Katabatic Flex 22 Backpacking Quilt Review

Bottom Line

We found the Katabatic Flex 22 to be impressively versatile, warm, and comfortable. It offers several temperature options, making the ordering experience more straightforward compared to many other quilts we tested. 

Katabatic adds extra value with a reliable pad attachment system, a storage bag, and a stuff sack. The most impressive feature is its highly water-resistant down fill. Thanks to the ExpeDRY treated down, the Flex maintains its loft even in damp conditions and dries faster, making it a strong choice for backpackers in wetter climates.

However, the Flex has some drawbacks compared to similar models, mainly its higher price, weight, and bulk. Also, the Flex’s horizontal continuous baffles can make it difficult to keep the down fill in place if you toss and turn. That said, hikers who tend to stay still while sleeping probably won’t find this to be a big problem.

To see all the backpacking quilts we tested, see our best backpacking quilts gear guide.

How We Tested

Our gear analysts tested the Katabatic Flex 22 in late spring during overnight trips in the Cascade foothills and the coastal Pacific Northwest.

Warmth

As is common in the industry, we found the Katabatic Flex 22’s warmth rating to be rather generous. Most small manufacturers do not have their products EN tested (check out our best sleeping bags and best backpacking quilts gear guides for more info). 

We used this quilt on spring trips where the temperatures were typically in the 40s Fahrenheit and felt comfortable. One night, the temperature dipped into the upper 30s, and we noticed it was harder to stay warm. Those expecting cooler temperatures or who sleep cold will want to choose the 15-degree version. 

Since it features continuous horizontal baffles, on cold nights, you can move the down to the center of the quilt, ensuring it’s where you need it most: on top of your body. On warmer nights, you can shift the down to the sides to prevent overheating. This is a bit of a pro move, but it can be helpful if you’re aware of it.

However, the hyperDry down fill helped us stay warmer on cold, wet nights in the Pacific Northwest. Those who hike primarily in wet climates, or who routinely have condensation issues will find this to be a boon that will help them stay warmer than untreated down.

Comfort

The Katabatic Flex 22 is one of the most comfortable quilts we tested. Its spacious design and fluffy loft made it a cozy nest to look forward to at the end of the day. The Flex 22 offers three length options and two width options. The length choices are designed for hikers up to 5’6”, 6’, or 6’6”. Width options are available in both the 6’ and 6’6” lengths.

If you’re in doubt, we recommend choosing a longer and wider size for full coverage during chilly nights. This is especially helpful if you need to wear extra clothing like a bulky puffy coat or want to pull the quilt over your head.

The closure cords keep the quilt securely closed enough to eliminate gaps when rolling around in our sleep. However, the narrow round cords are slightly uncomfortable if used without inserting a pad; otherwise, we had no significant complaints about the overall comfort and performance of this quilt.

Weight & Packability

The Flex is heavier and bulkier than other quilts in this range. While we value the roominess and loft, it can be difficult to fit into a standard ultralight backpack. This might not be a dealbreaker for those with a more traditional pack, but if space is limited in your setup, another option may be better.

Depending on the size you select, the Flex 22 weighs between 21-28 oz, which is very light for a sleeping bag or quilt. This is a big win for us and an important factor to consider for any backpacking trip.

Features

The Flex 22 quilt can be opened completely like a comforter on warmer nights or you can zip and close the footbox completely when temperatures drop. You can also use the included pad attachment straps to hold the quilt securely over your body on cold nights. We love this design and versatility.

The footbox has a zipper that runs about 1/3 the length of the quilt and helps create an enclosed place for your feet on chilly nights. To fully enclose the footbox: zip up the zipper, snap the footbox enclosure, and pull the drawstring.

The Katabatic Flex 22 has one of the more secure quilt pad attachment systems we’ve tested. It comes with two lightweight yellow cords that you tie around your sleeping pad and attach to the quilt. Additionally, it comes with two stretchy elastic straps with clips that can pass through loops on the quilt to keep the bottom opening from widening.

Should You Buy The Katabatic Flex 22?

We think the Katabatic Flex 22 quilt is an excellent option for backpackers seeking a versatile three-season quilt. Those looking for a lay flat quilt who sleep warm (or won’t be out in below freezing temperatures) will be pleased with this option. 

However, it is not the lightest or cheapest backpacking quilt on the market and won’t be the best fit for everyone.

What Other Backpacking Quilts Should You Consider?

If the Katabatic Flex 22 isn’t for you, there are many other options in our best best backpacking quilts gear guide.

Western Mountaineering AstraLite Quilt Review:  Our Editor’s pick for the Best Overall Backpacking Quilt has the best warmth-to-weight ratio of any quilt we tested, weighing in at a mere 16 ounces.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt Review: This Editor’s Pick for Warmest Ultralight Backpacking quilt offers exceptional warmth without the added weight and bulk. It achieves this with 1000 fill power down.

Loco Libre Operator Series Ghost Pepper 20 Review:  Our top pick for versatile sleeping bag hybrid offers a slightly roomier cut that will accommodate more room to move without making it hard to heat. Great for those looking for an adjustable foot box.