One thing to consider about a waterproof under insulation is condensation. Only insulating system I know of that uses a vapor barrier (waterproof) , which is actually a space blanket, get reported to have condesation issues more than any other insulation I've seen used. Something to consider, definitely try out your insulation ideas with a safety net in case you run into an issue like this.
Please provide more info on this. Warmer tarp Thanks
Slo is right about condensation with the tarp space blanket I suggested in my other post. But I havent had a problem with condensation only using the tarp/blanket as an underquilt, I have had problem with conditionsation using the things as a blanket. I live in a humid environment so I'm going to have condensation problems, if you live in a dryer climate you shouldn't have as much of a problem, with the thing hung under your hammock. I have used this blanket down to 40 degree nights. They almost work to good. I'm also as soon as I can get around again, (back surgery), try a military poncho liner for an UQ. I hope for my climate it will work better, back to the space blanket. I would only recommend one of these space tarp/blanket if your humidity is low, I got to warm the few times I used it, but I like being comfortably cold even when I sleep. I have no experience hamock camping in snow country so I don't know if it would work or if humidity would be a problem or not. The blanket/tarp is water proof and wind proof, the manufacturer says it will reflect up to 80%
In my experience at least- YMMV so experiment with safe bailout plan - keeping the space blanket/vapor barrier "warm" is the key. If it is close to your back(as in right under the hammock) AND between you and the insulation, condensation is going to be much lower and likely for me even insignificant.
If any non-breathable layer- a sil-nylon undercover, or UQ protector, or VB or space blanket- is exposed to the cold air(without another "warm" VB between you and insulation), get ready for condensation when your warm, vapor filled insensible perspiration contacts these cold layers. (think of your car's cold windshield if you don't blast it with warm air from the defroster) I think this is worse for layers which are above you, considering warm(vapor filled) air rises. Even if kept warm, then you run into the normal vapor barrier issues. The moisture has no where to escape to, and soon things become very humid and damp, even if that VB layer is kept warm. But a space blanket hung under my hammock- say in a HHSS or inside a PeaPod- is not in tight contact with my back, So if it does not condense on this layer- because this layer is close to body temp- this humid air may be able to "rise" and "escape', especially when I move around.
But that is just my theory, or WAG. For some reason I have only had the most minor of condensation(might have been sweat) occur on my space blankets. Mostly, I get none far as I can tell. But this is always a warm layer close under me. I seem to be able to use this approach to significantly boost warmth with any UQ. (For example, I was able to have a warm back at 10F in a 20F rated PeaPod) Plus it keeps my insulation drier on week long trips. Some other folks are just as lucky with this approach, some others are not. So again, YMMV. Safe experimentation highly recommended.
Last edited by BillyBob58; 11-16-2011 at 10:05.
i made my own out of an old rectangular sleeping bag i found in the attic. 1.50 for a bit of thread, and i had my self a nice little uq that ive take down to around 20*
The Urban Outdoorsman- inspiring people to get out and enjoy the great outdoors
View my blog here- http://cityoutdoorsman.wordpress.com
Instagram: Nature_Pro_Pics
Twitter: @cityoutdoorsman
I'm a DIYer, so I made mine out of some of Hancock's ripstop and down harvest from a pillow. Total cost me around $30 for a nice down UQ that should get me down to mid 30s. Yet to have a chance to test it out at those temps thus far though. Already planning my next made of M50 and 900+ down from Thru-Hiker. I'm figuring a 20* 3/4 quilt weighing around 10oz with full suspension and costing around $100.
*Heaven best have trees, because I plan to lounge for eternity.
Good judgement is the result of experience and experience the result of bad judgement. - Mark Twain
Trail name: Radar
2014 Smoked Butt Hang Planning Thread | Sign up Sheet
HammockGear Incubator for me but I have a custom wider UQ coming from underground quilts which I am anxious to try out. Slept pretty good with the 20* incubator in 10* weather last week.
I use hammockgear's 0 degree custom wide and long quilts. I have another set from another mfgr, but the quality in the hammockgear is second to none, plus i love the head closer snap idea.
I've used a sleeping bag (moves around) WallyWorld blue CCF (moves around, sweaty back & cold shoulders), Jarbridge (ok), Winter Yeti (warmer, but shorter than the Jarbridge), FlameThrower (As long as the Jarbridge - Great for summer) and Incubator 0*s.
My favorite is the Incubator, as no cold toes. HG's workmanship has been second to none so far.
Bookmarks