Western Mountaineering UltraLite $295, 1lb 11oz, 20FSummary: Western Mountaineering’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the UltraLite, an open-baffle sack filled with conservatively rated 850-fill down. The UtraLite’s full-length zipper was the best tested: It never snagged, and I could not get it to catch on the draft tube even when aggressively yarding on the zipper. Although the UltraLite’s generously insulated hood lacks an upper baffle, the bag features a down-stuffed neck collar with a separate drawcord that virtually eliminates heat loss out of the face opening. This simple addition noticeably increases the bag’s warmth with just a minimal increase in weight. The Pertex Quantum shell offered reliable weather protection and sound durability.

• Pros: Best zipper tested; excellent neck baffle; well insulated hood
• Cons: Expensive; no upper hood baffle
• Overall grade: A

Western Mountaineering: (408) 287-8944, www.westernmountaineering.com