Before we dive in, don’t forget to grab your free Hammock Gear Checklist at the bottom of the page — it’s the perfect companion for your next trip.

Why You Should Upgrade to an Underquilt (And How to Choose One)

🥶 Why You Should Upgrade to an Underquilt

(And How to Choose the Right One for Your Hammock Setup)

If you’ve ever woken up in your hammock at 3 a.m. with a cold back — even in summer — you’ve experienced what hammock campers call “cold butt syndrome.” It’s the #1 reason new hangers wake up uncomfortable, and it’s also one of the easiest problems to solve: use an underquilt.

Whether you’re moving beyond backyard hangs or just want to sleep warmer and more comfortably, here’s why an underquilt is the upgrade your gear kit deserves — and how to choose the right one.


❄️ Why Hammocks Get Cold from Below

Unlike a tent setup, your hammock suspends you in the air, meaning there’s constant airflow underneath. Even with a sleeping bag or top quilt, compressed insulation under your body loses effectiveness.

Result? You lose heat fast — especially at your back, hips, and shoulders.


🔥 What an Underquilt Does

An underquilt hangs beneath your hammock, creating a warm, insulated layer that traps heat without being compressed. Think of it like a sleeping bag for the underside of your hammock — no more waking up freezing, even on cool summer nights.

💡 Bonus: An underquilt doesn’t mess with your lay or comfort. You sleep the same way — just warmer.


🧤 Why You Should Upgrade

If you’re still using a pad or sleeping bag alone, here’s what an underquilt will do for you:

  • Eliminate cold spots under your back and legs

  • Sleep more naturally (no slipping off pads at night)

  • Pack smaller and lighter than most closed-cell foam pads

  • Extend your camping season into spring and fall

  • Sleep better. Period.


🛏️ How to Choose the Right Underquilt

1. Know Your Temp Range

If you're a 3-season camper, aim for an underquilt rated around 40°F. For shoulder seasons or mountain weather, consider one rated 20–30°F.

🔥 Our EmberNest Underquilt is rated to 40°F with synthetic insulation — a great all-around choice.

2. Match It to Your Hammock

Make sure your underquilt is:

  • Long enough to cover shoulders-to-feet

  • Easy to adjust to your hammock length

  • Equipped with a reliable suspension system

✍️ Tip: Some hammocks (like our REM Hammock) work best with a 65"+ long underquilt for full coverage.

3. Consider Insulation Type

  • Synthetic: Better in wet weather, less expensive, low-maintenance

  • Down: Packs smaller, weighs less, more expensive, needs dry storage

We use synthetic insulation in the EmberNest for all-weather reliability and simple care.

4. Suspension Adjustability

Look for:

  • Shock cord ends with toggles or cord locks

  • Side adjustments to snug the quilt up to your hammock

  • Lightweight hardware that won’t tangle or sag


🔁 What About Sleeping Pads?

You can use a sleeping pad in a hammock — but it often:

  • Shifts around at night

  • Doesn't contour to your body

  • Leaves your shoulders or legs cold

Pads are great for backpacking crossover use, but underquilts are built specifically for hammock camping — and it shows.


🧭 Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about hammock camping — or even just want a better night’s sleep in the woods — an underquilt is a must-have upgrade. You’ll stay warmer, sleep deeper, and extend your hammock season comfortably.


🔗 Ready to Upgrade?

👉 Shop the EmberNest Underquilt
Lightweight. Adjustable. Cold-rated to 40°F. Built for hammock life.

Have questions about setup, sizing, or insulation? Reach out anytime — we’re here to help you Get Hanging and Stay Comfortable.


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"I picked up the REM Hammock bundle and I’m absolutely blown away. Super comfortable, intuitive to set up, and the quality is top-tier. It’s clear that real thought went into designing this system."

— Chad Wansing

"Treavor is awesome! He helped me out with my hammock setup and went above and beyond. Everything from the hammock to the accessories is great quality and thoughtfully made. Highly recommend!"

— Maria Gonzalez

"I just used it for the first time on a camping trip and slept better than I ever have outdoors. Super roomy and comfortable. Setup was quick and easy. I’m officially hooked on hammock camping!"

— Eddie

"I was worried an extended thunderstorm would ruin my trip, but this tarp kept me dry and comfortable the whole time. Built tough, packs down small, and offers superior coverage."

— Jeff Sipper

"Thank you for two great nights of sleep in the woods. Lightweight, easy to hang, and super comfortable."

— Stephen

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is it to set up the hammock if I’m new to hammock camping?
Our hammocks come with an intuitive suspension system and ridgeline, so setup is quick even for first-timers. Most customers are up and hanging in under 5 minutes.
Is this gear good for tall or big campers?
Yes! Our REM and Somnia Luxe hammocks are oversized, offering plenty of room to stretch out comfortably—even if you’re 6'3"+ or broad-shouldered.
What temperature is the underquilt rated for?
The EmberNest underquilt is designed for 3-season use and performs comfortably down to 40°F when paired with a proper sleeping bag or top quilt.
Will this keep me dry in heavy rain?
Absolutely. Our Hideaway Tarp offers full-coverage protection with doors and tie-outs to block wind and rain from all sides. Customers have weathered full storms and stayed bone dry.
Can I use this hammock setup for backpacking?
Yes! Our gear is designed to be lightweight and packable without sacrificing comfort or durability—perfect for backpackers who want to sleep well without extra bulk.