Vertical vs Horizontal Baffles

[Hunthigh1]

I have noticed that the enlightened equipment quilts have vertical baffles. All of my current down bags have horizontal baffles. . .

What are the advantages/disadvantages of each?

Is one considered better than another?

 

[LonelyMtn15]

In theory the vertically baffles distribute heat the length of your body, vs across your body. So in essence heating more effectively, as certain parts of your body are warmer than others it is suppose to help distribute that heat better than a horizontal baffle.

It makes sense, but does it work? I can't really tell a difference, have both, like both.


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[ianpadron]

My understanding is that vertical baffles are best because they prevent the down from settling due to gravity. The down simply settles closer to you, as opposed to horizontal baffles which allow the down to migrate towards the ground, thus losing insulation.

IDK how much that actually happens in the field but I do remember reading a couple of negative reviews of horizontally baffled quilts for the reason I just mentioned. Hope that helps!

 

[AK Troutbum]

How about the advantages/disadvantages of karo baffles vs. vertical?


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[ianpadron]

How about the advantages/disadvantages of karo baffles vs. vertical?


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I'd imagine it depends if the karo baffles are sewn all the way through or not Trout.

To me they seem like a double edged sword in that the down has less room to move around (good) but the seams could act as a limitation on loft, causing cold spots (bad).

My guess is that there really is no significant trade off among the 2 or 3 high end quilt brands, regardless of baffle design...that said, I'm glad I have an EE with vertical ones because it just makes the most sense to me.

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[orionsbrother]

Vertical baffles appealed to my logic as well.

Do vertical baffles REALLY make a difference compared to horizontal? I don't know. I haven't come across any crowds of disaffected, angst ridden, sleep deprived, horizontal baffle quilt and bag owners complaining about down migration.

Sometimes my wife says that I'm not receptive to the struggles of others.

Karo baffles seem to me like they would be good, but I imagine they're more labor intensive and more expensive. Out of curiosity, I'd be interested in hearing from someone if they've noticed advantages with karo baffles.

 

[AK Troutbum]

Maybe Tim M. (Enlightened Equipment), will chime in and give his .02