Your head is a major source of heat so has anyone heard of an insulated inflatable pillow? I realize non inflatable pillows would have a higher R value. They also weigh substantially more and offer less support. A pillow has so little volume that down insulation would add next to nothing. The only issue I see with down would be inflation due to moisture. Perhaps synthetic is the way to go.

http://www.basegear.com/cocoon-ultralight-air-core-pillow.html

How about a partially-inflated 1L Platypus? You could probably manage something for a pillowcase, no?

Edited by NightMarcher on 11/20/2009 00:09:02 MST.

>>How about a partially-inflated 1L Platypus? You could probably manage something for a pillowcase, no?<<

And then just pluck a goose each night before bedtime, and fill the Platy for insulation.

I second the cocoon pillow suggested by P Sugg. I used one for the first time last weekend on a 30 degree night and I was in heaven. It is a little heavier then some of the others pillows but its comfort was incredible.

If your head is properly insulated the pillow doesn't need to be, for me. My water wing has been used below freezing and does fine with my balaclava and windshirt hood.

i use my down sweater in a stuff sack, and it is really comfy. it also provides the insulation you are looking for.

"http://www.basegear.com/cocoon-ultralight-air-core-pillow.html"

How tall is that when it is fully inflated?

The cocoon air core is about 5 inches fully inflated. Though, when I use mine, I almost always like it only half inflated. It is a very comfortable pillow, but the inside inflatable liner doesn't seem as robust as my girlfriend's Montbell U.L. inflatable pillow. Also, if you hand wash it, be very careful that when swishing it around in the water, the inside liner doesn't get twisted or move around too much. I washed mine and must have not been paying attention because when I went to inflate it, it looked like the inflatable part had become TOTALLY lobsided! Had to get a new one. So, just like all your gear, if you take care of it and are careful, it should last with no problems!

I don' know of any off the top of my head, but a talented pillow maker should definitely start turning some out for the ultralight market, eh Bender?

I like the idea of plucking a goose every night before bed to fill my platypus but geese can be hard to track down :) I think I could handle making a lighter/warmer pillow than is currently available. I just want to see what you all think about the need for insulation. If your are putting an uninsulated pillow on the ground its the same idea as having an uninsulated sleeping pad. If one is insulated why not both to complete the sleep system? I think 1.5-1.6 oz for a nice sized insulated pillow is possible.

Edited by Bender on 11/20/2009 23:04:03 MST.