Should UQ be temp matched to TQ?

**WanderAR** · 10-20-2011, 16:07

Looking to get my first UQ. I think I have decided on the 20deg Phoenix from Hammock Gear. Since I haven't used UQ's before I was wondering if the common top quilt pairing would be a TQ with a similar temp rating or does the UQ provide enough warmth that a lower temp TQ will suffice? Just looking to keep total weight to a minimum without sacrificing comfort. Opinions?

**JCINMA** · 10-20-2011, 16:24

I know a lot of people think that UQ warmth is more important than TQ warmth. In summer weather (lows of 60), I'll sometimes use a 20* UQ on the bottom and nothing on top.

My philosophy, however, is to not risk it with low temps. If it's going to get colder than around 40*, bring more insulation than you think you need. I have found that I usually need it.

**lazy river road** · 10-20-2011, 16:41

Well it depends on what temps you would like to go down to? I'd say if you would like to get into the 20's then get a 20 rated Burrow to go along with the 20 rated Phoenix. The 20 rated burrow and incubator has gotten me down into the teens before with proper clothing. Their very nice quilts.

But what works for me is I generally equally pair my UQ's and TQ's. If I am going to mix and match then it would be a warmer UQ and a lighter TQ. But generally I always bring equally rated sets.
YMMV
LRR

**MAD777** · 10-20-2011, 19:06

Out of the three possibilities...

1. warmer UQ than TQ
2. equal warmth UQ and TQ
3. warmer TQ than UQ

You don't want number 3.

**ShadowAlpha** · 10-20-2011, 19:11

Originally Posted by MAD777

Out of the three possibilities...

1. warmer UQ than TQ
2. equal warmth UQ and TQ
3. warmer TQ than UQ

You don't want number 3.

true true. If my quilts are not equal in ratings -- I'd rather have a warmer UQ.

**Beast 71** · 10-20-2011, 19:20

Warmer or same rated UQ for me.

**OutandBack** · 10-20-2011, 19:29

I use a summer phoenix with 1oz overstuffed and a 20 degree 3S TQ
for most of my hammock season, late Spring to early Fall. I add a foot/leg pad if it gets below 50.

Early Winter Early Spring I use a 20 degree full length UQ with same 20 degree TQ. Nite temps 20 to 40F

Dead of Winter I add a 2QZQ breathable UQ protector, burrito hammock cover and tarp with doors. Nite temps 30F to -10F

hth

**exup** · 10-20-2011, 20:06

I agree with everyone. Warmer UQ than TQ, but with a 20* UQ and 40* TQ I would expect to take the set past 30* unless you plan on dressing warmer. So if you're trying to get to 30* go with the the summer TQ if you actually want to make it to 20* I'd go with the straight 20* set. Of course it depends if you're a hot or cool sleeper.

Oddly enough this summer at 60* and up, I found myself not using a UQ at all but still needing my fleece TQ. So I guess in those temps I felt a TQ was more important.

**WanderAR** · 10-21-2011, 08:27

Thanks for the feedback! I'm going to start by just using my down sleeping bag as a top quilt until I'm ready to bite the bullet on an actual top quilt so it looks like I will need to keep the UQ weight down (sleeping bag weighs more than TQ). For that reason I'm going with the 3/4 Phoenix. Plus, if I decide I want a full length UQ after I get a TQ it dosen't look like I would have any problems selling the Phoenix on the forums.

**Shug** · 10-21-2011, 08:34

I tend to like mine kinda equal....but I camp in Minnesota.
I did a video on UQs....thought since your on the topic it may have some info for you in general.
Carry Forth......
Shug