I'm glad that set up works for you. But for me, I have to have the mummy bags. I move a lot when I sleep, and a quilt is always falling off or opening up and letting out the heat. A mummy bag is the only thing I found that keeps me warm. When the temp warms up, then I can open the zipper and use it like a quilt on top (with a built in footie), or when the temp really warms up, I use it for a second ground cover. Travel light, freeze at night.
This was perfect! I have actually been trying to save money to pick up one of EE's quilts for the last month or so, wanting to make the switch myself. Nice to see someone talking the differences out between the 2. I was already ready to make the switch...but now even more so. Unfortunately saving that kind of money will take a bit, so for now...its the mummy bag for me. Headed out into the hills after work today (friday) thru Monday. Warmth won't be an issue, but def looking forward to having a load of gear upgrades/changes by next year! Thanks for the video
I am thinking of getting a 450g 11 degree centigrade down bag and using a smaller down quilt with it during the colder months. Like a modular system. Never used down though and makes me a bit nervous because it's so wet here in the UK. Great video. Food for thought. Thanks
Great video, I'm more of an overland camper. I watched the video, just to check out the difference between the two. I use a sleeping bag and if it gets really cold I turn on the heater. Keep up the great videos!
I'm so happy to see someone talking about this. After spending lots of time in a tent, I noticed that I was opening all my box toe sleeping bags in the summer months. I recently was given the quilt version of a mummy bag I purchase by accident, and I returned it. After doing the hike I got the bag for, I regret returning the quilt. I am going to be getting the quilt in the near future. If you are cold it is easy to put a sweater on, but it's hard to do much if you are too warm in a mummy bag. I also hate having my feet restricted. I have heard of some people using sleeping bags that are half length in the summer as well. For winter camping though, I could see a mummy bag being practical.
This sold me on quilts. I'm due for a new sleeping bag and I like the versatility you mentioned regarding heat regulation. As I move towards lighter weight gear, a quilt makes sense. Looking to get sub 20 lbs for 3-4 days. I'm done carrying 40 lbs through the Colorado Rockies.
I use an EE Accomplice 20 degree. It weighs less than 2lb so when it is my wife and I that makes really light. Two 20" pads stay together nicely with the straps and the closed foot box makes a nice tight bed. We have camped on nights in the 30's with zero issue with being cold. It is light enough that my wife used it solo on the AT last year. Enlightened Equipment is a good company.
Great video, I've always been a tent camper and have moved on to a cheap hammock to start with, I love it. I'm going to order a Dream Hammock Raven with some add ons and a UGQ Hex Hanger12 tarp. I just bought a Dutchwear continuous ridgeline. Anyway, after watching a few over quilt vids I'm starting to see the plus. But I'm a hard sale (camping in a tent for 48 years). Your vid was quite informative. Thanks.
I totally agree. I hold fast to the mummy bag for winter camping excursions where I know for a fact I want to trap all heat possible. For longer hikes or when travelling to a trail where I can't be certain of the weather I like a medium r-value ground pad on a small tarp, a rather heavy wool blanket (lotta work keeping that dry, but amazing r-value) and a down quilt. I can use the wool blanket to bolster base pad r-value, tuck the quilt around me to get the mummy bag effect, or I can roll up in the wool blanket and again tuck the quilt around me. If I arrive at the trail head and weather is mild, I can leave the wool blanket behind to save on weight. The weight of wool sucks, and finding creative ways to keep it dry is a challenge, but as an in between layer it adds soooo much more warmth. I really do like being able to stick a leg out in the cold if I am overheating when sleeping so bags suck unless I know for sure I won't be overheating.
have used a the quit set up yet but many nights and some days in mummy bag. You brought many valid points to switch. The one problem I have in mummy bags is turning bags are problematic while rolling in your sleep. I always have to wake up to and re arrange. I will be looking into quilts.
Extremely insightful. Getting back into backpacking, was about to buy a sleeping bag, but after watching this video, will be looking at QUILTS instead. Thank-you...
I really appreciated your push for high-R value sleeping pads. That is a great piece of advice. Thank you! I use a Snugpak Softie 3 Merlin most of the time, and in the winter I have a larger Snugpak for the colder temps.
So glad that I did my research and bought a quilt instead of a bag when I was buying my first down quilt. It gets hot here in Australia so it's really nice to have just one item that can be used year round. Mine rated for about 45 degrees but in cold weather I wear wool sleepwear and I could always add a liner. It is also really comfortable.
Hello Darwin. I use both of it in wintertime that makes my 15 degrees F sleeping bag a real 0 F. On springtime I use my sleeping bag only, then, only down quilt in the summertime, etc... You're very right concerning the efficiency and the difference made by good insulation to the ground provided by a good inflatable mattress. Both of sleeping bag or quilt is compressed on the ground surface that makes you chilly after a while. Conclusion: Wrap yourself with prisoner air!
You actually convinced me. I bought a Big Agnes permaloft quilt. It's HUGE. Plus it packs up super small. Comes in and right around a pound. I haven't had a chance to take it for a spin yet, but we will next week. From all of the reviews I've read on top of your impassioned review, I'm pretty confident this is the right move. I sleep hot anyways, but the biggest selling point is the ability to sprawl out. Mummy bags make me very claustrophobic. I appreciate the review and the excellent explanation of how compressed down actually works (or doesn't work). Cheers, brother!
I unzip my bag all the time. I need it full on just for freezing temperatures. And than, when it is freezing cold and you can here the wind blowing hard outside, but you are warm and comfortable, that is the best. That is the best feeling when camping.
A note of caution about the trend towards quilts. On BackpackingLight, where lightweight hikers gather, most have made the switch for 3 season hiking. But a substantial minority have tried quilts and gone back to bags. They simply find that quilts are too draughty when temperatures drop, and/or they find straps too much faff. -A lot depends on the way you personally sleep. The argument that bags waste down because it's compressed under your body doesn't really apply to the majority who are side-sleepers. By the time you've tucked a quilt around you the difference is insignificant. The real weight saving is in ditching the zip, baffle, snag protector and hood. Alternatives are to opt for a bag that's specifically designed to convert into a quilt - Enlightened Equipment, Feathered Friends and ZPacks offer popular options. You pay a modest weight penalty, but get more thermal efficiency when it's cold and you zip up. Or you can opt for a hoodless, zipless bag. This is pretty much as light as a quilt, and will keep you warmer weight-for-weight in the cold. But it's harder to cool down when it's warm. Personally I HATE being too cold, but don't really mind being a bit hot. I favour a zipless, hoodless bag and simply slip it down to my hips in the heat. I've used it from high glacier bivys to blazing hot nights in Florence in August and always slept well. For Darwin, he'd probably bake to death. So it's very personal - you have to experiment and make your own choice rather than blindly following the trend.
Thanks for the video. Have used bags of various weights for years - and thinking my next purchase could be a quilt, but 2 questions (not being snarky - just genuine q's). 1) I don't understand how a quilt can be HALF the weight of a bag. Surely there must be practically as much material in the quilt. I know it doesn't go underneath you - but must need to be almost double the width of a bag to stop it falling off. The one shown at 3:35 certainly has as much material as the sleeping bag shown just before 2) What is the advantage of a quilt over just unzipping your bag and laying it over you? Is it just that you can stick your feet out the end more easily?
Always good videos. The quilt thing looks interesting but I am a really restless sleeper and squirming and turning would always leave a body part exposed when unwanted with a quilt. I am also stout with an 18" neck and 49" chest and mummy bags seem to be made for normal people. So I use an oversized synthetic bag with a sleeping pad sleeve and no insulation on the bottom. That way, in my opinion, I have the best of both the mummy and quilt without the disadvantages a quilt would mean to a restless sleeper.
I purchase a down rectangular 55' sleeping bag several years ago. I have it un-zipped and use the bag as a quilt, I have a cotton bag liner that adds to the versatility of the bag. Never slept more comfortable, lowest temperature was 21'F to over 100'F. Cold I use the jacket as a second layer over my feet.
A quilt and a linear works good for me also . I must have a pillow .Broke my neck & back .but the new light gear makes it possible for me to get a day or two in the mountains . at 60 . great reviews & thanks for your time . look's like your using a nemo sleeping pad & pillow 👍
I feel ya on the quilt. I have 2 of them for my hammock setup and I did use it as a ground dweller on a trip with my girlfriend to Colorado and it was awesome!!!
Darwin, I do a lot of hiking through out the year. I am looking at buying a UGQ xl quilt. I’m torn between a 20 deg or a 30 degree quilt. I am also buying a NEMO tensor insulated pad. I now use a 20 deg sleeping bag and a thermorest Neoair Uberlight pad. My daughter has borrowed them and I don’t foresee ever getting them back. Any suggestions.
I agree with the quilt. I have tried a lot of outdoor sleeping options and have settled with my blow up kayak (K79) with a down quilt. And, a tarp over to keep off the 4am dew. I like the quilt over the mummy because you can keep you legs apart. I am 6'4" and do not fit most bags. I often take my blow up kayak (12 pounds) on trips where I do not float just because it provides a very comfortable bed. Iguana
I've been using my MSS Patrol Bag (2.3lbs rated to 30 degrees comfortably) for years and I actually use it as a quilt in warmer conditions. I flip it upside down and sleep with it open. I could see the benefits to a dedicated quilt too, but the $30 Patrol Bag won't die even after a decade of sleeping with it almost every single night of the year (except in extreme cold when I use the -10 deg Intermediate Bag from the MSS). Of course, when I camp, I use a Thermarest XTherm which helps a lot. :)
As a slightly "bigger than average" hiker, I do the same as some have said, partially zip my bag to make a footbox, and use it as a quilt. And they're right, it works. And it solves the shoulder pinch I feel if i zip up a mummy completely. Much more open feeling. But really there's no way around the weight issue if you're a gram weenie. Less fabric and no wasted down where it's compressed and useless=less weight. Or cram that equivalent down into a topquilt and have a 0° quilt for the weight of a 30° mummy. I agree that simply using your bag "like a quilt" is a great budget way to see if you'd like the switch before you invest, especially since you don't see a lot of synthetic quilts so you'll be paying for down. The weight might not matter on a weekend, or even a week long trek, but if you can shave a pound and a half just by changing you sleep system, I have to imagine that's huge for a long trail. ( Of course Darwin offsets all that gain with a camera, extra batteries chargers, cables etc, so we can be entertained. ;) Thanks for the sacrifice! )
I think that's about right wideone23. I don't relish the 'cocoon' feeling of being zipped up in my mummy bag, as it can make me feel like Harry Houdini making an unsuccessful escape bid! I discovered the comfort benefits of using it in unzipped mode when just 'warming up' on entering the tent, and now that's how I use it in all conditions other than the coldest. Often I will wear my insulated jacket underneath the 'quilt-mode' bag as a means of not having to go into zip-up mode. For the moment least, this suffices for my needs, but I take your irrefutable point about a quilt being ultimately more weight-efficient. Interestingly, I know of some who, as an alternative to buying a heavier bag for winter use, just purchase a quilt which they throw over their existing 2/3season bag. Now there's a potential 'system' which gives all kinds of options!
David S What you said about feeling like Harry Houdini making an escape bid with mummy bags, is exactly what occasionally happens to me when I'm in a mummy bag while in my hammock. Sometimes I suddenly get a little panic because I can't move and I think that a bear might get me while I can't move. I don't get it on the ground, but in a mummy bag while in a hammock really increases that feeling.
I started using a quilt this year and LOVE it. Having said that, I used to unzip the foot box end of my mummy bag with a two way zipper, leaving my body core well zipped up and tucked in, letting my toes / feet /legs hang out side. I notice that having my z-loft sleeping pad under me keeps me warm. At first i was concerned about the lack of down on the under side. In the end it is np.
My down -4’C mummy sleeping bag has a side zip and a foot zip so it can become a quilt when needed. I also use the Sea to Summit reactor liner 18’C and the two of them kept me cozy in Namche, Nepal during winter.
I have a synthetic mummy bag, but it unzips at the feet. (On cold mornings I could put on slip on crocs and sit around all bundled up but can still walk a bit to watch the sunrise.). There are many ways to stay warmer without getting a different bag. Wear a beanie since you lose heat through your head. Depending on the weather and temperature, wear long johns to bed, sometimes I just wore the top since I was hiking with a bunch of guys. Carry a bag liner which adds 8-10 degrees of warmth depending on the material. Wear some fleece socks just for sleeping. (long johns and socks are ONLY for sleeping in. Don't hike in them or they will get sweaty and damp and you will freeze at night). Just like in clothing, it's all about layers. We started out in August over 100 degrees at sea level. One morning we woke it was 31 degrees. Oh yeah, we were NOT using tents. Sleeping in a tent adds another 20 degrees of warmth. So between tent, no tent, unzipping bag in middle of warm nights to get air to my bare legs and or feet if too warm, adding long johns on cooler nights, adding socks and beanie when even cooler, scarf around neck or even a balaclava so the only thing showing was my eyes. Bag liner I didn't need. The top of Mt. Whitney was freezing and windy. Brrrr. In August!! But it was covered in snow still in July that year (2009). I don't use air mattresses. None of the guys could understand how I could sleep on my 1/4 inch closed cell foam (8 oz) pad, but it traps heat, and I don't have to heat up the air in the air mattress. Those suck heat from your body, which might be what you want. Something you did not mention is that a synthetic bag will keep you warm "enough" even when WET, and a down bag is useless. Why don't you bring a cheap emergency blanket for inside on cold days? So many things you can do besides a whole new bag. My bag is a Cat's Meow from REI, mens size since I am tall and have no hips. Not sure if they are still sold.
Hey Darwin, getting ready for my first trail hike and am trying to pick a hammock. I have always tent camped so this is something new to me. There are so many different makers of hammocks ranging from $10- $75. I have no clue what i am looking for. I do know I want to have a mosquito net w/ tarp. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for all the great videos, I have been watching them for days on end getting ready..
Really informative about sleep systems,One of the best videos i have seen darwin ...including how r values and loft works is information i needed to make a informed decision in my sleep system... keep making videos for us !!! a fan gary
As another EE quilt user there is one thing to remember. Sleeping pads such as Kymit X Series are designed to have the under side of the sleep bag fill in the holes. Using a quilt with the a pad like that with the cutouts in it is not going to work.
Good point Rugbyturner! Those Klymit X pads always seamed like better use for a Hammock System, which in that case you would want to have an Under Quilt as well. Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin
rugbyturner yup. Love my softie elite 1 and klymit x frame setup. Fine on the ground- exceptional in a hammock. I'm a big fan of layering and I've gone down to -15 in a nor'easter slept like a rock.
I don't run pads in my hammock, but have found the Static V to be very drafty with quilts, although the combo works great in a bivy where drafts are minimal
I thought I recognized Washington monument in your intro. I just got back from a cold night on the AT in my 5 degree mummy bag while experiencing that heat loss you're describing. Don't know if it's the bag or pad that are the problem. I'm going to look into a quilt. Thanks for the info.
Awesome video Darwin! A lot of great info in the video. I am thinking of making the switch to quilts here soon. I was looking at brooks range mountaineering
what you have said about traditional down bags is true without loft they don't retain the heat, but when I unzip mine and use as a quilt the cold comes in from the sides because there is no way to secure it into the sleeping pad or body. I think to overcome this issue is to sleep in a bivi bag which should help?
Decent review with some good information but you totally miss a fourth option for a mummy bag - unzip it and lay it over you as a blanket. I have a Marmot Helium EQ, a 15F rated bag that I use from 80F summer (nighttime temps) down to 0F winter camping. When it's hot out I sleep on top or just on the sleeping pad, cooler temps I unzip it and use as a quilt, cooler still I sleep in it with it unzipped, cooler yet but not cold I use it partially unzipped either from the head or the foot, colder weather it's fully zipped, winter camping wear some layers, cold winter camping add a Nalgene bottle of hot water at my feet. Bag weighs under 2 pounds, unless you're tall like me and need the Long version, then its 2 pounds 2 oz, and it has a Pertex water resistant shell. I can't imagine a down quilt would be comfortable across those temperature ranges, especially at the lower end as you can't "seal in" the heat like a mummy bag does. Yes, straps may help keep it in place but unless they are every foot or so around the perimiter cold air is going to get in when one tosses & turns.
It's all about "Personal Preference"..... I have never had as good of sleep in a Mummy bag as I do with a Quilt. I have used it in a ton of different temp ranges, I toss & turn like crazy when I sleep, & I am 6'1..... I have NEVER woke up cold in the middle of the night because of "Draft". Again it is a Preference thing & unless you have spent a lot of time with using both, I wouldn't be quick to judge a quilt..... lol, I sorta find it funny how many peoples feathers get ruffled on this topic. Try a quilt out & judge for yourself!..... Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin
I have used a mummy bag one more way than you mentioned; fully unzipped and upside down on me like a duvet. There is a cheaper duvet than down. Use 2 inch quilt batting/insulation, it is called a Rayway duvet. It is homemade. The quickest way is to get a double bed sized shiny polyester bed topper that has 14 inch frills on three sides. Add the batting and a polyester lining and make a waterproof bag. You tuck the frills under your body. You still need a thermarest mattress. And a beanie hat. It is also very lightweight.
Great video. Hiked Israel Sept - Nov with a heavy mummy bag and melted or froze. When searching for an answer I found this and you. Will try it thank you.
being a hammocker, I've been using quilts for about 5 years now. Won't use anything but. Mine are all from Underground Quilts. Way better in my opinion than mummy bags.
Have you ever thought of making/buying a "woobie"/poncho liner for a quilt/jacket on the trail? I'm curious to know if someone you've met used one and what they had to say about it. I could see one being made out of a waterproof fabric with down fill being an asset.
Did you look at going to a rectangular bag? I'm a big guy and mummies are really tight on me so I figured I might move to a rectangular bag and use it as a quilt when warmer and then zip it up when cooler?
Thanks for explaining why my down bag is noticeably colder on the bottom, time for an insulation mat. On a side note, cant you open up a mummy bag, flip it on its side and use it like a quilt? I open mine up and use it like that regularly.
Maybe you’d like to check out Alpaca 4 less their queen size blanket. Somebody made a video on UA-cam about it in the wilderness desert on a very cold night.
I ran into the same problem years ago, and I eventually switched to the quilt also, packing thermal under wear or sleep wear will makeup the difference
In general mummy bags are not very comfortable. Go with a rectangular one with Zippers when yoor a large Person use A double one or go with the Us military 3 Layer ones. In Switzerland with many Mountains no one uses a Quilt. They are not safe under heavy Conditions.
We don’t hike, we kayak. So, in buying gear for our trip I looked at quilts. They are ridiculously expensive! And, I was unable to find one that fit hubby and I together. We want to be together on our trips! I hate mummy bags, but we did find the Nemo Jazz Duo. I hope it meets our expectations!
I have a possibly weird question. I am one that also sleeps hot, I also travel 100% for work. I stay in nice hotels, but I really have an issue with hotel comforters. What do you recommend to be a very nice and comfortable bag for 65-67 degrees? I. Gonna just use it on top of my hotel bed. I really like the quilt idea.
More of a hotel tip, but I also sleep very hot in hotels now due to the mattresses. I've had good luck with asking for a few extra sheets, and I pull the quilt.
I would like to see how you attach your quilt to your mat. I have a quilt because a bag makes me claustrophobic. But I have problems with drafts. I normally sleep warm but I've had problems keeping warm with my quilt.
Started using the Costco down sports throw for the warmer temps. I have to have something over me to sleep. I am a believer in the quilts. I sewed hoops to run para cord through to make the foot box. I roll around a bit when I sleep and I am most comfortable side sleeping. I often roll it off the backside of my body. Question... How do you keep your quilt fully on when you side sleep?
Most Quilts come with "Pad Straps" to be able to cinch the quilt to the pad. If it's a Cold/Drafty night, I just use those. Using a Quilt has given me the best sleep I've ever gotten on the trail. Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin
Hi Darwin, I have the same issue like Jim - can you explain/show more about using a quilt with pad straps? Still "concerned" about some drafts of cold air... Thanks.
My quilt blew off and about about 90 yards down into a ravine in the middle of the night. When I woke in the morning and fell down into the ravine, it was partway in the icy stream. I trudged back up the hill with my sopping wet down quilt; someone had taken my high r-value sleeping pad. No regrets
Mummy bag can be unzipped and used like a quilt but it's harder to do vice versa... I like the idea of having the extra layer between me and the ground.
Do you know of any synthetic ultralight quilts? My wife is allergic to feathers so know I can buy a lot of gear. I know it will be a little bit heavier as well.
Took the dive on a Kammok Firebelly. Rated to 30F, feet can breathe on the warm nights, makes a hammock cozy, fits two people, can be used as a wrap, and on and on. My still fantastic Montbell #0 and #5 are now loaners. To those considering; a cheap quilt will leave you suffering same as a cheap sleeping bag. The video is great info from experience. Thank you!
Darwin, Would you use a quilt in a Hammock set up with an Underquilt under the hammock but no pad? Thinking of switching from mummy bag to quilt in my hammock.
I had no idea that there was down quilts for camping. I have either really really hot feet, or seriously cant warm up cold feet. I used a mummy bag and normal sleeping bags as a kid camping, and always preferred the normal bag, cuzz i would unzip the whole thing so my feet could be free to choose hot or cold, and leave me sound sleeping. Thanks for this video
THat's the model I have. It has been the best Sleeping Companion I've ever owned. Stupid Comfortable! Like I said in the video, I will never go back to traditional "Bags". Thanks for Watching! Hike On, Darwin
How do you cinch the quilt to your pad? And in your video it looks like you surround the body entirely with the quilt on cold days, and doesn’t that flatten the down, which you considered a negative factor for sleeping bags?
I feel like the back of the bag has some comfort properties. Especially when using a zlite pad I instantly notice that I feel the bumps less and even with an inflatable it gives me more of a "bed" feel. Also when using a contoured sleeping pad like a klymit V there is actually quite a bit of area for the down to loft in the valleys of the mat. With higher-end mats they are smoother and have a higher R value built in. So for dedicated ultralighters with a top shelf budget the quilt is the way to go. But personally I consider the back of my sleeping bag to be one of my luxury items, and it's somehow cheaper than a comparable quilt.
I did this years ago. I just added a Merino Wool blanket shaved light for the times I need more R Value on my back..I will never use anything else. It's light and feels good on my skin..Drys quick too...
Thank you for this video. I thought a lot about it, and possibility of buying quilt, but it didn't seem quite fit for me (just theory), and finally my thinking over and over this topic ended with visit to Decathlon -- their current sleeping bags have zippers on BOTH sides. Man, I checked all known brands and nothing, null -- and here we go, cheap with ability to really open the bag. Perfect for me, granted they are not state of the art, but since I bikepack they qualify with weight, and for volume I am less happy but I manage, I have 17L saddle bag for this reason exactly after all ;-).
The best option I've found is a $150 USD, 32F/0C hybrid down bag. It weighs 2.5lbs, fits 6'6" and is large enough to wear either a light weight down jacket which gets me to -10C or my larger parka which gets me to -25C. 1 sleeping bag = an ultralight pack for 4 season extreme adventures in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta. The sleeping pad is1/2 size, high R value to protect my core temp.
Do quilts work well with side sleepers like myself? Also with people who turn and move a lot during their sleep? Of course they can be strapped down to keep it from sliding off of you, but turning on your side would seem to create air gaps behind your back and in front of you as well - thereby diminishing warmth isolation efficiency. Any thoughts?
I have a high uintah gear sleepy ridge mummy bag rated for 0-F temperature and weighs only 2.2 pounds, made 100% of polyester. It’s a great bag but I can’t find it anywhere online, I bought it at big 5 Sporting goods maybe 10 years ago. I love this bag but I wish they still made them
I watched this video a while back and it led me down the path of an EE quilt that I love. Do you have any thoughts on how it would work with a closed cell foam pad?
Darwin great videos, me and my wife live in central Texas, we enjoy camping, fishing and hiking the Texas coast. Its always very hot 90s + weather. What do you recommend for sleeping pad and do you recommend a quilt for sleeping on the beach.
i see one BIG advantage for the mommy bag : when you sleep in a HAMMOCK. i opened the end of the bag (where you put your foot) then you can pass the hammock through the bag. then it's not compressed below and it's a lot warmer (as you said).
You’re running the risk of still compressing the down when you sleep in the hammock that way...you already have the fabric stretched tight and then your weight will compress the down even more...
I have hammock camped for almost 10 yrs now and experimented with this on multiple hammock and bag types, but never found one that would fit and keep an adult male covered. Much easier to either just run an underquilt with the quilt (best option), or keep all insulation inside with a pad+bag
Hi nice to hear yu ! But .. yu didn't exposé how tk use a quilt, when it is cold whatvhappens with the large opening side without a zip. The are exposed to the cold isn't it ? And also of course compressed zone s are not working, yes it is true, but it is only points of compressure not all the back and where it is it not compressed it works, isn't it ?
Zipper won't fail on a quilt. Had 2 zippers fail on mummys. I am a stomach sleeper and always unzip to use as a quilt anyhow, but they don't set right because the hood is off center--looking, at the sierra because of integated hand pockets and stargazing hole. The backcountry bed looks like a great in between too.
What is the problem about using a mommy bag as a blanket??? Moreover my bag has double zippers, so i can leave a gab at my legs and shoulders with the hip-area closed. A quilt surely saves weight (still you could grab a bag without a hood), but if you move alot at night i would guess thet it becomes quite cumbersome, or doesn't it?
The entirety of the mummy bag is not being completely compressed, there is plenty underneath the body that is lofted, combined with the pad, adds a higher R-value than a quilt on top and only a pad underneath. Add a roll of refectix underneath the tent and it's the warmest floor I've slept in.
Hey Darwin, the one question I haven't seen is what is the brand/name of the quilt you were using in your comparison? I like the looks of it and the weight of it too!
I am mostly concerned about a down quilt getting wet. On the Appalachian, how much of a problem is this going to be if any? If the quilt is high quality and new will it dry well? Will the down stay dry in a huge rainstorm?
I did the Uintah highline trail in August(only month without significant snow at altitude) and the sleeping bag was bitter cold with every layer on i had packed. I realize now it was my pad with no r value. I went alone hoping to die out there but not of cold. Not like that. Perhaps a quilt save some weight for 100 miles and not sacrifice warmth with a decent pad.
Hi, there, i'm strongly looking to pass to quilt. Question, is it working on matress like : Therm a Rest Z Lite SOL ? Will be the 2cm from that matress enough ? I like that matress so i'm wondering if it's ok with a quilt ? EDIT : Looks like it get moisty using a Quilt on the Z LITE SOL matress (unfortunatly for me) About the 3 ways you present : Well, you can do that with a mummy (one that you can open thru the bottom and couple with another) aswell ^^ Cheers from belgium !
I unzip my mummy bag when it's hot and lay it over me like a quilt. the only reason I still may prefer a mummy bag over a quilt is because I toss and turn a LOT and the mummy bag follows my movements whereas a quilt seems like it will tend to end up with gaps when it's least convenient (when I'm pushing its limits). is this something you or anyone else reading this has experienced? If so, do the pad straps help much? I'm considering the EE Enigma but I'm nervous about taking the leap.
People are missing the point. 1. Quilts cost less compared to the same mummy temp rating. 2. Are way lighter. 3. More versatile in that most mummy bags have a 60/40 or 70/30 ratio of down on top to down underneath. So it's much colder on one side when it's unzipped and draped over you. Etc etc
I got my trusty Vango Ultralite 100 which is 700g synthetic mummy style bag wich is good from 4-25 degrees celsius which translates to 3 seasson usability arround here in Carpathian mountains. Been using it in elevations as high as 1600m m above sea with no problems whatsoever. If you get hot you just unzip it and turn around to use as a blanket of sorts, Ta daa, and no need to waste any more money on another gear.
I'm glad that set up works for you. But for me, I have to have the mummy bags. I move a lot when I sleep, and a quilt is always falling off or opening up and letting out the heat. A mummy bag is the only thing I found that keeps me warm. When the temp warms up, then I can open the zipper and use it like a quilt on top (with a built in footie), or when the temp really warms up, I use it for a second ground cover.
Travel light, freeze at night.
2:50 Comparison actually starts. Backpackers sure love to talk a lot. 🤷♀️
It’s like this on all his vids😂😂😂
So best gear for a ultra lighter. Is your credit card
:-o azmadayou no way man, credit cards weigh too much
punch some holes in your credit card to make it lighter.
Hike nude to save weight.
@@adriannasanchez468 good point. I cut off everything except the chip on my card
memorize the numbers, so you can leave the card behind.
This was perfect! I have actually been trying to save money to pick up one of EE's quilts for the last month or so, wanting to make the switch myself. Nice to see someone talking the differences out between the 2. I was already ready to make the switch...but now even more so. Unfortunately saving that kind of money will take a bit, so for now...its the mummy bag for me. Headed out into the hills after work today (friday) thru Monday. Warmth won't be an issue, but def looking forward to having a load of gear upgrades/changes by next year! Thanks for the video
I am thinking of getting a 450g 11 degree centigrade down bag and using a smaller down quilt with it during the colder months. Like a modular system. Never used down though and makes me a bit nervous because it's so wet here in the UK. Great video. Food for thought. Thanks
Great video, I'm more of an overland camper. I watched the video, just to check out the difference between the two. I use a sleeping bag and if it gets really cold I turn on the heater. Keep up the great videos!
Ha ha
I'm so happy to see someone talking about this. After spending lots of time in a tent, I noticed that I was opening all my box toe sleeping bags in the summer months. I recently was given the quilt version of a mummy bag I purchase by accident, and I returned it. After doing the hike I got the bag for, I regret returning the quilt. I am going to be getting the quilt in the near future. If you are cold it is easy to put a sweater on, but it's hard to do much if you are too warm in a mummy bag. I also hate having my feet restricted. I have heard of some people using sleeping bags that are half length in the summer as well. For winter camping though, I could see a mummy bag being practical.
This sold me on quilts. I'm due for a new sleeping bag and I like the versatility you mentioned regarding heat regulation. As I move towards lighter weight gear, a quilt makes sense. Looking to get sub 20 lbs for 3-4 days. I'm done carrying 40 lbs through the Colorado Rockies.
I appreciate how well you explain the facts of both sides. Thank you for the info.
I use an EE Accomplice 20 degree. It weighs less than 2lb so when it is my wife and I that makes really light. Two 20" pads stay together nicely with the straps and the closed foot box makes a nice tight bed. We have camped on nights in the 30's with zero issue with being cold. It is light enough that my wife used it solo on the AT last year.
Enlightened Equipment is a good company.
First time I've ever heard a UA-camr say give it a like or dislike on a video. I really *liked* that.
Great video, I've always been a tent camper and have moved on to a cheap hammock to start with, I love it. I'm going to order a Dream Hammock Raven with some add ons and a UGQ Hex Hanger12 tarp. I just bought a Dutchwear continuous ridgeline.
Anyway, after watching a few over quilt vids I'm starting to see the plus. But I'm a hard sale (camping in a tent for 48 years). Your vid was quite informative. Thanks.
I totally agree. I hold fast to the mummy bag for winter camping excursions where I know for a fact I want to trap all heat possible. For longer hikes or when travelling to a trail where I can't be certain of the weather I like a medium r-value ground pad on a small tarp, a rather heavy wool blanket (lotta work keeping that dry, but amazing r-value) and a down quilt. I can use the wool blanket to bolster base pad r-value, tuck the quilt around me to get the mummy bag effect, or I can roll up in the wool blanket and again tuck the quilt around me. If I arrive at the trail head and weather is mild, I can leave the wool blanket behind to save on weight. The weight of wool sucks, and finding creative ways to keep it dry is a challenge, but as an in between layer it adds soooo much more warmth. I really do like being able to stick a leg out in the cold if I am overheating when sleeping so bags suck unless I know for sure I won't be overheating.
have used a the quit set up yet but many nights and some days in mummy bag. You brought many valid points to switch. The one problem I have in mummy bags is turning bags are problematic while rolling in your sleep. I always have to wake up to and re arrange. I will be looking into quilts.
Extremely insightful. Getting back into backpacking, was about to buy a sleeping bag, but after watching this video, will be looking at QUILTS instead. Thank-you...
I really appreciated your push for high-R value sleeping pads. That is a great piece of advice. Thank you! I use a Snugpak Softie 3 Merlin most of the time, and in the winter I have a larger Snugpak for the colder temps.
So glad that I did my research and bought a quilt instead of a bag when I was buying my first down quilt.
It gets hot here in Australia so it's really nice to have just one item that can be used year round. Mine rated for about 45 degrees but in cold weather I wear wool sleepwear and I could always add a liner. It is also really comfortable.
Hello Darwin. I use both of it in wintertime that makes my 15 degrees F sleeping bag a real 0 F. On springtime I use my sleeping bag only, then, only down quilt in the summertime, etc... You're very right concerning the efficiency and the difference made by good insulation to the ground provided by a good inflatable mattress. Both of sleeping bag or quilt is compressed on the ground surface that makes you chilly after a while. Conclusion: Wrap yourself with prisoner air!
You actually convinced me. I bought a Big Agnes permaloft quilt. It's HUGE. Plus it packs up super small. Comes in and right around a pound. I haven't had a chance to take it for a spin yet, but we will next week. From all of the reviews I've read on top of your impassioned review, I'm pretty confident this is the right move. I sleep hot anyways, but the biggest selling point is the ability to sprawl out. Mummy bags make me very claustrophobic. I appreciate the review and the excellent explanation of how compressed down actually works (or doesn't work). Cheers, brother!
I unzip my bag all the time. I need it full on just for freezing temperatures. And than, when it is freezing cold and you can here the wind blowing hard outside, but you are warm and comfortable, that is the best. That is the best feeling when camping.
A note of caution about the trend towards quilts. On BackpackingLight, where lightweight hikers gather, most have made the switch for 3 season hiking. But a substantial minority have tried quilts and gone back to bags. They simply find that quilts are too draughty when temperatures drop, and/or they find straps too much faff. -A lot depends on the way you personally sleep.
The argument that bags waste down because it's compressed under your body doesn't really apply to the majority who are side-sleepers. By the time you've tucked a quilt around you the difference is insignificant. The real weight saving is in ditching the zip, baffle, snag protector and hood.
Alternatives are to opt for a bag that's specifically designed to convert into a quilt - Enlightened Equipment, Feathered Friends and ZPacks offer popular options. You pay a modest weight penalty, but get more thermal efficiency when it's cold and you zip up. Or you can opt for a hoodless, zipless bag. This is pretty much as light as a quilt, and will keep you warmer weight-for-weight in the cold. But it's harder to cool down when it's warm.
Personally I HATE being too cold, but don't really mind being a bit hot. I favour a zipless, hoodless bag and simply slip it down to my hips in the heat. I've used it from high glacier bivys to blazing hot nights in Florence in August and always slept well. For Darwin, he'd probably bake to death.
So it's very personal - you have to experiment and make your own choice rather than blindly following the trend.
Thanks for the video. Have used bags of various weights for years - and thinking my next purchase could be a quilt, but 2 questions (not being snarky - just genuine q's).
1) I don't understand how a quilt can be HALF the weight of a bag. Surely there must be practically as much material in the quilt. I know it doesn't go underneath you - but must need to be almost double the width of a bag to stop it falling off. The one shown at 3:35 certainly has as much material as the sleeping bag shown just before
2) What is the advantage of a quilt over just unzipping your bag and laying it over you? Is it just that you can stick your feet out the end more easily?
Always good videos. The quilt thing looks interesting but I am a really restless sleeper and squirming and turning would always leave a body part exposed when unwanted with a quilt. I am also stout with an 18" neck and 49" chest and mummy bags seem to be made for normal people. So I use an oversized synthetic bag with a sleeping pad sleeve and no insulation on the bottom. That way, in my opinion, I have the best of both the mummy and quilt without the disadvantages a quilt would mean to a restless sleeper.
I don't hike.. I just like sleeping.
Dudelino. I sleep in an Icebreaker mid layer inside of my apartment. Outdoor gear is very good indoors.
So this is the perfect hiking video for you, then.
LOL!!!
I purchase a down rectangular 55' sleeping bag several years ago. I have it un-zipped and use the bag as a quilt, I have a cotton bag liner that adds to the versatility of the bag. Never slept more comfortable, lowest temperature was 21'F to over 100'F. Cold I use the jacket as a second layer over my feet.
A quilt and a linear works good for me also . I must have a pillow .Broke my neck & back .but the new light gear makes it possible for me to get a day or two in the mountains . at 60 . great reviews & thanks for your time . look's like your using a nemo sleeping pad & pillow 👍
I feel ya on the quilt. I have 2 of them for my hammock setup and I did use it as a ground dweller on a trip with my girlfriend to Colorado and it was awesome!!!
Darwin, I do a lot of hiking through out the year. I am looking at buying a UGQ xl quilt. I’m torn between a 20 deg or a 30 degree quilt. I am also buying a NEMO tensor insulated pad. I now use a 20 deg sleeping bag and a thermorest Neoair Uberlight pad. My daughter has borrowed them and I don’t foresee ever getting them back. Any suggestions.
I agree with the quilt. I have tried a lot of outdoor sleeping options and have settled with my blow up kayak (K79) with a down quilt. And, a tarp over to keep off the 4am dew. I like the quilt over the mummy because you can keep you legs apart. I am 6'4" and do not fit most bags. I often take my blow up kayak (12 pounds) on trips where I do not float just because it provides a very comfortable bed.
Iguana
I've been using my MSS Patrol Bag (2.3lbs rated to 30 degrees comfortably) for years and I actually use it as a quilt in warmer conditions. I flip it upside down and sleep with it open. I could see the benefits to a dedicated quilt too, but the $30 Patrol Bag won't die even after a decade of sleeping with it almost every single night of the year (except in extreme cold when I use the -10 deg Intermediate Bag from the MSS). Of course, when I camp, I use a Thermarest XTherm which helps a lot. :)
As a slightly "bigger than average" hiker, I do the same as some have said, partially zip my bag to make a footbox, and use it as a quilt. And they're right, it works. And it solves the shoulder pinch I feel if i zip up a mummy completely. Much more open feeling.
But really there's no way around the weight issue if you're a gram weenie. Less fabric and no wasted down where it's compressed and useless=less weight. Or cram that equivalent down into a topquilt and have a 0° quilt for the weight of a 30° mummy.
I agree that simply using your bag "like a quilt" is a great budget way to see if you'd like the switch before you invest, especially since you don't see a lot of synthetic quilts so you'll be paying for down.
The weight might not matter on a weekend, or even a week long trek, but if you can shave a pound and a half just by changing you sleep system, I have to imagine that's huge for a long trail. ( Of course Darwin offsets all that gain with a camera, extra batteries chargers, cables etc, so we can be entertained. ;) Thanks for the sacrifice! )
I think that's about right wideone23. I don't relish the 'cocoon' feeling of being zipped up in my mummy bag, as it can make me feel like Harry Houdini making an unsuccessful escape bid! I discovered the comfort benefits of using it in unzipped mode when just 'warming up' on entering the tent, and now that's how I use it in all conditions other than the coldest. Often I will wear my insulated jacket underneath the 'quilt-mode' bag as a means of not having to go into zip-up mode.
For the moment least, this suffices for my needs, but I take your irrefutable point about a quilt being ultimately more weight-efficient.
Interestingly, I know of some who, as an alternative to buying a heavier bag for winter use, just purchase a quilt which they throw over their existing 2/3season bag. Now there's a potential 'system' which gives all kinds of options!
David S
What you said about feeling like Harry Houdini making an escape bid with mummy bags, is exactly what occasionally happens to me when I'm in a mummy bag while in my hammock. Sometimes I suddenly get a little panic because I can't move and I think that a bear might get me while I can't move. I don't get it on the ground, but in a mummy bag while in a hammock really increases that feeling.
I started using a quilt this year and LOVE it. Having said that, I used to unzip the foot box end of my mummy bag with a two way zipper, leaving my body core well zipped up and tucked in, letting my toes / feet /legs hang out side. I notice that having my z-loft sleeping pad under me keeps me warm. At first i was concerned about the lack of down on the under side. In the end it is np.
My down -4’C mummy sleeping bag has a side zip and a foot zip so it can become a quilt when needed. I also use the Sea to Summit reactor liner 18’C and the two of them kept me cozy in Namche, Nepal during winter.
Great! I have been thinking of switching to a wool blanket. But it might be a bit on the heavy side
Great info, great idea. Been looking for ways to increase the temperature range of my sleeping gear.
I have a synthetic mummy bag, but it unzips at the feet. (On cold mornings I could put on slip on crocs and sit around all bundled up but can still walk a bit to watch the sunrise.). There are many ways to stay warmer without getting a different bag. Wear a beanie since you lose heat through your head. Depending on the weather and temperature, wear long johns to bed, sometimes I just wore the top since I was hiking with a bunch of guys. Carry a bag liner which adds 8-10 degrees of warmth depending on the material. Wear some fleece socks just for sleeping. (long johns and socks are ONLY for sleeping in. Don't hike in them or they will get sweaty and damp and you will freeze at night). Just like in clothing, it's all about layers.
We started out in August over 100 degrees at sea level. One morning we woke it was 31 degrees. Oh yeah, we were NOT using tents. Sleeping in a tent adds another 20 degrees of warmth.
So between tent, no tent, unzipping bag in middle of warm nights to get air to my bare legs and or feet if too warm, adding long johns on cooler nights, adding socks and beanie when even cooler, scarf around neck or even a balaclava so the only thing showing was my eyes. Bag liner I didn't need. The top of Mt. Whitney was freezing and windy. Brrrr. In August!! But it was covered in snow still in July that year (2009). I don't use air mattresses. None of the guys could understand how I could sleep on my 1/4 inch closed cell foam (8 oz) pad, but it traps heat, and I don't have to heat up the air in the air mattress. Those suck heat from your body, which might be what you want.
Something you did not mention is that a synthetic bag will keep you warm "enough" even when WET, and a down bag is useless. Why don't you bring a cheap emergency blanket for inside on cold days? So many things you can do besides a whole new bag.
My bag is a Cat's Meow from REI, mens size since I am tall and have no hips. Not sure if they are still sold.
Recovering Soul Best comment I have seen so far! You must have been in the military and had to make do with what you have available.
I know you like photography. What are some of your ideas for strapping/carrying a tripod to your backpack?
Hey Darwin, getting ready for my first trail hike and am trying to pick a hammock. I have always tent camped so this is something new to me. There are so many different makers of hammocks ranging from $10- $75. I have no clue what i am looking for. I do know I want to have a mosquito net w/ tarp. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for all the great videos, I have been watching them for days on end getting ready..
Really informative about sleep systems,One of the best videos i have seen darwin ...including how r values and loft works is information i needed to make a informed decision in my sleep system... keep making videos for us !!! a fan gary
As another EE quilt user there is one thing to remember. Sleeping pads such as Kymit X Series are designed to have the under side of the sleep bag fill in the holes. Using a quilt with the a pad like that with the cutouts in it is not going to work.
Good point Rugbyturner! Those Klymit X pads always seamed like better use for a Hammock System, which in that case you would want to have an Under Quilt as well. Thanks for Watching!
Hike On,
Darwin
rugbyturner yup. Love my softie elite 1 and klymit x frame setup. Fine on the ground- exceptional in a hammock. I'm a big fan of layering and I've gone down to -15 in a nor'easter slept like a rock.
Darwin onthetrail the static v works great in a hammock.
I don't run pads in my hammock, but have found the Static V to be very drafty with quilts, although the combo works great in a bivy where drafts are minimal
I thought I recognized Washington monument in your intro. I just got back from a cold night on the AT in my 5 degree mummy bag while experiencing that heat loss you're describing. Don't know if it's the bag or pad that are the problem. I'm going to look into a quilt. Thanks for the info.
I bought an EE quilt based on your recommendation and love it.
Awesome video Darwin! A lot of great info in the video. I am thinking of making the switch to quilts here soon. I was looking at brooks range mountaineering
what you have said about traditional down bags is true without loft they don't retain the heat, but when I unzip mine and use as a quilt the cold comes in from the sides because there is no way to secure it into the sleeping pad or body. I think to overcome this issue is to sleep in a bivi bag which should help?
The demo model was adorable for each change. Made me chuckle.
Decent review with some good information but you totally miss a fourth option for a mummy bag - unzip it and lay it over you as a blanket. I have a Marmot Helium EQ, a 15F rated bag that I use from 80F summer (nighttime temps) down to 0F winter camping. When it's hot out I sleep on top or just on the sleeping pad, cooler temps I unzip it and use as a quilt, cooler still I sleep in it with it unzipped, cooler yet but not cold I use it partially unzipped either from the head or the foot, colder weather it's fully zipped, winter camping wear some layers, cold winter camping add a Nalgene bottle of hot water at my feet. Bag weighs under 2 pounds, unless you're tall like me and need the Long version, then its 2 pounds 2 oz, and it has a Pertex water resistant shell. I can't imagine a down quilt would be comfortable across those temperature ranges, especially at the lower end as you can't "seal in" the heat like a mummy bag does. Yes, straps may help keep it in place but unless they are every foot or so around the perimiter cold air is going to get in when one tosses & turns.
It's all about "Personal Preference"..... I have never had as good of sleep in a Mummy bag as I do with a Quilt. I have used it in a ton of different temp ranges, I toss & turn like crazy when I sleep, & I am 6'1..... I have NEVER woke up cold in the middle of the night because of "Draft". Again it is a Preference thing & unless you have spent a lot of time with using both, I wouldn't be quick to judge a quilt..... lol, I sorta find it funny how many peoples feathers get ruffled on this topic. Try a quilt out & judge for yourself!..... Thanks for Watching!
Hike On,
Darwin
Mark U 7.
@@DarwinOnthetrail he didn't say a quilt is bad, he simply said that you forgot a lot of options for a sleeping bag^^
I just set my friends sleeping bag on fire and keep warm. Wanna go campin?
I do the exact same thing with mine
I have used a mummy bag one more way than you mentioned; fully unzipped and upside down on me like a duvet.
There is a cheaper duvet than down. Use 2 inch quilt batting/insulation, it is called a Rayway duvet.
It is homemade. The quickest way is to get a double bed sized shiny polyester bed topper that has 14 inch frills on three sides. Add the batting and a polyester lining and make a waterproof bag.
You tuck the frills under your body. You still need a thermarest mattress. And a beanie hat.
It is also very lightweight.
Great video. Hiked Israel Sept - Nov with a heavy mummy bag and melted or froze. When searching for an answer I found this and you. Will try it thank you.
Awesome.....I was looking a
for a down bag.....but now I'll look at the quilt. Thanks
DO IT! You can't go wrong. Thanks for Watching Mike!
Hike On,
Darwin
Darwin Onthetrail Thanks. Love your channel!!!
being a hammocker, I've been using quilts for about 5 years now. Won't use anything but. Mine are all from Underground Quilts. Way better in my opinion than mummy bags.
I've heard great things about Underground. Have a friend who rocks 1 & absolutely loves it! Thanks for Watching!
Hike On,
Darwin
Have you ever thought of making/buying a "woobie"/poncho liner for a quilt/jacket on the trail? I'm curious to know if someone you've met used one and what they had to say about it. I could see one being made out of a waterproof fabric with down fill being an asset.
i think you just described Therm-a-Rest's Honcho Poncho? -- www.trailspace.com/gear/therm-a-rest/honcho-poncho/
Did you look at going to a rectangular bag? I'm a big guy and mummies are really tight on me so I figured I might move to a rectangular bag and use it as a quilt when warmer and then zip it up when cooler?
Thanks for explaining why my down bag is noticeably colder on the bottom, time for an insulation mat.
On a side note, cant you open up a mummy bag, flip it on its side and use it like a quilt? I open mine up and use it like that regularly.
It seems to me that a mummy back also protect you from critters like ticks a bit at night. If used closed, which is optional.
Maybe you’d like to check out Alpaca 4 less their queen size blanket. Somebody made a video on UA-cam about it in the wilderness desert on a very cold night.
Really good videos. Thanks Darwin. I bet you had someone like you to show a bunch of videos like this before you started thru hiking.
So glad I found this...Use a bag now but am looking into switching...Huge help thank you
I ran into the same problem years ago, and I eventually switched to the quilt also, packing thermal under wear or sleep wear will makeup the difference
Guess what kind of sleeping pad does a pirate want.... one with a great "R" value
ARRRR value
Oh no
R
Jackson c. And has a pillow that can be used like a flask for rum
In general mummy bags are not very comfortable. Go with a rectangular one with Zippers when yoor a large Person use A double one or go with the Us military 3 Layer ones. In Switzerland with many Mountains no one uses a Quilt. They are not safe under heavy Conditions.
We don’t hike, we kayak. So, in buying gear for our trip I looked at quilts. They are ridiculously expensive! And, I was unable to find one that fit hubby and I together. We want to be together on our trips! I hate mummy bags, but we did find the Nemo Jazz Duo. I hope it meets our expectations!
I have a possibly weird question. I am one that also sleeps hot, I also travel 100% for work. I stay in nice hotels, but I really have an issue with hotel comforters. What do you recommend to be a very nice and comfortable bag for 65-67 degrees? I. Gonna just use it on top of my hotel bed. I really like the quilt idea.
More of a hotel tip, but I also sleep very hot in hotels now due to the mattresses. I've had good luck with asking for a few extra sheets, and I pull the quilt.
I would like to see how you attach your quilt to your mat. I have a quilt because a bag makes me claustrophobic. But I have problems with drafts. I normally sleep warm but I've had problems keeping warm with my quilt.
Started using the Costco down sports throw for the warmer temps. I have to have something over me to sleep. I am a believer in the quilts. I sewed hoops to run para cord through to make the foot box.
I roll around a bit when I sleep and I am most comfortable side sleeping. I often roll it off the backside of my body.
Question... How do you keep your quilt fully on when you side sleep?
Most Quilts come with "Pad Straps" to be able to cinch the quilt to the pad. If it's a Cold/Drafty night, I just use those. Using a Quilt has given me the best sleep I've ever gotten on the trail. Thanks for Watching!
Hike On,
Darwin
Hi Darwin,
I have the same issue like Jim - can you explain/show more about using a quilt with pad straps? Still "concerned" about some drafts of cold air...
Thanks.
My quilt blew off and about about 90 yards down into a ravine in the middle of the night. When I woke in the morning and fell down into the ravine, it was partway in the icy stream. I trudged back up the hill with my sopping wet down quilt; someone had taken my high r-value sleeping pad. No regrets
Mummy bag can be unzipped and used like a quilt but it's harder to do vice versa... I like the idea of having the extra layer between me and the ground.
Do you know of any synthetic ultralight quilts? My wife is allergic to feathers so know I can buy a lot of gear. I know it will be a little bit heavier as well.
Took the dive on a Kammok Firebelly. Rated to 30F, feet can breathe on the warm nights, makes a hammock cozy, fits two people, can be used as a wrap, and on and on. My still fantastic Montbell #0 and #5 are now loaners. To those considering; a cheap quilt will leave you suffering same as a cheap sleeping bag.
The video is great info from experience. Thank you!
Darwin, Would you use a quilt in a Hammock set up with an Underquilt under the hammock but no pad? Thinking of switching from mummy bag to quilt in my hammock.
I had no idea that there was down quilts for camping. I have either really really hot feet, or seriously cant warm up cold feet. I used a mummy bag and normal sleeping bags as a kid camping, and always preferred the normal bag, cuzz i would unzip the whole thing so my feet could be free to choose hot or cold, and leave me sound sleeping. Thanks for this video
I'm still waiting on my Revolution 20* from them. I can't wait for it to get here in mid January.
THat's the model I have. It has been the best Sleeping Companion I've ever owned. Stupid Comfortable! Like I said in the video, I will never go back to traditional "Bags". Thanks for Watching!
Hike On,
Darwin
How do you cinch the quilt to your pad? And in your video it looks like you surround the body entirely with the quilt on cold days, and doesn’t that flatten the down, which you considered a negative factor for sleeping bags?
I feel like the back of the bag has some comfort properties. Especially when using a zlite pad I instantly notice that I feel the bumps less and even with an inflatable it gives me more of a "bed" feel. Also when using a contoured sleeping pad like a klymit V there is actually quite a bit of area for the down to loft in the valleys of the mat. With higher-end mats they are smoother and have a higher R value built in. So for dedicated ultralighters with a top shelf budget the quilt is the way to go. But personally I consider the back of my sleeping bag to be one of my luxury items, and it's somehow cheaper than a comparable quilt.
Depending on the sleeping pad, some insulation can come from the bottom of the bag, since our back and legs aren't flat.
I did this years ago. I just added a Merino Wool blanket shaved light for the times I need more R Value on my back..I will never use anything else. It's light and feels good on my skin..Drys quick too...
Thank you for this video. I thought a lot about it, and possibility of buying quilt, but it didn't seem quite fit for me (just theory), and finally my thinking over and over this topic ended with visit to Decathlon -- their current sleeping bags have zippers on BOTH sides. Man, I checked all known brands and nothing, null -- and here we go, cheap with ability to really open the bag. Perfect for me, granted they are not state of the art, but since I bikepack they qualify with weight, and for volume I am less happy but I manage, I have 17L saddle bag for this reason exactly after all ;-).
Tried out a synthetic quilt from EE, never going back to sleeping bags. Thanks for the video!
My legs like to night dance. I've never gotten used to a mummy bag.
I think this quilt thing might be the answer.
Check out the NEMO spoon bag. Made for side sleepers
The best option I've found is a $150 USD, 32F/0C hybrid down bag. It weighs 2.5lbs, fits 6'6" and is large enough to wear either a light weight down jacket which gets me to -10C or my larger parka which gets me to -25C. 1 sleeping bag = an ultralight pack for 4 season extreme adventures in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta. The sleeping pad is1/2 size, high R value to protect my core temp.
Another great video Darwin I've been thinking about other sleep options and this really helps me out thanks
Do quilts work well with side sleepers like myself? Also with people who turn and move a lot during their sleep? Of course they can be strapped down to keep it from sliding off of you, but turning on your side would seem to create air gaps behind your back and in front of you as well - thereby diminishing warmth isolation efficiency. Any thoughts?
I have a high uintah gear sleepy ridge mummy bag rated for 0-F temperature and weighs only 2.2 pounds, made 100% of polyester. It’s a great bag but I can’t find it anywhere online, I bought it at big 5 Sporting goods maybe 10 years ago. I love this bag but I wish they still made them
I watched this video a while back and it led me down the path of an EE quilt that I love. Do you have any thoughts on how it would work with a closed cell foam pad?
Darwin great videos, me and my wife live in central Texas, we enjoy camping, fishing and hiking the Texas coast. Its always very hot 90s + weather. What do you recommend for sleeping pad and do you recommend a quilt for sleeping on the beach.
Go for the Sierra Designs Cloud. Perfect balance between a mummy bag and a quilt.
i see one BIG advantage for the mommy bag : when you sleep in a HAMMOCK. i opened the end of the bag (where you put your foot) then you can pass the hammock through the bag. then it's not compressed below and it's a lot warmer (as you said).
While that sounds fine in theory, it doesn't work out in practice.
AlbertaGeek maybe not for you, thats ok.
You’re running the risk of still compressing the down when you sleep in the hammock that way...you already have the fabric stretched tight and then your weight will compress the down even more...
I have hammock camped for almost 10 yrs now and experimented with this on multiple hammock and bag types, but never found one that would fit and keep an adult male covered. Much easier to either just run an underquilt with the quilt (best option), or keep all insulation inside with a pad+bag
Is it mommy or mummy?
Hi nice to hear yu ! But .. yu didn't exposé how tk use a quilt, when it is cold whatvhappens with the large opening side without a zip. The are exposed to the cold isn't it ? And also of course compressed zone s are not working, yes it is true, but it is only points of compressure not all the back and where it is it not compressed it works, isn't it ?
Zipper won't fail on a quilt. Had 2 zippers fail on mummys. I am a stomach sleeper and always unzip to use as a quilt anyhow, but they don't set right because the hood is off center--looking, at the sierra because of integated hand pockets and stargazing hole. The backcountry bed looks like a great in between too.
What are your thoughts on bikepacking using either a petrol motor or electric motor which could possibly be recharged with solar panel?
What is the problem about using a mommy bag as a blanket??? Moreover my bag has double zippers, so i can leave a gab at my legs and shoulders with the hip-area closed.
A quilt surely saves weight (still you could grab a bag without a hood), but if you move alot at night i would guess thet it becomes quite cumbersome, or doesn't it?
Question: I buy the quilt vs. bag concept. Please explain the reasons to go with down or synthetic. Thanks! :-)
The entirety of the mummy bag is not being completely compressed, there is plenty underneath the body that is lofted, combined with the pad, adds a higher R-value than a quilt on top and only a pad underneath. Add a roll of refectix underneath the tent and it's the warmest floor I've slept in.
Hey Darwin, the one question I haven't seen is what is the brand/name of the quilt you were using in your comparison? I like the looks of it and the weight of it too!
The mummy bag i have has a double zip that lets me stick my feet out allowing for more uses in warm weather.
I am mostly concerned about a down quilt getting wet. On the Appalachian, how much of a problem is this going to be if any? If the quilt is high quality and new will it dry well? Will the down stay dry in a huge rainstorm?
I have a military poncho liner kinda like a quilt wondering if that would work for the at or if I should upgrade to a quilt
I did the Uintah highline trail in August(only month without significant snow at altitude) and the sleeping bag was bitter cold with every layer on i had packed. I realize now it was my pad with no r value. I went alone hoping to die out there but not of cold. Not like that. Perhaps a quilt save some weight for 100 miles and not sacrifice warmth with a decent pad.
Hi, there, i'm strongly looking to pass to quilt.
Question, is it working on matress like : Therm a Rest Z Lite SOL ? Will be the 2cm from that matress enough ?
I like that matress so i'm wondering if it's ok with a quilt ?
EDIT : Looks like it get moisty using a Quilt on the Z LITE SOL matress (unfortunatly for me)
About the 3 ways you present : Well, you can do that with a mummy (one that you can open thru the bottom and couple with another) aswell ^^
Cheers from belgium !
I unzip my mummy bag when it's hot and lay it over me like a quilt. the only reason I still may prefer a mummy bag over a quilt is because I toss and turn a LOT and the mummy bag follows my movements whereas a quilt seems like it will tend to end up with gaps when it's least convenient (when I'm pushing its limits). is this something you or anyone else reading this has experienced? If so, do the pad straps help much? I'm considering the EE Enigma but I'm nervous about taking the leap.
People are missing the point.
1. Quilts cost less compared to the same mummy temp rating.
2. Are way lighter.
3. More versatile in that most mummy bags have a 60/40 or 70/30 ratio of down on top to down underneath. So it's much colder on one side when it's unzipped and draped over you.
Etc etc
I got my trusty Vango Ultralite 100 which is 700g synthetic mummy style bag wich is good from 4-25 degrees celsius which translates to 3 seasson usability arround here in Carpathian mountains. Been using it in elevations as high as 1600m m above sea with no problems whatsoever. If you get hot you just unzip it and turn around to use as a blanket of sorts, Ta daa, and no need to waste any more money on another gear.