Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I have been so impressed with the quality, ultralight weight and warmth of this down blanket that I have been using it in place of my sleeping bag for camping. It is perfectly adequate just by itself for warmer nights, but with a few simple modifications, it keeps me warm and comfortable even when the air is 45 degrees F. I'm looking forward to testing it in even colder temperatures next fall. I have found that in cooler weather, the secret is to use this blanket as a camping quilt, so that you lay it OVER you, tucking the sides under your body. Camping quilts have become very popular with ultralight hikers, and their great versatility gives several advantages over sleeping bags. You can Google these if you're not familiar. Of course, an adequate sleeping pad under you is essential, just as with any sleeping bag. (Note: the blanket is shipped tightly compressed, and it may require several days or longer for the down to fully expand. Be sure to keep it in a roomy storage bag when it's not being used.) I found it beneficial to create a footbox with plastic snaps. This helps to prevent the light and slick blanket from sliding off while you are sleeping, and your feet stay quite warm. You can easily reconfigure to the open blanket if desired. The blanket has three snaps already installed that you can incorporate into the footbox, but a few more must be added. I found everything I need for $21 at the popular auction site: item # 201831863852. The kit includes K2 pliers, instructions, and size 22 KAM SNAPS (identical to the snaps on the blanket). Very easy to install, but be sure to carefully plan the placement of the snaps. Hopefully my photos will be helpful. BTW, adding several more snaps allows the joining of two blankets, which can still be used with or without footboxes. So many possibilities! To make the quilt even warmer, I have added a washable sleeping bag liner which can also be used by itself on warm nights. In cool weather, lie inside the liner and pull the quilt over you, with your feet in the liner inserted into the footbox. When it's even colder, use the quilt INSIDE the liner. Then, when you zip up the liner, it will close off air gaps and help to keep the quilt positioned around you. It works very well. I got the Vumos liner on Amazon for $18 with coupon, and it has been perfect. A long zipper allows it to open up, and, like the blanket, it is plenty roomy for me at 6' tall. And the Vumos has a wide hem at the edge under your chin, allowing for the simple installation of a draw cord to gather the liner and quilt snugly around your neck and shoulders when it's cold. Voila! An incredibly light and versatile sleeping bag/quilt system for use from late spring to early fall, total weight less than 2lbs, very compactable, and for around $100. I have bought three of these blankets from Get Out Gear; two for gifts, and the service has been outstanding.