Introducing...Freezer Flaps?

**SirMarkos** · 10-14-2014, 19:22

Ok, long story short... I wanted a fast, easy, lightweight way to cut wind and increase the ambient air temperature during cold weather.

So i came up with Freezer Flaps. With the material I wanted to use it's the same weight as a lightweight bivy, more convenient than a travel sock (no full enclosure, no loud zippers, no extra material under the hammock where it's not needed) and just as useful as a top cover.

I'd also like to note that when a SRL is run through the Freezer Flaps' sewn channel, it can easily be slid to the foot end like a drape. Making access to the hammock during the day easy and hassle-free.

DSC_7245.jpg DSC_7246.jpg

I'm posting my video here, and any feedback or ideas for improvement will be most appreciated!

**Floridahanger** · 10-14-2014, 19:39

Very nicely made and illustrated with the video. I like how simple in design it is with the leftover material.

Adding a little weight, maybe run a little shockcord at the bottom. Not necessaryily the whole length, but, like a Knotty mod type on some of the edge on both sides of the bottom. Nice job with the pockets on the Freezer Flaps

**gunner76** · 10-14-2014, 19:41

Nice concept. Be interesting to hear how it works in the cold.

**gargoyle** · 10-14-2014, 19:56

Make it with "zippered" pockets.
The loose, open top pocket design tends to allow for your 'weight' items to go flying at night when you toss open the flap. A bummer when you realize your headlamp or phone just took a trip into the dark woods.

**SirMarkos** · 10-14-2014, 21:47

Originally Posted by Floridahanger

Adding a little weight, maybe run a little shockcord at the bottom.

Maybe it would work. I might pin some elastic and see how it goes! Thanks!

Be interesting to hear how it works in the cold.

I agree. First time in my entire life I'm actually looking forward to a cold spell

Make it with "zippered" pockets.
The loose, open top pocket design tends to allow for your 'weight' items to go flying at night when you toss open the flap. A bummer when you realize your headlamp or phone just took a trip into the dark woods.

Excellent point! Maybe I'll sew some velcro along the top

**SirMarkos** · 10-17-2014, 07:42

In my testing, hanging misc items off the corners works extremely well if you want to use stuff you are already going to be carrying. But I've also found that attaching a section of shock cord and staking them out also works. Although, I think staking out, could be a bit of a tripping hazard. But YMMV.

It's supposed to get down to 36º tomorrow night so we are going to head to the cabin this weekend and do some tests. It's almost always colder in the piney woods more so than the temperature readings they take in town. It'll also be a good chance to see what the condensation situation is gonna look like too.

I'll be updating when we get back

**cottontw** · 10-17-2014, 08:58

Great idea. I have used my bug net in the winter for the same reason. It seems to raise the temp about 10 degrees. I may build one of these myself to keep from dealing with the zipper on the bug net during the cold months.

Have you thought about spacing the pockets toward the head/foot? Not all the way in the corner, but a little closer to the corners may stop them from blowing in. Although with the tarp over, I doubt you would ever have much wind getting in anyway.

**IRONFISH45** · 10-17-2014, 09:15

Originally Posted by gargoyle

Make it with "zippered" pockets.
The loose, open top pocket design tends to allow for your 'weight' items to go flying at night when you toss open the flap. A bummer when you realize your headlamp or phone just took a trip into the dark woods.

Great cover, very creative, simple, hassle free. Gargoyle's suggestion would cover my main concern, with your wonderful design. I seem to feel the need to have little bits of things like a light, time piece, maybe glasses and my cell phone. These bits of my security are forever ending up on the ground.