I got this bag ('03 version) for the GF. She often complained of being cold in her previous REI Polar Pod (20*/synthetic), even with an additional PolyGard liner. The Universe SL is an excellent piece gear altogether - temp rating accuracy, quality materials, 1st rate craftsmanship and some neat features. And the wasabi exterior looks great. On one of our recent trips, the temp dropped to 26* with snow. The GF slept with only Capilene underwear in the Universe SL bag. She had to unzip the Quantum Expander as well as leave the zipper ~20" down to keep from sweating! The SL Conduit fabric does an excellent job of repelling condensation and water. -High quality fabrics, zippers -Excellent construction -Versatile Quantum Expander -SL Conduit repels moisture, water -Comfortable cut for medium frame

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Similar Products Used:

Big Agnes Lost Ranger (15*/down) REI Polar Pod (20*/synthetic)

Awesome bag with regard to temperature rating and price. Very well made and thought out, obviously designed by ppl who use the backcountry. The Quantum Expander is a great feature and one can even sit cross legged in this bag with the expander unzipped... cool. A bit on the short size...I am 181cms tall and fit it very well but wouldn't want to be too much taller. Have slept down to -8C in this bag and been very snug and warm. The Conduit SL shell is great and sheds moisture exceptionally well while breathing very well. Very light bag considering it has the extra fabric, baffles and zips/sliders for the expander feature. One of the best things is that the zips never snag...very good! Highly recommended bag....I'm very pleased with my purchase.

Customer Service

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Similar Products Used:

Mtn Hardware Alpine (Synthetic), Vango Q400 (Synthetic), Fairydown Everest (Down), Macpac Solstice (Down).

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I''m glad I did my homework befor buying a 0 deg. bag because I think I found "the one". Backpacker mag. pushed me over the edge. When it comes down to it, if the bag keeps you warm and cozy down to the specified rating, is built well and doesn''t break the bank it has done it''s job. The Universe does all that, now why should you buy it? Quantam expander! Why be crammed into a mummy bag if you don''t need to be? It really makes a difference. I used the expander feature down to about 20 Deg. with no problem. The bag I got has the conduit shell that shed heavy dew without problem. I highly recomend this bag.

Customer Service

No need

Similar Products Used:

The North Face Snowshoe