UL Weather Protection

**MDSH** · 10-30-2014, 17:16

After much experimentation I've finally settled on an UL system that uses a minimalist CF tarp, and polycro peak beaks and UQ protector.

Will take it all apart for weighing after testing tonight.

The DIY tarp is only 9x6 feet made of .74 ounce CF from Z-Packs. I use Dutch Wasps and Lash It with 150 lb. spectra guys lines from Ultralight Designs and trail sticks for stakes.

The peak beaks extend 30" each toward the middle of the hammock.

The UQ protector is 78x62 inches and uses UQ suspension made of bank line run through channels on all four sides.

Asters, et al 013.jpg

Asters, et al 014.jpg

I've worked on my UL system since May of this year. Went through one violent T-storm and was impressed with the DWR on my DIY UQ. I didn't get wet or cold but why tempt fate when an UQ protector can keep water off and add warmth?

It's expected to be 39* tonight. Yikes!

Will check for condensation on this test. That will be the make or break factor.

**nuttysquirrel** · 10-30-2014, 17:53

That looks about as light as one could go. Try not to suffocate

**equilibrium** · 10-30-2014, 18:00

Awesome setup!!

**craige** · 10-30-2014, 18:24

Nice, looking forward to seeing the weight breakdown. What are you using the stick neslxt to tge dutch biner for in the last photo? It looks to be a part of the suspension but it's not clear from the photo.

**jolunder** · 10-30-2014, 18:29

Is the uqp "just" clear foil?
Looking forward to the numbers as well.

**MDSH** · 10-30-2014, 18:32

Originally Posted by nuttysquirrel

That looks about as light as one could go. Try not to suffocate

Thanks, nutty!

The wind will be from the NE and I expect plenty of oxygen to blow past my face. ;-)

Originally Posted by equilibrium

Awesome setup!!

Thanks, equilibrium!

I've had time to devote to this and am pleased with results so far. We'll see what happens tonight. I expect it to work just fine.

**TallPaul** · 10-30-2014, 22:37

Looking forward to tomorrows report.

**Grapenut** · 10-31-2014, 09:04

Thanks for posting MDSH. I've been experimenting with UL solutions myself that will allow me to quickly expand the protection under my asym tarp. I like your simple approach. I may copy those beaks if you don't mind. Thanks again!

G-Nut

**MDSH** · 10-31-2014, 09:24

Originally Posted by craige

Nice, looking forward to seeing the weight breakdown. What are you using the stick neslxt to tge dutch biner for in the last photo? It looks to be a part of the suspension but it's not clear from the photo.

Thanks. Got some work to do this morning so it will be later before the weigh-in occurs.

The suspension is connected to the Dutch Biner with an overhand knot. The stick jams the bite. But I plan to attach some Al toggles to the ends of the Amsteel and use them instead. I can lower the tarp then without it getting torn up on a sharp stick.

Originally Posted by jolunder

Is the uqp "just" clear foil?
Looking forward to the numbers as well.

Yes, the UQ is a polycro Window Kit. The first box I got cost $5 and I used it up experimenting. This one cost $7 at Wal-Mart.

Originally Posted by TallPaul

Looking forward to tomorrows report.

It worked great. The cold front didn't make it down this far but it was plenty cool and breezy out there.

This system worked great -- not a hint of condensation -- slept warm and comfortable. The polycro makes a great windbreak. My hunch is that it extended the temperature range almost 10 degrees. I was warmer in the hammock than inside right now! And we'll see how light it is compared to other materials.

Originally Posted by Grapenut

Thanks for posting MDSH. I've been experimenting with UL solutions myself that will allow me to quickly expand the protection under my asym tarp. I like your simple approach. I may copy those beaks if you don't mind. Thanks again!

G-Nut

You're welcome! Yes, the beaks are really nice. They keep the foot end warm and it's easy to adjust right over your head.