Chris Townsend reviews an affordable sleeping bag from Terra Nova
For a down bag the Elite 550 is quite low cost. However although it has a lower comfort rating of -5° it’s not that warm with only about half the loft of bags like the Firelite and Patagonia 850. It should be adequate for those who sleep warm on mild winter nights but overall it’s best kept for three-season use. Whilst the cost is low the weight is on the high side for the warmth provided, both the result of the lower fill power down and the heavier shell fabrics.
The Elite 550 has a half-length zip with a filled baffle behind it, an adjustable shoulder baffle and a good boxed foot. The outer shell is water-resistant, the inner is very soft against the skin. The bag is reasonably roomy – I can wear insulated clothing inside.
The design then is fine and this isn’t a bad bag, especially given the cost. It’s not really for winter though unless you’re happy to wear thick clothing inside or use it inside another bag.
This review was first published in the March 2018 issue of The Great Outdoors
