The Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20 is a sleeping bag that defies convention. It's not your typical bag, and that's exactly what makes it so intriguing. In a world where comfort and warmth are often prioritized, the Enigma 20 takes a different approach, offering a unique blend of efficiency and minimalism. But is it the right choice for you? Let's dive in and explore the ins and outs of this innovative sleeping system.
A New Kind of Warmth
What sets the Enigma 20 apart is its quilt-style design. Instead of a traditional sleeping bag with a zipper and hood, this bag is a streamlined, zipperless quilt. This design choice is intentional, as it eliminates unnecessary materials and creates a lightweight, compressible package. The high-loft 850-fill-power down compresses down to a tiny 7 liters, making it incredibly easy to pack. This is a game-changer for ultralight backpackers who want to maximize their gear's efficiency.
But the lack of a zipper and hood is where things get interesting. You see, the Enigma 20 requires a bit of know-how to use effectively. It's not a bag that just 'works' out of the box; it demands that you learn how to lie with a quilt to get the most out of it. This is where the real challenge lies, and it's not for the faint of heart. You'll need to embrace the learning curve and develop a familiarity with quilt systems to stay warm and comfortable.
The Pros and Cons
Pros
- Superlight and Compressible: The Enigma 20 is a lightweight champion, weighing in at just 1.4 pounds, including the inflatable pillow. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to shed every ounce of weight from their backpack. And when it comes to packing, it's a beast. It compresses down to a tiny 7 liters, leaving plenty of room for more food or other essentials.
- Customizable: One of the most appealing aspects of the Enigma 20 is its customization options. You can choose from multiple fill-power options, temperature ratings, length and width sizes, colors, and even add a draft collar. This level of personalization allows you to tailor the bag to your specific needs and preferences.
Cons
- No Hood: The absence of a hood is a significant trade-off. While it may be a lightweight feature, staying warm in colder conditions will require additional layers or accessories like a hat, neck gaiter, or even a hooded down jacket. This adds an extra layer of complexity to your packing list.
- Quilt Design is Polarizing: The quilt design is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it's incredibly efficient and lightweight. On the other hand, it requires a learning curve to master. Not everyone is comfortable with the quilt system, and it may not be the best choice for those who prefer the simplicity of a traditional sleeping bag.
- Limited Draft Protection: The quilt design also means limited draft protection. The opening doesn't go all the way down to the footbox, so you can't fully spread out the quilt like a blanket. Additionally, the buckle straps used in place of a zipper can be difficult to operate when your fingers are cold, adding another layer of complexity.
Who Should Buy the Enigma 20?
The Enigma 20 is not for the faint of heart or the casual camper. It's a bag designed for experienced ultralight backpackers who are willing to embrace the learning curve and invest time in mastering its unique features. If you're looking to fine-tune your ultralight game and push the boundaries of what's possible, the Enigma 20 is a great option. However, if you're a traditionalist who prefers the simplicity of a standard sleeping bag, you may want to look elsewhere.
Other Sleeping Bag Options
If you're not quite ready to take the plunge into the world of quilts, there are other lightweight sleeping bag options available. The Feathered Friends Hummingbird UL 30 is a stellar choice for those who want the best of both worlds. It offers many of the same performance features as the Enigma 20, but with added comforts that make it more enjoyable to sleep in. It's a great option for those who want the efficiency of a lightweight bag without the learning curve.
Final Thoughts
The Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20 is a sleeping bag that challenges the status quo. It's a bag for those who are willing to embrace innovation and push the boundaries of what's possible. While it may not be for everyone, it's a fascinating example of how technology and design can come together to create something truly unique. So, if you're an experienced ultralight backpacker looking to take your gear to the next level, the Enigma 20 is definitely worth considering. But remember, it's not a bag for the faint of heart; it's a bag for those who are ready to take on the challenge and reap the rewards of a truly efficient sleeping system.
