Quote:
Ok, I'll bite. Let's say I try a hammock. Don't I still need some sort of mat on the underside?

Ecrow


The short answer... yes.

The long answer... usually, yes. (or an underquilt). <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

Unless it's very hot at night, hammocks can get chilly. On those hot nights though it's wonderfully comfortable to be in a hammock. On the cold nights it's wonderfully comfortable to be in a hammock, but they do require some sort of insulation underneath to keep you warm, be it a pad or an underquilt.

As far as pads go for sleeping on the ground... I've used a Ridgerest for years, and while it's not super comfortable, it's not terrible either. I also have a Thermarest UL 3/4, which weighs about the same as a full length Ridgerest, and it's more comfortable, but my feet can get cold at night some times.