Something to supplement an Insultex TQ

[jbphilly]

I have an Insultex TQ (I think from Molly Mac gear) which is pretty warm, but I don't know how it would fare in the 40s, and I'll probably be camping out in the 40s this weekend. If possible I'd like to avoid bringing along my synthetic 20 degree bag for weight/bulk reasons, so I'm wondering if anyone has any clever ideas of things I could use to supplement the two layers of Insultex. This would also be applicable for other backpacking trips, so weight is something to think about.

Thanks!

[canoebie]

I have a small light weight wool blanket, I mean really light, but it is very effective as a supplement to my IX. I use it over my body, as a scarf, over my head, it is very versatile. Picked the material up at Joann's bargain bin for 4 bucks, serged the edges and I have really used it. I would also think of fleece as an option, though it is very bulky. Just some thoughts.

[jbphilly]

Nice, any idea where I might get a similar material? I'm a big fan of wool...

Also, with Insultex, would it be better to put the extra layer above or below the IX? Like next to my skin, or the IX next to my skin?

[thekalimist]

between skin and insultex for sure

[Moondoggy]

They make a really neat and small Thermal blanket, the material feels like Terramar base layers ! Its compacts down to a baseball size and it comes in two temps 10-15 added warmth or 20-25. My buddy has one and it works great with a bag but chilly alone.

[Moondoggy]

I forgot to mention it weighs hardly a thing and $49-$59 range in price

[SteveS]

Let me know how it works out. I'm working on a DIY IX Top Quilt, and I'm thinking I'll leave the seams open as pockets so I can swap insulating materials.

[canoebie]

I agree between you and the IX. The problem I have with IX as a TQ is I feel clammy. I really have to pull it on and off, but I do like the durability, doesn't have any negative response to being wet, like the weight to warmth ratio, just can't get over the clammy part of it though. Now as an UQ, I really like it. I use it with down as an UQ when it is super cold. I also use my TQ as a drape over my hammock to create a sock like effect and it dramatically increases the inside temps. Versatile stuff, play with it, mix it up with other materials, I think you will find different combinations that will give the desired results.

My wife and I sleep out more than in at home, so we have lots of opportunity to experiment. If something doesn't work, I just go crawl in the waterbed. Better to work it out at home than on the river or trail.

[jbphilly]

I get clammy sometimes too with IX. I've yet to figure out what conditions lead to it happening sometimes and not others.

[MAD777]

I made a double IX top quilt with closely spaced pleats to separate the layers.
My experience has been that if it is cold enough such that I don't sweat under it, then I'm just plain cold. If it is warm enough to keep me from being cold, then I sweat under it.

I have come to the conclusion that IX simply isn't for me when it comes to top quilts.