Thanks for watching! The cloak is well worth it. Check it out here: www.varusteleka.com/en/product/sarma-tst-thermal-cloak/57470: www.varusteleka.com/en/product/sarma-tst-thermal-cloak/57470
Cool! Thanks for showing all these configurations. I love Varusteleka! I appreciate their sense of humor too. It's not often that I am laughing out loud as I'm reading bushcraft gear descriptions. I am waiting for an order from them to arrive at the moment. But I'm definitely going to be checking this out.
@@user-bh3ew6ii4g Haha! I am with you. Those guys are hilarious. That being said, they also make really great gear. These cloaks are exceptional. Very versatile. Thanks for watching!
@@EnduranceRoom I'm waiting for my two Romanian Plash-palatkas from them to arrive. I'm really looking forward to getting them, especially after seeing your videos. I also bought a DD Hammocks Travel Hammock which, like your hammock tent can be used on the ground as a tent too. It's much lighter weight than yours, but I'm sure not as robust.
@@EnduranceRoom Varusteleka has the best price on them I have seen, even better than on the DD Hammocks website. I prefer to sleep in hammock even over a bed, but there aren't always suitable trees where I am. So I'm hoping this will be a good option.
I was interested... then you mentioned "as a hunting garment..." and I was sold, especially after sitting for hours in cold downpours in NW Oregon this last fall while hunting. Great product!
An awesome piece of gear! Incredibly compact, large, easy to use with tough, well made components like the zippers & tie out points. That's a gem right there! Great review brother, thank you! 🤜🤛
Thank you, brother! It really is very well thought out and put together. Brilliant modernization of the old school poncho tent shelter half concept. Have a good one! 🤝
Well done. Just received the winter camo version with light insulation. It really is very nice. I have similar products but not as large as this and with as many features that make it so versatile. And it packs down for carrying in a 10 liter bag. Wearing in winter as a thermal cloak with overboots in a hastily built blind for wildlife observation is how I want to use it.
Worth mentioning it has double ended zips along the 3 sides making it very flexible. I think it would work as a windsack for 2 people. The Jerven bag has single ended zips but seems slightly higher quality materials.
Great review, Jess. I have a Jerven Original and a Jerven Hunter (insulated). These things just plain work and I'd expect the Sarma version to work just as well. One improvement I see on the Sarma is that it has loops for tie-outs instead of the grommets on the Jervens. The one thing you need to be aware of when using these as a bivy or sleeping bag is condensation. They are waterproof and not at all breathable, so you'll get condensation. You'll want to air them out after a night's sleep. A less expensive alternative for those on a budge is the USGI casualty evacuation blanker, or a heavy duty space blanket. I've used one many times as a "taco" around a sleeping bag or poncho liner. The downside is that they are smaller than the Sarma cloak.
Thanks Dave! Yes, I have owned a Jerven Hunter as well now for a couple years. Great kit. Opening the zippers up works wonders alleviating condensation on both the Jerven and the Särmä. Grabber blankets are great. I probably have a roll of gorilla tape patching mine up, but it works just fine all the same.
It really is quite excellent. Covers a lot of different tasks. I have a jerven hunter, which is insulated, and the basis for this Särmä cloak. Obviously, the insulated is warmer. But, I must say, the uninsulated version is very very good. It is light, compact, and adds an incredible amount of warmth to your clothing or sleeping gear.
Hi there Jess .. 👍 great overview 😊. I've been looking at getting a 'refective' tarp so perhaps .. Varusteleka .. one of my favourite on-line sites .. have bought a fair amount of gear from them. Good Quality Products at even better Prices .. and with quick no- nonsense delivery. And .. they have a good sense of humour .. perhaps unconventional to some .. but refreshing ('never go drinking with the Fins .. you don't know where you will wake up' .. and more 😁).. Till next time, thanks for sharing .. take care .. Tommy
Hi Tommy! Thank you much. I am really quite impressed with all that it does. It is a winner in my book. Varusteleka definitely has the humor. 😁 I can only imagine what a night out would be like lol Have a good one!
Of course its from finnland. Thats so awesome. I'm never buying anything ever again thats not from finnland. Wish I had the extra cash for this but I'm saving up. Cheers!
Looks like an interesting piece of equipment. I think I like it. It provides a lot of options. You are keeping the capitalistic machine moving. I need a good bivy.
I have one of these and actually the best one of the series but you still get the cold of the ground so you better have some decent insulation underneath
i have the original jetven bag, the insulated version, being a wee guy i got the mini, always regretted it , should have got the full size. i did try and sleep in it once , in summer and i was really cold
Brother that is a very interesting gear I will look in to that for sure is something I can use as well living Up North it will come very handy especially in hunting season! Excellent Review as always CHEERS BROTHER!
Thanks my friend. It’s definitely worth checking out. I am really impressed with it. If you are up north, you would definitely find some use for it. Cheers!
Thanks man, appreciate it. It definitely is an investment, but if you add up the price of a all the separate gear it can replace, it makes a lot of sense. A couple grabber blankets and some spray paint camo could make an economical alternative. Cheers
Neat piece of gear . Versatile and a decent size . Not sure who came up with the 5 by 7 standard so much is based off of . Good review. Have a good one
Thank you! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do. I usually keep the zips opened up a bit on the ends to release any condensation. Makes all the difference. 🤝
It would depend on a couple things like ground insulation, outside temp, clothing. By itself, it probably adds about 15 degrees or so. That being said, this cloak is excellent and can make a light summer weight bag sufficient for cold fall or spring weather.
Thanks for the good video. When I get new camping gear, it has to be military grade gear. Here near the Russian border, you have to be prepared. Almost all our men have been in the army. Fortunately, there is no threat of war, but if war breaks out, it is better to have decent equipment. The equipment that the state provides to its soldiers is not necessarily enough
I remember seeing the jerven watching old Suzanne Williams Bushcraftgirl videos. Thought it was a bit too small for my giant American self. This larger size looks like it might fit the bill. There isn't much info online. Do you know if you could zip two together to make a larger shelter?
Take some paracord, strip out the inner strands and thread pieces about 4” long through the zipper pulls and tie off the end. It nearly silences the zippers. Well worth doing.
I do it to all zippers, and the cloak actually came with very hefty paracord silencers. But the pulls are big af and still clank. I'm thinking heatshrink tubing to solve the issue once and for all.
Hi, the Mylar component should reflect light from a hanging tent ⛺️ light at night brightening up the shelter's interior when used as an A frame/plow point or certainly reflect the warmth of a fire in a lean to. Try it sometime and let us know.
I have tested it both as a garment and as shelter. (It was featured quite a bit in my overnight video from last weekend.) I have also owned a jerven fjellduken for several years, which serves the same purposes. Both are excellent. The Särmä cloak is priced better. The reflective coating does help a bit with light, but the heat reflection is awesome, both from the body and from an external source. I covered this (and much more) in the video.
Hey hoss I’ve been wanting one of these for awhile but couldn’t find much info on them, thank you for the review. Was yours one of the “special batch” from the current stock?
Hi from the UK, thanks for the great review! A quick question: when zipped lengthwise, connected to a ridge line, will this also zip up at both ends (obviously leaving 6 inches or so for air/ventilation)? As in your video of the Jerven bag, where you appear to be all but completely zipped in, but for the aforementioned small ventilation gaps.
Superbe équipement! Really grateful for your efforts to publish this thorough record. So here we are one year later... Is this cloak still in your winter load out? Would you repurchase the non-insulated version or go for the 67g/m2 or 100g/m2? Very appreciative of any thoughts you might have to share Best wishes, Team Theta
Thank you very much! I went with the uninsulated version because I have an insulated jerven fjelduken. Both are very similar and quite useful. I suppose I prefer the insulated version for the colder months. That being said the uninsulated version is much easier to pack. Primary uses have been tarp, warming layer and bivvy. As a bivvy, it really excels, as it can be combined with a light sleeping bag or blanket for both waterproofing and thermal properties. Essentially, making a light weight sleeping bag suitable for much colder conditions than normal. Condensation does occur, but can be mitigated simply by venting the zippers. Whichever you decide on, I am sure you will be happy with it. They are very useful. Cheers my friend 🤝
@@EnduranceRoom Thank you, we truly value your wisdom! Your experience in the field is making it easier for all us to walk the path. That’s why we love this community. We share and make each other stronger. We’re excited to add this piece to our daily. It’s just too versatile to go without and it offers tremendous value in emergency situations. It always comes back to safety. Until next time! T.T
Very interesting piece of gear. I ordered a Savotta Jaakari based upon your videos great content. I’ve been looking for something like that. Any suggestions on what to use it with for temps down to freezing? I’ve been researching the ranger roll, but that looks like it’s even better and very well made although quite expensive. I live in the south but in the winter smoky mtns can get pretty cold at higher elevations.
It is great kit. You could run it with a woobie, using the tie outs to cinch woobie to the cloak making a bivvy sleeping bag combo. The woobie is light and would be very flexible for your area. If you pick one up, you need a belt to use it as a cloak. I have a simple webbing strap with a fastex buckle rolled up in the cloak. It covers head to toe plus your ruck.
For hunting all day in a windy environment, and expecting 20f-35f, is the insulated version overkill? Or, would this one work well as a top layer? Super interesting
I would steer to the 60g insulated model. The uninsulated is great, but the insulation adds a lot. I like to run it suspended under my tarp, tied off to the ridge line. Makes an insulated pod shelter bivvy tent.
Is it possible to attach 2 cloaks together with the zippers? Would add space and versatility! Thanks for the review, not many reviews on Varusteleka gear, which is too bad cuz their stuff ROCKS!
i’m trying to decide between this thermal cloak and the helikon tex swagman roll the cloak seems more versatile any thoughts i was looking at the uninsulated thermal cloak thanks for your great videos i just got my plosh polaka and its super cool
Thank you! Man, I think the swagman is really cool, but this is as you said, more versatile. Shelter, rain wear, blanket, bivvy, sleeping bag, camo etc. It has a bit of a learning curve getting used to it, but it is excellent. If you have a woobie, you can tie it inside to make a bivvy/sleeping bag combo that is lightweight, multipurpose and multi seasonal. Cheers
The universe is works in mysterious ways. It is very solid, worthwhile kit. Multiples can be linked up. I like using it with a larger tarp for the ground cover, and then this for the thermal properties. But if quick efficient and low profile is the goal, this does that very well. Condensation can be an issue fully sealed up. I crack the zippers by my feet and by my head and its good to go. Cheers
Material isn’t too bad, zippers are a little noisy. I ran paracord through them and it quieted down quite a bit. It will block if you are under it, but so will most tarps. Trick is to be under it beforehand.
Ive been waiting for them to restock for almost a year. I'd imagine the pandemic and the war are screwing them up. How would you use while carrying a pack? My old lavvu and my usgi poncho went over my ruck. I dont see how it wouldnt interfere with the straps. Would love to see more videos of it in use.
Yeah, their suppliers have all taken a hit and been shifted around. The cloak fits right over me and my ruck. Works really well. I featured it in this video SNOWSTORM Ratnik Tarp, Särmä Thermal Cloak, SOLO Overnight Bushcraft Winter Camping from about 7 months ago. I would check out the jerven fjelduken. That is the one that these cloaks are based off of. They are sold at varuste.net
@@EnduranceRoom thanks. I always thought the jerven was a sleak design. Being a giant American always made it untenable. Same problem with my polish lavvu. Always just a little to small. These foreigners are all midgets. The cloak @ 7x7 is awesome. Gotta love those vikings
No insulation on this one. The exclusive is the only model I know of that is like that. That being said, you can put any insulation inside it and it will significantly improve upon it. Both brands are great.
Thank you very much for the review! I used the cloak at about -2 degree Celsius with only a poncholiner but a loft jacket. It was ok but the cloak got verywet from condensation. How does it perform with colder temperatures? Any tips for the ccondensation issue?
@@preparedpodcast Yes, opening the zippers helped me. Condensation comes with most synthetics, ponchos, tarps, etc. Just gotta find a good balance of staying warm/dry and airflow.
Im stinging to get one of these when they come back into stock. Although they do still have some winter camo 67 gsm ones left. Torn about which version to get for here in Australia, temps usually above 0 C. Might just get the ones they have, the winter camo might actually blend in pretty well in the Aussie bush. Do you think the insulated ones would be as good at reflecting heat from a fire if you used them in the typical lean to config that pathfinder teaches for emergency shelters?
The insulation may be a bit much for most circumstances. I would checkout the jerven original as an alternative. It is uninsulated and lightweight. It folds in half to a square for poncho/rain gear/camo, but unzips to a nice size rectangle for tarp shelters. The Särmä cloak is a copy of the jerven. I got my jerven from www.varuste.net
@@EnduranceRoom I ended up with a Jerven Hunter! waiting for it to arrive, will let you know how it goes in warmer climates brother, thanks for the advice.
@@davef5916 Ah man, that’s awesome! Enjoy it. Literally some of my favorite kit. When it’s warm out, I use it open as a blanket, starts cooling, I will zip it mostly closed as a bivvy/sleeping bag (zips partially open for ventilation), and when cold, I use it as a bivvy for a light sleeping bag, which dramatically improves the warmth. Watch out for sparks from your fire, as they aren’t flame resistant. Gorilla tape will patch it if necessary.
Not sure TBH. Might be awhile. I would recommend a jerven fjelduken. This is what the sarma cloak is based off of. They can be ordered from www.varuste.net
Someone needs to make a slightly larger canvas cloak shelter with some more user friendly additions. Wouldn't be cheap, but it would be worth it. Edit: I own and use the 2GoSystems Trifecta V2, which is very similar except I don't think it is quite as versatile as it isn't really designed to be a cloak. If they made one that could it might be the best piece of emergency gear available.
I am really surprised someone hasn’t done that yet. I have thought about splicing a couple palatkas together, but haven’t brought myself to cut one up just yet. I have only heard good things about the 2GoSystems gear. It would be a pretty simple process for them to modify their zipper system on the Trifecta to accommodate use as a garment like the Särmä cloak.
@@EnduranceRoom oh absolutely, or even add a head hole to their thermal blanket, which is designed to be used with their poncho (which has a reflective liner) and voila, instant semi budget loveliness! I would sell some gear to buy one or a few. I need to sell some gear anyway lol.
@@NobodyHere44 No problem. Heavy rain means warmer weather, so for that I would setup a plowpoint type shelter or an a frame rather than zipping it up for an enclosed configuration. I just posted an overnight video using this as my shelter. Cheers
@@johnmbrown6627 Yes. Works a little better as a tarp than the insulated models. But, the insulated models are better for condensation. The zippers need vented periodically to freshen the air up, but in general, these things are great. Just add a sleeping bag or a woobie.
@@johnmbrown6627 Checkout the Jerven Original at www.betterbushcraft.com I just did a video on it. Great kit. Similar, but different size. They should have more in stock within next week or so.
Thanks for watching! The cloak is well worth it. Check it out here: www.varusteleka.com/en/product/sarma-tst-thermal-cloak/57470: www.varusteleka.com/en/product/sarma-tst-thermal-cloak/57470
Cool! Thanks for showing all these configurations. I love Varusteleka! I appreciate their sense of humor too. It's not often that I am laughing out loud as I'm reading bushcraft gear descriptions. I am waiting for an order from them to arrive at the moment. But I'm definitely going to be checking this out.
@@user-bh3ew6ii4g Haha! I am with you. Those guys are hilarious. That being said, they also make really great gear. These cloaks are exceptional. Very versatile. Thanks for watching!
@@EnduranceRoom I'm waiting for my two Romanian Plash-palatkas from them to arrive. I'm really looking forward to getting them, especially after seeing your videos. I also bought a DD Hammocks Travel Hammock which, like your hammock tent can be used on the ground as a tent too. It's much lighter weight than yours, but I'm sure not as robust.
@@user-bh3ew6ii4g Very cool! Enjoy the palatkas. They are a blast. I haven’t seen the hammock. Sounds awesome!
@@EnduranceRoom Varusteleka has the best price on them I have seen, even better than on the DD Hammocks website. I prefer to sleep in hammock even over a bed, but there aren't always suitable trees where I am. So I'm hoping this will be a good option.
I have this cloack, my favorite use is as a cocoon for the wilderness innovation poncho-hammock (hammock cocoon).
Excellent! It really is awesome
I was interested... then you mentioned "as a hunting garment..." and I was sold, especially after sitting for hours in cold downpours in NW Oregon this last fall while hunting. Great product!
Thanks! It really is worth checking out. Covered head to toe. 👍
An awesome piece of gear! Incredibly compact, large, easy to use with tough, well made components like the zippers & tie out points. That's a gem right there! Great review brother, thank you!
🤜🤛
Thank you, brother! It really is very well thought out and put together. Brilliant modernization of the old school poncho tent shelter half concept. Have a good one! 🤝
I love my Sarma TST thermal cloak, I have the insulated one, the middle one.
Nice! Definitely great kit. 👍👍
@@EnduranceRoom I take it the Särmä TST THERMAL CLOAK is all seasonal weather Shelter?
@@jaredwiggins539 It is. Very useful and effective
Well done. Just received the winter camo version with light insulation. It really is very nice. I have similar products but not as large as this and with as many features that make it so versatile. And it packs down for carrying in a 10 liter bag. Wearing in winter as a thermal cloak with overboots in a hastily built blind for wildlife observation is how I want to use it.
The Scandinavian and Russian Gear is so awesome and very well thought out, i think i Need some of this 💯
Absolutely awesome gear
🏴 love from Scotland 🏴
🤝
Worth mentioning it has double ended zips along the 3 sides making it very flexible. I think it would work as a windsack for 2 people. The Jerven bag has single ended zips but seems slightly higher quality materials.
Great review, Jess.
I have a Jerven Original and a Jerven Hunter (insulated). These things just plain work and I'd expect the Sarma version to work just as well. One improvement I see on the Sarma is that it has loops for tie-outs instead of the grommets on the Jervens.
The one thing you need to be aware of when using these as a bivy or sleeping bag is condensation. They are waterproof and not at all breathable, so you'll get condensation. You'll want to air them out after a night's sleep.
A less expensive alternative for those on a budge is the USGI casualty evacuation blanker, or a heavy duty space blanket. I've used one many times as a "taco" around a sleeping bag or poncho liner. The downside is that they are smaller than the Sarma cloak.
Thanks Dave!
Yes, I have owned a Jerven Hunter as well now for a couple years. Great kit. Opening the zippers up works wonders alleviating condensation on both the Jerven and the Särmä.
Grabber blankets are great. I probably have a roll of gorilla tape patching mine up, but it works just fine all the same.
Another minimalist set up with excellent camo properties. Thanks for sharing mate. Stay safe. Australia say Hi.!
Thanks brother. Appreciate it. I really like the Finnish kit. They have the cold weather gear dialed in. Same to you. All the very best from NY
What a versatile bit of kit.
Bro after all rhis time im back here considering this piece of kit!! 😅I'm really digging all the versatility and the Thermal blocking benefits!!✊️🔥✌️💚
That cloak is awesome and I'm definitely saving up for one , need the 100g insulated
It really is quite excellent. Covers a lot of different tasks. I have a jerven hunter, which is insulated, and the basis for this Särmä cloak. Obviously, the insulated is warmer. But, I must say, the uninsulated version is very very good. It is light, compact, and adds an incredible amount of warmth to your clothing or sleeping gear.
Hi there Jess ..
👍 great overview 😊. I've been looking at getting a 'refective' tarp so perhaps ..
Varusteleka .. one of my favourite on-line sites .. have bought a fair amount of gear from them. Good Quality Products at even better Prices .. and with quick no- nonsense delivery.
And .. they have a good sense of humour .. perhaps unconventional to some .. but refreshing ('never go drinking with the Fins .. you don't know where you will wake up' .. and more 😁)..
Till next time, thanks for sharing .. take care .. Tommy
Hi Tommy!
Thank you much. I am really quite impressed with all that it does. It is a winner in my book. Varusteleka definitely has the humor. 😁 I can only imagine what a night out would be like lol
Have a good one!
@@EnduranceRoom 👍
wow that's the best "särmä" I have ever heard from non-european. You just gotta pronounce the "ä" and then you all good
Of course its from finnland. Thats so awesome. I'm never buying anything ever again thats not from finnland. Wish I had the extra cash for this but I'm saving up. Cheers!
Cheers Joanne!
im also testing the wool shell pants at the minute and the alpina trapper boots, both are excellent
Nice! Yes, it very high quality gear. Cheers
Some of their stuff is really not cheap but i absolutely love them. Best regards to Varusteleka you are the best👍
Cool gear, multifunctional. That's what I like. Greetings Jess!
Thanks Brother! Definitely fills a lot of roles. Cheers
Looks like a handy piece of kit!
Absolutely 100%
Thanks Brother 🤝
Looks like a great piece of gear
I was hoping you would share your thoughts on this bit of kit, absolutely superb mate 👌
Thanks Will! Really impressed with it. Well thought out multipurpose gear. Cheers
I have just ordered the thicker insulated version via your link 👍🏻
Nice! Enjoy it brother. Seriously awesome gear.
@@EnduranceRoom I have always wanted a Jerven Feldukan but this is a better value alternative
@@mikebass3721 Yes, it is. I was in the same boat.
They are pretty dang cool, the winter camo they do is really neat. Sarma makes their stuff in Estonia not Finland.
Really is solid gear. They nailed it with the winter camo. My bad on the Estonia bit. I need to make note cards 😂
@@EnduranceRoom They also have some asian production I believe, but the estonian stuff is good.
Just came across your channel. GREAT VIDEO! Thanks!!
I like that a lot, and that pattern is sweet!
Thanks brother. Excellent kit and pattern
Cool to see you comment on this video! I love both of your guys channels! Keep up the great work, God bless!
I got an insulated Jerven. Great piece of gear.
Nice! Definitely is. Hunter?
Thanks for this video. Looks like an outstanding piece of gear.😎
Looks like an interesting piece of equipment. I think I like it. It provides a lot of options. You are keeping the capitalistic machine moving. I need a good bivy.
It is really interesting kit that could help lighten a ruck significantly.
I have one of these and actually the best one of the series but you still get the cold of the ground so you better have some decent insulation underneath
Yes indeed.
Looks like a great bit of kit and pretty versatile.
Thanks
Nate
i have the original jetven bag, the insulated version, being a wee guy i got the mini, always regretted it , should have got the full size. i did try and sleep in it once , in summer and i was really cold
Yeah, been there with space blankets. The aluminum coating needs some air space between the skin. Makes a huge difference
Brother that is a very interesting gear I will look in to that for sure is something I can use as well living Up North it will come very handy especially in hunting season! Excellent Review as always CHEERS BROTHER!
Thanks my friend. It’s definitely worth checking out. I am really impressed with it. If you are up north, you would definitely find some use for it. Cheers!
Hey man, I am watshing you from Germany, I absolutly love your Channel, thank you very much.
Thanks very much my friend. Appreciate it. All the best from NY.
Nice piece of gear.. I would use the mat outside to protect it from sharp stuff of the ground. Great job mate
Woo that's a good chunck of change for one of them. Probably worth it though. Thank you for the video, love the channel man.
Thanks man, appreciate it. It definitely is an investment, but if you add up the price of a all the separate gear it can replace, it makes a lot of sense. A couple grabber blankets and some spray paint camo could make an economical alternative. Cheers
Very true!
Neat piece of gear . Versatile and a decent size . Not sure who came up with the 5 by 7 standard so much is based off of . Good review. Have a good one
Thanks brother. You too. Have a good one
@@EnduranceRoom glad one of us could pronounce the companies name . 😁 I’d have butchered it
@@johnburgin7478 I practiced over and over
That's awesome Jess, thanks for the video and info! Merry Christmas! 👍🎅🎄⛺
Thank you, Jeff! All the very best to you and yours! 🌲🤝
God, what an amazing peice of kit
Looks great!
Thanks! It is awesome.
good one Jess
Thanks Kris!
Cool Video 👍
Thank U for the Info and the Links 👍
Ordered one ✌️
Thank you! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do. I usually keep the zips opened up a bit on the ends to release any condensation. Makes all the difference. 🤝
Like. Very well!
👍👍🌲🌲
I'm going to need one of these, great job Jess, have Merry Christmas
Thanks Manfred! It is very solid kit. Merry Christmas!
Outstanding presentation!
Thank you, Scott! Appreciate it.
Thank you for information
Thank you. Appreciate it
Now that was a very good review. I think i will buy the one, vermutlich useful multi use piece of gear. Thanks
Great video thanks for sharing
Thank you!
Cool looking piece of gear 🤠
Thanks Herb!
Assuming you just had this and were using it as a sleeping bag and you were wearing a set of normal clothes. How cold could you go down to with this?
It would depend on a couple things like ground insulation, outside temp, clothing. By itself, it probably adds about 15 degrees or so. That being said, this cloak is excellent and can make a light summer weight bag sufficient for cold fall or spring weather.
I was looking at this last time i visited Varusteleka, but i didn't buy it yet. I am really lucky because i live about 10 kilometres from their store
Thanks for the good video. When I get new camping gear, it has to be military grade gear. Here near the Russian border, you have to be prepared. Almost all our men have been in the army. Fortunately, there is no threat of war, but if war breaks out, it is better to have decent equipment. The equipment that the state provides to its soldiers is not necessarily enough
I remember seeing the jerven watching old Suzanne Williams Bushcraftgirl videos. Thought it was a bit too small for my giant American self. This larger size looks like it might fit the bill. There isn't much info online. Do you know if you could zip two together to make a larger shelter?
Yes you can. I have a jerven hunter, which is about same size as this and both are roomy for me at 6’2 210lbs. Both are really great.
That's awesome
Merry Christmas brother🎄❄️🎅🏻D😎🇺🇸
Thanks Brother. Merry Christmas. 🤝🌲
👍👍excellent multi purpose 👍👍👌✌🙏😊
Thanks! Super kit. Cheers
It's so versatile!
It really is. Like a Swiss Army knife for the shelter half poncho/tent concept
Now that is an interesting piece of gear!
Thanks! Its pretty slick
Really nice!
Thanks David!
I got the midweight insulated one. My only complaint is with the clanky and loud zipper pulls, but that is no big deal.
Take some paracord, strip out the inner strands and thread pieces about 4” long through the zipper pulls and tie off the end. It nearly silences the zippers. Well worth doing.
I do it to all zippers, and the cloak actually came with very hefty paracord silencers. But the pulls are big af and still clank.
I'm thinking heatshrink tubing to solve the issue once and for all.
Lots of good info . Thanks, Brian 81
Thanks Brian!
Amazing video! However I have one question: Does it hide thermal signatures from things like optics?
Thanks! If you are under it, yes it does.
Nice review,, so worth it
Thank you!
Hi, the Mylar component should reflect light from a hanging tent ⛺️ light at night brightening up the shelter's interior when used as an A frame/plow point or certainly reflect the warmth of a fire in a lean to. Try it sometime and let us know.
I have tested it both as a garment and as shelter. (It was featured quite a bit in my overnight video from last weekend.) I have also owned a jerven fjellduken for several years, which serves the same purposes. Both are excellent. The Särmä cloak is priced better.
The reflective coating does help a bit with light, but the heat reflection is awesome, both from the body and from an external source. I covered this (and much more) in the video.
Hey hoss I’ve been wanting one of these for awhile but couldn’t find much info on them, thank you for the review. Was yours one of the “special batch” from the current stock?
Yes, it is. Still quite solid kit. Definitely a good option for cold weather
Hi from the UK, thanks for the great review!
A quick question: when zipped lengthwise, connected to a ridge line, will this also zip up at both ends (obviously leaving 6 inches or so for air/ventilation)? As in your video of the Jerven bag, where you appear to be all but completely zipped in, but for the aforementioned small ventilation gaps.
Thanks! Yes indeed, it will zip up as you are describing. 👍
@@EnduranceRoom Thanks for the reply, much appreciated. Think I'll buy one of these when they're back in stock then. All the best!
I wonder how this would work paired with a swagman roll.
Excellent.
Superbe équipement! Really grateful for your efforts to publish this thorough record. So here we are one year later... Is this cloak still in your winter load out? Would you repurchase the non-insulated version or go for the 67g/m2 or 100g/m2? Very appreciative of any thoughts you might have to share
Best wishes,
Team Theta
Thank you very much! I went with the uninsulated version because I have an insulated jerven fjelduken. Both are very similar and quite useful. I suppose I prefer the insulated version for the colder months. That being said the uninsulated version is much easier to pack. Primary uses have been tarp, warming layer and bivvy. As a bivvy, it really excels, as it can be combined with a light sleeping bag or blanket for both waterproofing and thermal properties. Essentially, making a light weight sleeping bag suitable for much colder conditions than normal. Condensation does occur, but can be mitigated simply by venting the zippers. Whichever you decide on, I am sure you will be happy with it. They are very useful.
Cheers my friend 🤝
@@EnduranceRoom Thank you, we truly value your wisdom! Your experience in the field is making it easier for all us to walk the path. That’s why we love this community. We share and make each other stronger. We’re excited to add this piece to our daily. It’s just too versatile to go without and it offers tremendous value in emergency situations. It always comes back to safety. Until next time! T.T
@@EnduranceRoom I have the lightly insulated version and it packs down for keeping in a 10 liter bag when traveling.
Very interesting piece of gear. I ordered a Savotta Jaakari based upon your videos great content.
I’ve been looking for something like that. Any suggestions on what to use it with for temps down to freezing? I’ve been researching the ranger roll, but that looks like it’s even better and very well made although quite expensive. I live in the south but in the winter smoky mtns can get pretty cold at higher elevations.
It is great kit. You could run it with a woobie, using the tie outs to cinch woobie to the cloak making a bivvy sleeping bag combo. The woobie is light and would be very flexible for your area. If you pick one up, you need a belt to use it as a cloak. I have a simple webbing strap with a fastex buckle rolled up in the cloak. It covers head to toe plus your ruck.
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For hunting all day in a windy environment, and expecting 20f-35f, is the insulated version overkill? Or, would this one work well as a top layer? Super interesting
I would steer to the 60g insulated model. The uninsulated is great, but the insulation adds a lot. I like to run it suspended under my tarp, tied off to the ridge line. Makes an insulated pod shelter bivvy tent.
THIS is what I've been looking for. Sadly Varusteleka is out of stock.
Check these out. This is what the Sarma cloak is based off of. varuste.net/en/c9148/stalking-bags
Is it possible to attach 2 cloaks together with the zippers? Would add space and versatility!
Thanks for the review, not many reviews on Varusteleka gear, which is too bad cuz their stuff ROCKS!
Thank you, Mark! Yes, it is possible to zip multiple cloaks together. Really is great kit. Cheers
@@EnduranceRoom Thanks for the reply!
i’m trying to decide between this thermal cloak and the helikon tex swagman roll the cloak seems more versatile any thoughts i was looking at the uninsulated thermal cloak thanks for your great videos i just got my plosh polaka and its super cool
Thank you! Man, I think the swagman is really cool, but this is as you said, more versatile. Shelter, rain wear, blanket, bivvy, sleeping bag, camo etc. It has a bit of a learning curve getting used to it, but it is excellent. If you have a woobie, you can tie it inside to make a bivvy/sleeping bag combo that is lightweight, multipurpose and multi seasonal. Cheers
👍👍👍👍👍👍
Kind of funny, I was looking at it on that website yesterday. Great price too. Two link up together right.?
The universe is works in mysterious ways. It is very solid, worthwhile kit. Multiples can be linked up. I like using it with a larger tarp for the ground cover, and then this for the thermal properties. But if quick efficient and low profile is the goal, this does that very well. Condensation can be an issue fully sealed up. I crack the zippers by my feet and by my head and its good to go. Cheers
@@EnduranceRoom awesome 👊🍻
It looks like the Jerven comes with its own stuff sack, but the Sarma does not? Can you confirm?
yes that is correct
Do you prefer this or the Russian xl poncho? Great reviews man
Thanks! I like the thermal cloak for winter, the poncho for summer
Is it a quite material ? and the big question is, will it block 'Thermal Imaging' ?
Material isn’t too bad, zippers are a little noisy. I ran paracord through them and it quieted down quite a bit. It will block if you are under it, but so will most tarps. Trick is to be under it beforehand.
Great review. For reference/scale, how tall are you? Sorry if you mentioned it in the video.
Thanks! 6’2. The tarp is about 7x7
Ive been waiting for them to restock for almost a year. I'd imagine the pandemic and the war are screwing them up. How would you use while carrying a pack? My old lavvu and my usgi poncho went over my ruck. I dont see how it wouldnt interfere with the straps. Would love to see more videos of it in use.
Yeah, their suppliers have all taken a hit and been shifted around. The cloak fits right over me and my ruck. Works really well. I featured it in this video
SNOWSTORM Ratnik Tarp, Särmä Thermal Cloak, SOLO Overnight Bushcraft Winter Camping from about 7 months ago.
I would check out the jerven fjelduken. That is the one that these cloaks are based off of. They are sold at varuste.net
@@EnduranceRoom thanks. I always thought the jerven was a sleak design. Being a giant American always made it untenable. Same problem with my polish lavvu. Always just a little to small. These foreigners are all midgets. The cloak @ 7x7 is awesome. Gotta love those vikings
Maybe helikon swagman roll?
@@Woodsie_Lord Swagman is awesome, but different. Has insulation and water repellency, but not the thermal reflection properties. Still, great kit.
This would likely function well as Thermal Cloaking no?
Yes, if you are under it sufficiently.
Is the insulation zippoffable like the Jerven Exclusive? Which one is in your eyes better? Jerven or Särmä?
No insulation on this one. The exclusive is the only model I know of that is like that. That being said, you can put any insulation inside it and it will significantly improve upon it. Both brands are great.
How does this fare when being observed by thermal imagers?
Excellent, if you are under it. See Savotta’s recent posts on thermal performance.
Thank you very much for the review! I used the cloak at about -2 degree Celsius with only a poncholiner but a loft jacket. It was ok but the cloak got verywet from condensation. How does it perform with colder temperatures? Any tips for the ccondensation issue?
Try cracking the zippers some, especially on the ends. That will help allow some of the moisture to escape.
@@EnduranceRoom I used it asa Biwak Sack over the liner. Next time I try it. Had you any issues with condensation?
@@preparedpodcast Yes, opening the zippers helped me. Condensation comes with most synthetics, ponchos, tarps, etc. Just gotta find a good balance of staying warm/dry and airflow.
This seems a lot darker camo M05 than the M05 särmä tarp, or is it the same?
It’s the same. Probably just lighting. Filming outside in natural light has it’s challenges sometimes.
Im stinging to get one of these when they come back into stock. Although they do still have some winter camo 67 gsm ones left. Torn about which version to get for here in Australia, temps usually above 0 C. Might just get the ones they have, the winter camo might actually blend in pretty well in the Aussie bush. Do you think the insulated ones would be as good at reflecting heat from a fire if you used them in the typical lean to config that pathfinder teaches for emergency shelters?
The insulation may be a bit much for most circumstances. I would checkout the jerven original as an alternative. It is uninsulated and lightweight. It folds in half to a square for poncho/rain gear/camo, but unzips to a nice size rectangle for tarp shelters. The Särmä cloak is a copy of the jerven.
I got my jerven from www.varuste.net
@@EnduranceRoom I ended up with a Jerven Hunter! waiting for it to arrive, will let you know how it goes in warmer climates brother, thanks for the advice.
@@davef5916 Ah man, that’s awesome! Enjoy it. Literally some of my favorite kit. When it’s warm out, I use it open as a blanket, starts cooling, I will zip it mostly closed as a bivvy/sleeping bag (zips partially open for ventilation), and when cold, I use it as a bivvy for a light sleeping bag, which dramatically improves the warmth. Watch out for sparks from your fire, as they aren’t flame resistant. Gorilla tape will patch it if necessary.
How often do they restock the cloaks? Currently sitting waiting atm and I'm wondering how long does it usually take?
Not sure TBH. Might be awhile. I would recommend a jerven fjelduken. This is what the sarma cloak is based off of. They can be ordered from www.varuste.net
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Thank you!
Someone needs to make a slightly larger canvas cloak shelter with some more user friendly additions. Wouldn't be cheap, but it would be worth it.
Edit: I own and use the 2GoSystems Trifecta V2, which is very similar except I don't think it is quite as versatile as it isn't really designed to be a cloak. If they made one that could it might be the best piece of emergency gear available.
I am really surprised someone hasn’t done that yet. I have thought about splicing a couple palatkas together, but haven’t brought myself to cut one up just yet.
I have only heard good things about the 2GoSystems gear. It would be a pretty simple process for them to modify their zipper system on the Trifecta to accommodate use as a garment like the Särmä cloak.
@@EnduranceRoom oh absolutely, or even add a head hole to their thermal blanket, which is designed to be used with their poncho (which has a reflective liner) and voila, instant semi budget loveliness! I would sell some gear to buy one or a few.
I need to sell some gear anyway lol.
Can it be zipped up on both sides for full enclosure?
Yes, full zips on all sides. Great kit.
@@EnduranceRoom thank you another question how does it hold up against heavy rain?
@@NobodyHere44 No problem. Heavy rain means warmer weather, so for that I would setup a plowpoint type shelter or an a frame rather than zipping it up for an enclosed configuration. I just posted an overnight video using this as my shelter. Cheers
Did you say it's german or "jerven"?
Jerven Fjelduken
@@EnduranceRoom Ah, kinda hard to hear the difference between "Jerven" and "german" when spoken by an english speaker.
Is that the uninsulated version?
@@johnmbrown6627 Yes. Works a little better as a tarp than the insulated models. But, the insulated models are better for condensation. The zippers need vented periodically to freshen the air up, but in general, these things are great. Just add a sleeping bag or a woobie.
@@EnduranceRoom I like the reflective part, it's in my list now
And as usual, they are out of stock. Welcome to my everyday life
@@johnmbrown6627 Checkout the Jerven Original at www.betterbushcraft.com
I just did a video on it. Great kit. Similar, but different size. They should have more in stock within next week or so.
Is it waterproof?
Yes. As a bivvy shelter, setup with zipper on ground, so no seam at top. Very excellent equipment.
:)
Thanks!
Do you prefer this over the Russian Ratnik poncho?
I prefer the poncho for summer, this for spring fall winter. Used properly, it is really effective for staying warm.