View Full Version : underquilt
Bear Cables
03-16-2009, 22:28
Not sure what an underquilt is and is it necessary for summer hiking on the AT? Thinking about a hammock this trek but not sure about the weight issue.
For summer hammocking an UQ is not neccessary, but some form of uncompressed insulation is a must. A pad at least 3/8" thick might be enough. Do some backyard overnight testing and keep a 15* factor of safety with some of your clothes also left in reserve.
Summer UQ can be as light as pads but do not work as a go to ground option. These Quilts can be used top or bottom at a pound each.
http://www.jacksrbetter.com/Rectangular%20Quilts.htm
For more info check out http://www.hammockforums.net/
kayak karl
03-17-2009, 07:48
Not sure what an underquilt is and is it necessary for summer hiking on the AT? Thinking about a hammock this trek but not sure about the weight issue.
these pads from speer are great. i got the wide one and cut it down to fit better. i like it wide at the shoulders. http://www.speerhammocks.com/Products/Accessories.htm any temps below 70 can give u a chill. one pad has taken me down to 45*
Valentine
03-17-2009, 08:29
Are you a cold sleeper?
I am and I love using a lightweight underquilt with a fleece blanket for top quilt. I stay warm and really comfortable. Experieince is the key.
I like the Wally world blue pad. Works on the ground too in a pinch.
Valentine
03-17-2009, 08:33
My experience with pads in a hammock have been sweaty and shifty. An underquilt breathes and foam pad does not. For comfort you can't beat an underquilt.
I formerly used a Ridgerest and a 20* Slumberjack sleeping bag in my hammock. I, like many, decided that the pad didn't stay under me well and it made me just a little too sweaty underneath for my liking. So, I got serious and purchased a Speer SnugFit underquilt and a Speer Top Blanket III. The warmth and comfort of the UQ and TQ together are invaluable to me and are incredibly warm. If the temps drop below 20 or so, I'll supplement my topside insulation with my down jacket under the TQ opened up and covering my midriff and groin for added warmth. IMO, you can't go wrong with an underquilt. Well worth every penny you pay for them. If you want to know moare about UQ's, go over to Hammock Forums and ask away or search the old threads. Always plenty of answers to be had there. :D
I have tried laying in my hammock during the day each of the last two summers, just trying to nap as I waiting to meet someone on the trail. Each time, this is in the middle of the late summer day, I was uncomfortable with the breeze blowing under the hammock. Last summer I finally got up and put on my underquilt to get comfortable as I read my book. To me, regardless of the time of year, insulation is a must.
I have tried laying in my hammock during the day each of the last two summers, just trying to nap as I waiting to meet someone on the trail. Each time, this is in the middle of the late summer day, I was uncomfortable with the breeze blowing under the hammock. Last summer I finally got up and put on my underquilt to get comfortable as I read my book. To me, regardless of the time of year, insulation is a must.
I agree completely with Joec. I was taking a nap in my new hammock in the basement with temps no lower then 70* and found my backside cool. If you have the bucks get a underquilt otherwise use a thin pad for summer. The pads are a little sweaty. That being said, there are some that require very little insulation, using a short pad and their pack for under their feet in cooler temps. Seems like things would shift around too much.
Cannibal
03-19-2009, 12:52
If you are really worried about weight and only hanging in summer temps, the JRB DriDucks Poncho/Weathershield (http://www.jacksrbetter.com/DriDucksPoncho.htm) might be a good option for you. It's only 8.5oz and would do a fine job of keeping your back from being cool in the summer breeze. It's not going to insulate much if temps get goofy, but it will keep the wind off of you. I prefer an underquilt and would tell you to look into the 3 season Yeti (down) from Warbonnet Outdoors (http://www.warbonnetoutdoors.net/). I put mine on the scale last night and it was 14.5 oz. Last I heard the maker was thinking he could drop another ounce or two off the final weight. They aren't on the site, but you can email him for info.
Mud__Bone
03-20-2009, 05:29
interesting info here as this is the current purchase item on my gear to get. thanks guys.
MedicineMan
03-25-2009, 00:08
or any other 'taco' you can always stuff leave/pine needles spare clothing between it and the bottom of the hammock for extra warmth