Finally Ready to Buy an Underquilt - Length, Temp, Filling, etc?

**dcooper** · 01-26-2019, 19:24

I sleep under tarps when the weather is colder and break out my hammock in the late spring and summer but after waking up in an inch of water on an inordinately rainy hike of the Uwharrie Trail a couple weeks ago, I'm thinking it might be time to shell out for an UQ/TQ and go to hammocking full-time. Thinking temperature-wise a 20 degree UQ is the way to go for now but have a few other questions.

I'm unsure whether a full-length quilt will be overkill for hiking in the south and was wondering if anyone could speak to the 3/4 vs full length quilt debate? From what I've looked into I'm currently thinking the HG Phoenix, Enlightened Equipment Revolt (only can budget for the synthetic), or HG Incubator might be the way to go but am super-open to suggestions!!

**oldpappy** · 01-26-2019, 19:37

It's always fun to help someone else spend their money.
I'm 5' 9" and find the 3 season AHE Jarbridge synthetic UQ a good fit for me.
My Full length UQ is less fiddle factor, but I always come back to using the 3/4 Jarbridge for shoulder season and summer camping (with UQP to block breezes).
3/4 UQs are great for summer nights too because they are easy to slide off to the side - then slide back under you in the chill of the early morning.

Below about 30F I prefer the full length coverage.

**baldknobber** · 01-26-2019, 19:43

I also have a Jarbidge, and agree w/ oldpappy. Really nice, inexpensive APEX-insulated underquilt. Only down side is it’s a little bulky for backpacking.

I would also suggest HG Econ Phoenix. My 20 degree only weighs 17.5 oz, and packs up much smaller than the Jarbidge. Both should keep you warm to and maybe a little below their temp rating.

**TallPaul** · 01-26-2019, 21:19

I use a 3/4 length 20* HG Phoenix.
It works well for me here in NC. Less weight, bulk and a bit cheaper.
If you can wait, I’m sure you can see all these options at the Yates Place hang in Uwharrie. Probably somebody would let you borrow one if you wanted to try before you buy.

**ShortRound** · 01-26-2019, 23:31

I highly recommend the new Simply Light Designs Trail Winder underquilt

**rweb82** · 01-26-2019, 23:45

I use a 20° 3/4 length Loco Libre Habanero. I also live in the Chicago area, and I can use it on it's own most if the time. With my Thermarest Lite sit pad, I really don't feel the need to get a full length UQ.

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**wvumountaineer52** · 01-27-2019, 09:28

Originally Posted by rweb82

I use a 20° 3/4 length Loco Libre Habanero. I also live in the Chicago area, and I can use it on it's own most if the time. With my Thermarest Lite sit pad, I really don't feel the need to get a full length UQ.

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Did you get directional baffles? What are the specs of your quilt? I'm debating between a 52 inch hg phoenix and 52 inch habanero.

**Shagginwagon** · 01-27-2019, 11:32

I third the AHE Jarbidge as a good starter UQ. Ive used it down into the high 30s (with clothing and a decently warm TQ) out on Grandfather Mountain, as well as a few times in Uwharrie without issue. I stick to 3/4 length at 6 foot tall, and haven't hated it. It does well enough to cover shoulders to knees. I will probably get a full length at some point for the really cold winter hikes, but for most times, the 3/4 is fine, in my humble opinion.

**Shug** · 01-27-2019, 11:59

Here is my UQ playlist and shows many UQs...short and long.
May give some insight........https://www.youtube.com/playlist?lis...mBYSPGHjdyGqsL
I'd suggest a partial 20º UQ with a Thermarest sit-pad in the footbox of your sleeping bag or TQ. You can always vent it in warmer weather though I rarely do.
By the way I grew up in Charlotte from 4th grade through college. Sisters still live there.

Shug