Snugpak Special Forces sleep system

If, like us, you’re a fan of modular sleep systems, then the Snugpak Special Forces sleep system is definitely worth checking out. If you’re not familiar with modular sleep systems, check out our recent modular sleep systems article.

The Snugpak Special Forces sleep system comprises of the following components:

• Special Forces 1 sleeping bag
• Special Forces 2 sleeping bag
• Special Forces Zip Baffle (centre zip)
• Special Forces Bivi Bag

You can purchase each component separately, or you can buy the Special Forces Complete System. You can use each component separately or combine them, to suit different weather conditions and temperatures.

Let’s take a look at each component. Firstly we’ll compare the specs of the Special Forces 1 sleeping bag and the Special Forces 2 sleeping bag so you can see the differences.

Snugpak Special Forces 1 sleeping bag and Special Forces 2 sleeping bag spec comparison

Snugpak Special Forces Zip Baffle

The Special Forces Zip Baffle allows you to zip the Special Forces 1 and Special Forces 2 sleeping bags together. Some modular systems require you to open both sleeping bags separately to get out, which as you can imagine, would be problematic if you wanted to get out quickly for whatever reason. Snugpak’s zip baffle leaves you with just the one central zip to get in and out of the whole system. It only weighs 280g / 10oz too.

To connect the two bags with the baffle check out this short Snugpak Special Forces Complete System video from Snugpak. Take your time connecting the bags – you don’t want to catch the fabric with the zips. Remember that connecting the bags wouldn’t be the easiest thing to do in freezing temperatures, so if it’s going to be a cold one you are probably best connecting the bags before you head out. All you have to do then is simply dive into your warm sleep system when you decide it’s time to hit the hay.

Price of the Snugpak Special Forces Zip Baffle?
UK: CHECK PRICE – AMAZON.CO.UK
US: CHECK PRICE – AMAZON.COM

Snugpak Special Forces Complete System

The Snugpak Special Forces Complete System includes the Special Forces 1 sleeping bag, the Special Forces 2 sleeping bag and the Special Forces Zip Baffle. Note, the bivy is not included. You can use each component separately, or combine them, to suit different weather conditions and temperatures. This effectively gives you 3 sleeping bags to cover a wide range of weather conditions.

As is generally the case with these modular sleep systems, they are not the lightest. The complete system comes in at 3200g / 113oz. Bear in mind though that you’ll probably only need to carry all the components in the colder months.

Price of the Snugpak Special Forces Complete System?
UK: CHECK PRICE – AMAZON.CO.UK
US: CHECK PRICE – AMAZON.COM

In wet conditions it may be worth also considering the Special Forces Bivy Bag to put over the sleeping bags.

Snugpak Special Forces Bivy Bag

The Special Forces Bivy Bag isn’t included with the complete system, but the extra investment may well be worth it, particularly for use in wet climates such as the UK. Even if you’re sleeping in a tent, condensation can leave you with a wet sleeping bag in the morning, particularly in winter when you may be using a shelter with less ventilation.

Snugpak Special Forces Bivy Bag spec:

WATERPROOF
5000mm HH

WEIGHT
Standard: 340g / 12oz
Extra Long: 400g / 14oz

DIMENSIONS (Length x Chest width x Foot width)
Standard: 230cm / 91″ x 88cm / 35″ x 65cm / 26″
Extra Long: 260cm / 102” x 88cm / 35” x 65cm / 26″

PACK SIZE
14cm x 10cm / 6″ x 4″

COLOURS
Black, Olive, Coyote Tan

WHERE IS IT MADE?
Made in the UK

Price of the Snugpak Special Forces Bivy Bag?
UK: CHECK PRICE – AMAZON.CO.UK
US: CHECK PRICE – AMAZON.COM

RELATED: If you’re interested in a 1 person Snugpak shelter check out our Snugpak Journey Solo vs Ionosphere vs Stratosphere article. Also, check out our Snugpak Arrowhead, Spearhead and Tomahawk comparison article – three great winter jackets.

Snugpak Special Forces sleep system summary

If a modular sleep system is something you’re keen to try then it’s well worth considering the Snugpak Special Forces sleep system. Yes it will cost you more than a used army surplus system, but not everyone is ok with sleeping in a used sleeping bag. Snugpak’s system is also a bit lighter than a military system and stuffs down a bit smaller.

We like the fact that Snugpak offer two sizes, though the standard size itself is pretty generous and should cater for most people up to 6’2” or even 6’3”.

Don’t forget this is a mummy shaped sleep system and you may feel a bit trussed up and claustrophobic if that kind of thing bothers you. We’d love to see a rectangular version, but then of course you’re adding weight and losing some warmth. However, a rectangular modular system would appeal to car campers and campsite campers (where weight isn’t an issue) who may prefer that bit of extra legroom.

In terms of zips, the Snugpak system has centre zips throughout – great for when you have a mummy sleeping bag panic attack in the night. Centre zips also work better for use in a hammock.

All in all the Snugpak Special Forces sleep system seems to be a great piece of kit. For use in changeable climates, it’s hard to think of a more versatile sleep system, particularly if you don’t mind the extra weight.