For the past 50 years, Slumberjack has been producing quality equipment for your outdoor and sporting needs. Originally located in Boulder, Colorado, their products have begun to attract attention nation-wide. Slumberjack outdoor equipment can now be found in dealers across the United States and Canada. You may actually recognize several of their products without realizing it. The company makes many popular products, including tents, sleeping bags, sporting packs. With their focus on portability and comfort, Slumberjack has risen to be a leader in the outdoor equipment market.

Today, we will be reviewing one of Slumberjack’s most highly acclaimed sleeping bags: the Latitude. This bag made our top 3 best cold weather sleeping bags list, if you were reading at that time. First produced in 2011, the Latitude is now ranked 45th in the top 100 sleeping bags on Amazon. Will it stand up to our test today? Let’s check it out.

Overview:
The Latitude measures in at the respectable length of 82”. For most people, this length will be more than enough space to feel comfortable. If you’re on the low or high end of size, you shouldn’t start worrying just yet. Slumberjack actually offers two additional sizes beyond their Regular. The Short, measuring at 74”, offers a smaller and lighter weight option. The Long, measuring at 86”, adds some extra room for even the tallest person. All of the packs have roughly the same width (30”), increasing just a little bit for each size you go up.

To be honest, the Latitude is really built to handle whatever you can throw at it. You can see this in how well the bag can withstand extremely cold environments. Insulated with Slumberloft Synethic, the Latitude can keep you warm in settings as low as 20 degrees. On cold nights like that, you’ll definitely want a pack that can keep you warm through the night. The Latitude does just that. It uses a two layer construction to help retain that heat all night long. The bag has an available space for storage, and comes in the sleek green and black design.

Notable Features:
We can say that this sleeping bag definitely has a lot to offer potential customers. If you are going to be doing any type of outdoor activities in a cold environment, you can’t go wrong with this pack. The Latitude has shown to have excellent heat retention during those frigid nights. It even includes the ability to protect your head and face by tightening a drawstring near the top. It also offers some really great sizing options to help you find the pack that’s right for you. Both tall and short individuals can find serious value in the Latitude. This is all topped off by a soft and comfortable interior and exterior for the bag.

• Excellent heat retention
• Drawstring hood to protect face
• Several sizes to find the right fit
• Comfortable lining and exterior

Pros:
When we are searching for a solid camping sleeping bag, we want it to be comfortable and keep us warm. As we mentioned before, that may actually be the Latitude’s strongest strength. The synthetic allows you to really get comfortable and enjoy the pack. It can easily be used outside, within a tent, or even within your car. It has a very comfortable feel to it as well. You’ll be able to enjoy the softness of the bag while sleeping warmly through the night.

Cons:
We’re disappointed that the kit only came in green and black. We always enjoy getting to customize our camping experience, and one way we enjoy that is through personalizing our equipment. Offering a few different color schemes would really add to the appeal of the Latitude. Perhaps they could even add a lighter and more visible style of pack to the line-up. If we were able to have more of a selection to choose from, we would be able to give higher ratings to the Latitude.

Additionally, there are some issues that have been reported about the zipper with the Latitude. It’s not uncommon for the zipper to catch the bag’s material if you’re closing it quickly and not being precise. It’s always a little sad to see such a great product brought down by little things such as zipper problems. We didn’t have any zipper problems ourselves, but we would like to see Slumberjack make a transition to a better zipper that could prevent these types of incidents.

Conclusion:
Let us start out by saying we think this is a great pack. Unlike many other bags lately, the Latitude brings a lot to the table, and a quick look at Amazon reviews will show that. It would be a great selection for anyone who is interested in doing some outdoor activities in a semi-cold or cold setting. Besides the zipper issue, it also seems to be a rather durable pack. We would recommend this sleeping bag for a short or medium length trip into those cold settings. For these trips, it would pair great with one of tents from Slumberjack’s selection. However, on those longer trips, the zipper has us a little concerned. We would like to see the zipper catch the material of the bag less. We are concerned that the zipper may not hold up to the constant wear that an extended trip can put on a bag.

Overall though, this sleeping bag is a good choice. With the comfort and heat retention, you will be getting your money’s worth. Several of our complaints are more on the cosmetic and accessory side. While we hope this get improved by Slumberjack in a later edition, we think this pack will be a worthwhile purchase for your camping and outdoor needs.

The Military Modular Sleep System is a 4 piece outfit which includes 2 sleeping bags, waterproof Gore-Tex® Bivy cover and stuff sack and, most importantly, made our top 3 reviewed cold weather sleeping bags. Commonly referred to as the Marine Corps Sleeping System, Army Modular Sleep System and Improved Modular Sleep System, this rig is a high quality, military grade integrated system which is made right here in the USA by Tennier Industries and is designed to withstand just about anything short of enemy fire.

Overview

This Military Sleep System is a compact, interchangeable, and highly adaptable set of sleeping apparatus. The carry bag measures 22″ long by 14″ wide when rolled in the nylon water-resistant sack that weighs a meager eight pounds. The largest bag, the Bivy, is 80″ long and 34″ wide at the top and 28″ wide at the bottom. The patrol bag and the ICW are 80″ long and 34″ wide. Each of these components of this system are constructed from fray resistant nylon with water shedding and waterproof capabilities. There are universal camouflage patterns and color options available for optimum blending with the surrounding environment.

Notable Features

• Lightweight
  There’s a full line up of cold weather bags here, but given the amazing warmth of this system, we thought we would mention one of the first incredible features of this system we all loved was the fact that the entire pack only weighed eight pounds. This was certainly appreciated more as the climb progressed. The fact that the system included a waterproof cover also saved us from having to haul a tent with us up the mountainside. These sleeping systems were enough cover to allow us to enjoy our night of slumber out under the clear night sky.
• Interchangeable Units
  Being able to change the sleeping system’s interchangeable parts with the universal Bivy cover allowed us to utilize different parts of the sleeping system at different levels of temperature and weather as we ascended. When the weather at the bottom of the mountain was in the balmy 60’s, many of us chose to utilize just the Bivy cover, while a few utilized the bivy cover with the patrol bag. As we climbed higher, we all eventually were kept warm by the addition of the ICW sleeping component being added. The drawstring top was a great help to keeping our heads and faces warm when the temperatures were excessively harsh and the wind was blowing all through the night high in the mountains.

• Extra Boot Room
  It is a fact that human beings need to relieve themselves periodically, and unfortunately nature often calls in the middle of the night. When spending the night in the great outdoors, running water and toilet facilities are not to be found on the side of a mountain. This sleeping system comes with the answer for that issue. The extra foot space allows for enclosure of the bag without taking boots or shoes off. By allowing this extra room at the foot of the bag gave us the option of keeping our thermal boots on when we were near the summit where it was extremely cold.
• Sturdy Zipper System
  Each of the bags are designed so that the user can utilize the system quickly and easily with the aid of large and easy to operate zippers from top to bottom. It also made it very convenient for Jan who must have gotten up to urinate at least 5 times a night. Other members of the group commented on how easy the operation of the zippers were, which they had not been able to experience with other types of sleeping systems. As a group, we all loved this feature of an easy and quick exit, but no one more than Jan.

Pros

To finish up our mountain climbing testing on our equipment, we compiled a comprehensive list of the benefits of the Military Modular Sleep System 4 Piece with Gore-Tex Bivy Cover and Carry Sack. Earning the highest number of votes for our group was the ability of the system to be used in a number of situations and temperatures. Each member of the group was able to customize their warmth level by utilizing different components of the system.

The next highest voted pro was the total protection of this complete system being effective to -50° F. This was an essential and welcomed pro for this system. Even though the wind and cold were all around us, the pivy cover kept the wind out and the heat in.

The last thing that the group unanimously agreed on being an important and noteworthy pro is the weight and compactness of the system. At a light eight pounds, this system is simple to haul and nearly unnoticeable.

Cons

As a group, we also evaluated what we did not like about the system. Two members of our 9 person group were unhappy because they were kept too warm during the night. However, neither of them chose to utilize the bottom zipper on the system to allow air to flow through their bags.

Conclusion

The uses for this four piece system are many. With the ability to use the cover with each individual piece, the ability to separate the bags from each other and use them independently is essential for personnel assigned to field work for long periods at a time. The range of uses, compact design, and lightweight materials make this system a must for any adventurist who needs to be able to mobilize quickly. Military personnel and non-military outdoor adventurists will both benefit and enjoy their outdoor experience while staying dry and warm when they use the Military Modular Sleep System 4 Piece with Gore-Tex Bivy Cover and Carry Sack. Our team was incredibly impressed with the performance of this warm, interchangeable, and lightweight sleeping system.

Avid outdoorsman Asher “Dick” Kelty couldn’t find exactly what he wanted in a hiking backpack, so, in 1952, he created his own in his garage. From those humble origins has grown one of the world’s most trusted and beloved outdoor gear companies, and today the Kelty brand offers everything that an adventurer could need from tents to tarps to trekking poles. Kelty’s sleeping bags have become go-to products for those interested in camping in all conditions, and the Kelty Cosmic 0 Degree Sleeping Bag retains the attention to detail and high quality that consumers have come to expect from this company.

Overview

This sleeping bag is light on weight, but not when it comes to to durability and warmth. At only 3 lbs 9 oz for the regular size and 3 lbs 13 oz for the longer one, the Cosmic 0 Degree bag can be rolled compactly for use on any length of camping trip. A well-constructed bag, the Cosmic 0 Degree has a taffeta shell and liner and is filled with Kelty’s proprietary stuffing, called “550 fill power DriDown”. We were excited to see that the bag is offered in two sizes: a standard 6′ length and a longer 6’6″ size for those of us who want (or need) a bit more room, but this bag only comes in one color which is called “Autumn”. It’s a gender-neutral burnt orange color that will transition well throughout the seasons.

Notable Features

When you enter the world of Winter Sleeping Bags, you create a certain expectation for the consumer. After testing this bag in a variety of temperatures, we’re happy to report that this bag lives up to its name. Say goodbye to shivering in the middle of the night! The company suggests usage of this sleeping bag in temperatures that dip to 4 F/ -16 C, so the bag will be ready for whatever you decide to throw at it even if it doesn’t quite encompass the titular “0 Degree.” The Cosmic 0 Degree bag comes with a 58″ dual zipper for ease of entry, as well as a draft tube that runs behind the zipper for maximum warmth. The attached draft collar and thermal hood keeps even more of your body heat where it belongs.

Pros

The taffeta lining is smooth and comfortable, and the DriDown blend remains warm even as the temperatures dip into the 20s. The combination of the two ensured that we stayed in that perfect zone of sleeping comfort while testing this bag. While personal comfort varies widely, most consumers will find that this bag is quite comfortable in lower temperatures without needing to sleep in layers of additional comfort. Although the bag is advertised for colder camping conditions, we found that the sleeping bag will easily transition between 80 degree nights and 45 degree nights, which makes it the ideal companion for a long camping trip through varied climates. For example, this bag would work well along the Appalachian trail or backpacking through Europe, where temperatures and conditions can vary greatly from night to night.

We liked that the bag rolls up easily and packs away in the included stuff sack without hassle. Unlike other packs in this price range, the Cosmic 0 Degree sleeping bag can be put in or pulled out of the bag in just a few seconds. The lightweight and compact style ensures that your hiking bag will have plenty of space for other camping necessities beyond the sleeping pack. Additionally, the taffeta exterior is durable and, despite the lighter orange color, resists showing dirt.

Cons

At a price that hovers in the mid- to upper- $200 range, this bag is an investment piece for trips that range beyond your eight-year-old’s sleepovers. For a dedicated camper, or a camper who’s seeking serious adventure year-round, this Kelty sleeping bag is well worth the cost, especially when compared to other sleeping bags with the same features. We had hopes that the sleeping bag would be offered in additional colors, as many of the other Kelty sleeping bags are brightly colored and appeal to a variety of consumers.

For consumers who are taller or who like extra sleeping room, the 6’6″ length has the potential to be a lifesaver. However, for those who have a more muscular or stocky build, the bag may still not offer all of the room to ensure a truly comfortable rest, as the sleeping bag is somewhat narrowly cut. We also discovered that the hood feature does not work for all users, especially those who are already near or at the recommended height. This issue with the hood is further exacerbated if you choose to insert a pillow into the hood with you.

While we tested it, there were some complains on the amount of heat that the foot box retained. If you tend to be cold-natured, you make need to wear additional socks or include foot warmers at the bottom of the bag to ensure that you remain comfortable throughout your sleep.

Conclusion

This lightweight sleeping bag is excellent for campers and hikers in a variety of situations. Consider purchasing this if you plan on camping at high altitudes, in areas where conditions are varied, or during late fall, winter, or early spring. Since it is easy to carry and compact, this versatile bag would be a welcome addition to any long-term trail hiking expedition.

While the price may cause some beginning hikers to wonder if it’s worth the investment, the Kelty Cosmic 0 Degree sleeping bag performs admirably against more expensive bags with similar features. Overall, this bag will be well-received by campers who often find themselves out in harsher conditions, and, after spending some time with the sleeping bag, we can see why the Cosmic 0 Degree remains one of Kelty’s best selling models. Remember that there are hundreds of cold weather sleeping bags on the market, so you can really choose one that’s best suited to you, even if the decision comes down to color!

sleeping bags are a dime a dozen anymore and if you’re trying to cut through all the nonsense, you’ve come to the right place. That’s because I’m a former US Marine and I like good gear. I won’t settle for garbage, because I take sleeping bags very seriously. Spend a few nights on the top of Mount Fuji for Cold Weather Mountain Warfare training, and you’ll have a very specific taste in sleeping bags - warm.

When you’re talking about cold weather sleeping bags, a quick internet search will confirm that the options available are almost endless. “polyfill”, “qualofill”, “goose down”, you name it, there’s a sleeping bag that’s stuffed full of it. Every company and its mother is trying to gain market share, and they all make up materials and terms to describe what’s inside their bags. The fact is, when you are on the side of a mountain and it’s 4 degrees, it doesn’t matter what scientist developed the filament for your bag, or how nature has been providing the “natural insulation” for millions of years. There are only two things that will matter to you in real life - warm and dry. As long as your sleeping bag has those features, you’re golden.

This is a chart which shows general temperatures in different areas. It is meant as a gauge, more than a direct reference. When we talk about the best cold weather sleeping bags, we aren’t talking about 3 season bags, but rather models designed to perform in temperatures below 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are literally thousands of sleeping bags in existence, but we’re going to talk about just (3) of them in this article. Are these the three best sleeping bags on the planet? I’m not sure, (although the Military Modular Sleep System is ridiculously amazing) but I can promise you’ll love each and every one of these setups when it matters most. We tested a multitude of cold weather sleeping bags and wrote a review for each of our three favorites.

The Military Modular Sleep System

Full Disclosure Warning: This is the outfit we were issued in the Marine Corps and it holds near and dear to my heart. I’ve ended many days in this bag and it was a favorite of mine, long before I ever knew I would make a blog like this one - hell, the internet barely existed at that time! I don’t see it as a conflict of interest however, because as I mentioned in my post about Military Backpacks, Gov-Issue gear is not always the best quality, but it is always the cheapest per million units purchased. I don’t have a special love for the Modular Sleep System because it’s better than its competitors, I love it because I’ve got skin in the game, and I’ve spent many nights inside one of these.

As you may remember, we reviewed the Military Issue Modular Sleep System, which is a 4 Piece outfit with a waterproof Gore-Tex Bivy Cover and Carry Sack. It’s a flexible system that when combined, is rated as low as -50° F (-46° F). The combined weight of the entire system is just over nine pounds, and the modular design makes it easy to take or leave components depending on the conditions. Whether using just a single piece, like the breathable Bivy cover, or combining all three bags together, this system is great for almost all weather conditions. The set includes one compression stuff sack, an intermediate sleeping bag, a patrol sleeping bag, and Bivy cover. The stuff sack is made of black nylon and measures 29 inches long and 12 inches in diameter when stuffed. The intermediate sleeping bag is made of water-resistant, black rip-stop nylon and measures 87 inches by 35 ½ inches by 23 inches, rated to -10° F (-23° C), with additional insulation at the foot area, a quilted chest collar, and an adjustable hood. The water-resistant patrol sleeping bag is made of rip-stop, olive drab green nylon and measures 92 inches by 37 inches by 24 inches, rated to 30° F (-1° C). The patrol sleeping bag also features a reversible, double-pull slider to allow airflow from the top or the bottom. The Bivy cover is made of 3-layer Goretex in woodland camouflage and measures 72 inches by 35 inches by 23 inches, making it breathable but still waterproof.

The components of the entire system are genuine U.S. Military issue from government stock, made in the U.S.A., and they can be used separately for comfort at 50° F (10° C) or fastened together to maximize warmth at -50° F (-45° C). Durable and comfortable without being fussy or overly complicated, this is a great sleep system for people looking to purchase an all-in-one solution without sacrificing on the quality of any one individual component.

Kelty Cosmic 0

When we reviewed the versatile and comfortable Kelty Cosmic 0 Degree Down Sleeping Bag, we discovered that it performs as well in the summer as it will during the winter, with a temperature rating of 0° F (-18° C). With availability in two sizes, it’s easier to find the size that best suits the user. One standard size, and one larger size for taller people who need a little extra room or to be able to tuck their extra clothing in at their feet.

This mummy bag includes a thermal-comfort hood that helps hold in extra warmth, especially when considered alongside the draft tube and the dual-sliding and locking zipper that help prevent heat from escaping. The foot box is natural fit to make sure there’s no cramping, and to give a little extra space for people that stuff their spare socks into their bags with them at night. The regular version of this bag is 72 inches long with a shoulder girth of 62 inches, and the long version is 78 inches long with a shoulder girth of 64 inches. The regular version can be stuffed down to 9 inches by 17 inches, and the long version stuffs to 9 inches by 18 inches. Both weigh in at less than 4 pounds, so they’re lightweight and easy to carry.

This sleeping bag is constructed to ensure there are minimal cold spots, and the Hydrophobic Dridown insulation means that, unlike natural down, it will still retain the ability to insulate even if it gets wet. In a stylish, autumnal orange color with a light pattern, this bag is visually attractive as well as functional. Made by Kelty, a quality and long-standing outdoors company that belongs to the Conservation Alliance, this bag definitely delivers the sturdiness and comfort that is part of this brand’s heritage.

Slumberjack Latitude

Including features like the proprietary Slumberloft™ insulation, a water-repellent shell, and a draft tube along the zipper, the Slumberjack Latitude 20 Degree Synthetic Sleeping Bag is great for cool weather camping. Rated to 20° F (-7° C), this bag comes in three sizes to make it possible to select one that best fits your height, build, and sleep preferences.

The outer shell of this bag is made of diamond rip-stop polyester, and the inner shell is made of polyester taffeta, making it comfortable and cozy. The exterior has a water-repellent finish, and the lining is Slumberjack’s durable, warm synthetic Slumberloft insulation. A two-layer, offset construction with a differential cut, combined with a flip over hood that can be contoured, really helps hold in the heat. The foot box is trapezoidal, providing a little extra space for feet to move around naturally. The interior is a neutral, dark gray color, and the exterior is an attractive combination of dark gray and dark olive.

This bag comes with a stuff sack; depending on the size, the bag stuffs down to about 10 inches by 17 inches, and weighs around 3-4 pounds. The short bag measures 74 inches by 30 inches, designed for a height of about 5’4”. The medium bag measures 82 inches by 32 inches, with a maximum height of 6’. The long bag measures 86 inches by 34 inches, meant for a maximum height of 6’6”. Slumberjack has been part of the outdoor industry for over 50 years, making quality equipment for enthusiasts and sportsmen.

In closing…

If you’re venturing outdoors in cold weather, and you plan on sleeping out there, you may as well plan on being warm. I’ve spent countless nights under stars and storm clouds alike, and I can tell you from experience that when you wake up freezing and check your watch, all to find out it’s only 22:00(10pm for the non-military folks), that’s a pretty lousy feeling. I can guarantee you’ll spend the rest of the entire night wide awake, thinking about the new sleeping bag you’re going to buy when you get home, and all the next day you’ll spend dreading the evening to come. I think the above are some of the best cold weather sleeping bags you’ll find, so have a look at them and think warm thoughts.

Our team has tested some great packs, and the official Government Issue MOLLE Assault Pack stood up to the challenges like a true American champion. This 1850 cubic inch pack only comes in Digital ACU; a camouflage that looks like a pixelated tans, greys, and greens. Most of these packs are used, but that’s a good thing, because that ensures they come loaded with history and patina. But don’t worry about the “used” thing, as our packs were in perfect working condition; aside from some minor fading on a few packs, they looked brand new.

We team put the MOLLE Assault Packs through the wringer. They are durable and functional under the toughest situations, and they aren’t full of useless extras(uncle Sam doesn’t pay for extras). The pack features nylon webbing on both sides, of which we attached gear and water bottles. They are strong and intelligently placed. Buckle straps are also located at the top, bottom, and front to increase the carrying load. There is a hydration bladder sleeve with the option of hydration hole exits on either side of the pack. The quick-release shoulder straps work well when the packs are heavy or stuck.

When we heard Military Surplus, comfort was not the first thing that came to mind. With the MOLLE Assault Pack though, we were pleasantly surprised. The shoulder, sternum, and waist straps are fully adjustable. The adjustable shoulder straps fit a much wider range of shoulder and back sizes than we expected. The pack contains an internal padded plastic back support to assist in carrying heavy loads and provide comfort for the user. And at just four pounds, this pack was a breeze to carry.

The Large MOLLE Assault Pack BackPack can pack a lot in a small amount of space. At approximately 1850 cubic inches of space, the pack runs around the size of the average medium daypack. On the outside, it measures about 20″H x 12″W x 7″D. It has a separate cargo pocket on the front that measures approximately 12″H x 11″W x 3.5″D.
This pack was made for the US Military, and it shows. Every part of it is the finest quality and construction. It’s made out of water resistant, durable canvas that held up well, and cleaned up easily. The pack straps are all made of tough nylon webbing. The buckles and zippers are heavy duty and designed to stand up to rough use and abuse.

We liked this pack a lot. The nylon webbing on the side is our favorites. In our opinion, packs are looking too sleek these days, and any tough place to attach more gear is pro for us. The zippers on this pack were another pro. These are big, alligator-teeth sized zippers that are designed to work in any condition and to be hard to break.

The MOLLE Assault Pack was great, but not quite comfortable enough for us; it lacked padding on the shoulder and waist straps. At only four pounds, comfort was likely sacrificed for weight. But it was our only real gripe about the pack. It was still wearable, but when we loaded the pack with heavier gear, it would have been much nicer with some padding.

This pack is great for a school bag, short trip, or a day hike. We stuffed in clothes and shoes for a casual trip, a cooking stove and sleeping bag, school books and a 17 inch computer, and cans from a grocery trip. You name it; we tried it. We recommend the US Military Surplus ACU Large MOLLE Assault Pack BackPack if you want a high-quality, durable bag for a good price, and aren’t interested in fancy extras.

A few months back, I tested and reviewed the Direct Action Gear “Dragon Egg” pack. Direct Action Gear is an interesting company to me, because until early this year, I -as a military backpack enthusiast and former US Marine- had never heard of them, and I’m surprised because their gear is absolutely “up to it” when it comes to the field. Not only that, but I have a feeling you’ll like their customer service as well.

Overview

As of the time of this review(June of 2015), Direct Action Gear has (3) military-grade backpacks. Their smallest is the “Dust”. Moving up, their 24 hour pack is the “Dragon Egg”, which I reviewed already - and I’m still using as my EDC. Their 72 hour pack is called “Ghost”, measuring in at about 2950 cubic inches. The Ghost is honestly not that much larger than the Dragon Egg(only about 500CI bigger), but as the Dragon Egg packed more than we expected, so did the Ghost - by a long shot.

The Ghost comes in 12 flavors: Black, Olive Green, PL Woodland, Coyote, Camogrom®, Multicam®, Shadow Grey, PenCott Greenzone™, PenCott Badlands™, PenCott Snowdrift™, Kryptek Highlander™ and Kryptek Mandrake™. This pack is constructed of 500D Cordura and coated with Durable Water Repellent(DWR) as all of Direct Action Gear’s packs are. You really don’t need 1000D(although it’s nice). It’s stronger, but heavier and largely unnecessary.

Notable Features

At 5lb 2oz, this pack isn’t a heavy one. One of my favorite things I’ve seen from Direct Action Gear is their smaller, lighter packs, that seem to pack like larger, heavier ones - it’s a “best of both worlds” cocktail. The Ghost has (2) hydration bladder compartments. I really like that because if you’re a survivalist and you are thinking about a 72 hour hump, water is a big concern. Obviously, every 72 hour load has its staples, but you’re going to want to add water wherever you can, and with the Ghost, it’s mighty convenient to do just that. The more I work with Direct Action Gear, the more I realize that they built their gear with functionality in mind. The hip support on this pack is wonderful. It’s not overdone like some fancy consumer-minded packs - just what it needs to be and nothing else- very comfortable. Oh, and did I mention, removable? Yep. When I first opened this bag, I noticed on one of the inside compartments, there was a Y harness - like suspenders. I was really searching for where these suspenders fit into the picture, but alas, I could not figure it out. Upon contacting Direct Action Gear, I was told that the suspenders go with the detachable hip belt - a sub-system all it’s own, and loaded with PALS webbing! This reminded me of a stripped down version of my old USMC 782 gear, specifically the Load Bearing Vest, or LBV for short. While I am not really a fan of removing one of(in my opinion) the best features of this pack, I do like the fact that the belt is detachable and able to become it’s own rig. As I’m writing this review, I’m pondering why I might want a feature like that, and what situation might dictate the use of such a modular attachment, or appendage for that matter.

Field Test

I’ll be completely honest - I haven’t spent nearly the time with this pack as I would have liked to, prior to this review, but the time I did spend was dead on - a 3 day hump in the Catskills of New York. I packed what I consider a standard 72. I didn’t weigh in prior to the hump so unfortunately, I don’t have a packed weight to disclose, but I can say it was more than a standard USMC checklist would provide. Also, I fashioned an attachment for my Mossberg .410 (model 500 home defender series w/ pistol grips and all the trimmings) which would serve as my meal-maker, or even protect against anything which would otherwise consider itself higher on the food chain than myself… I digress. Being summer here in MD, well actually NY where I was, I decided to roll out with two hydration bladders since the Ghost is properly provisioned for this. I’m going to say that load transfer is phenomenal for a 72 hour bag. This pack hugs like larger, expedition-rated pack. Most of the credit goes to the hip belt, which once again, is incredibly comfortable. This bag doesn’t have nearly the compartmentalized interior as the Dragon Egg, so small item organization is better accomplished on the exterior, using the PALS webbing which is everywhere. There are some extra pockets in the detachable front bag, which I had packed to death with first aid gear. Overall, the Ghost performed as expected - we stuffed it full of everything we needed to take(with room to spare), and after 3 days in the field, there was no shoulder or back pain, no sores or blisters, nothing.

Pros

The Ghost is a comfortable hump. Like the Dragon Egg(Direct Action Gear’s medium ruck), this bag feels really natural. Even when it was completely loaded down, it balanced really well - and I like that. Another thing is the detachable external pouch. I used that pouch as a 1st aid kit during my trip in the Catskills, and I think it serves really well as that. The fact that it’s detachable makes it really portable which, in the case of the first aid kit, creates value. I want to touch again, on the unique low profile, laser cut PALS webbing on DAG’s bags. This webbing is so usable, and so out-of-the-box - I love it. I hooked keys, a flashlight, and a small ammo bag up with pretty much the whole pack to spare. It’s strong, sleek and everywhere. I really liked the setup for two hydration bladders as well, which is a feature I think any 3 day bag should have. Granted, you could put two bladders in pretty much any bag, but this one was crafted with just that in mind - and that says something.

Cons

Not many. I was kind of spoiled with all the nooks and crannies of the other two packs made by Direct Action Gear. Although, to be fair, this bag isn’t really meant for a bunch of small stuff - it’s more of a “in it for the long haul” pack - so I guess that’s ok, but still… Also, The detachable pouch really rings my love/hate bell. This pouch works wonderfully as a first aid kit, but I hate that it’s detachable - at the same time, I love it. I think this is where I’m not able to be impartial and objective as my USMC thought process takes over. As a Marine, I want everything on me, right now. I like that the pouch is detachable, but if I were a consultant for this company, I’d have rather seen it integrated as extra space, which would have made the Ghost a supersized Dragon Egg. When it’s attached, I feel like I should be detaching and using it, but once it’s detached, I feel like part of my pack is missing. Maybe I just need a shrink, who knows?

Conclusion

I would put the Ghost on my top 3 72 hour pack list. I’m not saying it’s better or worse than packs from Condor or Maxpedition, but it sure is different and unique - and to me, that counts. I like that this company thinks outside the box, and puts function before anything else. Of course, Direct Action Gear - like any business - needs to remain competitive in their market, and they don’t seem scared to take the path less traveled - I admire that. Bottom line: if you’re shopping for a 3 day military grade pack, the Ghost definitely belongs on your short list.

Direct Action Gear started in Poland, and has since expanded into the US market with an office in New York. Their gear definitely has some unique features which I would simply categorize as “outside the box”. They’ve got three military backpacks, which range in size and available features. The smallest is the “Dust” model, while their 3-day offering is named “Ghost”. I’ll eventually review all three of these bags, but for now, I decided to have a look at Direct Action Gear’s mid-sized, best seller - the “Dragon Egg”.

Overview

Made from 500D Cordova (with waterproofing), the Dragon Egg weighs 3lbs 9oz and is fairly small(ish). For a 24 hour ruck, it looks small, feels small and, in my opinion, is small; but it packs like a bigger bag. I don’t know if it’s the egg shape or what, but with an official internal capacity of about 1520 cubic inches, this bag definitely packs differently than it looks - in a good way. I will say, however, it’s about 500 cubic inches short of most 24 hours packs, but for me, that was a non-issue; more on that later. This guy is available in 12 color/pattern options and that’s something that very much stood out to me. They are, in no particular order, Black, Olive Green, PL Woodland, Coyote(the one I’m reviewing), Camogrom®, Multicam®, Shadow Grey, PenCott GreenZone™, PenCott Badlands™, PenCott Snowdrift™, Kryptek Highlander™ and Kryptek Mandrake™. If you can’t find this pack in a design you like, there’s just flat out something wrong with you.

Notable Features

This tactical backpack has a lot of niceties things to offer. One of the most unique offerings is the Laser Cut PALS webbing. Nearly all bags I look at have the standard 1 on/1 off nylon PALS webbing but Direct Action took a different route. They built what I would call a “PALS Panel”(if this term becomes a standard, I want royalties). The panel approach reduces weight, and exterior awkwardness so there’s less chance for a snag, and, because it’s made from waterproof material, it doesn’t get soggy and flimsy like most standard webbing. It’s also stronger, and I think this design is rather unique - I like it. Some other nice set ups are a Para-cord handle, Heavy duty, invisible YKK zippers, and the patented “Combat Vent” rear panel. This consists of molded foam panels that sit against your back. I liken it to orthopedics you would get for your boots. It feels weird at first, but after a couple of miles on the trail, it’s honestly and appreciable feature - and one that only Direct Action Gear has.

Field Test

I’ve been taking this pack with me everywhere I go for the past 2 weeks. Despite our horrible winter weather, I’ve managed a couple of light trail hikes(less than 4 miles), both of which the Dragon Egg accompanied me. I stuck my hydration bladder in the back pocket of the almost rear-most compartment. It just seemed like it was meant to go there, although there are multiple holes in the top of the pack which allow positioning of the bladder in many different locations. The very rear most compartment is small. I couldn’t quite figure out what to put back there. It’s almost designed for papers or something. You could definitely put the bladder back there but it’s a very slim, narrow, rigid compartment so I don’t think a fully loaded hydration rig belongs. My 13″ macbook Air however, fit like a glove in the thickly padded section of the rear, so I’m calling that the laptop/ultrabook compartment. The main compartment is average with a couple of dividers. This is where I packed some extra socks and food(plus some toys for my son). The front opens in full-clamshell fashion. This section is not large, but fully compartmentalized. This is where almost all of your small gear goes. There are compartments on both sides of this section - it’s nice, real nice. One thing I really like about this bag is that there just seems to be a place to hook something on, everywhere you look. The entire pack has compartments, handles, loops, you name it - everywhere. This pack remained comfortable to me throughout my ventures. To be fair, I didn’t have it loaded with sand and, if it were heavier, I think the only shortfall would be the waistband. Load transfer is critical on long trips and this pack has a waistband but it’s not padded. Overall, I had very few complaints in the field.

Pros

It may sound stupid, but I’m really critical of where a pack rides on my back. After years of hikes in the Marine Corps, I know what comfort is and in the field, it can make or break you. Thatsaid, this pack cinches up to your back effortlessly. When you pull down on the shoulder strap cinches, with only your pinky and thumb, the pack sucks right up to your pack. It’s literally the smoothest cinch I’ve ever come across. Another thing I liked was the soft-lined pocket in the front of this pack. I put my cell phone in there because the inside of the small zipper pocket Nice little pocket - perfect for a cell phone is really soft and protective. It’s the “fragile drawer” of the Dragon Egg. I also got a kick out of the fact that everywhere you look on this pack, there’s a pocket or loop or something that can hold gear or have gear attached to it.

Cons

The waistband is really underpowered. It’s a wide, nylon strap, and it definitely serves the raw function of load transfer, but from a comfort standpoint, it doesn’t measure up. I think this strap should have, at the minimum, some padding. If it had any padding at all, the improvement would be exponential. The only other suggestion I would make on the Dragon Egg are the external side pockets. These pockets are big enough to hold canteens which is good - and, they have PALS paneling on them too! But, both side pockets are identical. I’d like to see the side storage different on each side. Maybe one compartment bigger than the other. Or, two compartments on one side and one on the other. I just find it hard to get along with wasted space.

Conclusion

All things considered, my favorite thing about this pack was how natural it felt. It is smaller than most 24 hour bags I’ve looked at, but it holds a ton and is very versatile. This bag is so versatile in fact, that it’s literally my new EDC bag; I love it. Compartmentalization is a very personal matter, but for me(like the three little bears), this pack is just right. I would say that if you’re looking for a crazy-durable 1 day pack, you’d be missing out if you didn’t have a look at the Dragon Egg.

If you’re in the market for a serious backpack, of course you’re going to be adding many military backpacks to your shortlist. We’ve got a ton of backpack reviews here on the site but there’s one common thread among them all: they’re all either some form of Government issue, or tactically equivalent. When I was in the US Marine Corps, we didn’t get a choice out of Boot Camp which gear we could use. However, once we landed at our first duty station, the options became available.

Overview

Military backpacks have a variety of uses that make them indispensable tools. They have strength, capacity, and special features, so, unlike cheap commercial school bags, these packs are ideal for creating a bug out bag or hiking long distances. There are a lot of Government issue, as well as military style/spec backpacks available for sale though, so it’s important to make sure that you know what to look for. In this article, we will give you the background on what to look out for in a military backpack, so that you can know if you are getting a good deal.

Appearance

While it seems like the appearance of a military backpack is unimportant, it’s actually rather significant for some uses. Having a good camouflage pattern can make a real difference. If you have an interest in hunting, hiking, or war games like paintball, a dull green backpack will stick out where a camouflage one would not. Before buying a backpack, look at the pattern and make sure that it is real camouflage. Most people will use military backpacks in a forest environment, so look into those kinds of patterns. Some common camouflage patterns include Marpat, Kryptek, Multicam and Pencott(this is by no means all the patterns available).

Capacity

Whether you’ve got a small, one day pack like the 5.11 Rush 12, or a monster hauler such as the ALPZ Commander, packing a military backpack is critical for efficiency and you’ve got to be intelligent about it. Luckily, most quality packs have many internal compartments to help you split things up. You need to be sure that it has the capacity to hold everything you need it to hold - and then a little. If you have a specific use for the backpack in mind, then plan out how large of a backpack you need to manage your usage. On the other hand, if you aren’t sure exactly what you need to load up(you DO know what you need to complete your objectives, right?), then err on the side of too big. You’d rather have more space than you need than run out of space and need to get a new bag. Unused space can still be useful in the future.

Weight

The material of a military backpack needs to be light, but strong. The weight is important, because you are going to be wearing it for extended periods of time. You want it to be as light as possible without compromising on strength and other features, like waterproofing. A military backpack can hold a lot of gear, and that gear isn’t guaranteed to be super light. Make sure that the backpack’s material is light enough, but yet durable, that you can manage the weight of the backpack and the load at the same time. Another thing to think about in terms of weight is that you’ve got many choices in design, such as internal or external frame. Read reviews from users who have used each of the backpacks you are considering to see if any of them complain that it is too heavy. The strap design is also important - if the straps are designed poorly, they will cut into your shoulders and make carrying the backpack very uncomfortable. Bad shoulder straps can completely ruin your entire expedition. Maxpedition packs are one of the brands we like when it comes to comfort. There is an excellent book about packing intelligently. It’s geared toward Bug Out Bags specifically, but it’s worth the read.

Special Features

As we alluded to above, a military backpack should have some extra features to make it worth your while. While you’re general GI packs like the ILBE or Medium ALICE packs provide fundamental functionality, gingerbread is not included. Extra compartments, and webbed pockets are what really put the fancier backpacks over the top - and some of the packs available offer an unbelievable amount of exterior and interior amenities. Some military backpacks come standard with extra straps so you can attach a bedroll, a sleeping back, or a similar item. A military backpack should offer a lot of these extra features. Waterproofing is also essential as you need to be able to rely on your backpack to get you through just about anything.

Comparisons

The first thing to do is settle on a budget. Once you have a price range, you will have a shorter list of backpacks to compare. Next, you can go through that list and see what is available. You need to decide on a core set of features that you absolutely must have, and then some optional features that you would like to have, but are not necessary. Narrow down the list to backpacks that have all of your must-have features. The resulting set of backpacks is your new shortlist. Within that shortlist, you can consider each backpack carefully. See the prices for each one, examine their unique features, and decide which one looks best. This process will save you time and ensure that you are going to stay within your budget.

The experience of shopping for, and purchasing a military backpack can be very rewarding. These backpacks are tough, long lasting, strong, and spacious, so they are excellent for a verity of applications. Just remember all of these useful tips so that you can choose the right military backpack for your needs when your shopping time comes!

Did I miss something?

If you find this article to be missing something you feel is important, LEAVE A COMMENT below and we’ll talk about it! If I add it, I’ll give YOU credit for looking out for me!

Introduction

It’s not always easy to find the right pack for your personal needs. While there are many pack systems available and many different aspects to consider, the ALICE system can be the perfect option for many people. Here’s a look at the history, the different types issued by the United States government and a quick guide to choosing the right ALICE system based on individual needs.

History

The ALICE system - which stands for All-purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment - was developed through the latter half of the 1960s for use in United States military branches. The system was introduced in the early 1970s and is still in use in some branches today. The system components were developed to distinguish between combat loads and existence loads - that is, loads that are necessary for fighting, such as small arms and ammunition, and loads that are necessary for sustaining existence, such as a field pack for extra supplies. While the ALICE system has been replaced by the newer MOLLE system in many branches of the military, ALICE is still employed by the Navy and by the US Marine Corps for training.

ALICE pack components, add-ons and mods

There are several basic pieces that make up the ALICE system. These pieces can be used in different combinations. The most basic piece is the individual belt, which comes in sizes for waists measuring 30 inches or less and waists measuring more than 30 inches. The belt contains eyelets for attaching equipment pieces.
From the belt there are a wide variety of ALICE pack add ons that can make the pack a customized design. One common element is the suspender system, to which other pieces can be added. Other than accessories like small compartments that can be clipped onto the belt and suspenders, there is a pack frame that can be attached with the ALICE pack straps. Once the pack frame is installed, there are different pack options that can be attached to the frame.

Choosing The Right Pack

The many ALICE pack mods available make this system a great option for backpackers, campers and day hikers alike. Naturally, you will want to start with the basic belt piece and choose the additional pieces that fit your needs. A simple day hike probably won’t require much more than the canteen attachment, an extra ammunition pocket attachment for binoculars or snacks and the first aid kit attachment, or you can use a full ALICE pack for hiking if you like to be completely prepared or are training with extra weight.

Conversely, someone who is planning a long backpacking trip will want to consider the ALICE frame and appropriate pack. There is a medium pack size available as well as a large pack size, which come in different color options and with a few different features. The medium pack can be carried with or without the frame and can accommodate up to 50 pounds of equipment, while the large pack must be carried with the frame and can hold up to 70 pounds of equipment. Both packs can accommodate a bedroll strapped to the top or bottom of the pack. Long backpacking trips require careful planning in order to determine individual needs. If the load can be reduced down to 50 pounds or less, a smaller pack is always better than a larger one. Loading an ALICE pack appropriately can go a long way toward how comfortably a pack sits and can make all the difference on hiking excursions.

Conclusion

Albeit very different from MOLLE, the ALICE system is a versatile pack system that can be used by a wide range of individuals for a vast array of functions and needs. The different ALICE pack options make this system a useful and particularly functional addition to a backpacker’s or day hiker’s equipment.