Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag Review

How the Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag Changed My Routine

The Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag promises to bring warmth and comfort for two into the backcountry, and Marmot is a trusted name. This 30-degree double bag, featuring Spirafil insulation and soft fabrics, seemed like the perfect solution for my partner and I to enjoy cooler camping nights together. It promised to replace our two individual bags and the eternal struggle of who gets the bigger share of body heat.

My girlfriend and I have been trying to go on more frequent weekend camping trips, but she always complained about being cold, even in summer. We tried connecting our individual bags, but the draft always found its way in. I was looking for a true double sleeping bag that would eliminate cold spots and offer us both a comfortable night’s sleep.

Upon unboxing, the Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag felt surprisingly lightweight for its size. The fabrics were indeed soft to the touch, and the Cascade Blue/Picante color combination was aesthetically pleasing. The build quality appeared solid, with no immediately obvious defects in the stitching or zipper.

I considered the Kelty Galactic 30 Degree Doublewide and the Teton Sports Mammoth Queen Size Flannel Lined Sleeping Bag. The Marmot bag won out because of its lighter weight, more compact packed size, and the reputation of Marmot’s Spirafil insulation. I was hoping for a blend of packability and warmth that the others didn’t quite seem to offer.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to try it out, but also a little skeptical about whether a 30-degree bag would be warm enough for my always-cold partner.

Real-World Testing: Putting Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag to the Test

First Use Experience

Our first test run with the Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag was in the Eastern Sierras during an early fall backpacking trip. The overnight temperature dipped to around 35 degrees Fahrenheit, a good test for a 30-degree rated bag. We set up our tent near a small stream, and I was eager to see how the bag performed in a real-world scenario.

The bag performed surprisingly well, keeping us both warm throughout the night. The full-length zipper and draft tube effectively minimized heat loss. The 3D footbox was a welcome feature, allowing our feet to stretch out comfortably without feeling constricted.

The bag was easy to use right out of the stuff sack, requiring no real adjustment period. The internal stash pocket proved handy for keeping our headlamps within easy reach. We had no initial issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including trips to the Mojave Desert (cold nights!) and the Redwood forests (damp conditions), the Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag has held up remarkably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being stuffed, unstuffed, and generally manhandled during our various adventures. The zipper still functions smoothly, and the fabrics show no signs of ripping or tearing.

Maintaining the bag has been relatively simple. Spot cleaning with a damp cloth has been sufficient for minor dirt and stains. We also aired it out after each trip to prevent any musty odors from developing. So far, so good.

Compared to our previous experiences with individual bags, the Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag has been a game-changer. It’s noticeably warmer and more comfortable than our old setup, and the shared body heat makes a significant difference on colder nights. It has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag

Specifications

• The Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag boasts a temperature rating of 30 degrees Fahrenheit. This is crucial for determining the bag’s suitability for specific climates and seasons.
• It is a Regular Double size, designed to comfortably fit two adults. This eliminates the need to zip two single bags together.
• The bag features a Left-side zipper. This zipper placement is a preference point that may affect ease of entry/exit for some users.
• Its total weight is 2170 grams (approximately 4.78 pounds). Weight is a key consideration for backpacking and other activities where pack weight is a concern.
• Marmot uses 75d 100% Polyester Irregular Ripstop fabric. This provides durability and resistance to tearing, which is essential for outdoor gear.
• The Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag is insulated with Spirafil high-loft insulation. This provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and continues to insulate even when wet.
• Shoulder Girth: 113 in, Foot Girth: 94.1 in, and Hip Girth: 112.6 in. These measurements provide insight to the spaciousness of the bag.

Performance & Functionality

The Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag performs admirably as a two-person sleeping system. It provides consistent warmth down to its rated temperature, and the spacious design ensures both occupants have ample room to move.

The bag’s strengths lie in its warmth-to-weight ratio, comfortable fabrics, and effective draft tube. A potential weakness could be its bulkiness when packed, which might be a concern for ultralight backpackers. It definitely met my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag is well-constructed using high-quality materials. The soft polyester ripstop fabric feels comfortable against the skin, and the Spirafil insulation provides a good balance of warmth and compressibility. It is reasonably lightweight.

The bag’s design is straightforward and user-friendly, with no complicated features or adjustments. Even first-time users should be able to use it without any difficulty.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and durable materials, the Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag is expected to last for many years with proper care. The ripstop fabric is resistant to tearing.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only spot cleaning and occasional airing out. More extensive cleaning may be necessary after prolonged use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag comes with a stuff sack for easy storage and transport. There are no other included accessories.

While there are no official customization options, users could potentially add a sleeping bag liner for added warmth or hygiene. Standard sized double sleeping bag liners should fit.

Pros and Cons of Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag

Who Should Buy Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag?

The Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag is perfect for couples or friends who enjoy camping and backpacking together. It is especially well-suited for those who prioritize comfort, warmth, and affordability. Casual campers will appreciate the ease of use and overall comfort.

This product is not ideal for solo backpackers or those who require an ultralight sleeping system. Those camping in extremely cold conditions might require a warmer bag.

A sleeping bag liner is not a necessity, but it helps keep the bag clean and provides extra warmth in colder temperatures.

Conclusion on Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag

The Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag is a well-designed and executed product that delivers on its promises of warmth, comfort, and affordability. It has transformed our camping experience, eliminating the cold spots and discomfort that plagued our previous adventures.

The price of $199.00 is justified given the bag’s performance, durability, and features. It offers excellent value for the money compared to similar double sleeping bags on the market.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Marmot Idlewild Doublewide Sleeping Bag to anyone seeking a comfortable and reliable two-person sleeping solution. Ditch the individual bags and embrace the cozy warmth of this doublewide! Get yours today and enjoy a better night’s sleep under the stars!