Hello all,
I noticed this has been discussed a bit in the past but I was wondering if anyone has any more opinions. I'm thinking about adding this shelter to my collection but can't seem to make up my mind on the following option – Should I choose the "Ultralite" 30d floor option or the "Standard" 70d option. I have been using another shelter with a 30d floor option combined with a polycro groundsheet with good results so I am confident with that system.
I am basically wondering if there is any advantage between the following two options that I'm missing: 1) 30d floor with a polycro groundsheet or 2) 70d floor with no additional groundsheet.
After crunching the weights, the two options come out to be nearly the same. (Option 1 is about 1.3oz lighter)
I like the 1.3oz weight savings of option 1 but that is not enough to sway the decision. I like the simplicity of option 2, however I am concerned about those nights where sleeping under the stars would be desireable…Previously I would just lay out the polycro and go. With option 2 I would not have a separate groundsheet for this purpose…I would either have to set up the shelter anyway or just lay it on the ground, fold the mesh and canopy in and set the pads right on top…Using the whole shelter as a groundsheet. Does anyone do this? Any concerns with wear on the canopy? Other thoughts – with the 30d and GS combo most of the wear would be on the disposable groundsheet that could be replaced, while with the 70d floor all the wear would be on the floor itself which is much harder to replace, even though it's a lot tougher. On the other hand, with the 70d floor, water would never come in between the groundsheet and floor creating a possible pressure-seepage issue.
Also, the optional carbon fiber poles weigh ~3.6 oz for this shelter. Does anyone know how Easton aluminum poles that I could make for about a 1oz heavier weight penalty would compare so far as strength and durability is concerned? I have no experience with carbon fiber poles and the extra 1oz of the aluminum poles would be worth it to me if they are stronger. (Also would be cheaper)
Any thoughts I am missing? What would you choose? Thanks for any help!
