Cold weather gear/set up Question

[golfhiker]

Hey all, I've done a bit of winter hiking, mostly using my tent(s). I intend to head out in Feb. ( Ohio ) and can expect anything from 10 to 35 degree nights. So..... Using my WBBB Hammock and my -0- degree underquilt, I feel pretty good. I was questioning a few other items. 1) Y or N to using my Neo Air pad in the hammock sleeve? if not, I can always use my GG CCF 2) Will I be okay using my EE 30 degree overquilt? or do I need a warmer sleeping bag/oq?

Note- I don't have doors, and I don't have an UQProtector.

I know this is only 2 nights, so not a huge deal, but I am trying to get the warmth/weight in order, and just don't know what all I need to carry. I think I'll have the underside in order, but am not sure about my overquilt... Oh yeah, I also plan to take my Marmot down pants, and booties.

I really like to be warm, and prepared in winter, but will graciously listen to your thoughts. Thank you.


Rick/ golf

[johnspenn]

If it hits the low end of your 10-35 range, which is a significant difference in temperature, you will want more on top, IMO. Also, take your pad (either one) because if the wind gets up you will be vulnerable without a true winter tarp and/or a UQP.

Good luck, let us know what you decided on and how it went!

[Dlrocm]

I'd be concerned about your top layer. usually, you'd want to have a bit of a safety buffer with low temperature ranges. if you expect lows to be in the 10s , it's safest to bring 0 degree equipment. You might want to consider a 0 degree top quilt to be safe.

at the very least, give your current set up a trial run near your home or vehicle so you can know for sure what to expect.

[TrailSlug]

Yep to be safe in the winter I would strongly recommend applying a 10/15° rule. If it's windy and you do not want to get cold don't try to push your gear and keep a 15° buffer for the "in case" it goes lower than predicted. For example, last night our low was predicted to be 15° it hit 12.5° with 20-30 mph winds. Much colder than predicted. Winter isn't something you want to mess with especially if you are far from a bail point and even more so if you are by yourself.

[dkurfiss]

Yep to be safe in the winter I would strongly recommend applying a 10/15° rule. If it's windy and you do not want to get cold don't try to push your gear and keep a 15° buffer for the "in case" it goes lower than predicted. For example, last night our low was predicted to be 15° it hit 12.5° with 20-30 mph winds. Much colder than predicted. Winter isn't something you want to mess with especially if you are far from a bail point and even more so if you are by yourself.

+1 on ^^ year round I use to 10 - 20F rule but I tend to sleep cold

[gbolt]

If it hits the low end of your 10-35 range, which is a significant difference in temperature, you will want more on top, IMO. Also, take your pad (either one) because if the wind gets up you will be vulnerable without a true winter tarp and/or a UQP.

Good luck, let us know what you decided on and how it went!

Agree. 0º UQ is good to 0º and then some with an added CCF Pad. TQ is questionable. I question a 20º TQ with a 20º UQ. But the Down Pants with Down Booties and add in a Down Jacket to supplement may make all the difference for you. Don't forget a balaclava/head covering and even a pillow will create a different aspect to the microclimate you are creating.

[golfhiker]

Thanks all. I will wait & see what that weekend's weather offers. I can always take my 0 sleeping bag, vs. the 30, and with all my other items I am sure to be warm. I've got all the gear, in the end I am really just trying to balance my weight for a weekend hike. As for "testing" in the backyard, never a bad idea.

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