The REI Co-op Magma 30 offers an excellent weight-to-warmth ratio, good all-around comfort, and packs down small, giving it outstanding value for the price.
Very few sleeping bags offer as versatile a combination of features as the REI Co-op Magma 30º. Warmth, comfort, packability, value; it manages to do it all and at a reasonable price, to boot.
Made with 850-fill hydrophobic goose down insulation surrounded by a water-resistant Pertex shell, the Magma 30º is a sleeping bag built for use on the trail. It manages to perfectly balance performance and weight, while also providing plenty of interior space. There's even a customizable hood for added comfort and heat retention.
The bag does feature unique bio-mapped baffles which often provide more insulation in the torso area and less in the legs and feet. This could very well lead to some cold toes on frostier nights.
One of the Magma 30's best features is an easy-pull zipper that runs the length of one side. This provides campers the option to unzip the bag for improved venting in warmer weather, allowing them to stay more comfortable in a variety of environments.
When the mercury takes a plunge, the bag fully zips in order to keep things warmer. This holds true despite the fact REI gave the Magma 30 a generous amount of interior space — which is nice for all-around comfort but sometimes leads to cold air sneaking in.
There were a few times when this bag didn't quite live up to its 30ºF temperature rating but to be fair REI, it does say it's best used at 39ºF and above. It can be used in colder temps in a pinch, though.
The REI Co-op Magma 30 is a great all-around sleeping bag with plenty of features and good performance. It's lightweight, comfortable, and doesn't take up much room in a backpack, all of which are features that should make it a popular option for backpackers and car campers alike.
Pros: Warm, comfortable, and provides high value for the price
Cons: Small stuff sack, 30ºF temperature rating might be generous