See how this shelter rates with others in our Comparison Review of Tarps and Other Floorless Shelters Overview Are you looking for a truly ultralight, minimalist solution for shelter and raingear? If so, eventually your research will point you in the direction of a poncho-tarp. The Integral Designs Sil Poncho represents the gold standard for […]
Campmor (Equinox) Silnylon Poncho-Tarp
See how this shelter rates with others in our Comparison Review of Tarps and Other Floorless Shelters Campmor’s "Ultralite Poncho/Tarps" and Equinox’s "Ultralite Poncho" are one in the same. Order an "Ultralite Poncho/Shelter" from Campmor and you’ll get an Equinox "Regular Ultralite Poncho" with a small Campmor barcode stuck to the Equinox label. Campmor/Equinox Ultralite […]
Oware Tapered Catenary Tarp (6×8)
See how this shelter rates with others in our Comparison Review of Tarps and Other Floorless Shelters Photo: Oware’s 6×8 Cat Tarp: The trim size and catenary cut ridgeline make for a super taut pitch with only 6 tie-outs. Stake out the middle-side tie-outs (not used in the photo), and this is one of the […]
TarpTent Virga, TarpTent Squall, and TarpTent Cloudburst
Left to right: Cloudburst, Squall and Virga Tarptents See how this shelter rates with others in our Comparison Review of Tarps and Other Floorless Shelters Introduction As the Tarptent name implies, these shelters have a blend of some of the best features of a tarp and a tent. Like tarps, they are light, have good […]
Oware Flat Tarps (6×8, 8×10, 10×10)
See how this shelter rates with others in our Comparison Review of Tarps and Other Floorless Shelters Photo: An Oware 10×10 ft tarp setup for an incoming mountain thunderstorm: Pitch is low to shed wind and increase stability. Windward edge (left side in photo) is staked to the ground at 5 points and an additional […]
Campmor (Equinox) Silnylon Tarps
See how this shelter rates with others in our Comparison Review of Tarps and Other Floorless Shelters Configurations Reviewed: 6′ x 8′, 8′ x 10′ Photo Caption: Campmor/Equinox’s Ultralight Backpacking Tarp: In addition to a number of perimeter tie-out grommets, the tarp has three center-tarp tie-out points (white nylon straps). One of these tie-outs is […]
Oware Alphamid
See how this shelter rates with others in our Comparison Review of Tarps and Other Floorless Shelters Overview As the name implies, the Oware Alphamid is based on a pyramid tarp configuration. In fact, it is one-half of a typical four-sided pyramid tarp (which Oware also manufactures). Designed primarily for snow camping, the Alphamid’s steep […]
Catenary Curvature as an Element of Ultralight Tarp Design
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Lightweight Backpacking for Couples
Introduction Most of us do not venture into the backcountry alone. Sharing the outdoors with another person heightens our outdoor experience. That person can be a good friend, parent, brother, sister, or our children. Going into the wilderness with a partner (that special and intimate friend) may be the ultimate expression of togetherness. This article […]
New Lightweight Backpacking Gear – (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2003) – Public Version
If you are a member and would like to view a version that includes full product specifications and high resolution photos, click here Gear Availability Many of these products will be available in Spring ’04. Some are being released in Fall ’03 (as early as September) and a few are available now or in the […]
New Lightweight Backpacking Gear – (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2003) – Member’s Version
Gear Availability Many of these products will be available in Spring ’04. Some are being released in Fall ’03 (as early as September) and a few are available now or in the next few weeks. Please contact the manufacturer directly (let ’em know you heard about their products here!) for more precise product release dates […]
Soft Shells: The Real Story
Soft shells like the Cloudveil Rodeo Jacket (shown here) are becoming increasingly popular among backpackers and alpinists alike. Introduction Given only 60 seconds to choose our clothing for a hike or climb, we would likely choose a soft shell jacket and pants first, and build the rest of layering system around those core garments. Combinations […]