Using Shamu with a Torso Length Down UQ?

**8Daddy** · 08-05-2013, 18:40

I have a Greylock 3 UQ and after much effort and no success at using a pad to provide insulation for my calves and feet I have decided to go with a full length UQ. The Shamu (PPEF version) appeals to me for it's lightweight and easy care but I do need to get down into the teens come late fall, early winter and early spring. Has anyone put their down UQ on the outside of a Shamu to increase the temperature range?
I know you can throw a pad in your hammock but I am to aggressive of a sleeper to use a pad - believe me I have tried

**MacEntyre** · 08-06-2013, 06:17

Using a Shamu or Baby Orca with a down UQ on the outside works well... I've done it many times.

You have to be careful to avoid condensation below freezing. That's why the PPEF, which is a effectively a vapor barrier, must be on the inside.

To solve the problem of cold legs, you can also use a kid's sleeping bag cut short, so that your tossing and turning won't make it ineffective. Sometimes a short fleece blanket sewn together as a sleeve will do the job.

- MacEntyre

**8Daddy** · 08-06-2013, 14:03

Thanks for the reply. My problem is exacerbated by the fact that I have very hot feet so trying to trap a pad or other insulation and regulate heat is really frustrating.

**MacEntyre** · 08-06-2013, 16:40

Hmmm... hot feet and cold calves... never thought that would be a problem. I suppose you need a top blanket that has no foot box, so you can ventilate your tootsies, and is wide enough to tuck under your legs.

Could be wrong, but I can't help thinking of it as a problem to be solved with top insulation.

- MacEntyre

**BillyBob58** · 08-06-2013, 17:36

Originally Posted by MacEntyre

Hmmm... hot feet and cold calves... never thought that would be a problem. I suppose you need a top blanket that has no foot box, so you can ventilate your tootsies, and is wide enough to tuck under your legs.

Cou8ld be wrong, but I can't help thinking of it as a problem to be solved with top insulation.

- MacEntyre

Yes, this is a different kind of problem!

**8Daddy** · 08-06-2013, 23:20

It's really an annoying issue for me.
I wouldn't say my calves are cold just not nearly as warm as my feet. My top quilt has to have an open foot box, which they do. I'm completely comfortable with my RR and Lynx full length UQ, I have used it from the high 50's down to about 20* with no problems. I just want to be happy in my Darien. I'm hoping that a full length UQ will solve my issue and the Shamu just seems like an excellent addition because it's light and durable and come the cold I can boost it's performance with my down UQ.
I thought about trying to construct some sleep-gators but I haven't committed the idea to the work table.
Anyway - I think I will be placing an order for a Shamu tomorrow and we'll see how it goes