Mac IX UQ or AHE Lost River?

[MacEntyre]

Does the IX maintain its insulation when wet?

It's wind proof and water resistant. Dampness doesn't affect it. I have never soaked one, then tried it.

How durable is an IX UQ?

Kinda hard to say! I find it to be very durable, more durable than most folks think. However, leaves and tiny twigs will stick to it if you drop it on the ground. IX is washable. The Baby Orca 3/4 IX UQ has a nylon outer cover.

BChild speaks well... the AHE sale is a great bargain!

HF is lousy with UQ choices, eh?

[optimator]

Hey Dvisic,
going on your own "Most bang for the buck" advice, I would go for the full length down UQ from AHE at the reduced price now.

Paul doesn't make down underquilts.

[Harpo63]

The AHE synthetic quilts have the option of adding a layer of IX inside if you wanted for extra. That drops the temp range further. Like has already been said, you can vent it in warmer temps.

[Barefoot Child]

My bad, so sorry.

...but I still think it was the one that seemed to fill most of the bill. And like was suggested before...just buy both, but that doesn't fit the budget right now.

And all this time I thought that he did...sorry Paul, I apologize big guy.
What a dilemna!

[wisenber]

I'm considering going UQ. I currently have a large GG 1/4" pad that is fiddly...I find it difficult to get into position, and if I shift much at night it doesn't take much for me to get it bunched up under my back.

So, I'm thinking about trying to rig up something with a cheap sleeping bag. BUT THEN...I see the AHE sale on the Lost River 3/4 length UQ. I also see Mac's new IX offerings...all approximately the same $$ range.

How am I supposed to decide??

While both are good options, a double layer hammock would solve the bunching pad issue.

[Miguel]

I've been using Mac's IX quilt a ton this summer and unequivocally love it! Granted, I've only had it down to the low fifties but so far so good. I'm looking forward to cooler weather so I can see how low it will go. I'm considering getting a second layer for it for when the temps drop. I particulay like the the weight (about six oz) and the fact it takes up almost no space in my pack. It's one of my favorite pieces of gear. It's been holding up quite well so far, although I treat it like a baby. It try not to let it touch the ground. It's a real bargain in my opinion.

Miguel

[Kukri]

I have a Winter Yeti and a Crowsnest and I can use either one of them at temps up to 70* so don't worry about it being too warm really. If it is warm and I use them, I just need less top insulation and vent the bottoms a bit. These 2 UQs will also take me into the teeny little digits of winter as well so they are definitely earning their keep.

Of the options you listed, I have no experience but I just wanted to let you know they really don't get too hot until you don't need any bottom insulation at all. Also, I like the 3/4 or 2/3 UQ better than full length, and I don't use a pad most of the time, just bring something to go under my knees than will extend to my feet, and maybe some thicker socks. GL with your purchase decision.

[Knotty]

...just wanted to let you know they really don't get too hot until you don't need any bottom insulation at all.

Well said and couldn't agree more!

[Brian in so cal]

Can someone please give me the link to the IX UQ. Is it a Mac's IX?

Thanks,
Brian

[dvisic]

here.