Western Mountaineering - GWS vs MF breathability

[copperking81]

I'm planning on purchasing a Western Mountaineering bag but am having difficulty deciding if I want to go with GWS or MF. I like the idea of an added layer of moisture protection but am also concerned about how well the bag will breath.

I've read just about every review I can find on the differences between the GWS and MF fabrics. Seems like a majority favors the MF fabric but what I can't tell is it's because most think the GWS just isn't worth the extra cost and the added space it consumes or if it's that they really think the MF fabric breathes significantly better. The added cost and space don't bother me.

For those that have experience with these fabrics... if cost and space were equal would you still prefer the MF fabric, if you do prefer it now? Do you see that much difference between the two?

The bag will primarily be used in Rocky Mountain states, October through December.

 

[thinhorn_AK]

I love my badger micro fiber bag but I’ve only done 5 nights in it so far. Awesome bag.

 

[Kevin Dill]

Probably 110 nights in a Sequoia GWS in Alaska and no problems r/t moisture or breathability. I mainly chose GWS for general moisture repellency, and for remote chance of needing to bivy outdoors if a tent disaster happened on a remote hunt.

 

[RockChucker30]

From WM's FAQ......I have MF and like it.

Extremelite is our lightest fabric, but the least water resistant. Microfiber is far more water resistant and more breathable than Extremelite, just slightly heavier. We consider it a perfect middle ground between weight, durability, water resistance and breathability. Gore WindStopper is the heaviest least breathable fabric however it is multiple times more water resistant than the other two fabrics.
Extremelite is suitable for all 2 season uses and ideal for weight conscious adventurers. The fabric is highly water resistant for the weight and can withstand most condensation summertime users encounter inside tents. Microfiber boasts high versatility due to its increased water resistance and breathability. Cow boy camping? Need something suitable for warm nights and wet nights? Microfiber is ideal. Gore Windstopper is for situations in which you will encounter high moisture or precipitation. These bags are not water proof, but will hold up to any condensation and even light precipitation. Their less breathable shell means they are not ideal for warm nights.

Stats on fabric performance:

Extremelite
Denier: 12
Weight: 0.74 oz/y^2
Hydrostatic head: 1200 mm

Microfiber XP
Denier: 20
Weight: 1.35 oz/y^2
Hydrostatic head: 2000 mm

Gore WindStopper (bags)
Denier: 20
Weight: 1.7 oz/y^2
Hydrostatic head: 12000 mm (yup 3 zero’s)


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[Shrek]

Microfiber sheds water very well and breathes better. I have microfiber myself and have never had moisture issues.

 

[RockChucker30]

MF is 2000 mm HH, which is more waterproof than most big box store tent canopies.

I think if you're in a temperate rainforest then GWS may be a good idea, or do deep cold camping, but otherwise it's likely not needed.


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[Runningwater]

Certainly could see an argument in some applications for the gore, but pretty tough for late fall/early winter in the Rockies. My mf antelope sure seems to shed water fine. That said I've never tried the gore. Good luck, nice bags!