Battery-Heated Sleeping Bags: Live Test
CARPology’s videographer, Luke Venus, gives his verdict on Avid’s new Benchmark ThermaTech Sleeping Bag
In my line of work—filming in-sessions, interviews and product reviews—I’m on the bank, a lot. Come icy winds, sleety rain or frozen landing nets, I’m there, so I want (read: need) to be warm. Avid’s latest blockbuster sounded too good to be true: a 5 season sleeping bag which comes fitted with an electric element to heat it up?! Okay: I’m just three sessions in, and we’ve only had a couple of frosts, but here’s what I’ve discovered since first plugging in and turning on that powerbank…
How quickly does it warm up?
This was the first question I was asked by a CARPology YouTube subscriber when I mentioned I was using one of these. In short: relatively quickly. Going by what Avid’s Product Development Manager, Ant Molyneux says, I’ve been switching it on 20 to 30 minutes before getting in, and by the time I’ve revealed those chunky zips from behind the oversized baffles, it’s pretty toastie!
Just how noticeable is that heat then?
It’s subtle, but it does what it needs to do: it takes the chill off and eliminates the need for a hot water bottle.
Can you feel the heat all around the bag?
100%. The bag appears to have 3 heat pads running down the centre, allowing heat to filter all around. Although those heating elements are on the base, it still gives a completely warm bag once you’re fully zipped up.
How easy is it to use?
Super simple. Plug the super-tough braided USB cord into your powerbank (not supplied) and press the ‘on’ button to bring it to life! Keep pressing to cycle through all 4 of the heat settings, before opting on the one that’s right for you and the conditions.
Does the big powerbank get in the way though?
Nope, it’s far enough over to one side that it won’t bother you. That said, I would rather it was underneath, just so it was completely out of the way, but it’s a minor request.
What’s the actual bag like?
From its appearance and feel, you wouldn’t have any idea that the bag was equipped with heating elements. It’s a 5-season bag that’s stuffed with synthetic hollowfill fibre and a waterproof outer layer. Inside, the fleece-lining top and bottom makes it feel like any other sleeping bag… until the heat comes through, that is!
Final thoughts?
So far, so good. First and foremost, it’s a lovely sleeping bag in its own right. But add in those three heating elements and it’s a nice addition to have when you turn in for the night. Oh, and I’m currently using the smaller of the two models: the Standard, not the XL.
A Cold-Weather Pro Tip?
“Get some proper socks. You’ll be amazed how much difference they make,” firmly states Luke. “Christmas socks usually come in tacky reindeer form, funny for just one day. So this year, insist on these: Fortis Thermal Socks. Pair these with a set of Brashers and you’ll be set to take on Everest. Maybe.” £12.99
