The shape of the bridge hammock provides a unique opportunity to create warm air space - the goal of any insulation system. I figured if I could seal off the body of the hammock from the wind I could easily add quite a bit of warmth to my winter sleep system. Honestly I had some extra heavier weight material sitting around and wanted to throw together a proof-of-concept.
It's essentially a 30" x 60" quilt (the area from toes to neck) with an underquilt protector sewn on to create a closed system. I used Velcro on the foot end so the suspension can pass through. On the head end, I integrated a frost bib into the neck area of the sock to collect condensation and help seal off the shoulder area. It just slides up and clips onto the head end suspension to stay in place. I'm using this with my summer top quilt and my winter underquilt - it is supplemental.
At a hulking 22 ounces, it's not something I'd casually throw into my pack for a colder weather trip - but I plan to use it for pulk-asissted trips or car camping.
Improvements could include (much) lighter weight fabrics and a zipper for easier in/out. I could see making one with some Dutch Argon...or one without insulation.
Forecast is for 30 degrees with visible Northern lights tonight here in Central Minnesota. Perfect for testing.
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