Pushing gear ratings in colder weather

[beenaround]

Well, I'm sure this has been talked about plenty but my google searching hasn't really turned up exact answers.

I've watched videos, read threads and reviews.

I'm trying to figure out how low of a temp I could get my current setup too, be comfortable (not wear 5 layers of clothing) and sleep well without waking up in Popsicle status.

20* top/bottom setup.
Thin pad for my feet only.
Winter sock from Dutch.
Possibly a sleeping bag liner.
Standard tarp no doors.

I'd be wearing the normal insulated thermal goods, socks, maybe sweatpants, t-shirt, and a sweatshirt. Maybe a stocking cap, but I'm not looking to wear much more.

What temps do you guys think I'd be safe at?

[gunner76]

To many variables

Is it windy, humidity, are you a hot or cold sleeper....

Only to know is to go out and do controlled testing in your backyard or someplace else where you have an escape plan in case thinks do not work out. I have had to bail many times while testing gear in my backyard when I encountered problems ( like wind sucking the warmth out of my set up....)

[beenaround]

Ok - I'm constantly warm, I sleep with the windows cracked, fans on when it's snowing out, which is the main reason I got a snap setup on the quilt. Most (98%) of my camping is done very close to a car now-a-days, so if I gotta bail in the woods I'm good to go. Unfortunately I live in a condo and don't get much testing done around the Homefront. I do have a stand I built for my deck but need to get longer sections for tarp use.

I'd be checking weather in my area before heading out for a weekend but the temps here are always stupid. It could be 65 during the day and get down to the teens at night so it's usually a guess. Wind would be an issue but the places I get out to are usually heavily wooded, so the trees tend to break some of that up. No humidity this time of year thank God.

[Nighthauk]

The best thing you can do is if you have a setup site at or near home and try it that way. When I try all my gear out to see how cold I can get I usually only wear socks and mid weights top and bottoms. That way I know if i need to I can always add on layers to stay warm if it got colder then expected. I have done this method down to -12*.

[DuctTape]

Experiment for sure. Everyone is different and different combinations have different results. Play around with different combinations in varying temperatures and cinditions to learn how each piece works for you, and more importantly how each item works (or doesnt) in concert with other items. I did not get to where I am with my setups by researching or asking others. I spent an entire fall-winter testing out combinations to better understand. Knowing intimately how each item works in varying environments as well as with other items cannot be overstated. Plus, all the testing mrans one is sleeping out in their hammock. I was living in the city at the time. Had only one tree in my postage stamp lawn. I strung up between that tree and a bolt attached to my garage. Probably had some strange looks from the neighbors.

[beenaround]

Good advice thanks guys. I'll begin by getting the longer sections for my stand. I can always pack heavy for a car over night as well and add/remove as needed.

[sustaireblues]

I think you're good to go with your setup. Just get to the woods and check it out. Experience is the best teacher and being a little uncomfortable will focus you on areas you need to change or tighten up.

[Shug]

It will vary. Maybe you can get 5º to 10º lower than the rating of your gear. Eat good hot meals and drink hot drinks. Be warm when you crawl in for the night!
Best to test for yourself though.
Carry forth.
Shug

[speter311]

Adding a hot water bottle is always good when pushing your gear to lower limits.

[OneClick]

I start to get a little nervous when the temp approaches the actual rating (in cold weather, say, 35° and below).

I took my 20° Incubator down to 3°, but looking back I think "WHY?!" For another 4oz, I could have had guaranteed warmth without any trouble.

But of course it depends on other variables as mentioned.