New to Hammock Camping. Not new to hammocks. Have been sleeping in Mayan style hammocks since the early 90's and finally got back to backpacking now that kids are older and getting off the ground to hang.
My new Camping set up:
Hammock: Dutch Hexon Wide- 18oz (with Snake Skins and Continuous Loops)
Bug Net: Bottom Entry Bugnet - 6.09
Tarp: Tad pole tarp - 18oz (Ridgeline, DIY no see um snake skins)
Suspension: Whoopies, Continuos Loops and Soft Shackles - 8.72 oz (tree straps guy lines and stakes included)
Total Weight: 51 oz or 3.1 lbs
I spliced my own whoopies, continuous loops and soft shackles from Amsteel. Although I am still struggling with the concept. I still think I just might go to long tree straps and a simple sheet bend knot. Just seems so much easier, faster to set up and probably just as light.
Anyway. Just got back from a second trip with set up. This last go around I got so cold at night I had to bail into tent with kids. I don't have an under quilt yet. I was just using an old synthetic bag (maybe 30 degree I don't know) and Nano puff jacket. Not sure what temp it dropped to but I assume it was in the mid 40's. Couldn't stay warm and had to resort to jumping in tent with kids.
So here I am now searching for the best UQ/TQ setup. Do I splurge and get the lighter, more compressible down options or go the cheaper route and go synthetic?? Looking for guidance on price per weight and just getting it done for comfort.
Here is the deal. I rock older gear. I am slowly upgrading my equipment to get lighter. Started with cookware and stove. Just upgraded my shelter. So its slowly but shirley happening. I am currently at a 20 lb base weight.
So. I am happy with the Dutch Hammock and set up. Now I just need insulation. Looking at the following:
For UQ:
Down Enlightened Equipment Revolt http://www.enlightenedequipment.com/revolt/
vs
Synthetic Jarbridge
http://www.arrowhead-equipment.com/s...nderQuilt.html
For TQ:
Down Enlightened Equipment Revelation:
http://www.enlightenedequipment.com/revelation/
vs
Synthetic Owyhee Top Quilt
http://www.arrowhead-equipment.com/s...uilt_Long.html
If I go Arrowhead:
Top Quilt: 31oz
Bottom Quilt: 20oz
Total: 51oz or 3.18lbs
Cost: $290
If I go Enlightened:
TQ: 22.19oz
UQ: 18.74oz
Total: 40.93oz or 2.56 lbs
Cost: $495
I really want down for weight and space savings. but $200 more bucks is a lot. Especially since I am still rocking a 6 lb pack. But I am slowly working on upgrades.
Can someone who has been through this decision just make it for me so I don't have to go back in forth in my head for months?!?!?!?
Should I just go arrowhead and save the money? I have read the good reviews, but I just don't want to spend $290 now only to spend $495 next year. You all know the dilemma.
Any help is greatly appreciated.
Bookmarks