Product reviews/05/27/2024

ISPO Award Winner 2024: Starhopper Sleeping Bag by Bach Equipment

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The Starhopper Sleeping Bag from Bach Equipment maximizes the outdoor sleeping experience under the open sky.

Spending a night in nature is a unique experience. With the innovative Starhopper +5°C sleeping bag from Bach Equipment, the feeling of sleeping under the stars can be maximized. The Starhopper is designed for sleeping under the open sky in dry weather, even without a tent or tarp.

To make this outdoor sleeping dream possible with minimal compromise and maximum comfort, Bach's design team has incorporated numerous innovative and thoughtful details into the sleeping bag. Features such as the inflatable bug net, which keeps mosquitoes away from the face without obstructing the view of the night sky with too coarse a mesh, as well as strategically placed ventilation options and openings, demonstrate a high level of innovation.

This innovation is evident in the details as well: the bug net, hidden in an inner pocket, can be inflated in less than a minute, providing optimal additional mosquito protection in the head area quickly. The mentioned ventilation slots are also equipped with protection against biting insects. "This innovative product protects against wind, moisture, and insects, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to comfortably enjoy sunsets and starry nights," describes Laure Ooink, a product developer at Bach, the benefits of the Starhopper. The windproof outer material supports heat insulation during sleep. "The Primaloft insulation works excellently even when wet, so you don't have to fear morning dew," says Ooink.

Thanks to the clever ventilation slots, the Starhopper can also be used as a warming blanket during the morning coffee.
Image credit:
Bach Equipment

Smart Ventilation

Bach didn't solely rely on its own extensive expertise in developing the Starhopper; they also sought external support. A team of experienced outdoor enthusiasts extensively tested the Starhopper in the field and provided their feedback to the design team. This constructive exchange informed the development of the Starhopper.

One result of this exchange is that the bug ventilation can be fully opened. "This allows for enjoying breakfast snugly inside the sleeping bag," adds Laura Ooink. This comfort feature is made possible by a multitude of zippers around the arms and at the bottom of the sleeping bag. The sleeping bag can be ventilated while still protected by a mesh, or it can be fully opened to stretch out arms and feet. This proves to be extremely practical for staying warm at camp while still having enough freedom of movement. The outer material is made of 20D nylon ripstop, making it not only lightweight but also robust.

Thanks to the quickly inflatable bug net, you're optimally protected from mosquitoes and insects.
Image credit:
Bach Equipment

Small and lightweight

Sleeping under the starry sky is a magical experience, one cherished by outdoor enthusiasts. The Starhopper 3-season sleeping bag is designed for those who wish to spend their nights under the open sky, either with minimal shelter or just a tarp. Bach aims to appeal to the growing number of ultralight and fastpackers, as well as kayakers and bikepackers, with the Starhopper.

Thanks to its unique overall concept, the Starhopper stands out significantly from other sleeping bag models on the market.

The foot section can also be opened, so you don't have to exit the sleeping bag just to move around in the outdoor camp.
Image credit:
Bach Equipment

What the jury says:

"This sleeping bag concept encompasses a variety of innovative and practical design details. During its development, careful consideration was given to precisely what the target group needs and where there are gaps in the market. Great realization, cool ideas from the design team."
ISPO Award Jury

These features convinced the Jury:

  • Inflatable bug net
  • Bug-proof ventilations
  • Primaloft insulation
  • Windproof insulation

Product specifications:

  • Available: 2025
  • RRP: € 239.90
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