FEATURES
The Mountain Equipment Xero 300 is a well-established sleeping bag that uses 850 fill power down, which can be traced to its source via the unique Down Codex project to ensure welfare and quality standards are met. The lining is Supersoft nylon and the outer is Helium 30 nylon. You also get EXL stitching that stretches to hold the bag closer to the body. The lowest comfort temperature rating is -2 deg C and the bag weighs just 869g. 5/5
FIT
The Xero 300 is 212cm long with 76cm shoulder width so it is slightly bigger than some bags, and a slightly bigger ‘extra large’ version is also available. The stretch EXL stitching makes the fit closer, while a shoulder baffle with drawcords and a seven-baffle hood ensure the fit is closer throughout. This bag fits well and is easily adjusted. 5/5
COMFORT
The -2 deg C comfort temperature rating is ideal for summer in the UK, while the soft down filling combined with elastication makes the Mountain Equipment Xero 300 feel very comfortable. The lining materials feel nice and comfy too. To cool off you get a zip that extends to the calf, and this is good for venting, although you might want a longer zip. The collar is ideal for trapping air inside the bag. 5/5
IN USE
The packed size of 20x16cm is ideal for backpacking, as is the weight of 869g. You get slant box wall construction and ground-level seams, which all help to keep the down in place. The drawcords work very nicely without bunching up, and there is a very good anti-snag strip to prevent the side zip from snagging. The compression sack is waterproof, which helps protect the bag. 5/5
VALUE
The performance is excellent but the price is less impressive so this is an investment only keener backpackers will consider making. 3/5
VERDICT
The Mountain Equipment Xero300 is superb for backpacking when great all-round performance is needed but there are lighter bags and lower-priced options. It won Trail’s ‘Best in Test’ accolade. 4.6/5
Review by Graham Thompson
First published in Trail magazine Aug 2016