Herbie Murray
Sleeping quilts are a great alternative to sleeping bags, especially for ultralight backpackers. They are lighter, more compressible, and allow more freedom of movement. Quilts can be used in a variety of seasons, and some quilts allow you to adjust the girth for a snug or loose fit depending on the temperature. They are also more roomy than sleeping bags and can be used as a blanket. However, quilts may be drafty if not used correctly or if they are not designed well. It is important to pair a quilt with a proper sleeping pad to stay warm, especially in cold weather.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Weight | Quilts are lighter than sleeping bags |
| Compressibility | More compressible than sleeping bags |
| Warmth | Warmer than sleeping bags as all the loft is on top of you |
| Freedom of movement | Quilts allow for more freedom of movement than sleeping bags |
| Seasonal use | Can be used for a diverse range of seasons |
| Durability | May be delicate and prone to tearing or damage |
| Draftiness | May be drafty if not used as directed or if not designed well |
| Learning curve | May be challenging to use for first-time users |
| Versatility | Can be used as a blanket and slept on with a leg out |
| Temperature rating | Temperature rating may be lowered by a degree or two |
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What You'll Learn
Quilts are warmer than sleeping bags
Quilts are a great alternative to sleeping bags, especially if you're looking for something lightweight and compact. They've grown in popularity over the years, and many campers prefer quilts because they are more compressible and allow for more freedom of movement.
One of the main advantages of quilts is that they can provide more warmth than sleeping bags. This is because all of the loft is on top of you, and the weight of the down is concentrated on the top and sides of your body. Additionally, quilts allow you to dump excess heat quickly by sticking your feet out, without the need to unzip anything. However, it's important to note that quilts might not be ideal if you move around a lot in your sleep, as this can cause drafts.
To address the issue of drafts, some quilts have adjustable girths, allowing you to tighten the straps for a snug fit. This feature also enables you to loosen the quilt when it's warmer, encouraging more air circulation. Quilts also offer versatility in usage, as you can own a single quilt for a range of seasonal conditions or multiple quilts for specific temperature needs.
While quilts provide benefits, they might not be suitable for extremely cold conditions. Sleeping bags have an advantage in retaining heat, especially those with a hood and a zip that can be tightly cinched to prevent air leaks. Therefore, if you're camping in freezing temperatures, a sleeping bag might be a wiser choice.
Ultimately, the decision between a quilt and a sleeping bag depends on your personal preferences, the expected weather conditions, and your sleeping habits. Quilts are an excellent option for side sleepers and those who want more flexibility and warmth in milder temperatures. However, if you're camping in extremely cold environments, a well-insulated sleeping bag might be more effective in retaining heat.
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Quilts are more lightweight and compressible
Quilts are a popular choice for camping and backpacking, especially for those who prioritise lightweight and compact gear. When compared to sleeping bags, quilts are generally lighter and more compressible, making them ideal for ultralight hiking and backpacking. Their lightweight and compressible nature allows for a more diverse range of seasonal use, from fair-weather overnight trips to harsh, multi-month off-trail pursuits.
The compressibility of quilts is influenced by various factors, including the type of insulation, temperature rating, and design. Down quilts, for example, are known for their superior compressibility compared to synthetic alternatives. The colder the temperature rating, the more space-efficient down becomes, as it primarily serves as insulation, while the shell fabric contributes less to the overall volume. However, in smaller quilts with higher temperature ratings, the relationship can reverse, and synthetic quilts may compress to a smaller size due to the additional bulk of the baffle fabric in down quilts.
The design and construction of quilts also play a role in their compressibility. Some quilts feature a semi-rectangular shape, which provides more coverage but adds weight. Other designs incorporate box baffling, a technique that enhances thermal efficiency by creating compartments for the down to sit in, although this method adds extra material and weight. Additionally, the fabric denier contributes to weight and compressibility; opting for a slightly higher denier, such as 20d, can provide a more comfortable and durable fabric while only marginally increasing the weight.
Quilts offer advantages beyond their lightweight and compressible nature. They provide more freedom of movement, allowing users to adjust the girth for a snug or looser fit depending on the temperature. Quilts also omit a hood, eliminating the possibility of feeling constricted. Furthermore, quilts are designed to balance warmth and sleep comfort, and they can be used in conjunction with a sleeping pad or mat to enhance insulation and comfort.
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Quilts are more versatile
Quilts are also more versatile in terms of seasonal use. If you want to keep things simple and own a single sleeping-insulation piece, you can buy a quilt with a temperature rating that covers the entire backpacking season (i.e. three-season use). For example, a 22°F quilt can be used for fair-weather overnight trips to multi-month off-trail pursuits in harsh conditions. Alternatively, you can own several quilts for specific conditions, further reducing pack weight or increasing warmth.
Quilts are also more versatile in terms of their compatibility with other equipment. For example, quilts with pad attachment systems work best with inflatable sleeping pads, while some Closed-Cell Foam (CCF) pads are also compatible. If you're using a thin CCF mat, you can use black webbing straps independently of a sleeping pad to adjust the quilt to be narrower or wider as needed.
Quilts are also more versatile for different users. Some people find quilts more comfortable because they are roomier than sleeping bags. They also don't have a hood, which can get in the way. However, quilts may not be as versatile for very cold sleepers, as they can be drafty if not used as directed or if the quilt is not designed well.
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Quilts are drafty if not used as directed
Quilts are a great option for backpackers looking for a lightweight, compact sleep system. They are more compressible than sleeping bags and allow for more freedom of movement. However, one common concern is that quilts can be drafty, particularly if they are not used correctly or are poorly designed.
If you are new to using quilts for sleeping outdoors, there may be a learning curve to understanding how to set them up and make adjustments to stay warm. Quilts with a pad attachment system can help prevent drafts, but it is important to ensure that your sleeping pad is compatible with the attachment system. Incompatible pads may require separate straps to adjust the quilt to your body, which can be cumbersome.
To prevent drafts, it is crucial to choose a quilt with a closed footbox and a draft collar, especially if you plan to use it in colder environments. Additionally, quilts with a wider design can help block drafts by allowing you to tuck in the edges under your body. However, wider quilts may not be ideal for climbing or hiking due to the extra weight.
Another way to prevent drafts is to use a sleeping bag in conjunction with a quilt. This combination can provide extra warmth, but it negates the weight savings of using a quilt alone. Ultimately, finding the right quilt for your needs may involve some trial and error, but it can be a worthwhile investment for lightweight, comfortable sleep outdoors.
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Quilts are delicate and prone to tearing
To prevent tearing, it is recommended to buy quilts with a sewn (as opposed to zippered) foot box unless you plan to use it in warmer environments. A sewn foot box is more adjustable and can be useful in various weather and sleeping positions. However, some people prefer a zippered foot box for the same reasons.
Another way to prevent tearing is to use quilts with a pad attachment system. While quilts with this system work best with inflatable sleeping pads, closed-cell foam (CCF) pads are also compatible, except for the very thin ones. If you are using a thin CCF mat, you can use the black webbing straps that come with the quilt to adjust the quilt to your desired width.
Additionally, quilts with a larger boxed draft collar and a tapered top can help prevent drafts on colder nights. This design ensures that the quilt fits snugly around your neck and provides extra room in the shoulder and torso area.
Finally, it is important to note that quilts have an open back, so using a proper sleeping pad is vital to staying warm. Choose a sleeping pad that is rated for the same temperature range as your quilt or warmer. A well-insulated pad will help prevent heat loss and keep you comfortable throughout the night.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping quilts are lighter, more compressible, and allow for more freedom of movement. They also allow for a more diverse range of seasonal use.
To avoid drafts, it is important to use a proper sleeping pad with your quilt. Your sleeping pad should be rated for the same temperature range as your quilt or warmer. Quilts with a sewn (as opposed to zippered) foot box are also recommended for colder environments.
The Outdoor Vitals StormLoft™ Down TopQuilt is designed to be approachable for first-time quilt users. The EE Revelation is another popular option.
It is recommended that you start with an easy overnighter or weekend trip to get used to your gear. This will help you test out your quilt and make any necessary adjustments before embarking on a longer trip.
