Space Blankets?

[J]

Anyone ever tried out the emergency “space blankets” you see advertised everywhere? They are marketed as being lightweight and really good for heat retention, was just wondering what anyone else’s thoughts might be on them. I was browsing not long ago and saw some sleeping bags that are made of the same material; they were very cheap and have always seemed a bit too good to be true. Was curious if they are something that would justify space in a BOB. Am also interested in their durability; if they are a one shot deal or can they last through several uses.

Also, anyone know of anything along that line that might be better?

[PJ]

They don’t take up much space (no pun intended), why not have one or two? Throw a hand warmer in there and wrap yourself up like a burrito.

[J]

thanks, wasn’t sure of them, they look a bit flimsy. will give them a test on my hunting trip

[Echo5Charlie]

Are you talking about the foil looking blankets?

[J]

E5C,

yes that is right, saw some sleeping bags made from same stuff and was wondering if anyone has used them?

[Echo5Charlie]

I have several in each bag and vehicle. I keep a roll of duct tape with each set because they do tear easy. I think they can save your life but they are obviously not comfy. Added bonus, they may keep you off thermal imaging should the need arise.

[J]

thanks!

[Capt.Mac.]

Story Time: A few years back a friend and I went quad’g for a few days. The first night he got in his fart sack and covered over with a space blanket. I set up a lean-too with a 8×8 blue tarp. He rolled around all night trying to keep his “Reynolds Wrap” in place. Every time he moved it would slide off and it wasn’t big enough to stake down or make any kind of firm cover. He was lucky there was no wind. It would have blown off the mountain.

As an emergency cover to wrap up in and lean against a tree I guess it would be ok. But to just cover up like Larry did? No way. You could tie off the corners with para cord but as stated above, not very big. They will keep off the rain in a pinch and seem strong enough. But in a wind or even a strong breeze? Forget it.

They may keep body heat in if you can keep them in place. Larry didn’t complain about being cold but it was +32F that night.

Having said all that, I have 3 in my BOB and 2 in the truck along with duct tape to lash them together. I would buy what you think you need and then get 1 or 2 more so you can experiment in a back-yard sleep out.

End of the story: Larry is one of those “Iam always in control” freaks and that first night he sure wasn’t. For the rest of the trip he chose to share my blue lean-too. Makes me LOL even today.

[ben]

Concrete blankets are great for keeping heat in. Although they are bulky wouldn’t hurt to keep one or two on hand. 6′ x 25′ can be easily handled by one person.

[NRP]

Space Blankets
1. Really cheap $$$
2. Really thin, no padding for a fat (wimpy) guy like me 
3. Really small, again not so good for a fat guy like me
4. Really fascinating material, they work well, they WILL keep you warm
5. Not so good in a blanket fight with the wife or GF
6. Get a hand full, plan on duct taping two or more together
7. I have used those Bivvy thingies as a trial on the porch at 12°, they work

[J]

thanks!

question…any ideas as to if they are water repellant? assuming there are no holes in them, of course.

[Echo5Charlie]

Yes they are…if you can keep the holes out, like you said. They are also reflective to help a search party find you. Not good ibyou don’t want to be found.

[Author]

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