-season campsite camping or backpacking long-distance trails. It’ll also work well for most wild camping adventures from spring through to autumn, though admittedly, things might start to get a little chilly if you’re high in the Scottish hills.
Weighing in at just over a kilo and with a pack size of 20 x 33cm in the regular length (they also do a long length if you’re north of six foot), it’s going to be a little heavier and bulkier than premium ultralight down bags. On the other hand, it costs just £130, which is half the price of a higher-performance bag. And if you wrestle it into a compression sack, it’ll still pack easily into most backpacking rucksacks without taking up too much space.
Eco Credentials
Here’s where the Cosmic Down series really shines, particularly in comparison to many other budget down bags. Unlike most low-cost rivals, Kelty down is exclusively sourced from Allied Feather + Down, which in turn is an RDS (Responsible Down Standard) certified supplier. The down in the bags can be tracked via Allied Feather + Down’s Track My Down programme, ensuring full traceability.
