_This page is for backpackers who are interested in participating in the Ardeth Sleep System Protocol (ASSP), our system for testing the capability of a sleeping system to keep users warm and comfortable. The protocol provides information on the insulating properties of sleeping bags, tents, tarps, sleeping pads, and similar gear. Backpackers are welcome to test their own gear.

By taking part in the program, you will, for the first time, have detailed information about the performance of your backpacking sleep system. You'll find out how much your sleeping bag, quilt, tent, socks, and vapor barriers contribute to your nighttime comfort. By comparing your data to other ASSP datasets, you'll learn how other people's sleep systems function also. You'll be able to weigh the parts of your sleep system and determine which ones provide you with the most comfort for their weight and for the nighttime temperatures you anticipate on your backcountry trips.

Participating in ASSP is free. We're looking for volunteers who are interested in contributing to what will eventually be an online database that will benefit all backpackers. The following are the steps you'll need to take to get involved:
1. Read the information on this page to find out whether you're a suitable candidate.
2. Submit a completed Participant Profile. We'll contact you as soon as we can to let you know if you're selected.
3. Once your profile is approved, you'll plan your backpacking trip and submit a completed ASSP Trip Profile. You'll receive via mail an ASSP package for the trip that you intend to take. The ASSP package will include a set of sensors, lightweight plastic carabiners, a notepad, and instructions. Each sensor is about the size of a credit card and weighs about 2 oz. The sensors will be programmed specifically for you and your trip. A solo backpacker might want three sensors; a couple might carry five. If your profile indicates your feet are often feel cold in your bag, we might supply additional sensors to monitor your foot conditions.
Note:

• Please submit your trip profile at least two weeks before your intended trip.
• The sensor equipment is expensive, so we currently require that you have a valid credit card number on file before the ASSP package is sent out. The cost to replace a lost sensor is $50, and at least two sensors are required per trip).
  

4. During your trip, you'll follow the easy ASSP instructions to ensure accurate data collection. The sensors are used at night. When you're preparing for sleep, you simply place the sensors in your sleeping area according to the instructions and press the time stamp button on the lead sensor (the one placed inside your bag at about chest level). This time stamp button indicates in the data that an event occurred (going to bed, for example). Throughout the night, you'll hit the time stamp button any time some event occurs—you adjust your baselayers, get up to pee, or make changes to your sleep system. When you get up in the morning, you'll press the time stamp button to indicate the end of your sleeping period. In the notebook provided, you'll record information that pertains to any events that you recorded during the night.
5. When you return from your trip, you'll ship the ASSP package back to Ardeth for analysis.
6. Ardeth will e-mail you the raw data along with the analysis of the data.

Adults of all ages, any gender, backpacking style, and experience level are great. Backpackers who sleep in bags, quilts, blankets, tents, tarps, or just under the stars are good. Lightweight or conventional backpackers, solo backpackers, or families can contribute to this project. Even children can participate if they are accompanied by an adult.

Currently, the ideal candidates for our program are adult backpackers. The more nights you spend backpacking, the better. Trips of multiple days that include multiple participants will provide the greatest amount of data with the least efforts. If you backpack a lot and you're slightly obsessed with how your equipment weight translates to your comfort. We definitely want to hear from you.

Ready to submit a Participant Profile? Move on the ASSP Tester Profile page!