Minimalist mountaineering brand Crux has announced its
first range of sleeping bags and they're the first ever to use
an eVent shell.
Due out in May 2008, the bags combine down - the only
insulation Crux believes is suitable for high mountain use - with a
completely waterproof and highly breathable eVent shell for maximum
protection when things get gnarly.
The new Torpedo 500 - rated to -10C with 500 grammes of Polish
goose down fill, welded seams / baffles and an eVent shell -
£330
Crux says that existing waterproof bags are either too heavy and /
or not breathable enough, while lightweight water-resistant fabrics
aren't up to the job when you really need them to perform in the
worst condtions.
The eVent-bags, they say, avoid both problems giving a combination
of light weight with very high breathability and complete waterproof
protection. Crux has used advanced bonding techniques in the bags'
construction with welded baffles and seams throughout helping to
reduce weight and increase breathability.
The filling is premium quality 'diamond grade' goose down from
Poland, arguably the best down commercially available.
Logical Extension
"These bags are a logical extension to our product range for expedition-grade
equipment", says Carol McDermott from Crux, which has built a strong
reputation around its no-nonsense packs, tents and eVent shell
clothing.
"They also break the mould in design terms, giving alpinists and
mountaineers the first truly waterproof, breathable lightweight
shelled sleeping bag."
Three designs will initially be available. The Torpedo 500
(£330) is rated to -10°C using 500g fill down, the
Torpedo 700 (£395) rated to -20°C using 700g fill,
and the Torpedo 900 (£450) rated to -28°C. Each
model is available in three lengths - short, medium and long - with
the middle length also available in left and right zip options.
More details and full specs once we've seen the new bags in the
flesh, but they look like an interesting new option for anyone after
a really protective sleeping bag for high mountain use.
Details of existing Crux products at www.crux.uk.com
ptc*
British brand launches lightweight pack with waterproofed seams.
