Big Agnes Zirkel
Field test results for the Big Agnes Zirkel sleeping bag.
Unlock this article and more benefits with 25% off.
Already have an Outside Account? Sign in
25% Off Outside+.
$4.99/month $3.75/month*
Get the one subscription to fuel all your adventures.
- Map your next adventure with our premium GPS apps: Gaia GPS Premium and Trailforks Pro.
- Read unlimited digital content from 15+ brands, including Outside Magazine, Triathlete, Ski, Trail Runner, and VeloNews.
- Watch 600+ hours of endurance challenges, cycling and skiing action, and travel documentaries.
- Learn from the pros with expert-led online courses.
*Outside memberships are billed annually. Print subscriptions available to U.S. residents only. You may cancel your membership at anytime, but no refunds will be issued for payments already made. Upon cancellation, you will have access to your membership through the end of your paid year. More Details
Big Agnes Zirkel | $399.95 |
2 pounds | Rating 20 F | Field Rating 25 F
The Big Agnes Zirkel has no down on the bottom. Since the down you lay on gets crushed, and you need an insulating pad anyway, why even have an ineffective bottom layer? So, instead of placing down underneath, Big Agnes uses an integrated (and removable) Primaloft Dual Core Air Pad ($99.95; 1 pound 15 ounces). In theory this is like sleeping on a pad with a down comforter zipped over you. However, for this to work comfortably you need room to roll over in the bag, as the bottom cannot move with you. If you are a big fellow, you might find the mummy-cut Zirkel too snug, forcing you to sleep on your back.
STRENGTHS
A Pillow pocket in the hood works well with a down vest or clothing.
Plump draft tube behind the zipper.
Don’t need to mortgage your home.
CONSIDERATIONS
Zipper isn’t two-way.
Not a good bag for extending the temperature range—it is too tight to wear a down jacket and pants comfortably inside.