WM Versalite

The rating change after the overfill would be ~5F better; this changes the rating from 10F to 5F for the average 5'10" bag. The improvement would be slightly better on the Versalite's 5'6" model and slightly less on the 6' model.

Reason I ask is I'm trying to decide on a winter bag; I will probably use it into the shoulder seasons as well. With the expense of a quality bag I want to make sure I get it right the first time.

I've been trying to decide between a versalite; a versalite with 3oz of overfill; or an anteloupe mf. Size would be the 6' version; I'm 5'10".

The bags will be used in ohio, indiana, kentucky, tennessee, and michigan with the majority in the first 3. I tend to be a cool sleeper in the backcountry yet in the contrary a warm sleeper in a house….kinda strange.

The extra layers I will have will include a light baselayer; a montbell ul thermawrap vest; a montbell alpine light parka; a windshirt; a very light fleece. Also for my head will be a light merino beanie for when I'm not using the hood on the parka. For my hands a light merino liner with some vbl mitts. For my feet some heavyweight merino socks when moving and a light pair of vbl socks as well when sleeping.

Any suggestions on which bag to get to cover that range would be welcome. The coldest avg. temps of those states is michigan with about 14*; ohio and indiana are 15-16*, and I think tennessee is 17*. I know for a fact though we get into the single digits at times. One other thing; I know this is a very individualized thing but generally speaking what temperature would each of the bags be uncomfortably warm at if the temp didn't make it down as low as we might be expecting. Thanks.

With the expected temp ranges you are stating I would likely go with the Versalite. I have the Antelope and will use a less warm option if the temp is not expected to be closer to 0*. By also using a bivy you would be able to take the Versalite to temps lower than the 10* rating if the occasional trip conditions required additional warmth. Just my opinion.

Although I like a true 0* bag or even -5* for winter, just in case of a freak winter storm or even in case I become ill, the Versalite should work if the trips you're going on have a coldest low temperature of 14 degrees.

With all the extra layers you have available, plus overfill (and maybe bivy), I think the Versalite will be perfect for you.

Jason,
The Versalite is IMO the champion of winter bags. Many BPL members have them and there are threads describing how low people have pushed them. I have had mine down to -5F with a base layer and vapour barrier. Believe it or not, I think I can push it even further. You can't go wrong.