The Trail Winder UQ uses the design of a standalone UQP as a starting point and then adds a layer of Apex Climashield synthetic insulation to make it an effective Underquilt. I am currently trying to keep all weights in stock, but from time to time based on demand, the 7.5 and 10.0 may need to be ordered.
It is available in either Asym orientation or a symmetrical orientation.
Asym orientation is based on which way you lay in the hammock and the insulation is cut on the angle to save weight and pack space. The Broad Width option adds 6" to the shoulder width for those with wider shoulders.
For those who do not have a dedicated lay, such as those who toss or turn during the night, changing their orientation, a full width cut provides more uniform coverage. This will increase the weight and bulk obviously, especially as you get into the heavier weight insulations such as 7.5 or 10 oz.
Combine the Trail Winder with an Eclipse Top Quilt for a total warmth solution
Modular System - As we all know, it is hard to get one quilt for a wide range of temperatures, without some serious tweaking or compromises in comfort. With the design of the Trail Winder, adding a 2nd layer of insulation (in the same orientation as the base layer) is now a possibility.
The additional layer is fully enclosed in a shell fabric to keep the insulation clean and debris free. It utilizes a set of snaps that lines up with a set of snaps on the quilt itself. (Please note that a standard Trail Winder without the modular set up, will not come with the corresponding snaps on the quilt. There is an option in the drop down menu to add the snaps only to the quilt, so that if you want to future proof the quilt, you will not have to send it back in to get the add on)
Features:
- Made from using Dutch's Ion fabric or the Argon (49, 67 or 90) line of materials (custom fabrics are possible as well)
- Layer of Apex Climashield insulation sewn in at your preferred lay orientation
- Length - From 8' to 11' lengths are available (The best lengths are 1 - 2' shorter than you hammock length. For example, for an 11' hammock, either the 9 or 10' versions work best).
- Width - 55-57" (depends on starting width of fabric)
- Suspension included - Adjustable shock cord loops at each end with Mini Biners.
- Enough shock cord is included for use on a variety of length hammocks are quilt stacking situations.
- 5' section on each side is shock corded. Easily adjust how snug it is to your UQ or hammock
- Includes stuff sack sized for UQ (and modular add on, if purchased)
- Weights will vary depending on options chosen (see charts below) **
- For reference, the shiny side would be facing up (next to the hammock), while the duller side with the DWR treatment would be towards the ground
- The last picture in the gallery shows the approximate dimensions of the insulation.
Additional Options:
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For storing, a separate stuff sack can be purchased for the modular piece only
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Optional Compression Sack available (long term storage in a compression sack is not advisable. Letting your UQ air as much as possible will extend its longevity). Please not that quilts with an overall temp rating of 12 oz or higher will not fit in the compression sacks I stock
- Optional oversized stuff sack made from NoSeeUm netting allows quilt to loft and breathe while in storage
Asym Discussion:
Symmetrical Discussion:
Using either Argon 90 or calendered Ion Fabric, it provides resistance to wind and rain as well.
Shortrounds's Video Review
Chesapeake Hammock Video Review
Temperature ratings* on insulation weights:
2.5 oz - 50o F
3.6 oz - 40o F
5.0 oz - 30o F
6.0 oz - 20o F
7.5 oz - 10o F
10.0 oz - -5o F
*Please note that temperature ratings are from the manufacturer of Apex Climashield. They are considered comfort ratings and from customer feedback, that has held true in most cases, but not all. There are many factors that can affect ones' comfort level including whether one sleeps cold or hot, wind chill, humidity among other factors. Additionally, since an underquilt only provides coverage to one side of the body, pairing it with a top quilt, blanket, or some other form of covering insulation, will maximize its full warming potential.
Estimated Weights:
Note that the following charts are based on the 9' length. Each additional foot of material adds .5 oz for Argon 90 and .6 oz for Ion. (e.g. If you choose the 11' version in Ion, add 1.2 oz to the below charts for estimated weights).
| Argon 90 |
Asym | Asym Broad | Non Asym |
| 2.5 oz | 14.36 oz | 14.74 oz | 17.06 oz |
| 3.6 oz | 17.04 oz | 17.53 oz | 20.58 oz |
| 5.0 oz | 20.19 oz | 20.84 oz | 24.81 oz |
| 6.0 oz | 22.30 oz | 23.06 oz | 27.69 oz |
| 7.5 oz | 25.77 oz | 26.69 oz | 32.31 oz |
| 10.0 oz | 31.04 oz | 32.24 oz | 39.51 oz |
| Ion Fabric |
Asym | Asym Broad | Non Asym |
| 2.5 oz | 15.72 oz | 16.12 oz | 18.56 oz |
| 3.6 oz | 18.40 oz | 18.91 oz | 22.08 oz |
| 5.0 oz | 21.55 oz |
22.22 oz | 26.31 oz |
| 6.0 oz | 23.66 oz | 24.44 oz | 29.19 oz |
| 7.5 oz | 27.13 oz | 28.07 oz |
33.81 oz |
| 10.0 oz | 32.40 oz | 33.62 oz |
41.01 oz |
** Displayed Weights are estimates based on the advertised weights of the materials used. Actual weights may vary slightly.
Customer Reviews
I ordered the Trail Winder UQ maybe 6 weeks ago, in the lightest possible materials and the lowest temp rating of 50°F since I mostly work and play in warm lowland areas, with the occasional trip up to a little higher elevation. I own other quilts, but they're either partial length, or full on cold weather down quilts, and I needed something light for the warm lowland weather.
As soon as I placed the order I got an email from Jared explaining that the UQ was going to take about three weeks to make, but if needed, he could make an effort to have it ready a little bit sooner. Well, to my surprise, the quilt arrived within just one week, and it was exactly what I was expecting based on the few Youtube videos I had seen, (and there aren't a lot of them). You have to understand that because of the unique asymmetrical design, it's a bit difficult to figure out how this quilt will work based only on pictures. But I trusted other users' opinions and I'm very glad I did. This thing is amazing.
It works as promised and I'm very impressed with how light and comfortable it is. Along with my hammock, this is now my favorite piece of camping gear. I'll definitely be ordering more stuff from SLD and recommending this company to other hangers.
Have you ever used a product that you fell in love with instantly? That's the Trail Winder UQ. The customization options that Simply Light Designs gives you are impressive.The quilt is meticulously crafted, and it exceeded my expectations. There is no better quilt on the market for this price.
If you're allergic to down but despaired of ever finding a lightweight synthetic underquilt, let me lay your fears to rest. You've found the Trail Winder UQ, and it's perfect.
I got this Trail winder with the 40 degree insulation. It's just so darn easy to use and the bungee adjustment on the sides is perfect. I also got another 40 degree insulation to add to the UQ with the cam snaps, but had jared sew a simply foot box in the extra insulation so that it can be used as an oddly shaped top quilt, or added insulation to the bottom 2 in 1 : )
I don't think I have experienced the level of attention to detail and to the customer in anything else I've ever bought. The underquilt is great. Even better was the speed of reply to additional requests.
This is everything and more that I dreamed of. Bought this to expand on my backpacking sleep system for the Four Pass Loop in Maroon Bells, CO and it was a dream come true. I was the only person who slept well in my group and I fully credit that to this underquilt. Highly recommend. (& extra thanks to Jared who made sure I'd get my order in time <3)
