To quilt or not to quilt?

Dan,

"I find width at the hips to be just as important as at the shoulders."

I agree. Both my brother and I have elbows that stick out at as widely as our shoulders. I think it is because we have wide lats and that sends the arms outward rather than allowing them to hang close to our bodies. We are NOT the ones you want to sit next to in tight airline seats.

So I like your suggestions on the shoulder, hip, foot specs.

Daryl

Roger,

"Hint: buying a hoodless quilt, or one so short it cannot cover your head, is equally silly. Your head is the most critical bit of you."

I agree. I'd rather have my head covered and let my feet hang out if the quilt is too short. I could put the stocking cap(or thick socks) on my feet if they were cold. My feet are typically too hot anyway.

Daryl

If you want a hood, and are concerned with moving around, this may be the "quilt" for you:

http://cascadedesigns.com/therm-a-rest/sleep-systems/insulation/haven/product

I dont own it, but it looks interesting. I am not sure why but I have never seen anyone try this bag.

EDIT: video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2oBPPSXY2Fk

Here is the BPL review from 2010 for the Haven, it received an above average rating

http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/therm-a-rest_haven_down_top_sleeping_bag.html