Sounds like you'll like a pad, ~25" wide and partially inflated.
As to which is better, a pad is "better" for that sense of width; it also offers a little better view ('cause you're a bit higher up), and lets you go to ground if necessary. An UQ is "better" for being less bulky and probably less weight to carry. I expect most people will switch between them depending on their needs on each trip.
OK here is my two cents. I do believe that pads make the Hammock seem a bit wider. I personally use two different pads, One for backpacking and one for car camping. When backpacking I use a neo air Xlite because of its light weight. When car camping I use a Thermarest self inflating pad because I don't have to blow it up or worry about leaks. Even if it leaks it still provides much insulation. When it is really cold I will add and under quilt to either type of pad. Either way I recommend 25 inch width.Originally Posted by novascotia-hanger
You might want to check out thermarest's new evolite that will be out in April or so, I am testing one now and it makes the gathered end hammocks feel wider even though it's only 20" wide, it's6' long and 2" thick at weighs 19 oz. I was ok to 40* not sure it's be well below that unless you went wider. While I do not plan on converting to pads I find it a viable option if wide enough or using a segmented pad extender.
though doable pads are more fidgety for me. I do want to try a bridge though.
Give me more darkness said the blind man,
Give me more folly said the fool,
Give me stone silence said the deaf man,
I didn't believe Sunday School.
Phil Keaggy
I wanted to follow up with my original post since others were interested in the same thing too.
I ended up getting a large NeoAir Xlite. Having a 3.2 R value at under a pound sold me. It does what I hoped, help flatten out the hammock and offer bottom insulation.
When slid between the two layers it stays in place fine. Once in the hammock it feels like a bed. Very easy to switch side to side on.
Thanks for all the input, it definitely helped choosing the right pad.
Probably the best all around choice in my opinion. Just in case your shoulder to elbow area do get cold I highly recommend the Thermarest ZLite cut in half and placed in the form of a cross under you back. It's super light, packs small and is an awesome sit pad. Cut in half results in the perfect width for the Ridgerunner.
Although I don't have a RR, my DIY bridge hammock is very close to one. I have found that the Klymit Static V insulated pad is perfect for my needs. It is 23" wide (if I recall correctly), really flattens the lie, and drastically reduces shoulder squeeze. It is easy on the wallet, too. I like Dutch's folding sit pad as a remedy for any cold spots on my shoulder.
FWIW, I get a better lie and less shoulder squeeze with my pad IN the hammock as opposed in between the double layers. It raises the center of gravity a bit, but I find it generally more comfortable and easier to reposition the pad if it does slip, which really isn't that often.
Cheers
Great thread - really good info.
“I held a moment in my hand, brilliant as a star, fragile as a flower, a tiny sliver of one hour. I dropped it carelessly, Ah! I didn't know, I held opportunity.” -Hazel Lee
How do you mean "in the form of a cross"?
Think of the thermarest laid across the main sleeping mat perpendicular. One under you lengthwise and the other across the back of your shoulders.
Ok I understand, thx for the explanation
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