Thanks for the comparison. I was all set to look at the bristlecone until you reminded me that it only comes with the microfiber show and not the Gore wind stopper. The second reason why I like the bristlecone is not having to move the down around like you can in the sequoia. I would rather just lay the bag out, fluff it up get in and get a good nights sleep and I don’t have to worry about moving down around. Lastly the reason I wanted the Bristolcone is compromise between temperature ranges of the Cyprus and the sequoia. So now what I think I will end up doing is maybe looking for a Gore wind stopper, outer cover or get the sequoia get it with the Gore wind, stopper, and habit overstuffed and just learn to live with moving down around. Thanks for sharing your time and actual use of all these bags and opinions of them which I greatly respect given the environment you put them through
I too wished the Bristlecone was offered in the GWS outershell. I actually chose the Lynx GWS originally, but sold it and bought the Bristlecone and am glad I did. Maybe a Bristlecone GWS would be too similar to the Cypress to warrant offering it. ( I don't suspect they sell all that many of these things.) I will say that the down in the Sequoia tends to stay put. I usually have most of it on top and does stay there unless I decide to force it to the bottom FWIW. Tough choice. Take care, Matt
Great review Matt & thanks for the comparison video..One thing ive added for my camp outs with the MF bags is a usgi goretex bivy just in case of heavy rain or snow.
hi there... a 'heavy duty' GTX bivy might adversely impact the loft of any sophisticated MF-based SB, such as those by WM, characterized by great lofting...- I recommend rather using something like EXPED's "Cover pro" instead.... -> it is waterproof and highly breathable, at same time feather-light, allowing full lofting of a MF-based SB. This way, one could also flexibly use across a range of several SBs, representing a pretty versatile setup, I reckon (and a cost efficient one, too).
in case I was in need for any SB to be used in temperatures way colder than -20°C, I might consider getting the Bristlecone, using a PERTEX QUANTUM PRO cover (e.g., the "COVER PRO" by Exped) as backup providing protection during times of abrupt and equally drastic changes in ambient air-temperatures (i.e., jumping above freezing point), which can occur in the Arctic from time to time - in conclusion, MF based SBs are superior in terms of "sleeping climate" inside the bag itself. As long as one would be staying well below freezing point, there is hardly any need for a GWS-version of it, unless doing primarily cowboy-camping, I reckon. On the other hand, the Cypress is nice to have, but hard to justify if not used on a regular basis, as any SB can be upgraded by applying 100% merino-wool base-layers to be worn (regular, thick, massive... etc.), thermal liners (merino as well), nice woolen protection via beanies, gloves etc.). Thx Mat for your great contributions - I really do enjoy watching each single episode.
Because Western Mountaineering only sells through their licensed distributors, it can be challenging to find the bag you want. They are all hand-made, so not all of the models are available at a given moment in time. The first suggestion is Amazon. They have a wide selection. After that, try Hermit's Hut, Back Country, and Moosejaw. These online companies usually have a large selection. If you still don't see what you are looking for, you can order one through any of their distributors. I suggest calling Hernit's Hut. They will order you what you want AND have it overfilled for free. Last time I ordered one custom built from them it took about 2 weeks. There are brick and morter retailers here in Colorado. Jax and REI are two of them. Hopefully this info will help you find the model you are looking for. Be forewarned, they are crazy expensive. Good luck on your quest, and thanks for watching my channel! Matt
I've been wanting to review the Terralite. We bought one for my boss and I've yet to ask him if I can borrow it to do a review. I was torn between the Terralite and Sycamore for myself. I ultimately went with the Sycamore, only because I felt I didn't need so much room in the waist. But that's it. I really like the Terralite. My boss has taken it hunting into some frosty temperatures and says it keeps him very warm.
Hi, How do you go about getting your bags overstuffed? I emailed their customer service and asked but they did not get back to me. Sending a $700.00 bag blindly to a manufacturer that does not outline the process on their website is a bit concerning. Please let me know and thank you for the video's. :)
@jamesbrittain9564 Hey, you are so welcome! So if you google "Western Mountaineering repair form." Click on that and it will download the form to your device or desktop. Print that out, fill it out, and send it to them with your bag. Their mailing address is on the form. I've had several overfilled and the turn around time was always about 2 weeks or so. This should help. Ya, I hear you about the risk, but use the form and everything should go smoothly for you. Thanks for watching, and good luck! Matt
A coil zipper seals better than a toothed zipper. It is also less likely to snag, and is self repairing ( to an extent ). I'm not real sure why Western Mountaineering used a chunky toothed zipper at the bottom of these semi rectangular bags.
