When identifying all the ways that they could shave weight from their new ultralight quilt, NEMO landed on a lesser-used construction method called “Karo Step.” This style of baffle succeeds in keeping down evenly distributed without creating cold spots and uses less material than traditional methods. Because when it comes to their Pulse™ quilt, every ounce counts!
The NEMO Pulse Backpacking Quilt isn't your average backpacking gear. It features KARO Step Baffles—a weird maze-like pattern that keeps down from clumping where you don't want it. Cold spots? Not here. The design uses 45% less baffle material than traditional quilts, making it surprisingly light. Serious hikers take note: this thing compresses impressively small but delivers stupendous warmth. Innovative? Sure. But the real question is whether this fancy pattern justifies the price tag.
Every backpacker knows the struggle. You're ten miles from nowhere, it's getting cold, and your sleeping bag has developed that dreaded cold spot right across your shoulders. NEMO's new release, the Pulse Quilt, tackles this age-old problem with its innovative Karo Step baffle construction. It's not just another pretty face in the crowded ultralight quilt market.
The Karo Step design isn't rocket science, but it might as well be. Instead of traditional straight baffles, NEMO created a maze-like pattern of staggered baffles between the inner and outer quilt layers. No more down migration. No more shivering at 2 AM. The design uses minimal sewn strips that compartmentalize the down while still allowing controlled shifting when you need it. This creative approach combines the minimal cold spots of baffle box construction with easier down distribution than traditional methods.
Say goodbye to 2 AM shivers—NEMO's Karo Step baffles keep down where it belongs, right over your shoulders.
Let's talk efficiency. This isn't your grandfather's quilt. The Karo Step uses 45% less baffle material than traditionals box baffle designs. Less material equals less weight. Simple math. The regular size weighs just 1 pound 4 ounces, with 12 ounces of that being the 1,000 fill power ExpeDRY down. That's serious warmth-to-weight ratio in a package that compresses to 8" x 5.5".
Cold spots are quilt killers. Period. The Pulse eliminates them by avoiding those full-length seams that squeeze your precious down into useless pancakes. The gold-infused ExpeDRY down dries 30% faster than standard hydrophobic down, as nothing says "miserable trip" like wet insulation. The RDS-certified down ensures ethical sourcing while delivering premium performance.
The footbox is fully enclosed and insulated. Your toes will thank you. There's a plush collar baffle with hardware to seal in warmth around your neck. Smart design choices for places where heat escapes fastest.
NEMO didn't forget about customization either. The staggered baffles let you redistribute down to address cold spots. Elasticated pad straps come included.
Sustainability isn't just a buzzword here. The 100% recycled polyester ripstop shell uses PFAS-free DWR treatment. The down is RDS-certified, so no geese were mistreated for your comfort. It's part of NEMO's Endless Promise recyclable line.
The Karo Step on the NEMO Pulse quilt isn't a revolution. It's an evolution. Less material, less weight, more warmth, less environmental impact. For serious backpackers, that's the equation that matters.
