According to the Sea to Summit packaging, the large-sized compression sack condenses 20 liters down to 6.5 liters. All I really cared about was that it packed my sleeping bag down to manageable proportions. I needed it to fit snugly in the gear loops on the underside of my backpack without getting in the way of my stride as I powered up the mountain.

If you've used compression sacks before, especially one included with your sleeping bag, you're familiar with that all-to-famous battle of shoving your sleeping bag into a much too confined space, not unlike forcing a square peg into a round hole. To my surprise, both the large size and slippery material helped me avoid the headache.

The Cordura® nylon is siliconised, so technically it is waterproof up to 2.8 pounds per square inch, though the cinch drawstring opening and nonwaterproof seams classify it as water-resistant instead. I wouldn't use it on an overnight kayak trip, but being that it was mid-winter, I knew this material would certainly scoff off a measly snowflake without effort. A snowflake couldn't maintain its grip on the slippery surface.

I was also impressed how user-friendly the product is. The four extra-long straps give you enough coverage for a full-size sleeping bag. And they're easy to cinch down evenly. The bar-tacked reinforced stress points and double-stitching make it hardy enough to take the tugging without putting the fear of the tear in your mind. Lastly, I appreciate the no frills, no extra weight construction – a great asset for a backcountry hiker. And although the material is lightweight, it has a high-tear strength.

All in all, it's a simple concept, but every little step counts when dealing with a backcountry hike. This product has earned my stamp of approval.

Click this link to purchase: Sea to Summit Compression Stuff Sack