Taking advantage of this cold front

**ratherbecampin** · 01-06-2014, 22:13

I'm testing out some new gear tonight as it is supposed to be at least 8 degrees in Central Alabama by early morning. Sporting some new baselayers and using an emergency space blanket as an underquilt. Using the relective side towards my body to see if I can go without the bulk of an underquilt. I have a 10x10 tarp that I have folded the corners on to make a full closure to keep the wind out. Testing this now because I have plans to start section hiking the AT on the Jan 24th and trying to decide if I will need more.

I have never slept out this cold before in a hammock and not planning on killing myself either. I'm staying in the backyard tonight for this. I will wuss out if need be, hehe. Hoping to make Shug proud, not like Im hanging in -40 though. Shug is a boss!!!

**grannypat** · 01-06-2014, 22:33

Good luck. Please let us know how it goes.

**_jstevens2010_** · 01-06-2014, 22:48

Brother , you didn't say what other gear you had but we assume you have a 20- degree sleeping bag and some type of insulated air mattress. Your going to be very cold w just that space blanket good luck it's a good level setting test so that you know where to work from. 8* Arctic = so cold

**ratherbecampin** · 01-07-2014, 18:54

Well, it didnt go as planned. I was pretty warm until.....the corner tie outs on my space blanket tore out at my feet. I was too tired to bother to repair right then so I went on inside and snuggled up to the misses. I could immediately tell a difference as soon as the space blanket fell to the ground. But suprisingly I was comfortable prior.

I had done a quick test yesterday afternoon after I set everything up and could feel my body heat radiating back onto me from the space blanket. I have since ordered a different brand that is supposed to radiate at least 80% heat back on you that should have stronger tie outs. I also determined that I need to create two more tie outs on my tarp to help pull it away from my hammock. I have seen it on many before but I have decided after last night that it is nesessary during windy weather.

As far as gear I was using a winter military sleep system bag (which claims to work down to 0 degrees if proper baselayers are worn) with a stoic longsleeve poly top and PolarMax poly lower. A wool beanie that my mother-in-law knitted me and wool socks. I also have a pair of UnderArmour 3.0 leggins coming in the mail to try out as well later.

I will be using a 3/4 length air mattress after it is repaired, small tear near the valve. Picked it up free at a wholesale place that is local since it was in poor condition due to the tear.

Disappointed with myself for not just doing a trail side type repair but, its very rare for us to get this cold of weather and I just plain wussed out.

**grannypat** · 01-07-2014, 19:39

How long were you outside until the space blanket corners failed?

**nickgann** · 01-08-2014, 09:49

Biggest problem is: while the space blanket does reflect heat the wind underneath you will likely cause a total loss of its reflective value without padding under it as a wind break. I took a windshield reflector down to 27 on a group hang at savage gulf last year... Luckily the next night a forum member loaned me an underquilt. Would never want to do it again.

**ratherbecampin** · 01-08-2014, 22:41

Originally Posted by grannypat

How long were you outside until the space blanket corners failed?

Under twenty minutes. I made it 51 minutes in total before I said, "I bet its warmer inside"

**DavyRay** · 01-09-2014, 06:39

That statement shows that you are not an idiot. Idiots die in challenging situations. You chose to go to safety when the gear test went south. Keep on truckin'.

**ratherbecampin** · 01-09-2014, 20:58

Originally Posted by DavyRay

That statement shows that you are not an idiot. Idiots die in challenging situations. You chose to go to safety when the gear test went south. Keep on truckin'.

Well thank you Mr DavyRay