I have made the decision to jump down the rabbit hole of hammock gear. I've done a lot of research on hammocks and associated gear (tarps and quilts). I am planning on purchasing a Warbonnet XLC hammock, but I have a few question(s) regarding quilts, both top and under, and tarps. Basically, what features make a good quilt? I think I have the temperature range figured out, but don't see big differences in quilts from some of the companies I have looked at (Enlightened Equipment, Hammock Gear, Warbonnet). What are some features that may be important to consider for quilts? Same question for tarps, is it necessary to have doors on a tarp or is that mainly for colder season hanging. Thanks for any input!

Welcome to the world of hanging! I personally believe all of the cottage manufacturers make similarly excellent quality quilts. Unless you are cold weather hanging I recommend a snap instead of sewn foot box so you can more easily vent in warmer weather. Unless you are super weight conscious I would get a full length instead of a 3/4 length under quilt. You pay more for higher fill down counts.
As far as the hammock fly, I don't cold weather hang, but I opted for the Warbonnet Superfly because I wanted the doors for inclement weather. When it's nice out I just tie the doors back.
Finally, I have purchased most of my hammock gear preowned from eBay, Hammock Forums and Gear Swap. It's a great way to save $$ for other purchases!

I have a superfly and like the door for those horizontal rain days. I have the double layer bottom in my hammock but I think the single would be better for me.
+1 for doors
- 1 for double bottom

Quilts:
UQ
1. Is there a draft tube at the ends? You will be warmer with one.
2. What is the attachment system? Only at the ends, or is there an ability to connect along the sides?
I agree that full length is better than shorter
TQ & UQ:
1. What type of fill? Synth or down?
2. If down, is it the newer moisture resistant type?
3. Is the shell a DWR coated shell?
4. Are there baffles or is it sewn through? this affects performance.
5. Is footbox snap or draw cord?
6. Is there a draw cord at the neck?
7. What fill power down? 600, 700, 900
8. How much down or synth fill? What is temp rating?

quote jcavenagh: "Quilts:
UQ
1. Is there a draft tube at the ends? You will be warmer with one.

It can be vented at the ends, or the ends can be pulled shut to trap heat. Yes you will be much warmer with one imo.

2. What is the attachment system? Only at the ends, or is there an ability to connect along the sides?

Most attach by small carabiner, or a bungee at the ends, there is no reason to connect them along the sides as they easily slip around you.

I agree that full length is better than shorter

This for me depends on the day. Hotter weather I like the 3/4, cooler I like the full length.

TQ & UQ:
1. What type of fill? Synth or down?

Down for the win (I used to say synthetic and won't go back due to warmth weight, and packability)

2. If down, is it the newer moisture resistant type?

Pretty sure no, but my quilts don't get wet.

3. Is the shell a DWR coated shell?

Nope

4. Are there baffles or is it sewn through? this affects performance.

Yes there are baffles, size differs from vendors.

5. Is footbox snap or draw cord?

I went for the snap with drawcord for a 40 degree bag. For a colder bag I'll go with a sewn shut.

6. Is there a draw cord at the neck?

Don't remember but there is a snap, I rarely use it.

7. What fill power down? 600, 700, 900

Whatever Hammock gear was using to reach their temp rating.

Look here for good info about sleeping bag/quilt construction.

Biggest deciding factor for me when I was buying my quilts was my height. I'm 6'1" and am right at the edge of needing a regular or long sleeping bag. Regulars are usually too short and longs are way too long. I went with a Hammock Gear quilt because their standard was a couple inches longer than everyone else's; so I didn't have to pay extra for a long model and it fits great.

Alan

Thanks for all of the info, I appreciate everyone helping me to spend my money! I look forward to beginning post tent life!

quote Alan Gage: "Biggest deciding factor for me when I was buying my quilts was my height. I'm 6'1" and am right at the edge of needing a regular or long sleeping bag. Regulars are usually too short and longs are way too long. I went with a Hammock Gear quilt because their standard was a couple inches longer than everyone else's; so I didn't have to pay extra for a long model and it fits great.
"

I'm going to have to take this back. I just realized today that my Hammock Gear top quilt IS a long model. It fits me quite well. The bottom quilt is regular length.

Alan

If you are in the twin cities, there are probably plenty of us around that would be happy to show you our equipment so you have an idea of what you are getting yourself into. I know that was helpful for me when I first started.

Thanks for the offer Aosrax, but I am in southern NM.