Solo Quilt v4.0

i was quite impressed with how warm this quilt is.

I'm a tall guy (6'4" 1.94 m) so finding a sleep system is always a challenge. Based on Huzefa's recommendation I purchased the large Solo Quilt. I was surprised how roomy the Solo Quilt was and I could easily snuggle down inside for added warmth.

I tried the Solo Quilt in the open in temperatures ranging from 24°F (-4°C) up to 34°F (1°C) in conditions ranging from a light snow without much wind to breezy conditions with a light rain and I was astonished how effective the Solo Quilt was in maintaining my temperature.

Granted, I conducted my tests in a fairly sheltered area so if you were in damp or rainy conditions you’re going to need a waterproof bivy, tarp or tent so moisture won’t soak through.

Quilts need a good sleep pad system in order to get the best out of it and it took me a while to find a sleeping pad system that was low weight, comfortable and warm.

Eventually I settled on a combination of an air mattress with an R value of 4 and a 1/8” (3.175 mm) foam pad with an R value of .5.

Everyone is different, but this combination seems to work for me.

Like the sleep pad, it took me a while to find some low-weight, insulative clothing that would work in colder temperatures.

Fortunately, Blue Bolt’s sponsored athlete, Peter Van Geit, made some clothing recommendation videos and I modified his recommendations for my needs and I supplemented his clothing recommendations with insulted gloves, leggings, and combining an ultra lite down puff jacket with a light wool mid-layer and a light weight rain shell.

Things I liked;

• The large 10°F/ -12°C Solo Quilt is remarkably light for it’s temperature rating and compares favorably to some down sleeping bags that have a similar temperature rating.

• The quilt’s material feels luxurious against the skin.

• Even if I synch the pad straps close together I don’t feel claustrophobic.

• Dries quickly if damp.

• The “hood” is so fluffy you can almost use it as a pillow.

Things I didn’t like;

• When I received the Solo Quilt it had a funky smell to it but that went away with use.

• The pad strap system is a bit of a wrestling match and I wonder about the longevity of the plastic toggles or if I can get some replacement slotted elastic if I lose or break the strap.

• The toggle system does work well once it’s set up correctly but it’s a bit of a nightmare to manipulate in low light conditions.

• I painted the neck strap snaps with silver paint so I could find them easier in low light conditions.

• Even in an semi-open environment, the quilt does a respectable job of sheltering you from steady breezes but it may not be enough to keep you comfortable once it really starts to blow.

• The Solo Quilt doesn’t compress the way a down sleep system will and the included compression bag is only so effective.

Recommendations;

• Use lighter colored webbing for the neck strap so it’s easier to find in low light conditions.

• Pad strap system redesign or, include easy to replacement strap toggles and slotted elastic pad strap in lieu of a compression sack.

• Bypass the compression bag and store your clothing in the toe box of the quilt while hiking so you can minimize how much room your soft goods take up inside your pack.

• Pre-test your sleepwear and sleep pad selection prior to using them in extreme conditions.

Conclusion;

Overall, I highly recommend the Blue Bolt Solo Quilt. For it’s comfort, weight and price it’s extremely tough to beat.

With some minor improvements the Solo Quilt could become a much coveted piece of gear for ultra lite Alpine-style hikers or anyone looking to try a quilt without the high cost of entry.

Little overpriced for the quality we get in this range.

This is absolutely a must for who need a good sleeping bank to trek in the mountains at the low temperature

Solo Quilt v4.0