Quilt-style sleeping bags are perfectly adapted to hammock sleeping because they lack a back, making them easier to use (no wriggling). The DD Hammock Quilt is a synthetic-filled top quilt that works great in a hammock (or on the ground).
- Manufacturer: DD Hammocks, made in China
- MSRP: UK£45.00 (~US$70)
Available Features/Specifications
- Top quilt with cinch-style head and foot end
- 27 in (69 cm) foot box with 8 large metal snaps
- 2 large metal snaps on the head end
- Fits up to 6 ft 5 in (196 cm)
- Dimensions: 50×34 in (127×86 cm) tapered rectangle
- Weight: 1.7 lbs (776 g)
- Insulation: 200 gsm synthetic batting
- Temperature Rating: 35 °F (2°C) when used together with the DD Underblanket
Product Description
The DD Hammock Quilt is a tapered top quilt that it slightly wider at the head end than the foot end. Eight large metal snaps convert the quilt from blanket mode into a sleeping bag mode, with a pocket for the feet and lower legs. Two large metal snaps at the head end close the quilt around the head and shoulders. Cinch cords with cord locks are located at both the head and foot ends that can close up the ends, sealing up the foot end and closing up the head end to seal of drafts or allow more venting around your feet, head, and shoulders.
The quilt has a sewn-through quilt construction, and like all quilt-style bags, lacks a back or a zipper. These make the quilt-style bag lighter and easier to use in a hammock.
Recommendations and Review
Overall, I like the design and construction of the bag, even the fabric and feel are fine. My one disappointment is in the projected temperature rating. I was hoping to use the bag in lower temps, but I haven’t been able to feel comfortable in the recommended temperatures. With the sewn-through construction and low loft (about .5 to .75 inch/1.27 to 2 cm), it makes the quilt a warm-weather insulator by most standards. I’ve tested the bag now on multiple backpacking and camping trips over the summer and in my experience, it holds its own around 50°F (10°C). On some of my trips, I’ve had to supplement the bag with a fleece liner or even another lightweight quilt. In every test I used one of my own down-filled 20°F rated under quilts with the DD top quilt.
On a recent backpacking trip I took in the Kachina Wilderness on the mountains, the temperature dipped into the high 30s°F (~4°F). I had planned to use the DD Hammock Quilt, but I also brought along some other gear just in case. I did everything I could think of to ensure I stayed warm (giving the insulation the best chance): I was in good physical and mental shape, I ate before going to bed to kickstart my metabolism, I stayed hydrated, and I even wore some insulated pants, hat, and jacket to bed. I felt pretty good with the DD Hammock Quilt for a few hours, but in the end I had to supplement with another bag as it got colder.
On trips where the nighttime temperatures were warmer, I did fine with just the DD quilt. I’ve also used the bag almost daily when indoors where in my house it hovers around 70 to 80°F (21 to 27°C) (we don’t have air conditioning).
Modularity
I like this style of quilt design because it so easily converts from a simple blanket to a more wrapped up, sleeping-bag style quilt. The snaps make the conversion pretty quick. The cinch cords on the head and foot end make it easy to vent if it gets too hot.
Construction and Craftsmanship
The bag itself is well made. I was impressed with the solid construction and good design. Many quilts from cottage vendors are basic rectangles, but do share similarities with the DD Hammocks like the draw cords placed in the center of the hem for easier access.
There are a few more snaps on the foot box than I really need. In fact, I usually leave the last few undone as I will otherwise pop them apart when in use.
The two head snaps work as expected. This is the first top quilt I’ve seen with two snaps on the head end. It may be more than necessary, but it doesn’t get in the way.
Aesthetics
The bag has a solid olive drab coloring and is otherwise fairly ordinary in appearance. I’ve noticed that in some light the color shifts a little. Having served in the U.S. military, the coloring suits me fine, and I know that DD Hammocks caters to the para-military crowd as a general rule.
Price and Value
I wish the bag had a bit more insulation, but even as a summer bag, the bag has a good value, keeping with the DD Hammocks brand.
Best Match
As I’ve said before, I think this quilt makes a great summer bag, and for the colder months, it can be used to extend a secondary quilt.
Similar Products
- Arrowhead Equipment Owyhee Top Quilt
- ENO Vesta Top Quilt
- Grand Trunk Hammock Compatible Sleeping Bag
- Grand Trunk Packable Travel Blanket
Disclosure of material connection: The author (Derek Hansen) was provided with a free sample from the manufacturer for testing and evaluation purposes. The comments in this post (written & spoken) are of my own opinion, which I formed after personally handling the gear. I was under no obligation to publish a review of this item.
Leave a Reply