Outbound Reviewed: Therm-a-Rest Parsec 20F Sleeping Bag and ProLite Sleeping Pad

Therm-a-Rest recently gave me the opportunity to test out their new Parsec 20F sleeping bag along with the ProLite sleeping pad...so I took it for a test on a rocky shale summit in Tahoe National Forest

By: Mike Fennell + Save to a List


I've always been a big fan of Therm-a-Rest sleeping pads, as they have proven to be very comfortable in every one of my experiences so far. So I could not have been more excited to test out their sleeping bag. I decided to take it to the extreme and test it out on an uncomfortably rocky summit in the beautiful backcountry of the Sierra Nevada.

The Parsec 20F is a three-season bag and with peak summer temperatures in Tahoe, I essentially ended up testing it's cooling comfort rather it's warmth. Temperatures probably only dropped to a low of 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit, so I slept with the bag only halfway zipped up. I've definitely had issues of heating up with other bags in this kind of climate, especially in the feet, but the Parsec kept my body warmth completely constant from head-to-toe. This is where you could tell the "Zoned Insulation" of strategically placed fill was doing it's duty.

That 800-fill hyrdophobic down was quite apparent when it came to comfort, making it is easily the most comfortable sleeping bag I've ever used. In addition to the high fill count, I absolutely loved the extremely soft lining that is quiet and soothing to the skin. I was honestly surprised at how comfy and fluffy this bag felt for being so light to carry!

The Parsec also perfectly formed to my body without being too tight or too loose in any one area. Then, when I attached the sleeping bag to the ProLite mattress with the SynergyLink Connectors, I immediately felt even more relaxed, fidgeted very little, and actually woke up squarely on top of my mattress for once! These connectors are a game changer and I'm just surprised that to my knowledge no other company offers this feature.

In the end, the combo of the Parsec and the ProLite let me sleep like baby on that crazy rocky surface. Ten out of ten...I would highly recommend this bag for any camping trip!

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Do you love the outdoors?

Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.

Related

Marmot Men's Featherless Jacket Reviewed

Mike Fennell

The Most Relaxing Backpacking Trip I've Ever Taken with My Dog, Jack

Benjamin Canevari

Review: Hibear All-Day Adventure Flask

Kristi Teplitz

Nordica Strider 115 Women’s Ski Boot Review

Kristi Teplitz

Review: Body Glove Navigator+ Inflatable SUP w/ Backpack

Michael McSherry