UGQ Bandit Vs Outlaw: Choosing The Perfect Backpacking Quilt For Your Thru-Hike

Looking for the perfect ultralight backpacking quilt? We compare the top-rated UGQ Bandit and Outlaw on insulation, weight, versatility and more to help you decide which matches your hiking needs.

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Josh Koop

I live with my wife and daughter in Katy, Texas and my local trail is the Lone Star Hiking Trail which is an amazing way to experience the Sam Houston National Park!

UGQ Bandit and Outlaw quilts pictured against a black background
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Having the right gear is essential for any thru-hiking and backpacking adventure . Having the right sleeping system can mean the difference between a great night’s rest and an uncomfortable one that leaves you feeling unrested.

If you need a high-quality thru-hiking quilt , look no further than UGQ Bandit and Outlaw! In this blog post, we’ll compare two of their top quilts, UGQ Bandit vs Outlaw, to help you decide which is perfect for your next big trek.

Let us dive into the comparison and help give you peace of mind about choosing the best backpacker’s quilt for your desired use!

Introduction to the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw Quilts

Are you looking for a dependable, high-performance backpacking quilt that can keep you warm in the harshest conditions?

If so, you may have come across the UGQ Bandit and their Outlaw. These two quilts are some of the most popular models produced by UGQ, and they’re designed to deliver superior warmth and comfort in any environment.

Overview of the UGQ Bandit

If you’re looking for a quality thru-hiking quilt that is lightweight, packable, and warm in any conditions – the UGQ Bandit might be your new go-to piece of gear.

Manufactured with only the finest materials by an experienced team, this ultralight-down quilt is built to give thru-hikers and backpackers an unforgettable sleeping experience out on the trail.

It has repeatedly proven itself against all types of weather conditions, from blistering cold snowstorms to unseasonably mild spring nights.

Keep reading to learn more about why so many backcountry adventurers have come to trust the UGQ Bandit!

Overview of the UGQ Outlaw

Do you want to take on the world’s most challenging trails with a perfect hybrid sleeping bag and quilt? The UGQ Outlaw Hybrid Quilt is the perfect option for thru-hikers and backpackers.

Unlike traditional down sleeping bags, this lightweight hybrid design provides its users with a range of warmth levels that can be adjusted for any temperature or terrain.

Its full-length zipper provides reliable protection like a full sleeping bag while maintaining breathability throughout the night.

Read on to learn more about what makes this thru-hiking quilt one of the most elite options available!

Comparing Insulation Types and Warmth

When it comes to insulation power, the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw are both excellent choices. Both offer an impressive range of down-fill options, ranging from base 800 fill power down to 850 and 950 fill power down.

The 950-fill power down is an excellent choice for those who want a lightweight and packable but super warm option, while the 800-fill power down is ideal for those looking to maximize their budget for a little less packability.

Both the Bandit and Outlaw boast a durable, water-resistant shell fabric that helps to protect the down fill from moisture and keep you warm and dry.

Additionally, the Bandit and Outlaw can add a draft collar to protect from cold drafts.

How the Quilts Compare on Weight and Packability

Regarding weight and bulk, both the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw are lightweight and compressible.

The Bandit is slightly lighter than the Outlaw, with the base 20-degree Bandit quilt coming in at 25.8 ounces compared to the Outlaw, which is 30.8 ounces.

Despite the difference in weight, both quilts provide an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and are designed to keep you warm even in cold temperatures.

The Bandit is slightly more compressible than the Outlaw due to the zipper and fabric additions, making it an ideal choice for backpackers and hikers who need to save on space and weight.

Both quilts come with a stuff sack for easy storage and packing.

Temperature Rating Flexibility of Each Quilt

Having the proper insulation is critical when it comes to keeping warm in cold conditions. The UGQ Bandit and Outlaw offer an excellent temperature range that will keep you comfortable in any environment.

The Bandit and the Outlaw have the same rating options to configure to your needs and provide warmth from 0°F (-17°C) to 40°F (4°C).

Both quilts are designed to keep you warm and comfortable in cold weather, so you can be confident when selecting one of these UGQ quilts.

Assessing Durability and Care Needs

Regarding durability and care, the UGQ Bandit and the UGQ Outlaw perform exceptionally well.

The UGQ Bandit and Outlaw offer a wide range of outer and inner shell materials to allow you to craft perfectly for ultralight needs or more formidable 20D durability.

The shell is also treated with a DWR finish to repel water and keep the down fill from getting wet.

In terms of care, the Bandit and Outlaw require the same level of maintenance. Both quilts should be stored in a dry place in a storage sack, so they aren’t compressed and cleaned well post trail at a minimum to help the down last as long as possible.

Evaluating Comfort, Fit and Adjustability

When it comes to fit and comfort, the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw both excel in this area. The UGQ Bandit has a flat-boxed footbox which is designed to keep your feet warm and comfortable throughout the night.

The Outlaw uses a patented V-shaped baffle design which allows for more insulation to be packed into the footbox which in turn, provides even more warmth and comfort.

Both quilts also include adjustable drawcords and a snap-button closure to help customize the fit to your body. While both quilts provide a snug fit, the UGQ Bandit is slightly more adjustable than the Outlaw.

Breathability and Moisture Control Capabilities

When it comes to breathability and moisture wicking, the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw both have impressive features.

Both quilts use quality down insulation, which is naturally breathable and moisture-wicking. The Bandit features a two-way adjustable drawcord footbox, which helps to keep your feet dry and comfortable.

The Outlaw also features a two-way adjustable footbox and a full-length zipper that helps keep warm but can trap moisture in, like breath.

Both quilts also feature a standard 20D nylon shell that is breathable and water-resistant. These features make the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw great for keeping you warm and dry overnight.

Adapting the Quilts for Different Activities

The UGQ Bandit and Outlaw are both highly versatile sleeping quilts that can be used for a variety of activities, from simple overnight hikes to long duration thru-hikes.

The quilts have the option for a draw cord foot box or sewn in insulated footbox to help you get the perfect set up for your trek.

They also come with the option of adding a draft collar, overstuff, dynamic tensioning and width which adds even more versatility and comfort.

With their range of features, the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw offer a great deal of adaptability that can be tailored to fit your individual needs.

Pricing and Availability Considerations

Regarding price and availability, the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw offer great value for the money.

A 20-degree UGQ Bandit price starts at around $255 with no frills, while the Outlaw is slightly higher at $340.

Both quilts are available for purchase directly from the UGQ website here, with a typical lead-time of 3-5 weeks.

Summary and Determining the Right Quilt

Now that you have a comprehensive overview of the features and benefits of the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw, it’s time to decide which one is right for you.

Both quilts offer excellent performance and value for money, but they also have different strengths and weaknesses.

It’s essential to consider your own needs and preferences when making a decision. For example, the Outlaw is your best bet if you need a zipper or expect more consistent cold by starting earlier or going later.

On the other hand, the Bandit is the way to go if you’re looking for the most lightweight and packable option. Ultimately, the choice between the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw depends on what you need and want in a quilt.

Top Alternatives to Consider from Feathered Friends and Enlightened Equipment

When it comes to finding an excellent ultralight sleeping bag, the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw offer great value and performance.

However, they are not the only options available to you.

If you are looking for an alternative to the UGQ Bandit or Outlaw, consider Feathered Friends and Enlightened Equipment.

Feathered Friends

Feathered Friends is another top-rated brand in the outdoor camping scene, and their backpacking quilts, like the Flicker UL quilt series, are renowned for their warmth and comfort.

Feathered Friends is worth considering if you’re looking for an alternative to the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw.

Their quilts and sleeping bags feature responsibly sourced down fill and are designed to provide excellent insulation in even the coldest temperatures.

Feathered Friends also offers various styles and sizes to ensure you can find the perfect bag for your needs. With a FF quilt, you can rest assured that you’ll stay warm and cozy even in extreme conditions.

Enlightened Equipment

If you’re looking for alternatives to the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw, you’ll want to look at Enlightened Equipment and their Revelation as a close option.

They offer a range of backpacking quilts and configurations with amazing insulation power, weight, and temperature ranges.

Their quilts are crafted with high-quality materials and offer the same level of comfort, breathability, and moisture-wicking as the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw.

Enlightened Equipment is worth considering if you’re looking for an alternative to the UGQ Bandit and Outlaw.

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