Need help with an under quilt.

**SeekSolitude** · 04-04-2021, 19:54

I decided to take the plunge and try a hammock on my BWCA trip next month. I've been mulling over the multitude of options and finally decided on the Eldorado (thanks Shug). But now UGQ, Loco Libre, EE, and HG are backed up so far that I won't get it in time for my trip on May 14th. My top quilt is a UGQ 850 fill and was planning on getting a similar quality under quilt. My UGQ topQ is a 20 degree, but I am sure that I can easily get by with a good, comfort rated 30 or 40 degree under quilt. Any suggestions for a quality alternative would be appreciated.

I have to decide on a tarp as well, but I think I have some options there.

**Canadark** · 04-04-2021, 21:16

Given your tight time frame, I would be looking at a Trail Winder synthetic underquilt from Simply Light Designs. I'm assuming in the BWCA you are traveling by some sort of muscle-powered craft where weight/packability are not your top concerns. The synthetic UQ might not compress as well as a down one, but that probably won't be a concern for you. The better performance of synthetic insulation in damp/humid conditions might be an advantage in your situation as well.

**CLSR--000** · 04-04-2021, 21:25

Not sure on ur preference for an underquilt but since you got the eldorado I think warbonnet has one or two wookies in their sale section.

**SeekSolitude** · 04-04-2021, 21:41

Originally Posted by CLSR--000

Not sure on ur preference for an underquilt but since you got the eldorado I think warbonnet has one or two wookies in their sale section.

Do you know if they use comfort ratings? I noticed that the 20 degree wookie has the same amount of down as a 40 degree from UGQ or EE.

**Sherlock** · 04-04-2021, 21:42

Wooki is a good option from Warbonnet, and you may be able to get a custom one made in that timeframe. I’d contact them just to check on lead times, and to see if they have anything in stock that has been posted that might fit your needs.

**SeekSolitude** · 04-04-2021, 21:44

Originally Posted by Canadark

Given your tight time frame, I would be looking at a Trail Winder synthetic underquilt from Simply Light Designs. I'm assuming in the BWCA you are traveling by some sort of muscle-powered craft where weight/packability are not your top concerns. The synthetic UQ might not compress as well as a down one, but that probably won't be a concern for you. The better performance of synthetic insulation in damp/humid conditions might be an advantage in your situation as well.

I looked at those, but I am a backpacker also and really would like to stick to down for compression. I might go that way in a pinch though.

**CLSR--000** · 04-04-2021, 21:46

As for warbonnets ratings I would say my quilts from them perform down to or beyond their ratings. I tend to sleep a bit warm.

**TominMN** · 04-04-2021, 22:45

The way the Wooki is made places the down in the needed places. 20 degrees is good number. I'd definitely want that in the BWCAW or QPP in May.

Just curious, what's your entry point?

**JPCPAT** · 04-05-2021, 00:03

Jacks R Better ships from stock, so they might be your best bet. My UQ is their Mt Washington & I love it. https://www.jacksrbetter.com/product...-3-underquilt/

**Clisbyclark** · 04-05-2021, 06:58

I would try Jacks R Better first if you want new. But personally, the first thing I would do is to place a "Want to buy" post on this forum. Then, if you're on Facebook, there are lots of backpacking buy/sell/trade groups where you could easily find what you need before May. Another option would be ebay. I've never bought any gear there but heard others have had some success there. Good luck!