More useful - Overcover or undercover/weather shield

**foolhardy** · 10-21-2010, 13:52

I have 4 yards of uncoated ripstop nylon and I was curious which would go farther to keeping me warm in my hammock.

I have a homemade UQ. Would a breathable nylon weather shield go farther towards keeping me warm in 20 degree hangs than an overcover?

**samiam2714** · 10-21-2010, 14:45

I think and Overcover would be best for uncoated nylon. People have said it gives another 10* warmth.

**Just Jeff** · 10-21-2010, 15:02

If you already have an underquilt, then an overcover would probably give you the most benefit...especially when it's windy.

**foolhardy** · 10-21-2010, 15:04

Sounds good, I'll make an overcover then. Thanks a lot for your input.

**JohnSawyer** · 10-21-2010, 15:54

I love my overcover... when weather is good, I don't bother with a tarp... unless I need some privacy...

**Rain Man** · 10-22-2010, 09:56

Okay, "stupid question" time: What is an "overcover"?

I know what an "undershield" is. I have a DIY big blaze orange pack cover that does double duty as an undershield. Used it this weekend on the AT in VA.

But an "overcover" that is not a tarp? Anyone got a photo worth a thousand words?

Rain Man

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**Just Jeff** · 10-22-2010, 14:29

Check the "overcovers" section here:
http://www.tothewoods.net/HammockCampingWarm.html

**Take-a-knee** · 10-22-2010, 14:36

Originally Posted by Just Jeff

If you already have an underquilt, then an overcover would probably give you the most benefit...especially when it's windy.

And especially if you already have a winter tarp staked low. The overcover will help create a slightly warmer microclimate inside your hammock.

**foolhardy** · 10-22-2010, 15:09

Originally Posted by Rain Man

Okay, "stupid question" time: What is an "overcover"?

Anyone got a photo worth a thousand words?

.

No worries, that's not a stupid question at all. I really feel stupid when I should know something, but I didn't ask about it when I had a good opportunity.

http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/s...ad.php?t=10994

**JohnSawyer** · 10-22-2010, 15:28

Overcovers that I've seen come in many shapes and sizes...

Mine? It's a piece of ripstop as long as my hammock with velcro "loops" every 30" or so that attach to the ridgeline. It also has pockets along the length for rocks or other weights. Heck, I didn't even hem it, I just heat-sealed the edges.

It slides along my ridgeline, effectively closing up the hammock like a tent, blocking any breeze. Imagine a hammock sock without the bottom...

Some, like AHE's Bear Burrito-Oven (designed for the WBBB) are well put together, and fit nicely. Mine just hangs down and keeps small breezes from blowing over me. I typically keep mine pinned/clothespinned at the head end and leave 6" or so open at the foot end to keep moisure from building up. When I use my bugnet, I use safety pins to keep it in place. Low-tech, but very effective.

I was trying to provide a link to the BBO on Paul's website, but it looks like it's not responding right now...