Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 Review

Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 Review

Looking for an affordable yet reliable 3-season sleeping bag for backcountry adventures? In this Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 review, we explore how this mummy-style bag delivers great warmth, quality materials, and solid value for budget-conscious backpackers.

The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 is a mummy sleeping bag designed for 3-season use, with a comfort rating around 15°F (-9°C). It’s insulated with 650-fill RDS-certified down and wrapped in a durable 20D ripstop nylon shell treated with a DWR finish for moisture resistance. Weighing in at 2 lbs 7 oz (regular), it’s not ultralight but offers excellent performance for its price point.

Designed with a performance mummy cut, the Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 provides warmth without too much bulk. It features a full-length anti-snag zipper, insulated draft tube, and down-filled face gasket to help seal in warmth. For cold-weather versatility without breaking the bank, this bag hits a sweet spot.

Key Specifications

Weight	2 lbs 7 oz (regular)
Temperature Rating	15°F (-9°C)
Insulation Type	650-Fill Down (RDS-certified)
Shell Material	20D Nylon Ripstop with DWR
Zipper	Left Side, Full-Length
Shape	Mummy
Stuffed Size	8" x 16"

Comparisons

Bishop Pass 15 vs Big Agnes Torchlight 20

The Big Agnes Torchlight 20 offers higher-quality 850-fill down and adjustable width, making it a better fit for those prioritizing comfort and compressibility. However, it comes at a much higher price. The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 is heavier but delivers great warmth and reliability for its cost. If you want a customizable, premium sleeping bag, the Torchlight is worth it. For dependable warmth on a budget, the Bishop Pass is hard to beat.

Bishop Pass 15 vs REI Co-op Magma 15

The Co-op Magma 15 is lighter, more compressible, and features 850-fill down for improved insulation efficiency. That said, it’s nearly double the price. The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 won’t pack as small or feel as plush, but it still performs well for cold-weather backpacking and offers a tough, weather-resistant shell. If you’re on a tighter budget or just starting out, the Bishop Pass is a smart, durable option.

Pros & Cons Summary

Feature	Bishop Pass 15	Big Agnes Torchlight 20	REI Co-op Magma 15
Weight	❌ Heavier (2 lb 7 oz)	✅ Lightweight (2 lb 2 oz)	✅ Ultralight (1 lb 14 oz)
Warmth	✅ Solid 15°F rating	✅ Good 20°F rating	✅ Excellent 15°F rating
Packability	❌ Moderate compression	✅ Compressible	✅ Highly compressible
Comfort	✅ Basic mummy fit	✅ Adjustable width	✅ Roomy & ergonomic shape
Durability	✅ Tough shell & zipper	✅ Premium materials	✅ High-end construction
Best For	Budget backpackers	Custom-fit seekers	Ultralight cold-weather hikers

Looking for the right sleeping bag for your outdoor adventure? Visit our Best Sleeping Bags guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bishop Pass 15 good for winter trips?
It’s best for late fall to early spring or high alpine 3-season use, but not suitable for deep winter temps.

Does it come with a compression sack?
It comes with a standard stuff sack and a storage sack. You’ll want to add a compression sack if space is tight.

Is the down treated for water resistance?
No, the down is not hydrophobic, but the DWR shell helps keep moisture out.

Is it true to the 15°F rating?
Yes — it performs well in temps near freezing and just below, especially with a quality pad.

Are there different lengths available?
Yes, the Bishop Pass 15 is available in regular and long sizes.

Final Thoughts

The Mountain Hardwear Bishop Pass 15 is a fantastic value for 3-season backpackers who want solid warmth and durability without overspending. While it may not be the lightest or most high-tech bag on the market, it delivers where it counts — warmth, comfort, and reliability. If you’re looking for a dependable and affordable bag for shoulder-season hikes or alpine overnights, the Bishop Pass 15 is a smart buy.