Thermarest Parsec 20F Down Sleeping Bag

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UOG TOP PICK – Parsec 20F Down Sleeping Bag This updated version of the Parsec now uses recycled fabrics making it more sustainable. This bag is ultra compact to easily fit in your bag and is full of Thermarest’s signature features, it’s a pleasure to sleep in, and we can recommend it as a top pick.

Thermarest says

Designed to deliver maximum comfort while meeting high standards for lightweight packability, the award-winning Parsec 20F/-6C sleeping bag is the go-to choice when you need one bag to take you from early spring through late fall. Filled with highly compressible 800-fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down™ that absorbs 90% less water and dries 3x faster than untreated down, the Parsec delivers superior performance in wet weather. The ultralight 20-denier GRS-certified recycled nylon shell saves weight, maintains durability and is eco-friendly, while the new no-snag YKK® zipper eases entries and exits and prevents accidental tears. Improved Synergy Link Connectors wrap around your sleeping pad to allow freedom of movement without shifting off the pad and losing warmth. The refined shape boosts efficiency even more, shaving up to 2 oz (57 g) off the previous version, while our down-lined Toe-asis™ foot pocket keeps your feet unquestionably warm. Whether this is your first bag or your next bag, the Parsec is ready to be your one and only.

Our Verdict

The Parsec 20 Down Sleeping Bag is part of Therm-a-Rest’s ‘Fast & Light’ range, designed to keep you moving quickly in the hills making it ideal for alpinists and ultralight backpackers. Roomier than Thermarest’s Hyperion range, if you value comfort it’s a great choice.

Light and packable, the Parsec has all the Thermarest features you know and love at a fraction of the weight. It even features SynergyLink Connectors so you can integrate your mat and bag together, allowing you to move freely inside your bag without coming off your mat. This reduces heat loss, maximises efficiency and utilizes the warmth of your insulated mat.

800-fill down gives this bag superior temperature regulation and the Nikwax treatment repels any moisture that comes your way. There’s a 60-40 down distribution, placing more down on top and less on the bottom where the down gets compressed. By placing the down where you need it most, this technology reduces the weight of the bag while increasing the overall warmth. Overall an excellent bag that offers lightweight and packable warmth.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• High-Performance Sustainability: Shell and liner are made of a nylon that is softer to the touch, lighter than previous versions, and 100% recycled. 
• Sustainable 800 Fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down™: Responsible Down Standard certified, it absorbs 90% less water and dries 3 times faster without using dangerous PFCs for better performance in wet weather. 
• Redesigned SynergyLink™ Connectors: Lighter design secures the bag to a pad, preventing midnight roll-offs while increasing the thermal efficiency of your sleep system.
• No-Fuss Zipper: YKK anti-snag zipper prevents accidental tears, making midnight ventilation and early morning exits easy. • Refined Fit: Tested and perfected in our onsite cold chamber, the roomy fit and precise down distribution achieve optimal thermal efficiency and comfort. 
• Toe-asis™ Foot Warmer Pocket: Ergonomic toe box that rapidly warms cold feet. 
• Additional Features: Heat-trapping draft collar, full-length zipper draft tube, cinchable hood, external zip pocket, and blanket attachment loops.
• Compression sack and storage sack included.

Specifications

Short:

• Fits: 156-168cm (5ft 1in-5ft 6in)
• Girth: 145cm at shoulder, 142cm at hip, 112cm at foot
• Fabric: 100% Recycled 20D Nylon w/ DWR / 100% Recycled 20D Nylon
• Fill: 800 Fill Goose Nikwax Hydrophobic Down™, RDS
• Fill weight: 422g
• Pack size: 18 x 21 cm
• Comfort rating: 0°C / 32°F
• Comfort Limit: -6°C / 20°F
• Weight: 742g (excludes storage bags)

Regular

• Fits: 169-183cm (5ft 7in-6ft)
• Girth: 157cm at shoulder, 145cm at hip, 117cm at foot
• Fabric: 100% Recycled 20D Nylon w/ DWR / 100% Recycled 20D Nylon
• Fill: 800 Fill Goose Nikwax Hydrophobic Down™, RDS
• Fill weight: 465g
• Pack size: 18 x 21 cm
• Comfort rating: 0°C / 32°F
• Comfort Limit: -6°C / 20°F
• Weight: 846g (excludes storage bags)

Long

• Fits: 184-198cm (6ft 1in-6ft 6in)
• Girth: 165cm at shoulder, 147cm at hip, 130cm at foot
• Fabric: 100% Recycled 20D Nylon w/ DWR / 100% Recycled 20D Nylon
• Fill: 800 Fill Goose Nikwax Hydrophobic Down™, RDS
• Fill weight: 507g
• Pack size: 18 x 21 cm
• Comfort rating: 0°C / 32°F
• Comfort Limit: -6°C / 20°F
• Weight: 917g (excludes storage bags)

Help and advice:

• The Ultimate Guide to Lightweight Sleeping Bags
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Sleeping Bag
• About Thermarest
• Thermarest Sleeping Bags Explained
• The EN13537 Standard
• All About Down
• Responsible Down Standard
• Hydrophobic Down
• Why is ‘PFC Free’ Important?