Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek Review

First Impressions of Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek

The Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek sleeping bag is a serious piece of kit, designed for those who laugh in the face of sub-zero temperatures. Manufactured by Big Agnes, it promises to be a reliable companion on the most demanding winter expeditions. It boasts 850 fill power DownTek water-repellent down and a PFC-free waterproof shell, immediately catching my eye as a specialist accustomed to harsh, unpredictable environments.

For years, I’ve grappled with sleeping bags that promised warmth but delivered shivers, particularly on multi-day winter treks. I was looking for a bag that could truly handle -20 degrees Fahrenheit without requiring multiple layers of clothing inside the bag. My go-to bag, a reliable 0-degree synthetic fill, was simply too bulky and heavy for extended expeditions.

Upon unboxing, the Cinnabar felt surprisingly lightweight for its temperature rating. The shell material has a reassuringly robust feel, and the loft of the down is immediately noticeable. It’s clear that Big Agnes has prioritized packability and warmth. Compared to my bulky synthetic bag and a lighter, less warm down bag from another brand, the Cinnabar struck a perfect balance.

I was immediately impressed. The quality of materials and the attention to detail in the construction were evident. This bag felt like it was built for serious use, and I couldn’t wait to put it to the test in the unforgiving wilderness.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was a three-day winter camping trip in the Colorado Rockies, with temperatures dipping down to -15 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The location was a remote backcountry area known for its consistent cold and unpredictable winds. Setting up camp in the snow, I immediately appreciated the Cinnabar’s ability to loft up quickly, providing immediate insulation.

The bag performed exceptionally well in these conditions. I remained comfortably warm throughout the night, wearing only a base layer. The side-access zipper proved convenient for quick adjustments and ventilation without fully exposing myself to the cold. There were no issues with the zipper snagging, even with gloved hands.

There were no immediate surprises, only the reassuring feeling of being adequately protected from the elements. The internal stash pocket was also handy for keeping my phone warm and accessible.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including a week-long ice climbing trip in Montana and numerous overnight winter hikes, the Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek has consistently performed admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the shell material. The down has maintained its loft, even after being compressed and re-stuffed multiple times.

Maintaining the bag has been straightforward. I’ve been careful to store it properly and use a sleeping bag liner to minimize moisture absorption. Spot cleaning has been easy, and the water-repellent down seems to work well in shedding minor spills and condensation. Compared to my previous down bag, the Cinnabar dries much faster and retains its loft better in damp conditions.

The Cinnabar has far surpassed my expectations. It has become my go-to sleeping bag for any cold-weather adventure.

Breaking Down the Features of Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek

Specifications

The Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek boasts impressive specifications that contribute to its outstanding performance. It is a unisex bag designed for adults, and ideal for backpacking applications. The bag features a specialized fit for layering and movement inside, enhancing comfort and functionality in harsh conditions.

• Fill: 850 fill power DownTek water-repellent down. This down provides exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio and resists moisture absorption, maintaining loft even in damp conditions.
• Shell Fabric: Superlight, high tear strength shell with a PFC-free waterproof coating. This provides excellent weather protection without harmful chemicals.
• Temperature Rating: -20 degrees Fahrenheit. This rating indicates the bag’s ability to keep you warm in extremely cold temperatures.
• Weight: Varies by size (Regular: 3 lbs 7 oz). The lightweight design makes it ideal for backpacking.
• Zipper: Left zip, 70′ / 178cm YKK no5 anti-snag locking zipper. The anti-snag design and long zipper ensure easy entry and exit.
• Other Features: Internal mesh stash pocket, insulated tube along hood opening, oversized draft collar, 3-D anti-snag draft tube, ergonomic footbox, interior fabric loops. These features enhance comfort, convenience, and thermal efficiency.

These specifications are crucial for a bag intended for extreme conditions. The high fill power down provides maximum warmth, while the water-repellent treatment ensures performance in damp environments. The lightweight design and durable construction are essential for backpacking.

Performance & Functionality

The Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek excels in its primary function: keeping you warm and comfortable in extremely cold weather. The bag’s design and materials work together to provide exceptional thermal efficiency. The baffle shape maximizes loft and keeps heat close to the body.

The bag’s strengths lie in its warmth, packability, and durability. It consistently performs well in sub-zero temperatures and is relatively lightweight for its temperature rating. The side-access zipper is a particularly useful feature, allowing for quick adjustments without fully opening the bag.

One area that could be improved is the size of the internal stash pocket. It’s somewhat small and could be larger to accommodate bulkier items. However, this is a minor issue compared to the overall performance of the bag. Overall, the Cinnabar far exceeds expectations and delivers exceptional performance in harsh conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cinnabar boasts a thoughtful design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The shell fabric feels durable and weather-resistant, while the down is evenly distributed throughout the bag.

The bag’s ergonomic footbox provides ample room for your feet, enhancing comfort and promoting circulation. The insulated draft collar effectively seals out drafts, keeping you warm and comfortable throughout the night.

There is minimal learning curve involved in using the Cinnabar. It is intuitive and easy to use, even in cold and challenging conditions.

Durability & Maintenance

The Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of extended use in harsh environments. With proper care and maintenance, this bag should provide many years of reliable service.

Maintaining the Cinnabar is relatively straightforward. Regular airing out and proper storage are essential for preserving the loft of the down. Spot cleaning with a mild detergent can be used to remove dirt and stains.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cinnabar comes with a stuff sack and a storage sack. The stuff sack is used for compressing the bag during transport, while the storage sack is used for storing the bag loosely to maintain the loft of the down.

The bag also features interior fabric loops for attaching a sleeping bag liner. Sleeping bag liners can improve warmth, keep the bag cleaner, and extend its lifespan. While the Cinnabar doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its design is compatible with a variety of aftermarket sleeping bag liners.

Pros and Cons of Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek?

The Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek is perfect for experienced backpackers, mountaineers, winter campers, and anyone who requires a reliable and high-performing sleeping bag for extremely cold conditions. It’s ideal for those who prioritize warmth, packability, and durability.

Those who are primarily fair-weather campers or who are on a tight budget might want to consider alternative options. The price point may be prohibitive for casual users, and a less expensive, less specialized bag may suffice for milder conditions.

A must-have accessory for the Cinnabar is a high-quality sleeping bag liner. A liner can enhance warmth, protect the bag from dirt and sweat, and extend its lifespan.

Conclusion on Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek

The Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek is an exceptional sleeping bag that delivers outstanding performance in extremely cold conditions. Its warmth, packability, and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious adventurers. The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction, as well as the bag’s ability to keep you comfortable in temperatures that would otherwise be unbearable.

I would highly recommend the Big Agnes Cinnabar -20, 850 Downtek to anyone who needs a reliable and high-performing sleeping bag for cold-weather adventures. It’s a game-changer that will allow you to explore the wilderness in comfort and safety. If you’re serious about winter camping, don’t hesitate – invest in the Cinnabar. You won’t regret it.