aka_dino
03-08-2009, 11:09 AM
While considering my options for a lightweight backpacking set-up, I was drawn to the Softie range as, being ex-forces, the simple fact that softies were used by HM.Forces in conflict implied serious credentials. I purchased the Softie Elite 2. When I first opened the bag I had some serious reservations about the temperature range of 0/-5 deg C. The bag felt no thicker or heavier than a Nato tropical bag, which anywhere other than the tropics is useless. I was impressed with the quality of the materials and the standard of manufacture. The quality control labels sewn inside the bag sent positive messages about the product and having seen the same thing on my own Hilleberg tent, I was happy to put my reservations to one side until I had tested the bag. Before venturing off into the wilderness, I did a standing test in my garden. At freezing point on a breezy morning I stood upright inside the bag wearing only boxers. After one hour, I was still comfortable but as I was standing directly on patio slabs, my feet did start to feel the cold and the windchill was taking effect on the windside of the bag. Happy with the results of this crazy test, I tested the bag under shelter down to -3 deg C. Wearing socks and base layers, I was toasty warm and amazed that such a skinny bag could be so thermally efficient. I am a broad chap so the expansion panel was a very welcome addition making the bag very comfortable for larger types like myself. I did try to use the length reduction clips on the foot of the bag, but at 5'11", I would recommend it only for children and small adults. My only critisism is that the compression sack could be a little larger as initial packing before compression is hard work. I have subsquently used this bag down to -6 deg C in mid-layers and remained comfortable.
My backpacking set-up is:
Hilleberg Akto with footprint. Gelert Xlite Self-inflating mattress. Whisperlite International Cooker. Softie Elite 2. On occasion a gore-tex bivi bag and a tarp set-up.
My rule-of-thumb is, "Buy cheap, buy twice!", on everything. I don't entertain anything sub-standard or purchase crap. My Elite 2 has passed with flying colours and is a recommended item! :)
My backpacking set-up is:
Hilleberg Akto with footprint. Gelert Xlite Self-inflating mattress. Whisperlite International Cooker. Softie Elite 2. On occasion a gore-tex bivi bag and a tarp set-up.
My rule-of-thumb is, "Buy cheap, buy twice!", on everything. I don't entertain anything sub-standard or purchase crap. My Elite 2 has passed with flying colours and is a recommended item! :)