First Impressions

Kelty positions the women’s Cosmic 20 as a bag that spans “cool spring nights into a brisk fall” and does it all for a bargain price (sub $100). We were struck by its decidedly feminine look – thanks to the light blue and brown polka dot color scheme and embroidered flower accents. But this bag’s beauty was more than skin deep. We chose the Girl Scout Camporee over Memorial Day weekend for our test. In the coastal mountains it felt more like a winter in Siberia than Summer in Santa Cruz, but with this sleeping bag we were cozy and warm through the frigid night.

Features

Although Kelty makes a down Cosmic, we opted for the version stuffed with Cloudloft Pro synthetic fiber. And we were cold at all times during our trip except when snuggled fully in this sleeping bag. We were able to sleep completely through the night which was a first for us.

The slant baffle construction of the Cosmic has a differential cut designed to eliminate cold spots and the inner layer is cut smaller than the outer layer to create consistent thickness of insulation. We noted no cold spots at all in the bag, and warmth was exceptional.

Kelty employs a polyester taffeta fabric both inside and out. Although not as silky as the Mountain Hardwear Lamina or The North Face Cat’s Meow, the interior was very smooth and comfy. It felt like we were sleeping with really good sheets from home. We did not feel like we were roughing it in this bag, and we most certainly were! The durable exterior withstood many dirty Girl Scout feet standing, jumping and dancing around.

Specs
Fabric: Polyester Taffeta – 50 Denier
Insulation: Cloudloft Synthetic
Weight: 3 lbs, 13 oz

The Cosmic’s top baffle draft collar drapes comfortably over neck and shoulders, sealing out drafts. And the cozy hood has draw cords of differing widths at head and neck for easy identification and adjustment in the dark. The draft collar and hood were probably our favorite features. With this bag up around your neck and your head protected by the hood, the warmth feels sealed in for the night.

Additional features including internal loops that allow for the attachment of a liner (none was needed for our tough scouts). Pad loops keep your sleeping bag and pad together, so you needn’t worry about rolling onto the cold, hard ground (straps not included). This is a great feature for restless sleepers like my daughter.

And finally, the Kelty Cosmic comes with a stuff sack.

Fit

The Cosmic is designed to fit a 5 foot, 6 inch individual and that size did the trick for us. No long version is available.

Final Verdict

With the Cosmic, Kelty delivers a terrific three-season bag. It has a great feminine look and a terrific sub-$100 price tag. Fabrics are a little coarser than other 20 degree bags and the weight is definitely up there. But if you’re looking for a hard working bargain of a bag, the Kelty Cosmic should definitely be on your list.

Thanks for reading another outdoor gear review from GearGuide. And thanks to Kelty for providing product for this review. Written by Casey S. and Gail S.