The Onewind Equinox Down Underquilt delivers impressive performance in a remarkably lightweight and compact package. This review delves into its real-world capabilities, tested under challenging sub-zero conditions in Australia. We explore its portability, ease of packing, and effectiveness in maintaining warmth during a night spent in a hammock, focusing on the underquilt's insulation properties and design features. From its space-saving compression straps to its adjustable corners, we examine how the Equinox performs in a minimalist setup, revealing both its strengths and areas for potential improvement.This honest assessment reveals the Equinox's surprising warmth despite its featherlight construction. We experienced firsthand how the compact design facilitates backpacking adventures while highlighting the importance of proper setup for optimal performance. The review scrutinizes the underquilt's performance in extreme cold, revealing insights into its insulation effectiveness and the need for minor adjustments to maximize its warmth and comfort. Find out if the Onewind Equinox Down Underquilt is the right choice for your next cold-weather camping trip.
Pros And Cons
- Very compact
- Lightweight
- Has compression straps
- Has adjusters on the corners
- Has bungee cords on each side
- Has a buff for trapping heat
- Has cinch points in the middle and on the ends
- Connection buttons for attaching a second layer
- Smooth and super lightweight fabric
- Can be used down to -17°C
- Shock cords are too weak (3mm, suggests upgrading to 4mm)
- Gaps can form if not properly tuned
- Requires careful tuning for optimal performance at low temperatures
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Compact and Lightweight Design
The Onewind Equinox Down Underquilt boasts a remarkably compact design, thanks to its compression straps. This makes it incredibly easy to pack and carry, a huge plus for backpacking or minimalist camping setups. Its lightweight nature further enhances portability, ensuring it won't weigh down your pack.
The compression straps allow for significant size reduction, making it ideal for those who value space-saving in their gear. This feature is particularly valuable when space is limited, such as in smaller backpacks or when navigating tighter environments.
Real-World Test in Sub-Zero Temperatures
This review involved a real-world test in sub-zero temperatures (-11°C to -12°C dropping to -6.5°C during the night), pushing the underquilt's limits. The tester used the underquilt with a OneWind Airy 11ft double hammock and a tarp, foregoing a wind sock and underquilt protector to assess its performance in challenging conditions.
The chosen setup, sans additional gear, provided a realistic assessment of the underquilt's inherent insulation capabilities. This minimalist approach allowed for a focused evaluation of the underquilt's core performance in extreme cold.
First Night Experience and Adjustments
The first night's experience revealed a key adjustment needed: the shock cords were too weak to maintain a snug fit against the body. This resulted in cold air entering the gaps created at the foot end. The reviewer noted cold air entry but felt the underquilt overall was toasty warm otherwise.
The initial setup, while quick, highlighted the importance of properly cinching the underquilt to eliminate cold spots. The reviewer also mentioned their haste in setting up, contributing to discomfort.
Overall Performance and Final Thoughts
Despite the initial cold spots due to improper setup, the Onewind Equinox Down Underquilt performed well, providing excellent warmth for its weight. The lightweight down filling proves surprisingly effective at trapping heat.
While the shock cords need upgrading for optimal performance, the underquilt's design features, such as adjustable corners and a central cinch, allow for customization. The addition of a buff for trapping heat is also a commendable feature. This product is highly recommended for its lightweight comfort and warmth.
