Snugpak: Can we have a lowdown on which range does what please?

[darrenleroy]

http://www.snugpak.com/index.php?MenuID=93-101

If you click on the above link you will find Snugpak offer the following ranges: Softie, Special Forces, Elite and Tactical.

I can see the Tactical range offers a pillow pocket. And the Special Forces has a central zip.

But what are the major differences between the Softie and the Elite? I think from memory the Softies are made in the UK.

If anyone can illuminate the differences between the ranges I'd be happy because they both look the same to me.

Also, do the expander panels fit all the ranges and do they really make a difference? And can they expand the Special Forces bags?

 

[Barn Owl]

The one i have is a sp forces 2.

I like the central zip on a bag and i always use a bivi bag unless in the hammock.

I also like synthetic bags in case i've to use them if soaked.

Haven't used that bag for a while, mainly due to car/canoe camping and evaluating my down bag.

Good bag though.

I haven't used any of the other snugpaks bags mind.

 

[darrenleroy]

The one i have is a sp forces 2.

I like the central zip on a bag and i always use a bivi bag unless in the hammock.

I also like synthetic bags in case i've to use them if soaked.

Haven't used that bag for a while, mainly due to car/canoe camping and evaluating my down bag.

Good bag though.

I haven't used any of the other snugpaks bags mind.

Thanks for sharing that, Barn Owl! Now, what are the differences between the Softie and the Elite?

 

[woof]

Don't know about the difference, but i have an elite 3, and i'm very happy with it.

Rob

 

[Rabbitsmacker]

softie has no built in expanda panel, you have to buy the additional panel and fit it to the zips yourself. elite its built in. i thought that the softie compressed more, however, i have only owned an elite 3 and not a softie so cannot compare, but i have an elite jacket and can't really tell the difference between the elite and softie jackets. i thought the elite was an upgrade on softie in performance over weight but i'm probably wrong.

 

[darrenleroy]

softie has no built in expanda panel, you have to buy the additional panel and fit it to the zips yourself. elite its built in. i thought that the softie compressed more, however, i have only owned an elite 3 and not a softie so cannot compare, but i have an elite jacket and can't really tell the difference between the elite and softie jackets. i thought the elite was an upgrade on softie in performance over weight but i'm probably wrong.

Thanks Rabbitsmacker. I've emailed Snugpak to see if we can get a categorical breakdown of the different ranges. Will report when I hear back.

 

[tommy the cat]

Ive been wondering this too!
I am after a small pack size for a summer trip and have the elite 3.....I read that the elites will zip into each other making a really warm bag??
There is a pack size difference between the elite and the softie range.
D

 

[lannyman8]

my softy 6 is awesome in the summer, feels good on your skin almost silk like and warm for a thin bag, packs down really small too..........

chris...

 

[Old Bones]

The other difference (following on from Rabbitsmacker) is that the Elite has a 'jumbo zip baffle can be opened out to give much more room when needed' (thats the Snugpak blurb - I'm wondering just how big this baffle actually is). The only other difference is that it seems to have hanging straps and a reinforced foot so you can sleep in it with your boots on. Since they are over a £100, I doubt most of us will be doing that! The Softie Chrysalis Winter seems to be the civvy equal of the Osprey 12 (I have an old one), but with the panel system.

Interesting that the Osprey 12 (in green only now - no longer civvy/military) is basically a £100, the Elite 4 (in Olive) is as low as £67, and Chrysalis Winter as low as £62. They all have same temp ratings, the same materials and the same pack sizes (although the Osprey is made in the UK). If you don't sleep with your boots on, you might save some money. Or is there another reason for the difference in cost?

 

[seg1959]

The other difference (following on from Rabbitsmacker) is that the Elite has a 'jumbo zip baffle can be opened out to give much more room when needed' (thats the Snugpak blurb - I'm wondering just how big this baffle actually is). ...

On my Softie Micro, at the top the baffle is about 9 inches/24 cm wide.
See review there: http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=56002&highlight=

seg