I just recently got back from a week long trip in the Wind Rivers with some new gear. My partner and I camped for three nights above eleven thousand feet and experienced just why they include the "wind" in Wind Rivers. The shelters we used were a MLD silnylon Duomid and a Zpacks Hexamid solo tarp with custom bug inner made by Bear Paw tents. Both shelters performed well (although the Hexamid had a tendency to "balloon" out during the day when wind shifted directions) and there were no failures but now I am a little curious about tarp use in high winds. I decided I don't care for silnylon as a tarp/shelter material (too much stretch). I don't like how crinkly and noisy spinnaker is, so that leaves the obvious choice of cuben. Now what type of tarp is the best choice for above treeline and windy/rainy conditions? Cat cut top/sides? Square? Straight ridgeline and cat cut sides like Mountainfitters new cuben tarps? I'd like some feedback from people who have actually used tarps above treeline in adverse conditions. What would be the ideal TARP setup? The Duomid was absolutely awesome but I am curious about tarp performance and design. I appreciate any input.
