We simultaneously misted the Zissou and a separate standard 600-fill down bag by the same company for 10 minutes with a garden hose, checking each bag at ten second intervals to assess loft and insulation. The standard 600-fill bag’s loft collapsed at about a minute of soaking, losing any noticeable insulating qualities.

The Zissou was still lofting impressively, and continued to do so under another five minutes of soaking. At six minutes, the Zissou began to show sign of compromise, and at seven minutes its ability to insulate was questionable. It’s loft was still considerably higher, however than the standard down bag. Drying times were better for the Zissou as well.

Materials
The first of a coming wave of hydrophobic down-insulated products, the Zissou is a fine start. A hydrophobic polymer coating is applied to each individual down plume to keep them from clumping together when wet. The fabrics are pretty standard 30-denier nylon. The weight is right on track with comparable bags, so the coating apparently doesn’t add much weight.

Features
Large, plump draft guards combine with solid baffle construction to convey a sense of impenetrability. A heavy gauge zipper won’t frustrate those of us with fat, clumsy fingers. The drawcords are functional but not a standout feature. Good fitting hood and an ergonomic footbox round out a solid mid-range mummy bag.