Bob-
To more directly answer your question:
Rating insulation is not standard industry wide and you will find different standards in different niches of the outdoors industry.
For example- Enlightened Equipment started as a cottage vendor primarily servicing long distance backpacking customers. (Zpacks and others fit this group).
I point this out as this customer base tended to 'push' their gear a bit further. It was also made up of more younger, fit, and healthy folks who are 'running hot'. These ratings were appropriate for their customers at the time. Much like 'athletic cut' clothing fits fine when you are in good shape... but no so well if you are in average shape. In Enlightened's case; as they grew and their customer base expanded they had to bump up the fill to better match their current customer base.
Hanging has a wider variety of members in it's customer base. And in general- hanging is an open air, under a tarp, more exposed activity. You're not in a tent or bivy like a ground user... and that extra 5-15* you may get from your shelter system will show up. By simply elevating yourself even 2' into the air you are 'in the breeze' and the more accurate temperature you are dealing with is the wind chill or 'real feel' temp rather than the actual thermometer reading.
Point being- Almost every reputable cottage vendor who services the Hammock community has already adjusted to the customer base and conditions. As others mentioned the ratings are accurate, if not conservative.
As far as other vendors- not all 'cottage vendors' are equal. Just because some dude is making stuff in his mom's basement doesn't mean they know what they are doing. I think the important word to remember is not 'cottage' but VENDOR. As in someone who sells gear in a professional manner with some experience doing so. While most cottage vendors did start things off as one person making stuff in a basement... not all folks making stuff in a basement succeed and turn the corner. A stuff sack, ridgeline bag or gathered end... give that little guy a shot if you'd like. Insulation and critical stuff- buy from a VENDOR. A vendor has sold some gear, had gear returned, had customers complain... and improved based upon that feedback. Even if qualified... that cottage MYOG guy slinging stuff just hasn't had enough volume go through the door to work out the kinks. If you're into being an early adopter and supporting these folks- no biggie so long as you understand what you're getting (and are charged fairly) for what you buy.
As far as Amazon and other discount bozos... You get what you pay for. If you can sort out what you are buying, and feel it's still a good value- more power to you.
But for the most part these 'vendors' are folks with some website/social media/marketing savvy. Generally they couldn't thread a sewing machine if their life depended on it. They are importers, nothing more.
Some use the stuff they sell, some don't. Some are just eager motivated young folks who genuinely feel they are doing a good job. Some are scumbags.
Same advice on these guys- you want to pick up a cheap tent stake or accessory... your choice. You want stuff that is critical- buy from a trusted VENDOR.
So long story- Most of the vendors you will find talked about here are established HAMMOCK cottage VENDORS you can trust.
Some of them are really long past the point you'd call them cottage. Many are family owned or small to medium sized businesses at this point.
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