Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag Review: Warmth and Versatility

When it comes to ultralight backpacking, every ounce counts, but warmth and comfort are non-negotiable. That's where the Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag shines. Designed for hikers who refuse to compromise, this bag combines premium down insulation with a versatile zip-around design that adapts to changing conditions.

In this review, we'll dive into the features, performance, and real-world usability of the Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag. Whether you're a thru-hiker or a weekend warrior, this bag promises to keep you cozy without weighing you down.

Design and Materials

The Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag is a masterpiece of ultralight engineering. It features a full-length zipper that runs around the footbox and up the side, allowing you to open it completely like a blanket. This design provides unmatched versatility: on warm nights, you can use it as a quilt; when temperatures drop, zip it up into a mummy-style bag for maximum heat retention.

The shell is made from ultra-lightweight, water-resistant 10D nylon, which keeps the weight down while protecting the 900-fill-power goose down inside. The down is responsibly sourced and treated with a DWR finish, ensuring it stays lofty even in damp conditions. The bag also includes a draft collar and a snug-fitting hood, both of which are essential for trapping body heat.

• Full-length zipper for convertible use as a quilt or mummy bag
• 900-fill-power goose down with DWR treatment
• 10D nylon shell for durability and water resistance

Warmth and Temperature Ratings

When it comes to warmth, the Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag delivers. It is available in multiple temperature ratings, including 20°F, 30°F, and 40°F versions, so you can choose the one that matches your typical camping conditions. In our tests, the 20°F bag kept us toasty down to freezing, and the draft collar and hood did an excellent job of sealing in heat.

The zip-around design also allows for fine-tuning ventilation. If you start to overheat, you can unzip the footbox partially to let heat escape without exposing your whole body to the cold. This level of control is rare in ultralight bags and makes the Zip Around a favorite among experienced backpackers.

• Temperature ratings: 20°F, 30°F, and 40°F options
• Draft collar and hood for added warmth
• Ventilation control via partial unzipping

Versatility and Comfort

One of the standout features of the Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag is its versatility. The ability to unzip the entire bag into a flat blanket is perfect for summer camping or for couples who want to share a bag. Additionally, the bag can be paired with a sleeping pad using the integrated pad straps (sold separately) to keep it in place throughout the night.

The interior is roomy, allowing for natural movement without feeling constricted. The soft, breathable fabric feels great against the skin, and the bag packs down to a surprisingly small size, making it easy to fit into your backpack. For added convenience, the bag comes with a compression sack that reduces its volume even further.

• Converts to a blanket for warm-weather use
• Compatible with optional pad straps (sold separately)
• Packs down small with included compression sack

Comparison with Other Zpacks Sleep Systems

If you're considering other Zpacks sleep options, you might also look at the Bargain Summer Quilt / Winter Liner. This is a lighter, more minimal option that's great for summer trips, but it doesn't offer the same warmth or versatility as the Zip Around. On the other hand, the Zip Around provides a full sleeping bag experience with the option to open up when needed.

For those who prefer a quilt-style system, the Zip Around's blanket mode gives you the best of both worlds. And if you're looking to save even more weight, consider pairing the Zip Around with a Zpacks sleeping pad and a Medium-Plus Pillow Dry Bag for a complete, comfortable sleep setup.

Pros and Cons

To help you decide if the Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag is right for you, here's a quick rundown of its strengths and weaknesses.

• Pros: Ultralight, versatile zip-around design, excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, high-quality down, comfortable and roomy
• Cons: Higher price point, zipper can snag if not careful, pad straps sold separately

The Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag is a top-tier choice for ultralight backpackers who value warmth, versatility, and quality. Its innovative design lets you adapt to any conditions, making it a worthy investment for your next adventure. If you're ready to upgrade your sleep system, check out the Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag and experience the difference.