Western Mountaineering Apache GWS
Summary
Price At Time Of Writing | $790.00
Our Overall Rating | 89 out of 100
Pros - Warm, weather-resistant
Cons - Heavier and less compressible than the microfiber alternative
Overal - A cold-weather sleeping bag for serious weather conditions
Technical Specifications
Packed Size - 8x15in
Weight - 2lb 6oz
Fill - 850-Fill Goose Down
Our Analysis & Ratings
The Western Mountaineering Apache GWS is a premium cold-weather sleeping bag that delivers exceptional warmth, weather resistance and build quality for alpine and winter adventurers. Designed with 850+ fill power goose down and wrapped in a Gore Windstopper shell, it combines lightweight performance with serious protection from wind and moisture. This bag is for those who expect frigid nights, damp conditions and want a bag that will perform reliably without compromise.
Comfort - The narrow mummy cut is snug but not claustrophobic, helping the bag heat up quickly while minimizing cold air pockets. The full down collar and oversized draft tube create a sealed cocoon that holds warmth around the neck and zipper areas. It’s comfortable in temperatures ranging from mild (50°F unzipped) to 23°F when zipped up, especially when layered with lightweight base layers. Despite the Windstopper fabric being heavier than microfiber alternatives, it breathes better than many expect for the GWS fabric and doesn’t suffer from that clammy, humid feeling that some synthetic linings cause.
Construction - Made in the USA, the Apache GWS uses continuous baffles, allowing you to shift the down where you need it most, depending on conditions. The 3D-sewn insulated draft collar and draft tube are thoughtfully constructed to block heat loss, while the quality of the 850+ fill power goose down is top-tier. The bag maintains its loft well and springs back quickly after unpacking, a sign of high-end down quality. With a 6in loft and carefully designed baffles, this bag creates a consistent and effective insulation layer.
Features - It comes with both a lightweight stuff sack and a mesh storage bag. The draft collar and zipper tube are lined with Windstopper to prevent cold spots, and the efficient mummy cut further improves its thermal performance. Continuous baffles let you manually move down to warmer or colder zones, adapting the bag's warmth profile. The GORE WINDSTOPPER shell has a 12,000mm hydrostatic head rating, offering strong protection against external moisture like snow, dew, or tent condensation without being fully waterproof.
Size/Weight - The standard length Apache GWS weighs in at approximately 2lbs 6oz, with 540g of down fill. It balances warmth and weight exceptionally well for its class. Though heavier and slightly bulkier than the microfiber version (Apache MF), the trade-off is more robust weather resistance. Compression is decent, though not as compact as ultralight alternatives due to the shell material. The dimensions are 59in at the shoulders and 38in at the foot, with other size options available, including a long version and a wider alternative (Badger GWS) for broader builds.
Versatility - This bag is great for alpine environments, cold-weather camping and high-humidity conditions like snow caves or bivy setups. The GWS fabric may be overkill for dry, summer backpacking trips, but it shines when wet gear, cold condensation, or snow exposure are part of the equation. It performs well even in damp areas, with the bag drying quickly in sun or wind. While it isn’t the most packable or breathable option on the market, its performance in adverse weather justifies the trade-offs. Those looking for something more packable might prefer the Apache MF version, but for all-weather reliability, the GWS is hard to beat.
Overall - The Western Mountaineering Apache GWS is a high-performance sleeping bag built for serious mountain use. It focuses on warmth, durability and weather resistance, making it an excellent choice for mountaineers, alpine trekkers and winter campers.
