The concept of layering for different conditions is nothing new to outdoor enthusiasts. For example, you wear one garment next to your skin and then add layers to obtain the ideal temperature and moisture management system. Sleeping bags aren’t much different. Combine a sleeping pad, any sleeping bag and a Big Agnes over bag to create a versatile year-round system that you can pick from based on trip and temperature needs. Benefits of layering include added warmth, versatility, moisture transfer, value and comfort. Synthetic over bags are ideal when moisture is a concern as they insulate when wet and protect the inner bag while down over bags perform better in dry conditions. Mummy shaped bags, such as the Horse Thief, can be used as a liner bag or make a great over bag for the minimalist.
Features
Fill: 725 goose down
Temperature rating: +35(F)
Integrated pad sleeve. Never roll off your pad again
60" YKK #8 zipper. Mate together any of our left and right zip bags with 60" zipper
Mummy shape decreases weight & packed size
Cotton storage sack & nylon stuff sack included
Built in pillow pocket holds a fleece or Big Agnes Pillow
Shell fabric: WRM breathable, water resistant and wind proof nylon microfiber rip-stop
Interior lining: WRM breathable, water resistant and wind proof nylon microfiber rip-stop
Interior fabric loops for sleeping bag liners
LEFT OR RIGHT ZIPPER? When you are in the bag, on your back, the right zip will be on your right side, left zip on your left side.
I'm highly skeptical of the warmth rating of most sleeping bags. They never seem to be quite as warm as the manufacturer's specified rating. However, I was very pleasantly surprised with the Big Agnes Horse Thief.
I brought it with me to Tanzania for a 3-day safari and 7-day climb of Kilimanjaro to compliment my +20 rated sleeping bag. I liked the versatility that it provided me to use one or the other bags individually, or both, for virtually any temperature. What I didn't anticipate is that I was able to sleep comfortably using just the Horse Thief on all but the highest camp on Kili. The temperatures at night were in the 30's(F) at the lower camps, and yet the Horse Thief kept me quite warm.
The bag also breathes well. I did not have any problem with moisture or sweating.
The Big Agnes Horse Thief is a little pricy, but it seems to be well made, and it provides good warmth and great versatility when used with another sleeping bag for trips that you expect a large variance in temperature.
Alpinist - Feb 25, 2007 2:33 pm - Voted 5/5
Very warmI brought it with me to Tanzania for a 3-day safari and 7-day climb of Kilimanjaro to compliment my +20 rated sleeping bag. I liked the versatility that it provided me to use one or the other bags individually, or both, for virtually any temperature. What I didn't anticipate is that I was able to sleep comfortably using just the Horse Thief on all but the highest camp on Kili. The temperatures at night were in the 30's(F) at the lower camps, and yet the Horse Thief kept me quite warm.
The bag also breathes well. I did not have any problem with moisture or sweating.
The Big Agnes Horse Thief is a little pricy, but it seems to be well made, and it provides good warmth and great versatility when used with another sleeping bag for trips that you expect a large variance in temperature.