Topic

Sandwiching down between vapor barriers to retain warmth and reduce moisture

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Joe W BPL Member
PostedDec 29, 2019 at 8:00 pm

Happy Holidays,

I have a wonderful Enlightened Equipment 40 degree quilt, that I would like to extend down to 20 degrees for multi-day trips in the Sierras with the following: Brynje wool fishnet underwear, wool socks-balaclava-gloves, homemade vapor barrier clothing, hiking clothing, quilted jacket-pants-booties-mitts, EE quilt, homemade sil-nylon bivy sack.  I am content with wearing vapor barrier clothing below freezing, in camp and during sleep.  I know vapor barriers near the skin will at least minimize body moisture in the bag/quilt.  Does anybody know if an inner and outer vapor barrier layer used together will protect the insulation layers from both the sleeper and the weather?  I might have to make these items myself, so would like to get input about them beforehand.

Thanks,

Joe

PostedDec 30, 2019 at 12:33 am

VB clothing will take care of most body moisture entering the insulation.  If it’s not a onesie, if there’s not a seal at the waist and ankles, a small amount of moisture will be able to enter the insulation.  This won’t make much difference in terms of evaporative cooling.  If you loft your bag in humid (rainy) conditions, you’ll get a small amount of moisture in your insulation anyway.

Using impermeable material for both the shell and lining of your bag will make it extremely difficult to dry out the insulation.

Unless you’re doing multi week winter trips, I’d call it good with your VB clothing and focus on your shelter for preventing water from entering via the shell.

Viewing 2 posts - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
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