Hey folks,

So I'm diving into the world of hammocks. Question about underquilts. What's better for all around (non-winter) BWCA use, 20* or 40*? My hunch is the 20* is the way to go but I'm being tempted by (slight) money savings and (slight) weight savings with a 40*. We tend to go June-August but I've been in May and I could see us doing a September trip one of these years.

I've been winter camping in northern IL in the past and plan to do some more so I would probably go with a 0* UQ in that scenario. Thus, I was thinking maybe a 40* for 3 season but I'm torn. I will be using a 15* Marmot Helium as a top quilt until I decide to get a dedicated TQ but that won't be for a long time because the Helium is just fine.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

I use a 20 deg Incubator and I have used it from May - Aug in the BWCA. Sure glad that I have the 20 deg as I have been in the 20's in May and 30's in Aug.

When it is warmer, I just open up the shock cords a little more. I have Dutch clips that make it really easy to hang the under quilt after it's all dialed in.

If I could afford more than one quilt I would have another, but then again I do have more than a little $$ tied up in my hang'n stuff and what I have works good for me. I use a Blackbird, Superfly, 20 deg Incubator, and a 20 deg Burrow wide/long with 2 oz extra stuff of down.

+1 on what KevinL said.

I use a 20 degree Hammock Gear Phoenix from May (occasionally April) through October. It's always done the job. I am sure I would be cold in the shoulder seasons with a 40 degree under quilt.

I've been tempted to pick up a 40 degree quilt and underutilize for summer use, but so far have resisted the urge. The weight savings and smaller stuff size are appealing, but have not been able to bring myself to spend the money.

Anyway, very satisfied with 20 degree under quilt for 3 season use in NE Minnesota.

I wouldn't take the chance on a 40. Like Kevin says you can always loosen it. The weight and bulk difference is nil and your bases will be covered pretty good with a 20. I spent a sleepless night shivering in a hammock and will never be unprepared again.

KL, HH, TT - I concur. get the 20 and vent when you need to.

Definitely 20 degree!

Mike

I have a ¾ length UQ and use a summer sleeping bag for a top quilt. I have found ways to add insulation to stay warm because I nave needed it. It packs nice though.

you could use an underquilt protector with a 40 degree underquilt and it work out to be closer to a 30 degree. The underquilt protectors are super light take up no room and definitely help with heat lose due to wind. If you are going to do some winter hanging you will want one anyway. Just another thought.

I have a DIY underquilt that is probably close to 10-15 degree UQ and I can get by venting it up to temps of 45 at night any warmer and I sweat all night. I have a 3/4 Jarbidge UQ from arrowhead equipment, which is rated to about 30 if I remember right and I have used it down to 34 with my UQ protector and an inflatable sit pad under my feet.

You can get a 40* incubator from Hammock gear and add down by the ounce.
I got a 40 and added 2 oz of down.
It's not a 20* - but will get you down to freezing. And your top quilt plays an important part in the combination.

quote KevinL: "I use a 20 deg Incubator and I have used it from May - Aug in the BWCA. Sure glad that I have the 20 deg as I have been in the 20's in May and 30's in Aug.


When it is warmer, I just open up the shock cords a little more. I have Dutch clips that make it really easy to hang the under quilt after it's all dialed in.


If I could afford more than one quilt I would have another, but then again I do have more than a little $$ tied up in my hang'n stuff and what I have works good for me. I use a Blackbird, Superfly, 20 deg Incubator, and a 20 deg Burrow wide/long with 2 oz extra stuff of down. "

Kevin,

How do you like the 20F under quilt and 20F top quilt combo when temps rise into say the 50s at night? Can you regulate with the top quilt too so you don't overheat?

I have a 20F incubator and am considering at top quilt. I was thinking I could get by with a 40F top quilt since I sleep warm. My main concern is getting too hot if temps rise.

My trips are same time as yours, I have a 20 deg Underquilt. Early June trips have been below 30 deg. I stayed warm.