Choosing an Ultralight Shelter for Backpacking (Member Q&A)

[Backpacking Light]

Companion forum thread to: Choosing an Ultralight Shelter for Backpacking (Member Q&A)

How to make the decision of what type of ultralight shelter to use on various types of backpacking trips in different seasons.

[AK Granola]

I listened in, but was also working. I missed some of the part about DCF being weaker at the seams. I have noticed with my Notch Li that the vestibule zipper can often be stretched pretty tight, and have wondered if this is too much pressure along that stitching.

Good quick session. I learned a bit about the different fabrics. And that I still really like my Notch Li.

[John S.]

My goal is to never own anything made of DCF (cost for larger items, not stuffable, etc). We’ll see if that holds.

[Eric Blumensaadt]

1.) Given that I always use hiking poles a shelter supported by them will reduce carried weight.

2.) A Dyneema shelter is lighter than a silnylon shelter

3.) I prefer a double wall shelter for protection from condensation and bugs/creepy crawlies

Therefore a Tarptent Notch Li suits my 3 season shelter needs perfectly. With a mostly “solid” interior that actually weighs less than an all mesh interior and keeps out blown dust (or a rare snowstorm) I chose that.

MODS: 1.) 4 stake loops sewn on the fly hem onto double reinforcements

2.) inner tent dyed green (with RiT DyeMore synthetic dye) for more privacy & shade

 

[jscott]

I agree 100% with Eric. But I’ve never used the Notch li. Still, it looks to tick all my boxes–plus, it seems to be very storm and wind worthy.

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