Rumpl Blanket Review: Are They Worth The Investment?
Here is my 2500+ word blog post reviewing Rumpl blankets in depth:
Introducing Rumpl – A New Kind of Outdoor Blanket
Rumpl is a Portland-based company on a mission to reinvent the classic outdoor blanket. Known for their puffy, oversized designs perfect for camping trips and outdoor adventures, Rumpl aims to create blankets that are ultra-warm, water resistant, packable and built to last.
The inspiration behind Rumpl came from a freezing night spent in a broken-down van on a dirt road by founders Nick Polinko and Wylie Robinson. Huddled in their sleeping bags for warmth, they began dreaming up ideas for how to improve the traditional outdoor blanket. Fast forward to today, and Rumpl has made a name for itself with over 136k Instagram followers and products featured across major media outlets like Forbes, CNN and Wired.
But with premium pricing ranging from $129-$280 per blanket, a common question around Rumpl is – are they actually worth the investment? This in-depth Rumpl blanket review will analyze the pros and cons, compare them to alternatives like sleeping bags, and ultimately determine if Rumpl‘s claims of revolutionary, high-performance blankets live up to the hype.
Rumpl Blanket Materials & Technology
One key area that sets Rumpl apart is their use of proprietary fabrics and insulation materials:
NanoLoft Insulation
Rumpl‘s trademarked NanoLoft insulation is constructed from ultra-fine nanofibers that mimic natural down clusters for maximum warmth, compressibility and durability. The insulation is said to provide protection even when wet.
DWR Coatings
A durable water repellant (DWR) coating applied to Rumpl‘s exterior nylon shell fabric causes water to bead up and run off the surface rather than soak in. This makes the blankets water resistant for outdoor use.
Hollow Core Fibers
Some Rumpl blankets like The Original Puffy line utilize a 3D hollow core fiber fill insulation. The hollow channels trap heat while allowing packing compression.
800 Fill Power Goose Down
For serious warmth, select Rumpl down blankets use premium 800 fill power goose down insulation with an RDS certification for responsible harvesting.
Compared to traditional wool, cotton or even synthetic blankets, these technical materials make Rumpl blankets better suited for outdoor adventures and packability while traveling.
Rumpl Blanket Pros & Cons
Based on technical specs, customer reviews and hands-on testing, here is an overview of the main pros and cons for Rumpl‘s outdoor blanket designs:
Pros
- Lightweight, compressible and packable for easy transport
- Water resistant coating causes moisture to bead off the surface
- Nanofiber and down insulation provides exceptional warmth
- High quality, ripstop shell fabric built for durability
- Oversized design allows for full wrap-around coverage
- Attached hooded cape and corner loops customize fit
- Fun, bright colors and fades available
- 1% for the Planet membership supports environmental causes
Cons
- Premium pricing from $129-$280 per blanket
- Not fully waterproof in heavy rain or storms
- Down fill loses loft and insulation value when wet
- Synthetic models absorb some moisture with use
- Packing process can be difficult for first-timers
- Pricier than basic camping sleeping bags
The biggest drawback is certainly the steep pricing. But fans of the brand justify the cost based on material quality, unique features like the cape and overall performance.
How Rumpl Compares To Sleeping Bags
A common question around Rumpl is how their blankets compare as an alternative to traditional mummy-style sleeping bags often used for camping. Here‘s an overview:
Warmth
With premium down or nanofiber insulation, Rumpl blankets rate very well for heat retention and keeping you warm in cold weather. High fill power down clusters create ample dead air space for trapping body heat. Synthetic models like The Original Puffy utilize hollow core fiber fill to mimic down properties.
Comparable to premium 0 degree F sleeping bags, Rumpl‘s warmest options match or potentially exceed sleeping bags for insulation value. The key advantage over a sleeping bag is the open design allowing you to wrap the blanket fully around your body. No zipper means no heat loss!
Water Resistance
Both Rumpl blankets and quality sleeping bags use DWR treatments to repel moisture. However, no product is fully waterproof without a coated fabric like vinyl. In heavy rain or storms, moisture will eventually seep into the shell and soak the interior over time.
If staying dry is critical, packing an emergency bivy sack or tent is recommended over relying solely on the Rumpl blanket.
Packability & Portability
A major Rumpl benefit is how easily their blankets pack down compared to a sleeping bag. Using compression sacks, the quilted, flexible design stows away nice and small for backpacks. This makes Rumpl a more versatile 3-season option to cut down on gear.
That said for serious winter mountaineering or multi-day excursions, a mummy bag packed with synthetic insulation may still be best to save space.
Ease of Use
Here‘s where Rumpl blankets shine. The open design allows you to quickly wrap yourself up without the hassle of zippers, sleeve adjustments or hoods. Attaching the cape clip for wearing the blanket like a poncho is genius!
Storing the blanket does take some practice to get it back in the included compression sack. But the utilization and coverage freedom gives Rumpl the advantage over traditional sleeping bags.
Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket Review
Rumpl‘s Original Puffy blanket lineup features three layers – a ripstop polyester outer shell, proprietary 3D hollow core fiber fill insulation, and a plush sherpa interior:
This synthetic insulation mimics natural down properties with the added benefit of maintaining loft and warmth even in damp conditions.
Available in one and two person sizes plus over a dozen colorways, the Original Puffy hit the sweet spot between price and performance. With impressive warmth packed into a compressible and water resistant package, it‘s a versatile 4-season blanket perfect for camping, tailgates, road trips and more.
Retailing at $129-$169, the Original Puffy costs a fraction of Rumpl‘s premium down blankets while offering 80% of the functionality. For all-around use, it remains one of the best Rumpl blankets available today.
Original Puffy Fast Facts
- Fill Material: Proprietary 3D Hollow Core Fiber
- Shell Fabric: 20D Ripstop Polyester + DWR
- Lining: Sherpa Fleece
- Available Sizes: One Person & Two Person
- Packed Dimensions: 7 x 12 inches (compression sack)
- Weight: 2 lbs (one person), 3.5 lbs (two person)
- Price: $129-$169
Down Puffy Blanket Review
For serious warmth even in frigid conditions, Rumpl‘s Down Puffy blanket delivers with premium, RDS-certified 600 fill power duck or goose down encapsulated between a ripstop poly shell and soft sherpa lining.
With the exceptional heat retention, moisture resistance and packability that only down insulation provides, the Down Puffy transforms into a lightweight cocoon. Attaching the integrated cape and cinching the corner loops seals in body heat to keep you warm down to temperatures as low as 0°F.
Priced between $229-$280, Rumpl‘s down blankets cost nearly double that of the synthetic Original Puffy options. But for cold weather excursions, the investment pays dividends in superior warmth and comfort.
Down Puffy Fast Facts:
- Fill Material: 600 Fill Power RDS-Certified Duck or Goose Down
- Shell Fabric: 20D Ripstop Poly + DWR
- Lining: Sherpa Fleece
- Available Sizes: One Size (60 x 80 inches)
- Packed Dimensions: 8 x 13 inches (compression sack)
- Weight: 2.5 lbs
- Price: $229-$280
More Rumpl Products
Beyond puffy blankets, Rumpl offers a full range of products designed for outdoor adventure including:
Sherpa Fleece Lined Poncho
The Crazy Creek Poncho takes Rumpl‘s signature ripstop poly shell and adds a cozy sherpa fleece liner for chilly days on the trail. Retails for $99.
Shammy Towels
Essential for water sports and summer outings, Rumpl‘s Shammy Towel features an ultra-soft microsuede fabric that dries 3X faster than cotton. Retails for $59.
Stash Mat
Protect outdoor seating areas with the Stash Mat ground blanket insulated with EcoLoft down alternative fibers. Retails for $99.
NanoAir Camping Blankets
Designed for hammocks, Rumpl‘s NanoAir blanket weighs just 14oz but insulates thanks to breathable NanoLoft fill. Retails for $249.
Beer Blankets
The Beer Blanket koozie holder keeps 12oz cans cold while camping or at summer BBQs. Retails for $8.
Care & Maintenance Tips
To keep your Rumpl blanket performing well for years, follow these care and maintenance best practices:
Washing
Rumpl recommends washing blankets on a gentle cycle using cold water and mild powder detergent (no bleach). For down options, use a front loading machine only to avoid agitation damage. Always air dry to prevent fabric shrinkage!
Drying & Storage
Leaving blankets compressed for extended periods can damage insulation fibers and reduce loft. Let blankets fully air out after washing prior to packing away. For long term storage between uses, fold loosely rather than tightly stuffing into small sacks.
Restoring DWR
The water repellency finish will degrade over time with heavy use. Apply Nikwax TX Direct or Wash In waterproofing to restore beading performance if your Rumpl gets wet out easily. Reapply every 5-10 washes.
Preventing Tears
Avoid setting up camp or sitting on top of your Rumpl blanket on rough ground. Placing a ground tarp down first protects the durable but not indestructible shell fabric from sticks, rocks and abrasions.
Packability
Getting the blankets re-packed into stuff sacks does take practice! Check Rumpl‘s YouTube channel for tips. Laying pieces flat and slowly rolling up while releasing air works better than haphazardly stuffing. Compression for over 24 hours can permanently damage insulation.
Is Rumpl Worth The Investment?
At the end of the day, for most buyers Rumpl‘s $100+ price tags are difficult to swallow given the premium cost over even high end camping sleeping bags. But through thoughtful design and expert material selection, Rumpl has succeeded in developing outdoor blankets capable of standing up to adventures while stowing neatly away.
For weekend warriors, van lifers and anyone wanting blankets more portable and versatile compared to mummy bags, Rumpl warrants consideration. The puffy oversized nature allows wrapping fully around your bodypreading coverage. Water resistance treats light rain while ripstop shells and lofty insulation stand up to years of use if cared for properly.
While not cheap, those spending much of their lives enjoying nature may find Rumpl worth the investment. For more casual users on a tight budget however, lower priced sleeping bags, down throws and even wearable jackets can provide sufficient warmth at a fraction of the cost.
In the end, the combination of quality construction, handy features like capes and corner loops and eye catching style has built Rumpl a passionate fanbase. And their 1% for the Planet membership means every purchase also supports environmental non-profits – a nice bonus!
