Help Choosing UQ: SLD Asym or HG Econ Incubator?

I just received my first hammock in the mail (Dutchware Half-Zipped 11') and am now trying to decide on a good underquilt that won't break the bank. My hammock does have UQ hooks on it. Currently considering Simply Light Design's Trail Winder Asym UQ or a Hammock Gear Economy Incubator. Which would you recommend? Or would you recommend a different option? Also, what temp rating should I choose? I live in Houston, so mild winters, but hope to do some section hikes on the AT in the coming years (April - Oct.).

Thanks!

If you are new to hammock camping, the SLD TW is going to be much easier to master and more forgiving to error. Because synthetic can handle rain, humid air, and extended periods between air drying or laundromat drying. And the TW design will be less prone to letting cold air drafts sneaking between your hammock and UQ.

I have a set of 40 degree Econ quilts, a Premium 20 Incubator and a UGQ 20 Bandit. I like the HG econ line and find that for the majority of my trips this year so far (spring, summer, fall) I have used the econ quilts. If you’re looking for the lightest quilts around these won’t be it, but they are durable, constructed well and do what they’re designed to do. I can’t say what temp you should get as I don’t know what the average temps are in your area. I started with a 20 degree quilts and figured I could vent them in warmer temps, but in summer i was too hot with the 20 and opted for 40.

Thanks HandyRandy. That's helpful advice.

Thanks arcana73. I appreciate the input. Helps me make a more informed decision.

I have a HG Incubator. Although it is VERY warm and a awesome quilt, it does tend to affect the lay of my hammock, and for me, not in a good way. I just bought the Trail Winder, and am really liking it. Not only is it super easy to adjust, but doesn't seem to change the lay and comfort at all. Whatever you end up with, I would go with a 40 degree version, then just sleep in warmer clothes if needed.

The Arrowhead Equipment Jarbidge is a good budget option as well, although it is not a full length underquilt.

Having a warmer UQ is pretty easy to adjust around - you use the same bed all year round in heat and chill. Since heat rises up, the UQ really helps the *TQ* hit its rating.

In other words, a higher rated UQ can be used in mild temps with a mild TQ, but the reverse doesn’t work.

20* is usually a good place to start with a first UQ, especially if you want to hang in winter months (even in TX).


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Originally Posted by jdy98p

Having a warmer UQ is pretty easy to adjust around - you use the same bed all year round in heat and chill. Since heat rises up, the UQ really helps the *TQ* hit its rating.

In other words, a higher rated UQ can be used in mild temps with a mild TQ, but the reverse doesn’t work.

20* is usually a good place to start with a first UQ, especially if you want to hang in winter months (even in TX).


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I agree with this. I use 20 degree year round and it works quite well. The range of conditions it captures is greater than other options.

I second the SLD Trail Winder