MEC vs Taiga sleeping bags

[baker_bc]

I'm looking for a new sleeping bag for winter use in rockies, quebec, and potentially denali. as always $ is in short supply.

anyone with first hand knowledge able to comment on MEC Thor and Taiga Wild Cat

Loft? Design? Construction? Durability? Value?

or should I start selling blood and saving for a Feathered Friends?

[stinkyclimber]

I am not familar with those particular models, but I have owned down bags from both companies, and in general, I think MEC is preferable to Taiga. Usually more recent and better implemented technology (fabrics, construction, design, etc) at MEC. Better, or at least easier to deal with, return policy. Havinf said that, Taiga make solid stuff - I just find them a little out of date and often a little over built, resulting in slightly heavier and bulkier down goods.

 

Unless you are doing high end alpine climbing and need the latest and lightest, save your money and get MEC rather than FF or Western Mountaineering. The weight differences are minimal and loft/warmth differences non-existent. As Gord B once said, hey - it ins't a mensa test...the MEC bag is $200 cheaper and only a few grams heavier.

[fenderfour]

Go to FF and ask if they have any rental gear for sale. They usually go pretty cheap and are still in good condition.