Reflectix insulation

[Ensznorthwest]

Hi all, I'm new to the forum. I've been hammocking for about 3 years now after stumbling onto Shug's videos. Until I can afford an underquilt I've been using my big Agnes (I think Q core, it's the 3&1/2 one). I've taken it down to upper 20s but I'm about to go out and it's supposed to be 20 degrees or so. I was thinking of getting a roll of refletix to go underneath me. Anyone know if that would work/be sufficient in getting an extra 10 degree cushion? If so, would it work best under my pad or on top of? Thank you so much for your knowledge and time, happy new year!

[SnrMoment]

It will work for warmth, but the condensation will be bad. Ends up cold and wet, even with a fleece cover over the reflectix.
May work under your pad for short term. I've used it under another layer in a truck bed in emergency conditions and was dry.

[TrailSlug]

Welcome to Hammock Forums. Under the air pad by all means as this stuff is one of the best vapor barriers know to man and you want that moisture as far away from you as possible. One of the blue Wall Mart pads may work better for you and not hold as much moisture. Check out this Shug YouTube video on using pads.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mekhYiSaNz4

[SunHugger]

I can tell you from experience in Canada winter where I sleep in -40C that you will at -6C(20F) get condensation from reflectix. I find it best belt far under the pad, but most of the time I sleep without a pad and just use a undercover with my clothes/coats or a poncho liner rigged as in underquilt between down to about -5C (25F).
If it gets chillier than expected I have used a reflective emergency tarp folded with the reflecting material out and tucked between the liner and underquilt protector.
I am guaranteed to have it frosty with condensation in the AM but at least sandwiched there does not get my slapping bag moist.
Actually I pull it out in the morning and shake off the frost, by bed time it is good for he next night.
Long way about saying to have a non-breathable material under other insulation. I actually am going to try the Thermarest hammock warmer. It is reflective and breathable. Will let you know how that goes. Heading to a cold camp (-28C) camp coming up.


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