Robens Spire III £81

+ Excellent value, impressive temperature ratings

- Second heaviest on test, bulky, one size only

A -3°C comfort rating for just £81 is an utter bargain and difficult to beat, particularly considering the overall build quality, features and comfort you get here. We tested several other budget synthetic bags and often they felt cheap and poorly constructed, but the Spire III avoids this pitfall.

For price-conscious adventurers or beginner wild campers, it’s a good choice. If you’re willing to spend more, the Robens Icefall Pro 900 (£187, Trail Best Value winner in 2021) is a superior synthetic bag, courtesy of the amazingly lofty, down-like MicroThermo Ball fill, but the Spire III still delivers a cosy sleep.

You get lots of nice features – interior valuables pocket, hanger loops, anti-snag ¾-length zipper, brushed lining, insulated footbox, adjustable hood and thick neck baffle – while the fill is a whopping 1150g of OneThermo polyester. These sheet-like layers of flat, low-profile, wadded insulation don’t feel as a plump or lofty as down, but in some ways feel more akin to your duvet at home – which some may find more comfy.

The Spire III is heavier than ideal, takes up a lot of room in your backpack and clearly isn’t as premium as more expensive models – but you really can’t complain at this price.

■ Fill 1150g of OneThermo synthetic insulation (100% polyester, 2x 200g/m2)

■ Temp rating -3°C comfort, -9°C comfort limit ■ Weight 1685g ■ Pack size 36x24cm

■ Sizes One size

Verdict

A synthetic sleeping bag with impressive temperature ratings at a bargain price – but it’s heavy and bulky.