Gear Review: Conundrum Sleeping Quilt By Enlightened Equipment
The Conundrum Sleeping Quilt by Enlightened Equipment offers serious warmth, lightweight performance, and a custom fit, making it a top choice for cold-weather backpackers.
When you're heading into cold, remote places, your sleep system can make or break your trip. I've been testing the Conundrum Sleeping Quilt by Enlightened Equipment, and it's safe to say this quilt has quickly earned a spot in my pack.
I went with the 10° version in Regular/Regular sizing, filled with premium 950-fill down, and it’s been awesome through frosty nights, high-elevation camps, and everything in between.
Custom gear can definitely be a bit of a splurge. But sometimes it's worth it if you end up with a piece of gear that is perfected for the kind of advent›ures you have. It all but guarantees you will get years and years of use out of the piece. In this case, I expect my custom Conundrum Quilt to last decades with proper care.
If you're not ready to buy custom, Enlightened Equipment does make the Conundrum Quilt in an off-the-shelf version that is just as premium! You simply get to make less choices about it.
All About the Conundrum Sleeping Quilt
The Conundrum Sleeping Quilt is Enlightened Equipment’s fully enclosed quilt, blending the best parts of a quilt and a traditional mummy bag. It features a full-length zipper and an insulated footbox, meaning it seals up completely when you need maximum warmth! But it still offers way more versatility and weight savings than a full sleeping bag.
This makes it perfect for hikers, backpackers, and alpine adventurers who want a little extra security on cold nights without giving up the flexibility quilts are known for.
I've rocked my 10° Conundrum for early spring trips in the Southwest Colorado high country I call home, where temperatures regularly dip (or stay) below freezing. It's kept me warm through howling winds, snowstorms, and frosty mornings without ever feeling drafty or restrictive.
Available Options:
- Temperature ratings: 0°F, 10°F, 20°F, 30°F, 40°F, 50°F
- Down fill choices: 850, 900, or 950 fill power
- Lengths: Short, Regular, Long
- Widths: Slim, Regular, Wide, Extra Wide
- Fabric: Lightweight 10D as standard, with optional upgrades
- Custom colors: Available through their build-your-own tool
- Draft collar: Available as an optional add-on (mine has one- highly recommended)
You can either fully customize your Conundrum to your exact specs or browse their "Ready to Ship" section for faster delivery.
Standout Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fully Enclosed Quilt | Full-length zipper and sewn footbox for a true hybrid feel. |
| Incredibly Lightweight | Even warm builds (like my 10°F) stay impressively light and packable. |
| Premium Down Fill | 950-fill goose down for top-notch loft and performance. |
| Customizable Fit | Multiple lengths, widths, fills, and fabrics available. |
| Draft Collar | Locks in warmth at the neck and shoulders. |
| Adjustable Foot Vent | Easy to dump heat if temps rise. |
| Made in the USA | Handcrafted by Enlightened Equipment in Minnesota. |
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Super warm for its weight | Higher-end price, especially with 950-fill |
| Full enclosure for better draft protection | Wait times if you custom order |
| Custom fit and color options | Quilts have a slight learning curve if you're new to them |
| Ultra-packable for cold-rated gear | Full zipper adds a few ounces compared to open quilts |
| Great durability with lightweight fabrics |
Final Thoughts
The Conundrum Sleeping Quilt by Enlightened Equipment strikes a beautiful balance between weight, warmth, and versatility. Whether you're thru-hiking, peak-bagging, or just venturing out on cold-weather backpacking trips, this quilt can easily adapt to changing conditions.
The fully enclosed design gives you that extra bit of security when temperatures really plummet, without sacrificing the flexibility that makes quilts so appealing in the first place. With a Conundrum in your sleep kit, you’ll be ready to tackle shoulder seasons, alpine zones, and even winter nights with confidence.
If you want a quilt that’s lighter than most sleeping bags but doesn’t skimp on performance, the Conundrum is absolutely worth considering, especially if you like dialing in the perfect custom fit for your adventures.
My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.
