Bike Camping Gear Made, Tested In America

Enlightened Equipment Enigma quilt

Enlightened Equipment makes ultralight down quilts in Winona, Minnesota. I put an 800-fill downtek Enigma 30-degree quilt ($235) to the test.

Without a zipper or under-body material, the quilt clocks in at a scant 16.48 ounces, packing down incredibly small. The quilt has a closed toebox, locking in heat around the feet, which I appreciated on nights that dipped below 40 degrees. I also found the quilt to be a more comfortable, less claustrophobic sleeping option than a bag.

In hindsight, I should’ve sized-up and got a long for more coverage area for only a $5 bump in price. On the nights below 40, I felt the cold more than I would’ve liked to. It’s necessary to point out that we were in extremely damp ocean air, and my core temperature was lower than normal after 60 miles on the bike. Back home in Minnesota, I’ve slept at 40 degrees in drier air without issue.

Enlightened Equipment is a largely custom shop, with nearly every quilt built-to-order. The staff of 25 produces a range of quilts and accessories tailored to customer’s specifications. The Enigma is a rock solid option at a truly impressive, made-in-America price.