Watch before you buy - Sea To Summit Liners Thermolite Reactor Extreme Fleece

[@OutdoorPrep]

Hope you've enjoyed this review. Consider supporting the channel and buying me a coffee: buymeacoff.ee/roboutdoorprep

[@arthurybrenin3878]

Have used the S to S silk liner for years. Packs small,light weight,adds 5 degrees and is expensive. Happy with mine. Use it in a hammock with sleeping bag and 3/4 underquilt. Pulling it up inside the sleeping bag over my shoulders always amazes me with the extra warm. Originally started using it to keep grime & body oils from building up in sleeping bag. Not much fun washing down. Works wonders. Also use it in hotels around the world. Indian sheets with small brown spots !!

[@OutdoorPrep]

Great tip! Thanks 🙏🏻

[@black-end9876]

Hey Rob, To save money, you can use fleece bedding. these can also be sewn into mummy shapes.there are also fitted sheets made from a material similar to the extreme liner. Regards

[@OutdoorPrep]

Oh that’s interesting- do you know what it’s called?

[@pedroclaro7822]

I like the idea. Tired of seeing simple bedsheets being sold for extravagant prices as hiking gear. After reading this I've decided to sew my own, as it is not even hard, and I have extra bedsheets, fleece blankets, even a light (but itchy) wool blanket which I suspect will be perfect for this. It'll be hard not having zippers in them, for adjustability, but the modularity might be enough for adjustability. I'm thinking a basic thermal layer, then a cotton/silk liner, a fleece liner since it's so soft (followed by the wool If I end up sacrificing that one too), and a Bivvy bag on the outside. All cut and sown into mummy shapes with maybe a draw cord on the fleece to synch it up closed. the bivvy can hold the pillow in the head slot. If all goes well, this will be enough to replace a sleeping bag down to cool temps, and a synthetic 10ºC sleeping bag will likely take me down to freezing temperatures. I do plan on wearing more layers to help with the cold, as some people have reported not having to even bring a sleeping bag on summer tours/hikes, and I even know a girl who uses a 10ºC bag in negative Celcius temperatures by layering all her clothes, followed by the reactor liner, the bag and a bivvy.

[@Papershields001]

I’m glad I watched this, my feet are 48 I’m glad I saw that about the fleece.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Awesome! Yeah you would not have liked it…

[@ribstogo12]

They don't sell this reactor extreme anymore. They changed the design to include an opening at the footbox. It becomes a knot when closed, and ends up something your feet get to fight with all night.. and feel restricted. You'll also end up rolling over the new buttons on the hood. In general, the new design is more complicated, more expensive, and not as good. Not sure what they were thinking.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Oh wow that sounds like design by committee. Bunch of compromises to make all the stakeholders happy but nobody thinks about the user…

[@lisetteschutte5495]

Thanks for the review! The orange one saved my life one cold night 🥶😂 and congrats reaching 1k subscribers 🥳

[@OutdoorPrep]

Haha nice one Thanks 🙏

[@monzarace]

As with many other outdoor gear things, there is a difference between reality and advertising. Thanks a lot for posting.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Merci Jacques Yes indeed, it was not what I expected either

[@tsengmactantan7854]

I like your review. They are very helpful.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Happy to hear. Thanks for watching 🙏🏻

[@kayasper6081]

Great topic. I own the Sea to Summit Fleece Reactor (the dark grey one). I expected more from it, feel a bit dissapointed about it. Little feet room like you mention, too short for me, rather bulky package and the +18° is an absolute joke. Nevertheless I still use it to at least make the most of it.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Yeah I don’t know how they’ve measured that temperature. Glad to hear I’m not the only one that thinks this 😉

[@majamidzor3801]

Have you used it by itself for summer campings? If so, what would be appropriate temperature range for it?

[@OutdoorPrep]

@@majamidzor3801 it's very hard to give a temperature as more factors come into play. If you're in a valley the air pressure is higher and the temperature will drop, especially at night. Humidity will also have an effect and so will the shelter of choice (wind / no wind). That being said, I've used it when it was around 28 degrees during the day, then dropped to around 18 at night. So if you're till comfortable outside in shorts, then you'll just want something to cover yourself with when you fall asleep and your body temperature drops. Hope this long answer helps :)

[@nate7629]

@@OutdoorPrep hey is there any liner you could recommend to me for the sleeping bag: Big Agnes Lost Dog 0 Degree Sleeping Bag Main concern is moisture (pacific northwest shit) lots of rain and thus moisture. The other is warmth. Lastly I would say something below 80 dollars would be... A perk but not as required as the other two necessities I listed. Thanks man.

[@OutdoorPrep]

​@@nate7629 hmmm the moisture mentioned in the video is from your body. I think in the PNW you have moisture from the outside so a liner on the inside will not help... In that case you could look at a small quilt to put OVER your bag and with that protect it from the moisture inside of your tent.

[@Joey_Joey_Joey]

Does the traveler have a side zipper?

[@OutdoorPrep]

Nope

[@Joey_Joey_Joey]

@@OutdoorPrep Dang! I’m looking for on that does. I don’t like to much confinement. Thanks for replying.

[@OutdoorPrep]

The fleece one does have a zipper but the fabric is not that stretchy. If you don’t like confinement - make sure the fabric is stretchy. You will notice that more than the zipper. Aside from that - maybe reconsider getting a liner. I’ve stopped using it.

[@emonty62]

Thxs, did not order any of them but instead a SALEWA Microfibre Liner Silvericed liner. 190 grams microfleece.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Oh that one looks nice. Let us know how you like it

[@northumberlandmountainhopper]

If I use a liner it’s just a Rab silk one but find them a nuisance, rather carry a heavier sleeping bag, the only plus point to me is a cleaner bag. Keep em coming

[@OutdoorPrep]

Is that one nice? Not too slippery?

[@northumberlandmountainhopper]

@@OutdoorPrep nice but yes very slippery but it’s easy in and out

[@martinerhard8447]

Whats the pros of this compared to just having extra baselayers?

[@OutdoorPrep]

Personal preference I think. Both can achieve the same result

[@bcamping1]

​@@OutdoorPrep would it be better to have it in shape of a backpackers quilt, to use inside sleepingbag. Looking for broducts that don't exist again :)

[@patrickdolan.]

Get the alpine ridge down blanket for the same price. It weighs 15oz is about the same size and turns my 20 degree bag into a 0 bag almost.

[@OutdoorPrep]

For warmth a quilt is great. If you’re hiking on a “dirty trail” then a liner can help keep your bag clean 🧽🤷🏻‍♂️

[@kevinburroughs6583]

Could you use these to put around your camp pad and use it like a sheet with a quilt, so you don't directly have to sleep on the pad itself

[@OutdoorPrep]

You could sure but I think there are cheaper options of that is how you want to use it. Just what you would use on your bed too

[@Simsydav]

Damn I bought one yesterday. I bet you have a Rogen review coming tomorrow now

[@OutdoorPrep]

Haha which one did you buy? As for the Rogen - happy to chat to you about it. I’ve bought and returned two. Have some strong opinions agains it… might be ok if you’re not that tall and are planning on using it solo. Otherwise - measure it and make sure to buy from a store with easy returns.

[@Simsydav]

​@@OutdoorPrep Already got the Rogen so a little late now. Intending to use it solo anyway, but it should really be advertised as a 1.5 man tent at most as I can't imagine 2 people in it. Starting a world cycle tour next year so was looking for something comfortable, freestanding (so can be used as a bug shelter in dry and hot conditions), reasonable ventilation options (I like the top pole that pushes the external door zip away from the inner), and with plenty of vestibule space for all my panniers. For the liner, I got the reactor extreme as I wanted something stretchy. Also got the coolmax one for hot weather although that might be unnecessary weight to carry! Really enjoy your reviews! I think I could also have gone with the Anjan 2, but would prefer something free standing and a bit worried about getting a wet sleeping bag at my feet!

[@emonty62]

I use the GRÜEZI SCHLAFSACKWARMER. Very comfy, roomy and dries very very fast. Outer and inner material: cuddly soft, breathable, ultra-lightweight soft nylon (100% polyamide)

[@OutdoorPrep]

have not seen this one personally. It says 450g on a website. Seems similar in size and weight. What do you like more about this one?

[@emonty62]

@@OutdoorPrep yes, not very light but I use it while not backpacking. It's roomy, rectangular, just love the feel of it. Price was also not bad if you look around for deals. The brand I like a lot, high quality. I have their sleepingbag and it's fantastic in all aspects! (the BIOPOD DOWNWOOL SUBZERO COMFORT) It's a mixture of down and wool

[@manuelmetallica]

Thanks 👍

[@OutdoorPrep]

Welcome 🙏🏻

[@guilleamolamusica]

hi im from chile and i want to know which one do you recomend? i think the orange it's the best what do you think ?

[@OutdoorPrep]

Orange if you want something lightweight, if you want more warmth then red.

[@videoliker1270]

This was exactly the video I was looking for, thanks :) Especially the packed size comparison was helpful. I have one question: how wide is the orange one in der middle part? Because I like to bend one knee when sleeping and ripped my old liner in doin so... They state its 90cm wide but I guess thats the top part. Cheers

[@OutdoorPrep]

It’s a tapered design indeed so expect it to be more narrow but the fabric is stretchy. If you really want extra space then perhaps the yellow one on rectangular shape would be a better option?

[@elpretender1357]

Have any of you tried using a liner instead of a sleeping bag at summer or when temperature doesnt drop below 20°C at night? Because I'm considering that as an option

[@OutdoorPrep]

Yes I have. When it’s too hot to actually use it when going to sleep. At that point I would only cover myself with it and later in the night as the temperature drops and my body temperature drops as well I would get in and it does a good job at trapping some heat in. A fleece blanket does the job too but is a bit bulkier.

[@lennartjasper4872]

Well, after using the orange one in late spring(maybe 14~18°) with a 4season tent without another sleeping bag around it (next to small lakes...so wet air) I wouldn't suggest to do so. Without an outer shell it felt like the cold got into the bag faster than my body could heat the air up. I was freezing. Tried another night in summer with the orange liner only. Ended up saving my kidney by wrapping a towel around me in the middle of the night shivering for the next hours...yes, I like dumb experiments...so you don't need to try It doesn't replace a summer sleeping bag. BUT I love it in winter...Adds comfort and warmth. 0° Comfort Decathlon Sleeping bag + the orange Reactor Extreme + Exped Venus Extreme II tent at -12° was okaaay

[@eazypeazy6650]

Try the orange one :D i like it the most bought em all like u did a few years back those temp ratings on them are highly subjective :)

[@OutdoorPrep]

Haha yeah - I only have the red one now but even that one doesn’t get much use… 🙈

[@hakannorberg4505]

What is the benefits with a liner if you compare with a extra layer if clothes? Thanks for good reviews, got myself a kajka after watching your videos. 👍

[@OutdoorPrep]

Assuming you’re already wearing a base layer, a liner allows you to regulate the heat a bit better, and you can always shake it a bit to “dump the heat” like you can with your sleeping bag. It’s a bit harder to do with a extra pair of long johns. Also it might be too tight for comfort but that’s personal. The liner you can also pull over your face a bit. Hope this helps and makes sense. This is why I use it but don’t feel like you need to have it. Use what works for you. If that’s clothes then just do that. Happy to hear you got the Kajka - brilliant pack!

[@hakannorberg4505]

@Rob | Outdoor Prep thanks! Will keep this in mind when looking for a new sleeping bag.

[@stickyprickle]

Thank you so much, I have a silk liner but feel I could do with the xtra warmth, considered the hood but was worried by the 200cm vs the 210cm of the extreme however I had not considered its pack size so I will definitely go for the reactor extreme now, most grateful. Anyone want a silk liner?….

[@OutdoorPrep]

hahaha aside from the warmth - how was the silk liner? stretchy at all?

[@stickyprickle]

@@OutdoorPrep the silk liner had no stretch at all , comfortable enough but was wanting a little more , my down bag has a comfort rating of 7 however even n thermals in a Scottish summer I was a little cold 🥶 so rather than a new bag which I’d want a liner anyway I thought… why not try the reactor.

[@simonjprince]

@@stickyprickle How did you get on with your 7c Sleeping Bag and the Reactor Liner? Did it make much of a difference to your comfort? I have just tried the Snugpak Traveller bag (Same as their Jungle bag) and it is supposed to be a 7c bag, but was too cold in 14c, but fine in 18c! I do see that the EN rating assumes that the user is wearing thermals top and bottom, socks and a hat when they come up with the comfort value.

[@stickyprickle]

@@simonjprince hi, yes better but still not comfortable, I think I will need to buy a much warmer down sleeping bag

[@stickyprickle]

And a better sleeping mat too, I have my heart set on the thermostat xtherm

[@ricci6361]

Hey Rob, thank you for the video. How tall are you that you chose the long version? Thanks in advance! Cheers!

[@OutdoorPrep]

Hey You’re welcome 🙏 I’m 196 / 6’4

[@RichardCooper-p7b]

Someone needs to manufacture winter mummy fleece liners in a 34 inch wide size, in olive drab..with a zipper. (hopefully left zip)

[@OutdoorPrep]

Haha send them an email 🙏🏻

[@GasssFreak]

I've been using reactor extreme on 100 nights. Don't trust their marketing - it adds maybe 3-5 degrees. If you don't need the other tradeoffs of a liner better save the weight and buy a sleeping bag with more down fill. Otherwise it's a good all-rounder if you don't mind extra 0.5kg.

[@OutdoorPrep]

but more down fill means it’s always there 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@LukeTPZ]

3-5 degrees Celsius?

[@KenLeonard]

I bought a Sea to summit reactor. IMO, the 15 degree advertisement is totally bogus. And at a pound of weight, you could carry a much warmer spare sleeping bag.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Yeah I don’t know how they came up with that number. I don’t carry it anymore, do use it when car camping 👌🏼

[@roolins]

I really like the idea of the Extreme liner but think it will be too heavy for my needs. Can you recommend another quality liner that is longer than 210cm? I'm struggling to find one. Thanks

[@OutdoorPrep]

So far I have not found another one, Pete. These days I don’t use if often anymore because of it’s weight and size. Silk liners can be smaller and lighter but don’t provide as much warmth

[@felixcat9318]

I found that a silk liner inside my sleeping bag, then putting the bag inside an E-Vent bivvy bag helped with warmth retention. A Multimat Extreme 12XL foam mat beneath a Neo Air X-Therm Max inflatable pad made up my 'bed'. I also had an SOL double size survival blanket to wrap around the bivvy bag if needed (it wasn't.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Oh that’s interesting. How’s the E-Vent been performing in terms of breathability?

[@olevanem3932]

Does anyone have some sizing guidance? Im 188 cm long. My sleeping bag is Long, do I need this in long as well?

[@OutdoorPrep]

Yes. It’s nicer if you have some room to spare and it doesn’t have to be tight.

[@hooptroopers]

Wouldn't say it worked wonders inside a thin synthetic sleeping bag. The red reactor was better than nothing obviously but at 450 grams that's the same weight as a Z-packs sleeping bag. Sea to Summit made some light stuff, especially their Ultra-Sil line seems fair but it should be needless by now to conclude; the weight to gain ratio is unproportionately on the heavy side for this mummy liner.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Yeah totally agree. I have a full sleeping bag that’s just slightly heavier. The liner is just great if you want to keep the sleeping bag clean(er) but then again it would be too heavy for ultra long distances 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@louvetmarc9040]

A salor told me and made clear you shoud put yoir sleeping bag into it. I was pretty surprised. Anyone could try it this way ?

[@OutdoorPrep]

I can't imagine why honestly... And what does a sailor know about sleeping bag liners? Especially a thicker bag would not fit either...

[@louvetmarc9040]

@@OutdoorPrep wanted zo say a seller sorry but anyway. Juat the fact the material is so soft, so weird to have it as a all cover up

[@louvetmarc9040]

Eventually great to have your feedback thks

[@Roberta_Esposito]

90 bucks is outrageous

[@OutdoorPrep]

It is. Not worth it 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@artysa.blackwood4261]

I HATE liners, heavy, they add 0 warm, make the bag uncomfortable, make closing the bag a nightmare. Inner quilts or over quilts in the other hand are great.

[@OutdoorPrep]

How are they not the same?

[@matthewkaptena9512]

Too heavy. You're better off just buying a warmer bag. You'll get way more warmth for way less weight.

[@OutdoorPrep]

Yeah problem with that is that you can’t make the bag colder. Unzipping is not the solution in very cold climates unfortunately.