Underquilt set up question

[Durangoz]

We were able to test gear this weekend and Fri night the low was 32 degrees.
We were using tablecloth DIY hammocks. I tried and tried to get the under quilt snug up to the hammock but I don't think I completely eliminated air pockets at head and and foot end. I was chilly all night and woke up a few times shivering. My feet never warmed up. I am a cold sleeper, and had on a few base layers and a down coat. My husband was also cold dressed similarly. My son was warm all night. We have 0 degree under quilts and 5 degree down sleeping bags. There was no wind. Is there something I am missing with the set up? Is the hammock length an issue?

[Dutch]

I make little devices that are designed to snug the quilt up against your hammock.
http://dutchwaregear.com/ridgeline-quilt-hooks.html
http://dutchwaregear.com/plastic-quilt-hooks.html
It changes the direction that the quilt is being supported by. PM me your address and I will send you some free. They are so simple and make a big difference.

[Durangoz]

Thanks Dutch, we will make an order!

[Yojimbo]

What may seem counter to logic is eliminate some of the base layers. For an UQ or TQ to work effectively, warm body heat needs to fill the loft to create a proper insulating layer. If you are so bundled that that warm air never makes it to the quilt then they are effectively not doing anything. It took me years of cold campouts before I finally understood this. Now, I use a single loose fitting base layer with much better success. Loose wool socks, flannel pj pants, long sleeve Shirt and head and neck cover.

Getting the UQ fitted right is important as well. I still need some of those Dutch hanger as well.

[gmcttr]

...I tried and tried to get the under quilt snug up to the hammock but I don't think I completely eliminated air pockets at head and and foot end....

Make sure you don't have the drawcord across the foot and head ends too tight as this can cause gaps. They need to be loose enough to let the sides come up around the hammock. The end suspensions should be tight enough that the UQ is lifting the hammock a little before you get in.

Many of us eat shortly before hammock time to insure we have fuel for the night.

[Ratdog]

Zero degrees out and i still sleep in a single layer.
Changing from my day clothes to sleeping gear is a brisk but quick task.

[Durangoz]

What may seem counter to logic is eliminate some of the base layers. For an UQ or TQ to work effectively, warm body heat needs to fill the loft to create a proper insulating layer. If you are so bundled that that warm air never makes it to the quilt then they are effectively not doing anything. It took me years of cold campouts before I finally understood this. Now, I use a single loose fitting base layer with much better success. Loose wool socks, flannel pj pants, long sleeve Shirt and head and neck cover.

Getting the UQ fitted right is important as well. I still need some of those Dutch hanger as well.

Thanks Artjrk. Haha! I was very bundled up. I will try your suggestions. We should be getting in the 20's this week and I will so some tests.

Make sure you don't have the drawcord across the foot and head ends too tight as this can cause gaps. They need to be loose enough to let the sides come up around the hammock. The end suspensions should be tight enough that the UQ is lifting the hammock a little before you get in.

Many of us eat shortly before hammock time to insure we have fuel for the night.

This could be an issue because I had the drawstrings super cinched and there was the gaps on both ends. Thank you!

[Shug]

I will offer this to maybe give some insight….
Carry forth,
Shug

[Durangoz]

Thanks Shug. Great video! It looks like I may not have it pulled high enough.

[Trekcap'n]

Thanks for the tips guys! Extremely helpful