Why 3/4 Winter UQ

**Danalex** · 11-30-2010, 21:03

I can see the reason for a three season or summer 3/4 UQ where the top quilt has a footbox so there's some insulation overlap.

Why do most guys use a 3/4 Winter UQ and then carry a bunch of different kinds of pads to put under the feet instead of just using a full length UQ?

Seems to be a lot more trouble, is it $$ or weight or what?

**GOLFER** · 11-30-2010, 21:10

kinda both i think Danalex. When doing a lengthy trek saving weight is a definite plus and carrying a small pad helps that when using a 3/4 quilt. Some packs you would use a small piece of pad to act as the packs internal frame . And the money you save can add up . But I truly think its weight more so than money. Plus more room in the pack for other gear and food.

**Dutch** · 11-30-2010, 21:12

I really want a sit pad for winter so it gets to serve double duty. I find that I don't need as much insulation for my lower legs and comfort is not as critical for them. Also it allows me to have wide insulation for the quilt and narrow insulation for the feet.
For the most part it is for the same reasons for my 3 season setup, it's just colder.

**SmokeHouse** · 11-30-2010, 21:25

For me when backpacking, 3/4 takes less space. plus like Dutch said,,, nice to have a sitting pad.

**Raul Perez** · 11-30-2010, 21:30

I use a 2/3 underquilt... saves weight and more importantly saves pack space.

**MAD777** · 11-30-2010, 21:48

I have to admit that I was suspicious of partial UQ when I discovered this forum and hammocking. However, I recently spend the night with mid-30's temps with a 1.25" down UQ 51"x38" with a small 3/8" blue walmart pad under my feet and I was completely comfortable. I'm sold on the idea now and ready to start on a winter weight quilt, but also at a partial length.

**lazy river road** · 11-30-2010, 22:05

I was very weary of a 3/4 as well but after useing it last winter I really like it. It was for sure cheaper, packs smaller, and bc my feet are in the foot box of the TQ paired with a warm water bottle and a pad, my feet stay nice and cozy.

**Danalex** · 11-30-2010, 22:16

Sounds reasonable, thanks for the insight.

But, I see the idea of a sit pad but when do you use it? At camp wouldn't you just sit in the hammock so it's more on the trail sitting but if it's in your pack as padding you have to pull it out ... hmmm, isn't the pad bulkier than the extra down it would take to make a 3/4 into a 4/4?

**exup** · 11-30-2010, 22:18

I'm right there with everyone. 3/4 is the way to go for me. Full would be great for the winter and really not at to much weight but I think cost is the big thing for me along with the amazing versatility of a 3/4 use in warmer seasons. I tend to sleep somewhat in a fetal position in my hammock, especially when cold. I'm only 5'8" (68") and my 3/4 quilt is 50" I believe so pulling my legs up its pretty much a full legth minus my feet where I wrap my quilt around and my neck/head and spare clothes do the trick for that.

**Raul Perez** · 11-30-2010, 22:19

No not bulkier.... I use the gossamer gear thinlight pad. Weighs less than 2 oz and you can either strap it to the outside of your pack, on top of your pack, or inside you pack folded flat against your back like an extra back pad for your pack (doing this now with the ULA OHM)