Experience with new PeaPod?

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02-13-2007, 12:43
BillyBob58

Experience with new PeaPod?

Jeff, I saw this post from you over on the pad thread, and I started to ask you a question over there, but decided I better start a new thread. I hope it's okay for me to use your quote from that thread and move it over here?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Just Jeff

On freezing nights when I have wet shoes, I've put them inside a sil bag, then hung the sil bag inside the PeaPod or TravelPod. Keeps them above freezing and much more tolerable when I put them on in the morning. Not sure I'd do this on a long trip, but it's ok on the 2-3 day trips I usually take.

Jeff, have you been using the peapod much? If so, how do you like it? I've been on the verge of switching to that for a while, but I can't quite commit. The new version, at 35 oz. and a 20* rating(5" loft 900 fill), seems to be so close to the ultimate in efficiency, since it takes care of your bottom insulation plus top (to 20*) in one 35 oz package. I also love the idea of velcro rather than zippers. The fly in the ointment is the space between your top and the top layer of the peapod. As I understand it, that keeps it from actually reaching its 20° rating when used with a hammock. Though the 20° is the actual rating for the bottom, the gap on the top keeps it from being 20° unless you use some other kind of bag on top of you. Even though, 5 inches of loft would make it a 20° bag by ground standards, according to the way most manufacturers rate bags. So close but no cigar. So adding some kind of top blanket in order to reach the 20° rating ends up adding to both weight and cost and bulk. But that's also going by Ed Speers rating and feelings about it, and he calls himself a very cold sleeper.

So I'm hoping there's somebody that reads on this forum who has a good bit of experience with the new Peapod with overfill rated at 20°. Or for that matter the lighter one rated at 30°.( or an older 750 fill rated not as warm) Because they only thing I'd really be interested in finding out is how close does the average sleeper come to being able to reach the rating of the Peapod without the use of some other kind of top blanket? How far off is the rating? Or are there are people for whom the rating is good to go without a top blanket? I can't help but think of Neo here! It sounds like he could sleep naked in the thing and take it to 10°, based on what he has used so far to keep warm! ;) Or if you add a thick top blanket, do you then exceed the PeaPod rating? These are the sorts of questions only experience can answer.

Bottom line, what are the thoughts on the Peapod, whether on the older ones or the new ones? I hope there are one or two people available who have tried out the newer one, or know someone who has. Because it seems really weight efficient, or at least it would be if you can get even pretty close to the 20° rating on top as well as on bottom, without need of a top bag. Or, if the use of the top bag actually took some folks elow 20.
02-13-2007, 13:51
Coffee

I have not used on yet. I thought about them. My question would be is the seal tight enough on the top and is there enough insulation there for you not to need a top blanket? I think that if I made a peapod I would think about putting the seal on the side. That way the user would have a full layer of insulation on top of them.

Another question would be is a peapod (along with any needed top insulation) lighter than an underquilt and top quilt, taking into account any needed suspension systems?
02-13-2007, 17:51
blackbishop351

I got to see Tim's version of the Peapod on a trip not too long ago. Actually, it's kind of a cross between a Peapod and a top/bottom quilt. His bottom quilt was attached to the hammock (almost an insulated hammock) so no need for suspension. His top quilt was attached to the hammock on one side and was designed to allow either close draping or to leave an airspace like the Peapod. Seems like a good, flexible idea. Since it's permanently attached, the entire setup would be limited to winter use, but who doesn't have a couple extra hammocks laying around at this point? :p
02-13-2007, 20:00
Just Jeff
First of all - I love the PeaPod. In my experience, the PeaPod works better than underquilts on a Speer-type hammock. But obviously it can't be used on a Hennessy, and it's much more cumbersome to wear as a robe than the NS is to wear as a poncho. They both have their places.

Now the details.
- The PeaPod is pretty easy to fit and adjust on most hammocks. A full width hammock (over 60" or so) can compress the insulation a bit when the Pod is closed, depending on how you hang the hammock. But other than that, you really just cinch it on.
- The velcro works. It makes the Pod very adjustable...if you're warm, you can vent anywhere along the Pod. If you're cold, you can close it right around your head. The velcro is also more of a hassle to close than a zipper is...if the ends aren't lined up exactly, sometimes I end up with a "bubble" on one side and have to realign the edges. It's also a bit scratchy since it doesn't use omni-tape...which is why I made the PeaPod Hood. (This hood is much bigger/heavier than needed, but it sure is comfortable.)
- You do need a top quilt for lower temps (see below), but since the PeaPod completely surrounds the hammock you can get away with a much thinner top quilt. So if you add up the top quilt and PeaPod, it'll weigh about the same as the JRB 3 season set with support system. (The overstuffed PeaPod+quilt might be just a bit heavier but I think it's also just a bit warmer, so it's really a wash.)
Reasons you need a top quilt as the temp drops:
- The insulation on top is kinda thin...if I crawl inside mine during the day, I can see spots where it doesn't look like there's much down. More reason a top quilt is needed.
- At the very top where the velcro is, that's all the insulation above you...two layers of velcro.
- The hammock holds the Pod up off your body, creating an air gap that your body must heat...unless you fill the gap with more insulation (like a quilt). So you're correct about the space above your body...a top quilt is needed to get to low temps.
Personally, if I wanted the warmest system for the lightest weight, I'd base the decision on what kind of hammock I use rather than the insulation for it. If you're comfortable in the HH, JRB is the way to go. If you're more comfortable in the Speer, the PeaPod+quilt will work great.

Something to keep in mind is the multi-use aspect of the JRB quilts (NS and Stealth). I save the weight of a jacket in my pack by carrying the JRB...so even though the weights are similar, my pack is ~15 oz lighter if I use the JRB.

BUT if the wallet allows (and you prefer a Speer-type), I bet a Stealth + PeaPod would be a **** versatile system temperature-wise, and still give you the benefits of wearing your quilt as a poncho around camp. (I haven't gone camping w/o my No Sniveler since I bought it, even when I use the PeaPod...the Stealth has the same head-hole.)

So there are my opinions. Don't forget that I have a business relationship with JRB...it has nothing to do with the quilts and (IMO) doesn't color my judgment on ways to insulate hammocks, but it's a relationship nonetheless. And I have some info on the Staying Warm page and the Winnemucca trip page on the website, if you haven't seen it yet. (I just saw my page for the first time w/ IE7...looks like crap!! The colors are all jacked up, so I'll have to fix that when I get a chance.)
02-13-2007, 20:18
slowhike

Quote:

Originally Posted by blackbishop351

I got to see Tim's version of the Peapod on a trip not too long ago. Actually, it's kind of a cross between a Peapod and a top/bottom quilt. His bottom quilt was attached to the hammock (almost an insulated hammock) so no need for suspension. His top quilt was attached to the hammock on one side and was designed to allow either close draping or to leave an airspace like the Peapod. Seems like a good, flexible idea. Since it's permanently attached, the entire setup would be limited to winter use, but who doesn't have a couple extra hammocks laying around at this point? :p

yep, it is actually an insulated hammock (hammock/insulation/shell) & the top quilt is a lot like the top of the pea pod in that the sides of the hammock tend to hold it up off you a little... at least at the sides.
the insulation is synthetic.
it's way heaver than i'd like but if i made another synthetic i could cut the weight & bulk a fair amount.
but i do like the hood w/ insulated collar... very effective.
http://www.hammockforums.net/gallery...5/PB120146.JPG
...tim
02-13-2007, 21:56
blackbishop351
Quote:
Originally Posted by Just Jeff

First of all - I love the PeaPod. In my experience, the PeaPod works better than underquilts on a Speer-type hammock. But obviously it can't be used on a Hennessy, and it's much more cumbersome to wear as a robe than the NS is to wear as a poncho. They both have their places.

Now the details.

The PeaPod is pretty easy to fit and adjust on most hammocks. A full width hammock (over 60" or so) can compress the insulation a bit when the Pod is closed, depending on how you hang the hammock. But other than that, you really just cinch it on.

The velcro works. It makes the Pod very adjustable...if you're warm, you can vent anywhere along the Pod. If you're cold, you can close it right around your head. The velcro is also more of a hassle to close than a zipper is...if the ends aren't lined up exactly, sometimes I end up with a "bubble" on one side and have to realign the edges. It's also a bit scratchy since it doesn't use omni-tape...which is why I made the PeaPod Hood. (This hood is much bigger/heavier than needed, but it sure is comfortable.)

You do need a top quilt for lower temps (see below), but since the PeaPod completely surrounds the hammock you can get away with a much thinner top quilt. So if you add up the top quilt and PeaPod, it'll weigh about the same as the JRB 3 season set with support system. (The overstuffed PeaPod+quilt might be just a bit heavier but I think it's also just a bit warmer, so it's really a wash.)

Reasons you need a top quilt as the temp drops:

The insulation on top is kinda thin...if I crawl inside mine during the day, I can see spots where it doesn't look like there's much down. More reason a top quilt is needed.

At the very top where the velcro is, that's all the insulation above you...two layers of velcro.

The hammock holds the Pod up off your body, creating an air gap that your body must heat...unless you fill the gap with more insulation (like a quilt). So you're correct about the space above your body...a top quilt is needed to get to low temps.

Personally, if I wanted the warmest system for the lightest weight, I'd base the decision on what kind of hammock I use rather than the insulation for it. If you're comfortable in the HH, JRB is the way to go. If you're more comfortable in the Speer, the PeaPod+quilt will work great.

Something to keep in mind is the multi-use aspect of the JRB quilts (NS and Stealth). I save the weight of a jacket in my pack by carrying the JRB...so even though the weights are similar, my pack is ~15 oz lighter if I use the JRB.

BUT if the wallet allows (and you prefer a Speer-type), I bet a Stealth + PeaPod would be a **** versatile system temperature-wise, and still give you the benefits of wearing your quilt as a poncho around camp. (I haven't gone camping w/o my No Sniveler since I bought it, even when I use the PeaPod...the Stealth has the same head-hole.)

So there are my opinions. Don't forget that I have a business relationship with JRB...it has nothing to do with the quilts and (IMO) doesn't color my judgment on ways to insulate hammocks, but it's a relationship nonetheless. And I have some info on the Staying Warm page and the Winnemucca trip page on the website, if you haven't seen it yet. (I just saw my page for the first time w/ IE7...looks like crap!! The colors are all jacked up, so I'll have to fix that when I get a chance.)
I'm interested to hear your thoughts on why the Peapod provides a better fit to the Speer-type hammock. Reference my recent issues with underquilt fitting under the thigh-to-knee area.

I've thought about trying a synthetic Peapod (synthetic for price and ease of DIY) but kept coming up with flexibility issues. Not necessarily the wearability problem you mentioned, but more general. With top/bottom quilts, you can use the same piece of gear in different ways for different seasons. For warm trips, either nothing underneath or 1" insulation on bottom and something very light (clothing or a poncho liner) on top works for me. Down to about 30*, 1" on top and 2" on bottom. Below that, 2" on top and 3" on bottom. That's accounting for clothing but not for my hammock sock (right off the bat I add 10* to the ambient temp for the sock, especially after Rogers). Anyway, all this could be accomplished with a 2" dedicated top quilt, a 2" dedicated bottom quilt, and a convertible 1" quilt that could be used either way. And unless I'm mistaken, that's a flexibility the Peapod is missing out on.
02-13-2007, 23:55
Just Jeff

I can't really say why mine fit better...I just never had that problem under my knees like I did with underquilts. Maybe I'll set it up again and see if I can figure it out. I did notice that, like underquilts, more sag makes it more difficult to get a good fit. (For underquilts used w/o side tie-outs, at least.)

Re: flexibility, here are some examples of how to change the warmth:
- Pod closed on top, snug on bottom, top quilt
- Pod closed on top, snug on bottom, no top quilt
- Pod vented on top, snug on bottom, top quilt or no top quilt
- Pod completely open on top, snug on bottom, with or without top quilt
- Or you can hang it loosely so there's a small air gap underneath, but with all the options above. It'll keep you warm like the Hammock Sock does, only it works better b/c it's insulated.
- Or you can lay the top quilt under you in the Pod for more bottom insulation, and another bag on top.

So it's not flexible in the sense that, with three quilts, you could leave one home. But you can still adjust for temps, and you don't have to carry the extra DWR layers of a whole 'nother quilt.

But like I said, this is just my experience with how I hang my hammocks. I use a lot of sag. If someone uses less sag, their gear will fit differently.
02-14-2007, 00:00
blackbishop351

Quote:

Originally Posted by Just Jeff

I can't really say why mine fit better...I just never had that problem under my knees like I did with underquilts. Maybe I'll set it up again and see if I can figure it out. I did notice that, like underquilts, more sag makes it more difficult to get a good fit. (For underquilts used w/o side tie-outs, at least.)

Re: flexibility, here are some examples of how to change the warmth:
- Pod closed on top, snug on bottom, top quilt
- Pod closed on top, snug on bottom, no top quilt
- Pod vented on top, snug on bottom, top quilt or no top quilt
- Pod completely open on top, snug on bottom, with or without top quilt
- Or you can hang it loosely so there's a small air gap underneath, but with all the options above. It'll keep you warm like the Hammock Sock does, only it works better b/c it's insulated.
- Or you can lay the top quilt under you in the Pod for more bottom insulation, and another bag on top.

So it's not flexible in the sense that, with three quilts, you could leave one home. But you can still adjust for temps, and you don't have to carry the extra DWR layers of a whole 'nother quilt.

But like I said, this is just my experience with how I hang my hammocks. I use a lot of sag. If someone uses less sag, their gear will fit differently.

Thanks for the explanation. I guess I was really referring to the weight issue of being able to leave a quilt or two at home, although it's helpful to hear your thoughts on using the Pod in different conditions. I hadn't thought of some of those.

I don't know that the under-leg gaps are strictly an issue with a lot of sag. You saw my homemade hammock at Rogers - I don't have much sag at all in that one, but I still get the gap problem. Not as much as I do with the new wider (60") one I made, but it's there nonetheless.
02-14-2007, 00:00
Coffee

Here's another question. How does the peapod interfer with bug netting? I guess I am thinking from a limiting standpoint. I think that to fully close or open the top you would need a bug netting that goes all around the hammock.
02-14-2007, 00:04
blackbishop351

Quote:

Originally Posted by hammock engineer

Here's another question. How does the peapod interfer with bug netting? I guess I am thinking from a limiting standpoint. I think that to fully close or open the top you would need a bug netting that goes all around the hammock.

I wouldn't plan on using a Pod in conditions warm enough to need a bugnet. My experience has been that when it's time for the bugs to come out, I don't need bottom insulation at all. In fact, if it gets much above 70* at night, I've gotten overheated with no insulation at all. I'm really warm-blooded though.
02-14-2007, 00:06
Just Jeff

I haven't used it with a bug net...it's been winter (or at least bug-free in California) when I used it.

You can put on the Pod and leave it open on top...if you need the bug net then it's probably not very cold out. But yeah...the Pod isn't very compatible with bug nets attached to the hammock.
02-14-2007, 00:18
Coffee

That's what I thought. I am a long way off from using them together if at all. Just trying to put it all together.
02-14-2007, 09:18
slowhike

ed's holding one of the pea pods he had on sale for me. it's a pea pod II, 8.5, w/ 2.5" loft (750 down) rated to 45°, 29ozs, $150.00.
now that my tax return will soon be on it's way, i'll go ahead & get it soon:)
but one thing i have wondered about is adding attachments inside so that i could attach it to the top edges of the hammock & let the top of the pea pod hang open.
but when it's attached in the normal way, maybe you can do that any way? i just haven't had any personal experience w/ one.
02-14-2007, 11:36
blackbishop351

Quote:

Originally Posted by slowhike

ed's holding one of the pea pods he had on sale for me. it's a pea pod II, 8.5, w/ 2.5" loft (750 down) rated to 45°, 29ozs, $150.00.
now that my tax return will soon be on it's way, i'll go ahead & get it soon:)
but one thing i have wondered about is adding attachments inside so that i could attach it to the top edges of the hammock & let the top of the pea pod hang open.
but when it's attached in the normal way, maybe you can do that any way? i just haven't had any personal experience w/ one.

As close-fitting as it is, I might be tempted to just add a couple of grosgrain loops right at the zipper. Then use a shock cord/biner line to clip over the ridge. Nice and adjustable that way.
02-14-2007, 14:26
BillyBob58

Jeff,
Do you have one of the 750 fill 45* models? If so, how close do you think the PeaPod comes to reaching this rating by itself? How far off do you feel therating is, top insulation wise? Would you say, speaking only for you of course, that it is a 50° bag, or 55 or 60°, when used in a hammock without a top blanket? Or if yours is not a 45° pod, just substitute what ever the rating is in order to give a rough idea of how close it comes to that actual rating. Or maybe used with warm clothing, like a set of longjohns and fleece top and bottom, with adequate headgear of course. Whatever conditions you might have experience with, other than using with a top blanket or sleeping bag inside the pod. Though I understand you may not have used it at all without a top blanket.

I'm just trying to get an idea of how close these pods are to their rating top insulation wise. For instance, I've been looking at the new 20° models with 900 down. Pretty expensive, though not if you consider 19 ounces of 900 down. Also, a person could almost justify this expense by saying that for 35 ounces (size long with over fill) and a very compact space in the pack, you take care of both the bottom insulation and the top insulation down to 20°. And used on the ground, 5 inches of loft would correlate to a 20° rating for most bags. The fly in the ointment of course is the gap above you, which effectively makes the rating less than 20°. My question is, how much?

Although, even if you have a firm opinion on this temperature rating relative to the Peapod that you have, I might still not be able to apply it to the newer one. Because Ed has told me that the loft is evenly divided up, 2.5 inches on the bottom and 2.5 inches on the top. I believe the previous 45° 750 down model was something like 2 inches on the bottom, with 1 inch on top? Or something about like that? So I guess what I'm saying is that even if you did feel that 45° was very optimistic regarding the topside insulation, that might not apply so much to the newer models since they have more insulation on top. Though both systems suffer from the air space over the sleeper.

I have been trying to figure out a way around this problem. One thought I had was a bag that was five to 10 inches wider, with maybe that extra width being uninsulated windproof nylon placed right about the top left edge of the hammock -- but not over you, to your left side. But still above where your shoulder and elbow would hit. Then possibly this extra width would allow the top layer to drape down over you. But then I suppose the extra width of uninsulated bag would possibly cause draft problems, maybe undoing the benefit of getting rid of the air gap. And if it was insulated, it would add to the weight and cost. I've just been trying to think of some way to overcome this shortcoming to what otherwise would seem the almost perfect hammock system.
02-14-2007, 17:49
Just Jeff

I have a baffled 900fp 8.0 with 2 oz overstuff. AFAIK it's the new design, but I think it still had more loft on bottom than on top.

You don't need any special attachments to use it as an underquilt...just don't attach the velcro and let it hang open. The bottom will still be snug to the hammock if you tie the drawstring around the hammock support. If you attach the edge of the Pod to the edge of the hammock, you'll have a huge air gap under the hammock.

Re: temp, I haven't tested for hard numbers. Mine is rated to 20F and I was comfortable in it with silkweight thermals at ~50F. I didn't test below that w/o a top quilt, but I imagine something would be necessary w/o going too much lower. It's mid-20s here tonight...I'd test it tonight if it wasn't Valentines Day! (A man's gotta know his limits...) Maybe tomorrow.

I used it on the ground and it worked fine. It's big and cumbersome on the ground and the velcro isn't as convenient as a zipper, but it was plenty warm.
02-14-2007, 21:16
BillyBob58

Quote:

I have a baffled 900fp 8.0 with 2 oz overstuff. AFAIK it's the new design, but I think it still had more loft on bottom than on top.

That sounds like the one I've been looking at, but according to Ed the current model is ~equal loft top and bottom.

Quote:

It's mid-20s here tonight...I'd test it tonight if it wasn't Valentines Day! (A man's gotta know his limits...) Maybe tomorrow.

Understood!

Quote:

I used it on the ground and it worked fine. It's big and cumbersome on the ground and the velcro isn't as convenient as a zipper, but it was plenty warm

I always have so much trouble with snagging zippers, the velcro was a selling point to me. Of course, things don't always work in the real world as good as I think they would.
02-14-2007, 21:43
blackbishop351

Quote:

Originally Posted by BillyBob58

I always have so much trouble with snagging zippers, the velcro was a selling point to me. Of course, things don't always work in the real world as good as I think they would.

I think I'd rather be a little careful with a zipper than deal with Velcro...or omni-tape.
02-14-2007, 23:31
Coffee

If I were to make a pea pod I would really consider putting baffles going length wise down the quilt in addition to width wise. Yes that will be a pain to sew in stuff and add an oz over the weight of the quilt, but I think it would keep the down from shifting. Maybe at shoulder height on both sides.
02-14-2007, 23:33
blackbishop351

Quote:

Originally Posted by hammock engineer

If I were to make a pea pod I would really consider putting baffles going length wise down the quilt in addition to width wise. Yes that will be a pain to sew in stuff and add an oz over the weight of the quilt, but I think it would keep the down from shifting. Maybe at shoulder height on both sides.

If I understand right, that's what Ed's doing now? Not sure how else you'd be able to separate top and bottom loft for estimation...
02-16-2007, 17:33
Crawldaddy

I have one of Ed's original synthetic PP's and a new 900 fill PP. I rarely use the synthetic one now except as a loan. Living in the mtns of NC I find the goose down PP sufficient to use except in the middle of the summer. For me, below 35*'s I will bring along my Speer quilt as an add on backup. Im a very cold sleeper though. Jeff's description of the PP is very accurate in my opinion. I absolutely love my PP. I use a home made speer type hammock so its a great set up for me. I like the versatility of stretching a ridgeline inside my pod for a tent like atmosphere for reading if chosen. I like the warm air feeling/breathing inside, in real cold weather. Ive never had a condensation problem. In very cold nights i will leave the ends open somewhat for ventilation. In very warm nights I just leave it open and use it as a bottom quilt. One night I used it as a quilt on the floor of a shelter with a 3/4 foam pad which I take anyway for my chair setup. Just my 2 cents
04-20-2007, 08:21
Ewker

in this picture what is the purpose of the trekking poles? Looks like Tim is in a body bag :p

http://www.hammockforums.net/gallery...6/DSC00746.JPG
04-20-2007, 08:22
stoikurt

Helps hold the hammock open to reduce shoulder squeeze.
04-20-2007, 08:37
NCPatrick

Hey Crawldaddy, it was good to meet you last weekend. On the occasion that you went "to ground" in your PP, were you comfortable?
<hijack>
I have a question about this picture of Tim -- is that "apple green" or is apple green lighter than that. I'm thinking of ordering some apple green DWR from Ed, but not if it's lighter than Tim's PeaPod. How would you characterize the color green in the picture?
</hijack>
04-20-2007, 08:44
Ewker

Quote:

Originally Posted by stoikurt

Helps hold the hammock open to reduce shoulder squeeze.

ok stupid question..Shoulder Squeeze???

I have the cheap sportsman guide hammock and I wouldn't know if it was causing shoulder squeeze or not...how can you tell :confused:
04-20-2007, 09:09
lvleph

When you lay in a hammock, with no tie out or spreader bar, the material on your side tends to squeeze in on your shoulders, which can cause cold spots.
04-20-2007, 09:13
blackbishop351

Quote:

Originally Posted by lvleph

When you lay in a hammock, with no tie out or spreader bar, the material on your side tends to squeeze in on your shoulders, which can cause cold spots.

Not necessarily - I don't get any shoulder squeeze out of my Speer-type with no spreader bar or tie-outs. I think it's mostly just a matter of personal preference.
04-20-2007, 09:30
headchange4u

I think tim's hammock is pretty narrow as compared to some of the other Speer-type hammocks.

Should squeeze makes me feel confined and makes it harder to move around while in the hammock. That's one reason I am so found of side tie outs on my DIY hammocks.
04-20-2007, 10:12
Coffee

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ewker

ok stupid question..Shoulder Squeeze???

I have the cheap sportsman guide hammock and I wouldn't know if it was causing shoulder squeeze or not...how can you tell :confused:

Shoulder squeeze is where the hammock is set up in such a way where the sides push inward on your shoulders. This makes it uncomfortable or painfull. This can be fixed by adding more sag to the hammock (making the ridgeline length shorter) or by changing the gathering on the ends.
04-20-2007, 11:21
Ewker

ok more questions? what is the material (green color) that is the cover? can you use anything. I have seen nice shiny $1 material at WM that looks like it could be used for this or maybe the inside of it. I do know the material is not rip stop nylon but have no clue as to what it is.

I seem to remember Tim's hammock had some type of blue material on the bottom. Guessing that is an underquilt.
http://www.hammockforums.net/gallery...1/IMG_0092.JPG
04-20-2007, 14:09
headchange4u

The green is the hammock body.
04-20-2007, 14:25
lvleph

The blue looks like an under quilt and the green is the hammock.
04-20-2007, 14:47
Ewker

but what kind of material is it? I know the green is the hammock with the blue underquilt. What is the green material in the first picture with the trekking poles spreading the hammock open.

is it a satin, silk, nylon, etc
04-20-2007, 14:52
stoikurt

:rolleyes: Where's Tim when you need him?
04-20-2007, 14:55
Ewker

Quote:

Originally Posted by stoikurt

:rolleyes: Where's Tim when you need him?

dang work gets in the way :p
04-20-2007, 15:37
blackbishop351

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ewker

but what kind of material is it? I know the green is the hammock with the blue underquilt. What is the green material in the first picture with the trekking poles spreading the hammock open.

is it a satin, silk, nylon, etc

I think that's Tim's new Peapod, so I would guess that it's some form of nylon. Probably 1.1 or 1.9 oz. DWR, whatever Ed uses.
04-20-2007, 22:13
slowhike

the 1st picture you posted (message 22) is the pea pod which is rip stop. it's an older model w/ 550 down & sewn through construction.
as far as the trekking pole goes, lay in your hammock & reach up w/ your hands & spread the top edges apart. it doesn't take much force & it gives you a more roomy feel in the hammock & allows you to better view the world around you.

the 2nd picture (message 30) is the insulated hammock (synthetic). the dark green inside is the hammock body (probably about 1.9 oz material) & the blue is the outer shell (about 1.1 oz).
both came from the $1.00 bin.
04-21-2007, 05:45
MedicineMan

maybe i'm too late to chime in on this one :(

I've got the original Speer PeaPod, and the newer 30degree model.
The older model is now a home bed quilt, the newer model rules the world for speer type hammocks.....i use 2 systems, the HH light racer with various underquilts by JrB dependind on temp in spring/summer/fall and the speer with the pod in late fall/winter/early spring...I have never slept in the peapod without something between me and the top of the hammoc/peapod, that usually means a top quilt-I use Nunatak, either the Ghost,Alpinist, or Arc depending on temp....but i have slept in the peapod with just my clothes, specifically montbell parka and pants and this was cozy to 32-34F...so i was carrying these anyway, also carried the top quilt but forgot to unstuff it...of course site selection was good and i was using the mccat deluxe so little wind got my way.
Bottom line, if you are carrying a jacket of significance--like a WM Flight or the Montbell Thermawrap you may not need to carry a top quilt...
Sorry I was late.
04-21-2007, 17:47
Ewker

Quote:

Originally Posted by slowhike

the 1st picture you posted (message 22) is the pea pod which is rip stop. it's an older model w/ 550 down & sewn through construction.
as far as the trekking pole goes, lay in your hammock & reach up w/ your hands & spread the top edges apart. it doesn't take much force & it gives you a more roomy feel in the hammock & allows you to better view the world around you.

the 2nd picture (message 30) is the insulated hammock (synthetic). the dark green inside is the hammock body (probably about 1.9 oz material) & the blue is the outer shell (about 1.1 oz).
both came from the $1.00 bin.

Tim, thanks for the info. The reason I asked is that the material didn't look like rip stop. It looked like some other type of material.
04-21-2007, 21:41
slowhike

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ewker

Tim, thanks for the info. The reason I asked is that the material didn't look like rip stop. It looked like some other type of material.

the material on the speer pea pod is rip stop, but both the green & the blue stuff on the insulated hammock is not... just $1.00 nylon from wal-mart.
06-16-2007, 08:33
Ewker

I just bought one of Ed's peapods off his sale page. I liked his new version but then again I didn't have the money for it. Since I am a warm sleeper I feel I can get by with the peadpod and the Exped DAM 7 in winter