Introduction

Brief Overview

The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 is a versatile sleeping bag designed for the eco-conscious adventurer who doesn’t want to compromise on performance. Built for a range of outdoor activities, from camping in temperate forests to chilly alpine hikes, this sleeping bag promises warmth, comfort, and durability. One of the standout features of the Trestles Elite Eco 20 is its use of sustainable materials, making it an excellent choice for environmentally mindful hikers and campers.

Initial Impressions and Context of Testing

Upon unboxing the Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20, the first thing that strikes you is its robust yet lightweight build. The exterior fabric feels durable, yet not overly stiff, suggesting a good balance between protection and comfort. The sleeping bag comes with a convenient compression sack, which is a plus for those mindful of space in their backpacks. The vibrant color and sleek design also add a modern touch to its rugged functionality.

I tested the Trestles Elite Eco 20 over a week-long camping trip in the Rockies, where temperatures dipped to the low 20s Fahrenheit. The sleeping bag was put through its paces in various conditions, from dry, windy nights to damp, cold mornings. My initial concerns about the bag’s ability to retain warmth and manage moisture were quickly alleviated after the first night of use. This sleeping bag not only kept me comfortably warm but also demonstrated impressive moisture-wicking capabilities, preventing that dreaded clammy feeling that often comes with high humidity.

Overall, my initial impressions of the Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 were overwhelmingly positive. It is clear that Marmot has invested in both the design and functionality of this sleeping bag, making it a strong contender in the market for eco-friendly outdoor gear.

Technical Specifications

Key Features and Technology

The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 is packed with innovative features and technology designed to enhance the outdoor experience while prioritizing sustainability. Some of the key features include:

• HL-ElixR™ Eco Insulation: This synthetic insulation is made from 100% recycled fibers, providing high loft, warmth, and compressibility.
• Anatomical 3D Footbox: Designed to increase the comfort and warmth around your feet, ensuring a better night’s sleep.
• 3D Hood Construction: Offers better heat retention and comfort, providing a snug fit around the head.
• Fold-Down Second Zipper: Allows for added ventilation and easy access without compromising warmth.
• Snagless Insulated Draft Tube: Prevents heat loss and blocks drafts, enhancing thermal efficiency.

Design and Materials

The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 is designed with both functionality and sustainability in mind. The materials used are carefully selected to ensure durability, comfort, and minimal environmental impact.

• Outer Shell Material: Made from 20-denier 100% recycled polyester ripstop, offering a tough yet lightweight outer shell.
• Lining Material: Constructed from 30-denier 100% recycled polyester Taffeta, providing a soft and comfortable inner surface.
• Insulation: The HL-ElixR™ Eco synthetic fill is crafted from recycled fibers, maintaining high performance in wet conditions and ensuring eco-friendliness.

Dimensions and Weight

The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 is available in various sizes to accommodate different body types and preferences.

• Regular:
  • Fits up to: 6 ft / 183 cm
  • Weight: 2 lbs 9 oz / 1.16 kg
  • Packed size: 8.5 x 18 in / 21 x 46 cm
• Long:
  • Fits up to: 6 ft 6 in / 198 cm
  • Weight: 2 lbs 14 oz / 1.30 kg
  • Packed size: 8.5 x 18 in / 21 x 46 cm
• Women’s:
  • Fits up to: 5 ft 6 in / 168 cm
  • Weight: 2 lbs 8 oz / 1.13 kg
  • Packed size: 8.5 x 18 in / 21 x 46 cm

Additional Features

The Trestles Elite Eco 20 also includes practical features that enhance its usability and comfort in the field.

• EN Tested: Rated to EN 13537 standards, ensuring reliable temperature ratings.
• Internal Stash Pocket: Convenient for keeping small items like a phone or flashlight close at hand.
• Compression Stuff Sack: Included for easy packing and space-saving in your backpack.

These technical specifications highlight the thoughtful design and advanced technology integrated into the Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20, making it a top choice for eco-conscious adventurers seeking reliable performance in a variety of outdoor conditions.

Performance Evaluation

Fabric Performance

Breathability: The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 excels in breathability, thanks to its high-quality synthetic insulation and recycled polyester materials. The HL-ElixR™ Eco insulation effectively wicks moisture away from the body, preventing that uncomfortable clammy feeling often experienced in damp conditions. During my testing in varying humidity levels, I remained dry and comfortable throughout the night.

Waterproofing: While the sleeping bag itself is not entirely waterproof, its outer shell made of 20-denier recycled polyester ripstop provides a significant level of water resistance. It effectively sheds light moisture and condensation, keeping the interior dry. However, for heavy rain or wet conditions, pairing the bag with a waterproof bivy sack or tent is recommended.

Durability: The Trestles Elite Eco 20 demonstrates impressive durability. The ripstop outer shell is resistant to abrasions and tears, which is crucial when camping in rugged environments. After several nights of use, including some rough handling and packing, the sleeping bag showed no signs of wear or damage.

Weather Resistance

The Trestles Elite Eco 20 performs admirably across a range of weather conditions. During my testing in temperatures dipping to the low 20s Fahrenheit, the bag maintained excellent thermal efficiency. The anatomical 3D footbox and 3D hood construction provided additional warmth where it was most needed, ensuring a comfortable sleep even in freezing temperatures. In windy conditions, the snagless insulated draft tube effectively blocked drafts, preventing heat loss.

Practical Features

Zippers: The Trestles Elite Eco 20 features a fold-down second zipper, which allows for added ventilation and easier access. This design is particularly useful for regulating temperature during warmer nights. The main zipper is robust and operates smoothly without snagging, enhancing the overall usability of the bag.

Pockets: An internal stash pocket is a convenient addition, allowing for safe storage of small essentials like a phone, headlamp, or wallet. This feature ensures that critical items remain accessible without needing to exit the sleeping bag.

Compression Sack: The included compression stuff sack is a practical feature for backpackers. It significantly reduces the packed size of the sleeping bag, making it easier to fit into a backpack without occupying excessive space. This is especially important for multi-day trips where space management is crucial.

Overall, the Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20’s performance in terms of fabric, weather resistance, and practical features is outstanding. It combines durability, comfort, and user-friendly attributes, making it a reliable choice for various outdoor adventures.

Fit and Comfort

Sizing and Fit

The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 is available in multiple sizes to accommodate a wide range of body types. The regular size fits users up to 6 feet tall, the long size fits users up to 6 feet 6 inches, and there’s a women-specific model designed for users up to 5 feet 6 inches. This variety ensures that most adventurers can find a size that suits them comfortably.

During my testing, I used the regular size, which fit my 5’10” frame perfectly. The sleeping bag provided ample room to move without feeling restrictive, yet it was snug enough to retain warmth efficiently. The anatomical 3D footbox is a noteworthy feature, offering extra space for your feet, which enhances comfort and warmth. This is particularly beneficial for side sleepers or those who prefer to shift positions during the night.

Comfort During Various Activities

Sleeping Comfort: The Trestles Elite Eco 20 is designed with a 3D hood construction that cradles your head comfortably, providing excellent thermal efficiency and support. The hood can be adjusted to fit snugly around your head, preventing heat loss and increasing comfort during cold nights. The draft collar and insulated draft tube work together to seal in warmth, making a noticeable difference in maintaining a consistent temperature inside the bag.

Versatility in Different Conditions: This sleeping bag performs admirably in various conditions. During my week-long camping trip, I encountered cold, damp mornings and windy nights. The Trestles Elite Eco 20 managed to keep me warm and dry in all these scenarios. Its ability to maintain comfort in fluctuating temperatures speaks volumes about its design and insulation quality.

Packing and Portability: The sleeping bag compresses well into its stuff sack, making it easy to pack and carry. While it’s not the lightest bag on the market, its weight is justified by its warmth and comfort levels. For backpackers and hikers, the balance between comfort, warmth, and weight is crucial, and the Trestles Elite Eco 20 strikes this balance effectively.

Added Comfort Features

Internal Stash Pocket: The internal stash pocket is a small but significant comfort feature. It allows you to keep essential items like a headlamp, phone, or wallet within easy reach, eliminating the need to rummage through your gear in the dark or cold.

Second Zipper for Ventilation: The fold-down second zipper is an excellent addition for those warmer nights when you need a bit of ventilation. This feature allows you to adjust the bag’s airflow without compromising too much on warmth.

In conclusion, the Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 offers a well-thought-out balance of fit and comfort. Its design accommodates various sleeping positions and body types, ensuring a restful night’s sleep in a range of outdoor conditions.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Eco-Friendly Materials: The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 stands out for its commitment to sustainability. The use of 100% recycled materials in the shell, lining, and insulation significantly reduces its environmental impact, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious adventurers.

Thermal Efficiency: The HL-ElixR™ Eco synthetic insulation provides excellent warmth, even in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The 3D hood construction, anatomical footbox, and insulated draft tube enhance heat retention, ensuring a warm and comfortable sleep in cold conditions.

Durability: The 20-denier recycled polyester ripstop outer shell is robust and resistant to abrasions and tears, making the sleeping bag suitable for rugged environments. The high-quality zippers and reinforced stitching add to its longevity.

Comfort Features: Features like the 3D footbox, 3D hood construction, and fold-down second zipper contribute to overall comfort. The internal stash pocket is a handy addition for keeping small essentials close at hand.

Versatility: The Trestles Elite Eco 20 performs well in a variety of weather conditions, from cold and windy to damp and humid. Its breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities ensure comfort across different environments.

Drawbacks

Weight and Packability: While the sleeping bag compresses well and includes a stuff sack, it is not the lightest option available. For ultralight backpackers, the Trestles Elite Eco 20 might be on the heavier side, potentially making it less ideal for long-distance trekking where every ounce matters.

Bulkiness: Despite its compressibility, the packed size of the sleeping bag may still be considered bulky by some users, especially when compared to down-filled alternatives. This could be a drawback for those with limited packing space.

Price Point: The use of eco-friendly materials and advanced features does come at a cost. The Trestles Elite Eco 20 is priced higher than some synthetic sleeping bags on the market. Budget-conscious hikers might find this a significant consideration.

Conclusion

The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 offers a compelling mix of sustainability, warmth, and durability, making it a top choice for environmentally-minded adventurers. While it may not be the lightest or most compact option, its performance and comfort features make it a worthy investment for various outdoor activities.

Comparative Analysis

When comparing the Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 to the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 and the NEMO Disco 15, notable differences and similarities emerge that can help potential buyers make an informed decision.

Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 vs. Kelty Cosmic Down 20: The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 is a down-filled sleeping bag known for its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and compressibility. Unlike the synthetic insulation of the Trestles Elite Eco 20, the Kelty Cosmic Down uses 600-fill power DriDown, which provides superior warmth and compresses smaller, making it ideal for backpackers looking to minimize pack weight and volume. However, the Trestles Elite Eco 20 has an edge in terms of sustainability, using 100% recycled materials, which the Kelty Cosmic Down does not offer. Additionally, the synthetic fill in the Marmot bag performs better in wet conditions, retaining insulation properties when damp, a common drawback of down insulation.

Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 vs. NEMO Disco 15: The NEMO Disco 15 is a unique option in the market, designed with a spoon shape that offers more room around the knees and elbows, catering to side sleepers and those who move around a lot at night. The NEMO Disco 15 also features Thermo Gills, allowing users to vent body heat without letting cold drafts in, a versatile feature for varying temperatures. While the NEMO Disco 15 provides greater versatility in sleeping positions and temperature control, it is bulkier and heavier than the Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20. The Marmot bag, with its eco-friendly materials, offers a more traditional mummy shape that excels in thermal efficiency and compact packing size, though it might feel restrictive to those who prefer more space.

In summary, the Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 stands out for its eco-friendly materials and excellent performance in wet conditions, while the Kelty Cosmic Down 20 and NEMO Disco 15 offer advantages in weight, compressibility, and user comfort for specific sleeping preferences. Each bag has its strengths, making the best choice dependent on individual priorities like sustainability, weight, and comfort needs.

Verdict

The Marmot Trestles Elite Eco 20 is a commendable sleeping bag that balances sustainability, performance, and comfort. Its use of 100% recycled materials makes it an eco-friendly choice without compromising on warmth and durability. The HL-ElixR™ Eco insulation offers reliable thermal efficiency even in damp conditions, making it a versatile option for various weather scenarios. While it might not be the lightest or most compact sleeping bag available, its robust construction and practical features like the 3D hood and internal stash pocket enhance its usability.

Ideal for eco-conscious adventurers who prioritize sustainability and reliable performance, the Trestles Elite Eco 20 proves to be a valuable addition to any camping gear. Its thoughtful design and impressive functionality offer great value for money, making it well-suited for backpacking, hiking, and general camping in cooler climates. Overall, it’s a solid investment for those seeking both environmental responsibility and outdoor comfort.