Sierra Designs Trade Wind 15

This review is for the 2006 model of the Trade Wind 15, which, in my opinion, is way better than the current model pictured above. I'll explain why.

The 2006 model is filled with 800-fill down as opposed to 600-fill, has a longer side zipper, and better look with a printed design interior, as opposed to a boring matte black. I have tried both versions, as I was set on a waterproof, down bag with a nice feature set for a solid price.

I also compared those two bags with the Sierra Designs Arrow Rock 15 and 30, as well as the Montbell Super Stretch Burrow bag #2. I kept the 2006 version and sent all the others back.

The stretch features of the three bags above seemed nice, but unnecessary for myself. Plus, the Trade Wind 15 had plenty of room. I'm 6'4" 200 lbs using the Tall model of course. The Montbell tall bags are only sized for 6'4" individuals. So that was just a tad too tight.

The stretch bags had the "extra" stretch built in, but in reality, they stretched to the size of the Trade Wind. Check the dimensions and you'll see it's true.

The durability of the Drizone shell seemed more solid over the lighter nylon used on the other three bags. I liked that as I could easily camp outside the tent, without alarm. That, and the other bags didn't meet the waterproof requirement I was looking for. I have only briefly tested the waterproofness of the bag and it seems solid. In all reality, I don't think I'll be sleeping outside in a downpour, but condensation is a concern and I have full confidence in the shell. You sacrifice just a bit of weight and compressibility, but really, its not much. The other bags didn't pack down too much smaller.

The bag feels wonderful, and the 800-fill fluffs up wonderfully. The draft tube runs the length of the zipper and all the way across the chest in the 06 model. I don't think it does the same in the 08, but I cannot remember.

I am really perplexed why Sierra Designs changed the design. The current 08 model seems to have lost a step in every department from the 06 model. I am sorry if that is unfortunate for potential buyers. The 08 was still my second choice, but with the much cozier 800-fill and longer zipper, keeping the quality constant. the 06 was my choice.

I haven't tested the lower temp ratings just yet. I have however, slept in 70 degree weather. The bag managed just fine. The zipper was open of course, but I didn't overheat. The breathability of the shell proved superb.

All in all, a great, highly versatile bag.