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The Short Answer: When comparing a down vs synthetic sleeping bag/quilt, the main difference comes down to performance in weight, warmth, and moisture. Down insulation offers the best warmth-to-weight … read more

The Short Answer: Many hikers use “sleeping bag” as a universal term for overnight gear, but modern backpacking sleep systems are more complex. A backpacking quilt can reduce pack weight a … read more

Bringing kids on their first Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) trip is a rite of passage for many outdoor families. After years of exploring the BWCAW with just my wife, Vickie, and me, we finally int … read more

Imagine you’re in your tent after a long day of hiking. It’s dark, you’re exhausted, and worst of all, you’re shivering through the night. Sound familiar? Staying warm while ba … read more

Introduction Shelters are part of the backpacking big three and are a crucial part of any sleep system. There are many different models and styles to shelters, but here’s some information … read more

Introduction Many articles on this blog and the internet mention sleep systems. Here is a quick description of what a backpacking sleep system is and each piece. Sleep system refers to all the compon … read more

Introduction “What do I wear?” is not just a question for a night out, but for a backpacking trip. Here are some options for leg-wear to handle various conditions and activity backpacking … read more

Are Pad Straps Essential to a Sleeping Quilt? Pad straps are essential accessories for our backpacking sleeping quilts. They help to keep the quilt in place on top of your sleeping pad, preventing it … read more

Introduction Backpacking involves a wide variety of weather conditions and can sometimes shift rapidly between states. It’s important to have a layered clothing system for backpacking that keep … read more

A topic like sleeping bag or sleeping quilt compression may seem insignificant, but can have an impact on how much gear you can fit in your pack, as well as how it carries on you. Generally, folks fal … read more

Enlightened Equipment has traveled to places all across the globe in the hands of thousands of adventurers, from thru hikers to weekend warriors. The places we recreate are incredibly important to us … read more

Care and Repair for Ultralight gear Caring for your ultralight sleeping quilt is of utmost importance for several key reasons. Firstly, these quilts are often constructed with delicate and high-tech … read more