First Impressions of ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag
The ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag promises a comfortable night’s sleep for two, combining a body-mapped design with TechLoft Silver insulation and a clever pump sack. ALPS Mountaineering is a known quantity in the outdoor gear world, and this pad looked like a step up from the single pads my wife and I were lugging around. It seemed to offer a balance of comfort, packability, and insulation, perfect for shoulder-season camping when temperatures can fluctuate wildly.
My back has been a constant source of complaint on camping trips, and my wife’s never been happy with the standard blow-up mattresses. I hoped this double pad would be the solution to more restful nights in the wilderness. It was between this and a Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Duo; I opted for the ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag because of the integrated pump sack and slightly lower price point. Upon receiving the pad, I was immediately impressed by its compact packed size and the feel of the 40D Nylon Ripstop.
Unboxing the ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag revealed a neatly packed pad, a stuff sack that cleverly doubles as a pump, and a small repair kit. The Charcoal color is understated and practical. It felt lighter than I anticipated, which was a pleasant surprise considering its double-wide design. My initial thought was positive – this could be the answer to our camping comfort woes, and I was excited to test it in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag during a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania. The weather was mild during the day, but temperatures dipped into the low 40s at night, offering a decent test of its insulation. Setting it up was surprisingly easy, thanks to the included pump sack. It took only a few minutes of pumping to achieve a comfortable level of firmness.
The body-mapped design did seem to prevent us from rolling off, and the pad felt stable even with two people moving around. However, I did notice that inflating it fully made it a bit too firm for my liking; a little deflation provided the right balance of support and comfort. No issues arose during the night, and the insulation kept us warm enough without overheating.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a backpacking trip in the Adirondacks and numerous car camping weekends, the ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, and the 40D Nylon Ripstop has proven to be durable enough to withstand rocky ground and occasional encounters with the tent floor. Cleaning has been straightforward – a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to previous sleeping arrangements (individual air mattresses and closed-cell foam pads), the ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag offers a significant improvement in comfort and packability. The insulation is adequate for three-season use, and the double-wide design has improved the overall sleeping experience. The pad hasn’t disappointed.
Breaking Down the Features of ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag
Specifications
- The ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag features a 40D Nylon Ripstop fabric, known for its balance of durability and lightweight properties. This material resists tears and abrasions, which is essential for outdoor gear.
- It’s colored Charcoal. The color is discreet and doesn’t show dirt easily.
- The packed size is a compact 6 x 16 inches, making it relatively easy to fit into a backpack. This is a major selling point for backpacking or any activity where space is at a premium.
- The inflated dimensions are 80 inches in length and 3.5 inches in thickness. The length accommodates most users, while the thickness provides ample cushioning.
- It weighs in at 4 lb. This isn’t the lightest double pad on the market, but it’s reasonable considering the insulation and size.
- It is designed for all seasons with an R-Value of 4. An R-value of 4 indicates good insulation for 3-season use.
Performance & Functionality
The ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag performs admirably in its intended role. The body-mapped design effectively prevents rolling, and the insulation provides sufficient warmth for temperatures down to the low 40s. One slight weakness is that it can be a little bouncy if one person moves around a lot, but this is a common issue with double air pads.
The pad meets expectations for comfort and packability, but it could be lighter. The stuff sack/pump system is a clever design that works well.
Design & Ergonomics
The ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag has a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both comfort and convenience. The use of 40D Nylon Ripstop feels durable to the touch. The flat valve design makes inflation and deflation easy, and the included pump sack is a welcome addition.
There’s no real learning curve. It is easy to inflate, deflate, and pack away.
Durability & Maintenance
The 40D Nylon Ripstop fabric seems durable and has resisted punctures and abrasions during testing. Proper care should extend its lifespan considerably. Cleaning is simple, usually requiring just a wipe-down.
Minor repairs can be made with the included repair kit. There isn’t a lot of involved maintenance required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag comes with a stuff sack that doubles as a pump and a repair kit. There aren’t many customization options. The pad is designed to be used as-is. It is compatible with most standard sleeping bags.
Pros and Cons of ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag
Pros
- Comfortable body-mapped design prevents rolling. This is a key feature that significantly improves sleep quality.
- Effective TechLoft Silver insulation provides warmth for three-season use. Keeps you warm without being overly bulky.
- Integrated stuff sack doubles as a pump, simplifying inflation. A convenient and space-saving design.
- Durable 40D Nylon Ripstop fabric withstands wear and tear. Built to last.
- Compact packed size makes it suitable for backpacking and camping. Relatively easy to pack for its size and insulation.
Cons
- Can be bouncy if one person moves around excessively. A common issue with double pads.
- Not the lightest double pad on the market. Weight could be a concern for serious backpackers.
Who Should Buy ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag?
The ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag is perfect for couples who enjoy camping and backpacking and prioritize comfort and packability. It’s also a good option for car campers who want a comfortable and convenient sleeping solution. Families with smaller children might find it useful as well.
Individuals looking for the absolute lightest option should probably skip this product, as should those primarily camping in extremely cold conditions. A warmer, heavier pad might be more appropriate in those scenarios.
A fitted sheet can help to keep the pad clean and add an extra layer of comfort. Also, consider a lightweight pillow for maximum comfort.
Conclusion on ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag
The ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag offers a compelling combination of comfort, convenience, and durability. The ALPS Mountaineering company have created a great piece of equipment. Its innovative features like the integrated pump sack and body-mapped design set it apart from the competition.
The price is justified, considering its performance and features. Yes, I would definitely recommend the ALPS Mountaineering Nimble Double Insulated Sleeping Bag to anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable double sleeping pad. Upgrade your camping experience and say goodbye to restless nights!