Review: Sea to Summit Spark Ultralight Sleeping Bag and Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat
Embarking on a motorcycle journey isn't just about conquering winding roads, but also about a decent night's sleep under the vast sky. Sea to Summit’s Spark ultralight sleeping bag and Ether Light XT insulated air sleeping mat are a dynamic duo that has become my ticket to dreamland on cross-country escapades.
Sea to Summit Spark Ultralight Sleeping Bag
The Spark Ultralight Sleeping Bag is designed for those who understand that every ounce counts when you're chasing horizons. This sleeping bag epitomizes a careful balance between weight, warmth, and quality.
The Spark sleeping bag weighs only 12 ounces and takes up 50 fluid ounces of volume when packed up. This little bundle makes a compelling case for ultralight backpacking without compromising comfort.
The 850+ Loft Ultra-Dry Down delivers the warmth of a marshmallow-like cocoon. It’s also responsible sourced and each bag is RDS certified.
The 10 Denier UL Nylon with a water-repellent finish ensures durability without adding unnecessary weight.
As to the cons, the Spark series sports a snug mummy-like fit. While it's fantastic for retaining heat, those who want a bit of wiggle room might find it restrictive. Also, the Spark Ultralight is your summer buddy—it won't quite cut it when Jack Frost pays a visit.
The Spark sleeping bag excels in warm weather conditions and still provides reliable insulation with a lower temperature rating of 40 degrees. It balances performance and weight with compact packing, making it a practical companion for lightweight backpacking adventures in milder climates.
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat: Airborne Comfort
Moving on to the Ether Light XT insulated air sleeping mat. The design gives you a cushy four-inch-thick mattress that makes you feel like you’re hovering just above the ground.
The dual insulation, comprising Exkin Platinum and Thermolite, ensures you stay toasty in three-season conditions. The 30D/40D face fabric balances weight, durability, and noise reduction, giving you a silent night's sleep.
The Ether Light XT plays in the upper leagues in price and for some, it might be a budget buster. Quality comes at a cost, though, and when you're investing in a good night's sleep, consider it money well spent.
The Ether Light XT weighs 16.6 ounces, making it an efficient choice for those prioritizing a lightweight load. When packed up, it measures just 4.5 x 9.5 inches.
The R-value of 3.2 emphasizes its suitability for a comfortable and insulated rest during outdoor adventures in varied conditions. Unfortunately, Sea to Summit doesn’t offer a battery-operated mini pump like some other brands. This means that when you're exhausted, blowing the bags up can leave you feeling a tad lightheaded. However, I've procured a Giga 2.0 1,300mAh portable air pump as a workaround.
Overall, however, Sea to Summit’s thoughtful designs, premium materials, and commitment to user comfort make the Spark Ultralight and Ether Light XT great travel companions through diverse conditions and climates. And for me, the tight fit of the sleeping bag adds the perfect touch to genuine outdoor comfort.
Sea to Summit Spark Ultralight Sleeping Bag
Sizes: Regular, Long
$251.30 from $359
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat
Sizes: Small, Regular, Large, Rec. Reg Wide, Rec. Large
$189-$239