Sublite vs. Sublite Sil

[Ryan Tucker]

Just a question, out of curiosity.

what is the major difference between them? i.e. advantages of tyvek vs. sil, disadvantages, etc…

[Mat Tallman]

Tyvek is lighter, breathable, and less waterproof, i.e. not suitable for continuous rain.

Sil weighs more, not breathable, but will keep the rain out in a sustained storm.

[Brian Ahlers]

Would adding Nikwax waterproofing spray add substantial weight to the Sublite if you wanted a bit more rain protection? I've never used Nikwax, I don't know how effective it is…

[Joel Waddell]

You could use a peice of scrap tyvek and weigh it, then pray it with Nikwax and then reweigh it to find out the dif.

[Jay Wilkerson]

I believe the Sil version gets alot more CONDENSATION vs. Tyvek. I also believe the Sil version would last much longer then the Tyvek. I have used my Sublite Sil on quite a few hikes this year and I am very happy with the Sublite Sil!

Sublite Sil with MLD Dog Tarp..The tarp really helps because the Sublite really does not have a real vestibule.

[Denis Hazlewood]

Jay,
Nice taut pitch on the tarp. Do you have to turn around three times before crawling into the Sublite?

[Franco Darioli]

Same name,same shape different market.
As pointed out above the Tyvek version was designed for dry areas or where condensation can be a big problem but not subjected to heavy rain falls.
Great if you like a rest in the afternoon sun.
The current version of the Sublite Sil has a vestibule, just not as large as Jay's …
I know that Ray Estrella was out testing the wind performance of the Sil version.
That is dedication to the cause.
Franco

[Brian Ahlers]

"The current version of the Sublite Sil has a vestibule, just not as large as Jay's …"

Heh Heh! Does the Sil come with a doorbell?

[Richard Lyon]

Ray Estrella, Carol Crooker, and Pam Wyant will be testing the Sublite Sil for BackpackGearTest.org – check there over the next four months for results in three different regions.

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