Temperature Rating 101

How do quilt temperature ratings work? 

Quilts are temperature-rated by two standards: EN (European Norm) and the newer ISO (International Organization for Standardization) Both create standardized ratings for sleeping bags and quilts. This standardized testing procedure allows for the comparison of different products across the market. For a given temperature, this results in three different ratings based on different criteria. 

Types of Ratings 

There are three different EN temperature ratings: Comfort, lower limit, and extreme. All three are measured using a base layers, a hat, and insulated an sleeping pad. The comfort rating is based on the temperature for an average woman to sleep through a night on their back. The lower limit range is established based on an average man in a curled-up position. The extreme limit is the temperature for an average woman to survive through a night without risk of dying of hypothermia. 

How does Enlightened Equipment rate their quilts and why does it matter to me? 

Enlightened Equipment ratings align with the EN lower limit standard. However, every situation is different, and you should consider your body and prior experience before deciding on a temperature rating. If you are a woman or tend to sleep cold, consider buying a warmer quilt. Quilts also differ from sleeping bags in their lack of a hood and open nature. This means headgear is extremely important to maximize your comfort in a quilt. We recommend our Torrid Hood for maximal insulation. It is important to consider your entire sleep system when choosing a temperature rating. The shelter, pad, and layers you will use while sleeping can significantly affect your experience. If you're a newer quilt user, drafts may make your experience feel colder as you adjust or learn to use pad straps. Dirty quilts may insulate poorly because of dirt impeding the loft. Other individual circumstances can further affect your sleep experience, such as under-eating, altitude, and temperature before sleeping. Read more tips about staying warm at night here.