I was fortunate enough to work about a mile from a Golite store just before they closed shop and snagged an 850fp Bitterroot on closeout. Super warm. And I just grabbed a set of synthetic insulated pants and down booties because I was already planning on supplementing insulation. So, that's covered.

It does seem like elephant foot bags are pretty rare and expensive, so I guess that's why people aren't as excited about them. I have to admit that the idea of not pulling a puffy layer of down up to my chin sorta feels wrong, but I think I can learn to live with it for the relative gains in versatility and getting a little pack space back.

I'll keep my eyes open for another closeout.