Recomendations…

I wear glasses and when I have my sunglasses made, I always have polarized lenses.

They reduce the glare from the sun….a good example is when you are driving and you get a sun spot reflecting off of a car's rear windshield, it is greatly reduced.

Oddly, when I have looked at a pond/pool of water, I can see right through the water where others only see the reflection of the landscape from the water.

Is it critical to have?

I don't think so, but I think it is worth it enough to pay a few extra bucks for it on my lenses.

More important is that you have UV protection on the lenses, which should be standard.

As for tents….you said no tarps.

How about a Henry Shire Tarptent?

I have a the one person Contrail and buddy has the 2 person Squal 2.

Think that the Squal 2 should fit your budget and it is about 2 lbs.

Hope that helps.

Would be useful to know what conditions you want to use the shelter in.

As others have already suggested, Henry has a number of nice 2 person shelters which might fit the bill. SMD’s Refuge is still on special at $200.

If not tarp = double walled shelter

Sierra Designs Lighting – last years can be found for $160
REI Quarter Dome is just over your limit at $259
Sierra Design Flashlight – $180

You might find my shelter recommendations useful.

I really like the Native sunglasses. Polarized with three sets of interchangeable glasses. Some models on sale at sierratradingpost and/or rei outlet.
Cheers!

Thanks guys…

I'll be using the shelter as a 3-season in the Midwest (OH, PA, etc.) and in the Southwest (UT annually). I'll also probably use it on a LT thru in a few years, and other 3-season trips. The Tarptents seem to be a highly recommended option and I'll look at Native's glasses.

–Nick–

What part about tarps do you not like? If you don't like the way they set up, with trekking poles, than why not try a freestanding tarp from GoLite. But if you hate the fact that you are next to the ground and the bugs, then you could try a tarptent or a tarp from Black Diamond, Tarptent, or Golite with a bathtub or bug floor. Those are both cheap, lightweight options.
You could also think about getting a job working with some outdoor school and get a prodeal to some company – then you could get tents for half off!

The tarp issue is fine with me, but my father is reluctant to try it. My only issue is bugs. They like me and I don't like them. I'm looking into Tarptents though and may get the Squall or Rainbow 2.

–Nick–