Value and size range are the REI Co-op Trailmade 25's calling cards, which makes it a good first bag or a good answer if standard cuts never fit you. Reviewer Ian Graber-Stiehl found the moisture-resistant synthetic insulation holds up to its 25°F comfort rating and rated the regular size well for average builds, but flagged the bulk and a zipper that snags. Six options cover short, short wide, regular, regular wide, long, and long wide. Casual campers and backpacking newcomers who value fit and price over ultralight weight should look here.
Full review
Sizing Inclusivity
The REI Co-op Trailmade 25 Sleeping Bag stands out primarily for its extensive sizing options, offering six distinct combinations: short, short wide, regular, regular wide, long, and long wide. This approach directly addresses a common pain point in the sleeping bag market where fit is often compromised for affordability. According to GearJunkie's Ian Graber-Stiehl, the sizing inclusivity makes the Trailmade an appealing choice for newcomers to backpacking, particularly those who struggle to find a perfect fit in standard sizes. The wide versions accommodate broader shoulders while maintaining a mummy cut that's more comfortable than traditional rectangular bags. However, the transition from regular to wide sizes is substantial, as Graber-Stiehl noted, with the wide versions offering 70 inches of girth at the shoulder and 66 at the waist, which can feel roomy for those with straight waists but broad shoulders.
Moisture-resistant synthetic insulation
In terms of actual performance, the Trailmade 25 Sleeping Bag delivers on its promise of handling moisture-resistant insulation effectively, as noted by GearJunkie's review. The synthetic insulation maintains its warmth even when exposed to damp conditions, which is a critical feature for budget-conscious campers who may not have access to premium waterproof gear.
The synthetic insulation, while moisture-resistant, does come with some drawbacks. The material is described as having heft, which affects the bag's packed volume and weight.
Hood, stash pocket and zippers
The design elements of the Trailmade 25 Sleeping Bag include a mummy shape with a cinchable hood, which is a standout feature for thermal efficiency. The hood includes dual drawcords (one round, one flat) to independently adjust the top and bottom, making it easy to dial in the fit even in low light. The exterior features a zippered stash pocket for small items like phones or headlamps, which is a practical addition for budget-friendly gear. However, the bag's design also includes some drawbacks, such as the lower zippers that are prone to snagging, as noted by GearJunkie's review.
Ventilation and Comfort
Ventilation in the Trailmade 25 Sleeping Bag is handled through a combination of long upper and lower zippers, which provide plenty of ventilation options. According to GearJunkie's review, these zippers offer easy ventilation, which is crucial for preventing overheating during warmer nights.
YKK zipper sticks despite the snag-resistant claim
The snag-resistant YKK zipper, which is supposed to be a premium feature, has been reported to stick occasionally, making it somewhat finicky to use. Additionally, the lower zippers are prone to snagging, which can be frustrating during use. These issues, while not deal-breakers, do detract from the overall user experience and suggest that the Trailmade 25 is better suited for casual campers who don't require the highest level of comfort or performance.
Six sizes make it fit more body types
The Trailmade 25 Sleeping Bag is best suited for budget-conscious campers who prioritize sizing inclusivity and basic functionality over premium comfort or performance. It's an excellent choice for beginners or those who are new to backpacking and want a reliable, affordable option that fits a wide range of body types. According to GearJunkie's review, the six-size system makes it particularly appealing for users who have struggled to find a perfect fit in standard sizes. The bag's moisture-resistant insulation is also a significant advantage for those who camp in damp conditions or don't have access to premium waterproof gear. However, it's not recommended for serious backpackers or those who frequently camp in cold conditions, as the synthetic insulation doesn't perform well in extreme cold.
Campers who are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers good value and sizing inclusivity will find the Trailmade 25 a solid choice. It's particularly well-suited for warm-weather camping or for those who use their sleeping bags primarily during mild conditions. The bag suits short backpacking trips, though its packed volume is bulkier than lighter-weight alternatives. However, users who require maximum comfort or performance in challenging conditions should look elsewhere, as the Trailmade 25 is designed more for basic functionality than for high-end performance.
3 pounds 4.6 ounces across six sizes
The Trailmade 25 Sleeping Bag offers solid value for its price point, particularly when considering its extensive sizing options and moisture-resistant insulation. GearJunkie's review emphasizes that the bag delivers big on value, sizing inclusivity, and moisture-resistant insulation that lives up to comfort temp rating. The six-size system alone provides significant value, as it's rare to find a budget sleeping bag with such comprehensive sizing options. The recycled polyester insulation, while not as warm as down, does handle moisture well, which is a crucial feature for budget-conscious campers. The bag weighs 3 pounds 4.6 ounces.
Trades down warmth for sizing options versus Kelty
When compared to alternatives like the Kelty Down Cosmic 20, the Trailmade 25 Sleeping Bag falls short in terms of warmth and comfort. The Kelty Cosmic 20, while only available in standard sizes, offers superior performance in cold conditions due to its down insulation. However, the Trailmade's six-size system provides a significant advantage in terms of inclusivity, which the Kelty Cosmic 20 lacks. The Trailmade's synthetic insulation, while moisture-resistant, doesn't perform as well as down in cold conditions, making it less suitable for serious backpackers or those who frequently camp in challenging weather.
In comparison to other budget-friendly sleeping bags, the Trailmade 25 offers a more comprehensive sizing system, which is a significant advantage. The bag's design is thoughtfully functional, covering the essentials well for a budget-friendly model, though it doesn't break new ground in terms of features. The inclusion of a zippered stash pocket, a cinchable hood with dual drawcords, and the six-size system makes it a more complete option than many alternatives in its price range.
Strengths
- +Excellent value for budget-conscious backpackers
- +Insulation handles moisture well and performs to comfort temp rating
- +Long upper/lower zips offer easy ventilation
- +Generous zippers provide plenty of ventilation options
Watch-outs
- −Lower zippers prone to snagging
- −Bulky design with significant packed volume
How it compares
The REI Co-op Trailmade 25 stands out for its budget-friendly pricing and excellent sizing inclusivity, unlike the more expensive Western Mountaineering MegaLite. While the Mountain Hardwear Phantom 30 offers better warmth-to-weight, the REI bag provides superior value and fit for beginners and casual campers who don't prioritize ultralight performance.
Rating sources
Our 3.7 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
