Noob Question (Pad and UQ together?)

[Hangandy]

I heard once that wearing a belt and suspenders makes you look stupid. Is there a similar parallel to combining a pad and UQ?

I think I've figured out the shape of the pad one would use (wings at the arms and hips). And I'm looking at roughing out a UQ possibly with an old down sleeping bag. But is it anticipated that a UQ is combined with a pad? doesn't this actually separate one from their UQ? My goal is more lightweight (not ultralight) as our Canadian Rangers group operates in the cold and rain I don't want to be skimping on necessary equipment, but at the same time, we carry all our gear and anticipate additional gear including rifle, first aid, and rescue gear, and so added weight is an issue.

For bonus points, is a bivy sack a wise choice if I already have a tarp and am looking at lightweight, or is it assumed I can use a bivy and reduce my insulation to offset the increase in weight?

Please redirect me if this is discussed elsewhere any better.

Much appreciation.

[kayak karl]

i used a 1/4" pad and a JRB nest to get to lower temps (20 degrees). i wear suspenders with a belt, you got a problem with that

[Beast 71]

I use an under quilt(UQ) and pad in any temps under 20F. It works great but, it is a little comfier with just the UQ

[JayS]

i wear suspenders with a belt, you got a problem with that

Ah, yes... as the famous Cajun Justin Wilson would say, you're a "safety man"!

Hangandy, there's nothing wrong with a pad and an UQ. Most folks want to get away from pads due to feel and (for some) condensation issues but pads are a great way to start out. When it's cold, pads are a great, cheap way to extend the range of an UQ. I did just that during a recent cold snap when I had CBS (cold butt syndrome) and could not get my UQ dialed in. Later I solved the UQ issue and took the pad out but would use it if the temps dropped below what I can comfortably go to with my UQ.

As for your pad setup, do a search for "SPE" (segmented pad extender). This might make your pad use easier.

[blackout]

pads n uq work fine together just watch for condensation between the pad n uq

[Buenos]

I've played with a 3 season UQ + a pad to get me down to below freezing temps. I was warm and comfortable. I figured this was a successful experiment. Double layer hammocks make this process easy but it's not hard to do with a single layer. Also it eliminated the need for a SPE as the UQ covered my sides quite well.

Good luck, and enjoy your trials.

By the way, I find the belt/suspender combo quite fashionable!

[gunner76]

Whatever works for you and your budget. I use pads as they fit my budget. One day when $$ permits I will get an UQ; until then I will work with what I have on hand.