The Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20 is a sleeping bag that's all about efficiency and minimalism. It's designed for experienced ultralight backpackers who want to maximize warmth without sacrificing weight. This bag is a quilt-style sleeping system, which means it's streamlined and lightweight, but it comes with a learning curve. The Enigma 20 is not for beginners; it requires a certain level of expertise to use effectively. However, for those in the know, it's a game-changer. This bag is incredibly compact and lightweight, packing down to a tiny 7 liters and weighing just 1.4 pounds. It's a real space-saver, allowing you to bring more gear or a smaller backpack. The high-loft 850-fill-power down insulation provides excellent warmth, even in near-freezing temperatures. The bag is customizable, letting you choose from various fill-power options, temperature ratings, lengths, widths, colors, and whether to include a draft collar. This level of customization is a huge plus for those who want to fine-tune their sleeping setup. But there are some trade-offs. The lack of a hood and zipper means you'll need to rely on additional layers for warmth, like a hat or neck gaiter. The quilt design also means you'll need to learn how to position yourself for optimal heat retention. The opening doesn't go all the way down to the footbox, so you can't spread out the quilt like a traditional sleeping bag. And the buckle straps, used in place of a zipper, can be tricky to operate when your fingers are cold. Despite these challenges, the Enigma 20 is a top-tier choice for ultralight backpackers. It's a powerful tool for those who want to push the boundaries of lightweight camping. However, it's not for everyone. Most campers and backpackers will find a traditional sleeping bag more user-friendly. If you're looking for something similar in terms of weight and compressibility, the Feathered Friends Hummingbird UL 30 is a great alternative. It offers many of the same performance features as the Enigma 20, plus added comforts that make it more enjoyable to sleep in. So, if you're an experienced ultralight backpacker looking to take your gear to the next level, the Enlightened Equipment Enigma 20 is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for a learning curve and a bit of experimentation to get the most out of this unique sleeping bag.
