Comprehensive Review of The North Face's Wawona Bed 20 Sleeping Bag
**News Article: Performance of The North Face Wawona Bed 20 in Car Camping Scenarios**
The North Face's Wawona Bed 20 has proven to be a popular choice among car camping enthusiasts, offering comfort and affordability in warm weather conditions.
**Warmth**
The Wawona Bed 20 is designed for temperatures between 35°F and 60°F, making it an ideal choice for balmy nights. However, its lack of a hood may necessitate additional layers for colder nights, making it less warm than bags with hoods[1].
**Comfort**
The Wawona Bed 20 excels in comfort, boasting a soft fleece lining and a roomy, rectangular shape that allows for easy movement and stretching, creating a home-like feel[1]. Its versatile use, thanks to a full-length YKK zipper and a 15-inch secondary YKK zipper, adds to its appeal[1].
**Weight and Bulk**
While the Wawona Bed 20 is a bit heavy and bulky, this is less of a concern in car camping scenarios where weight and size are less of a priority[1].
**Durability**
The Wawona Bed 20 is built to last, with high-quality zippers, stitching, and overall construction that have shown no signs of loose threads or cold spots during testing[1]. Its construction from 50-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a 50-denier recycled polyester taffeta lining ensures durability[1].
**Features**
Key features include oversized zipper tabs for easy handling in the dark and a smooth zipper track that allows for ventilation and use as a blanket[1]. However, it lacks a mesh storage bag for long-term storage and has narrow draft tubes[1].
**Sustainability**
The North Face's commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in the Wawona Bed 20, which uses 100% recycled polyester in both the shell and insulation, and bears the brand's "Exploration Without Compromise" designation[1].
**Comparison to Other Sleeping Bags**
When compared to other sleeping bags, the Wawona Bed 20 offers high comfort levels and durability, but its lack of a hood and mesh storage bag are notable drawbacks[1]. However, its ventilation options make it beneficial for warmer conditions[1].
Lighter and more compact bags are available for backpacking, but the Wawona Bed 20 is suitable for car camping due to its comfort and durability[1].
**Real-World Testing**
During tests in Moab, Utah, and Lake City, Colorado, overnight lows varied between 35 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, with colder nights hitting 40 degrees[2]. The Wawona Bed 20, despite lacking a hood, proved to be a comfortable choice in these conditions[2]. Its weight of 4 pounds 14 ounces is heavier than some other options on the market, but it is suitable for car camping[2].
**Conclusion**
The North Face Wawona Bed 20 is an excellent choice for car camping enthusiasts prioritizing comfort and affordability in warm weather, though it may not be the best choice for colder conditions or when lightweight gear is necessary.
[1] Based on manufacturer specifications and testing. [2] Based on real-world testing in Moab, Utah, and Lake City, Colorado.
- In car camping scenarios, the popularity of The North Face's Wawona Bed 20 lies in its comfort and affordability for warm weather conditions.
- The Wawona Bed 20, while suitable for temperatures between 35°F and 60°F, may require additional layers for colder nights due to its lack of a hood.
- Known for its soft fleece lining and roomy rectangular shape, the Wawona Bed 20 provides a comfortable, home-like feel in the outdoors.
- Although the Wawona Bed 20 is heavier and bulkier compared to some sleeping bags, its durability, comfort, and features make it a desirable choice in car camping.
- The Wawona Bed 20's efficient construction ensures longevity, with high-quality hardware and recycled polyester materials, aligning with The North Face's commitment to sustainability.
- Distinct features of the Wawona Bed 20 include oversized zipper tabs for ease of use and ventilation functions for warm conditions, although it lacks a mesh storage bag and has narrow draft tubes.
- In comparison to other sleeping bags, the Wawona Bed 20 offers great comfort and durability, but its lack of a hood and mesh storage bag are notable drawbacks.
- While lightweight sleeping bags are available for backpacking, the Wawona Bed 20, with its high comfort levels and durability, is well-suited for car camping adventures.
