First Two Nights in My UGQs

[Brian Miller]

Wow, the first two nights in my Clark NX-250 with my new 20° full Zepplin uq and 40° Flight Jacket tq were blissfully cozy, comfy, and restful. The Zep went on super-easy and formed an instant tight seal underneath the hammock when I routed the ends underneath the head and foot hoops. As soon as I laid in the hammock I was totally snuggled in warmth by the Zep that came up several inches above my shoulders to the Clark's Weathershield/bugnet zipper. Temp only got down to mid 40s so I slept in my lightweight silk night shirt and shorts with the Clark's integrated Weathershield open half way and the tq only pulled up to mid chest. Not having a pad slipping around under my feet (though a ENO Hot Wings SPE had helped under the torso) and the lack of constriction by a sleeping bag was all I hoped it would be. Oh, and I stowed all my clothes in the storage pockets underneath the hammock (but above the uq) and they were warm as toast in the morning chill when I slipped them on; Priceless.

[dakotaross]

You slept on your clothes instead of the UQ? The down does still insulate when its "around" you, but its not the same as when you're on it. Stripping clothing down - no matter the temps - and having your skin next to the down is the most efficient way to use the UQ.

Its a great setup you have, just want to make sure you get the most out of it.

[Brian Miller]

The Clark NX-250 has 6 big overlapping pockets with Velcro closues underneath the hammock for gear storage and to hold their "Z-Liner" insulation. The UQ fastens to the hammock over the pockets so anything in the pockets is below the hammock, but above the underquilt. I stowed my clothes in the pockets and slept in (luxurious) lightweight silk boxers and baselayer shirt I only use to sleep in. I am laying on the hammock rather than the clothes beneath the hamock. The stowed clothing and gear provides additional insulation beneath me without having their bulk between the hammock and I and I can reach into all of the pockets to get whatever I need while lying in the hammock. It's soooo nice.