Expert Answers
Are women-specific sleeping bags all hype?

Debbie's Question:

Are"women's" sleeping bags really better for women? I am 5',2", 110 lbs. I'm looking for the lightest possible bag. I am considering two bags, one specifically for women and other a few ounces lighter but not for women.

—Debbie O'Callaghan

Annie's Answer:

	Ask the Expert Annie Getchell Gear expert Annie Getchell believes the key to happiness is buying quality gear and treating it with tender loving care. Meet Annie Answer Archive Gear Forums

Sometime in the '90s, equipment manufacturers realized that women represented a fast-growing market segment, and began fashioning technical gear to fit us babes in the woods. It was actually a revelation to find a jacket with cuffs that ended at my wrists, rain pants to accommodate hips and thighs, even curvaceous women's pack straps.

Then came girly sleeping bags. Frankly, I was skeptical, but there's science behind 'em: Studies show that women are generally shorter (average height is 5'4") and wider than men, sleep colder and have ice cubes for toes, thanks to a slower metabolism.

Thus, women's bags are cut shorter and fuller through the body (bigger girth), plus they're packed with up to 20 percent more strategically placed insulation than a"man's" bag with the same temperature rating. Since you're petite, a gal's bag might be just the ticket for you. Best shopping advice is to try those different bags on for size, if you can.