When it comes to hammock camping in Scandinavia’s unpredictable weather—where crisp forests meet biting winds—proper insulation is your best friend. Without a solid underquilt or blanket, cold air sneaking up from below can turn a peaceful hang into a shivering nightmare. Today, we’re pitting two popular options head-to-head: the Jord Underquilt from our Swedish handmade lineup at Jord Hammock, and the Snugpak Hammock Under Blanket, a synthetic contender favored by budget-conscious adventurers.
This honest comparison draws from real specs, user experiences, and expert insights to help you decide which suits your backpacking style. Whether you’re chasing lightweight minimalism for long hikes in Hälsingland or durable warmth for fjord-side overnights, we’ll break down weight, packability, warmth, fit, materials, and value. Spoiler: If portability is your priority, one clear winner emerges for those “every gram counts” trips.
Weight and Portability: Light as a Feather vs. Heavier Haul
Weight is king in hammock camping, especially when you’re trekking Scandinavia’s trails with a full pack. The Jord Underquilt clocks in at around 800g, making it a dream for ultralight enthusiasts. Packed down, it’s compact—similar to our topquilt’s 33 x 18 cm stuff sack—fitting snugly into your backpack without hogging space. This down-filled design compresses beautifully, ideal for multi-day adventures where you need to move fast and light.
On the flip side, the Snugpak Hammock Under Blanket tips the scales at a hefty 1.45kg (51oz)—nearly double the Jord’s weight. Its packed size is 24 x 24 cm (9 x 9 inches), which translates to roughly double the volume of the Jord’s compressed form. While it’s still portable for car camping or short hikes, that extra bulk can feel like a burden on longer Nordic treks. If you’re counting ounces to shave pack weight, the Jord pulls ahead for effortless carry.
Insulation and Warmth: Down Efficiency vs. Synthetic Reliability
Warmth comes down to insulation type, and here’s where materials shine. The Jord Underquilt uses premium 850FP RDS-certified down (500g fill), offering superior loft and heat-trapping efficiency. It’s an all-rounder for Scandinavian conditions, comfortable down to around 0°C to -5°C depending on your setup and layers—perfect for those transitional fall hangs or mild winters. Down excels in dry, cold air, compressing heat without added weight.
The Snugpak relies on synthetic Travelsoft or Softie Premier filling, which provides consistent insulation even when damp—a big plus in rainy Nordic climates. User reports suggest it’s good for 3-season use, with comfort around 4°C (40°F) and limits pushing to 2°C (35°F). Synthetic doesn’t loft as high as down, so it might require layering in sub-zero temps, but it’s hypoallergenic and quick-drying.
Both deliver solid warmth, but the Jord’s down offers better warmth-to-weight ratio for cold, dry hangs, while Snugpak edges out in wet weather resilience.
Size and Fit: Generous Coverage vs. Standard Spread
Fit matters for eliminating cold spots—nothing ruins a night like drafts sneaking in. The Jord Underquilt measures a roomy 208 x 142 cm, one of the most generous on the market, hugging tall hammocks (like our 350 cm flagship) without gaps. It’s designed for asymmetrical lays, ensuring full coverage for users up to 200cm tall.
The Snugpak stretches to 211 x 147 cm, offering similar broad protection that fits most standard hammocks. It attaches via elastic cords and toggles, molding to the hammock’s curve. Both excel here, but the Jord’s tailored design shines for taller Nordic campers who need that extra length.
Materials and Durability: Premium Down vs. Tough Synthetic
Durability is key in Scandinavia’s rough outdoors. The Jord boasts 10D ripstop nylon shells—lightweight yet tear-resistant—with water-repellent treatments to fend off dew and light rain. The ethical RDS-certified down ensures long-lasting loft, and it’s built in Sweden for rugged use.
Snugpak uses Paratex Light outer fabric with synthetic fill, known for its robustness and wind resistance. It’s machine-washable and holds up well to abuse, making it a workhorse for frequent campers. Synthetic wins for easy care, but down in the Jord provides a softer, more compressible feel.
Price and Value: Investment vs. Budget Buy
Value boils down to what you get for your money. The Jord Underquilt retails around €350 (check current pricing), positioning it as a premium pick with handmade quality and superior packability.
Snugpak comes in at about €109, offering great bang for the buck — affordable entry into hammock insulation without skimping on basics. If you’re starting out, it’s a solid, no-frills option.
Conclusion: Choose Jord for Ultralight Nordic Excellence
Both the Jord Underquilt and Snugpak Hammock Under Blanket deliver reliable hammock insulation, but they cater to different needs. Snugpak shines for budget-friendly, wet-weather toughness with its synthetic fill and easy maintenance. However, its 1.45kg weight and 24 x 24 cm packed size make it a bulkier choice – roughly double the volume and nearly twice the heft of the Jord Underquilt’s compact, 800g design.
For Scandinavian adventurers prioritizing portability, efficiency, and that feather-light feel, the Jord Underquilt is the clear winner. Handmade in Sweden for our demanding climates, it’s your go-to for minimizing pack strain without sacrificing warmth. Ready to upgrade your hang? Check out the Jord Underquilt today and experience the difference in your next forest escape.
