View Full Version : HH Super Shelter Conversion...
Touch of Grey
10-01-2006, 13:52
Okay all of you Hangers out there and sewers too, Here is my question;
I have used the HH Super Shelter with semi good results down to 40 degrees. Seeing as how I'm planning on a March thru starting date and the unpredictability of weather in the mountains, then throw in my frugalness (I would rather invest another 50 or 60 dollars than scrap/sell the SS and buy a KAQ or JRB Underquilt.
So here is the question, will using the basic measurents given on the KAQ build your own site get me in the ball park of having the right fit. Sewing is not an issue. Thoughts are to get some 1.1 for the inside liner and then some Primaloft 6 oz Sport and retrofit it all together as my own underquilt.With all of the puckering and gathering of the fabric in the SS it's hard to get an accurate measurment. So my idea is to mate the Prima with the Inner liner and hem the edges. The idea I have for the entry is to make a baffle much like most sleeping bags have to keep out drafts from zippers.
Thoughts or suggestions from you HH fans and users out there?
Just Jeff
10-01-2006, 17:10
The SS will compress the Primaloft inside it. It will also trap condensation inside the insulation since it isn't breathable.
Better bet would be to find some 1.1 on the Walmart $1 bin. For an extra $3 you can start from scratch with more suitable materials, then sell the SS and probably make up the cost of all your KAQ materials. JMHO.
The SS will compress the Primaloft inside it. It will also trap condensation inside the insulation since it isn't breathable.
Better bet would be to find some 1.1 on the Walmart $1 bin. For an extra $3 you can start from scratch with more suitable materials, then sell the SS and probably make up the cost of all your KAQ materials. JMHO.
How do you think a Big Agnes bags or one of the WM Pods systems would work in a hammock? The kind that incorparte the pad into the bag itself.
Just Jeff
10-02-2006, 12:14
I haven't used a BA, but I've heard they're excellent if you like pads in the hammock. Several people on WB have commented on them - maybe someone who owns one will speak up.
BPL did a good comparison of alternative sleep systems like quilts, BA-style top bags, etc. Worth a read if you're considering buying one.
I'll have a new homemade project on the website in a day or two (maybe) that will turn any bag into a BA-style setup, and this one has wings on the side like a SPE. The only requirement is that your bag has a separating zipper.
I haven't used a BA, but I've heard they're excellent if you like pads in the hammock. Several people on WB have commented on them - maybe someone who owns one will speak up.
BPL did a good comparison of alternative sleep systems like quilts, BA-style top bags, etc. Worth a read if you're considering buying one.
I'll have a new homemade project on the website in a day or two (maybe) that will turn any bag into a BA-style setup, and this one has wings on the side like a SPE. The only requirement is that your bag has a separating zipper.
I've been thinking about experimenting with something like that. CCF padding inside the bag with detachable wings around the torso area.
Only problem I see is access to the zipper but that is a minor concern.
Another is keeping it in place inside the bag.
Just Jeff
10-04-2006, 00:28
Three issues I can think of:
- Bag girth. Pads can take up quite a bit of space inside a bag. If your bag is big enough this won't be an issue, though.
- The pad will also hold the bag open along the bottom, so it may not drape around you like it's supposed to. If that happens, it creates air gaps along the sides of your body...and your body has to work harder to warm those air gaps. But if your pad fits just right you may be able to overcome this as well.
- You're still compressing the bag's insulation underneath you, which means it's extra weight. Solving a draft problem might make that weight worth it to you - it's just another trade-off.
Certainly not trying to discourage you - just brainstorming on some issues to consider. Be sure to post pics and results if you try it!
That SPE mod is posted now, btw.
http://www.tothewoods.net/HomemadeGearSPEZipper.html
I've been experimenting with the Hennessy Hammock for cold weather camping. My journal (http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/?o=lt&page_id=31521&v=4f) has a bunch of info on what I've learned so far.
Just this month I've purchased a laminated foam and aluminum sleeping pad that seems to work very well. Pictures here (http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/pic/?o=lt&pic_id=126418&v=l&size=large) and here (http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/pic/?o=lt&pic_id=126419&v=h&size=large).