Greetings all
Looking to buy a new lightweight shelter.
I'm looking at the Squall 2 Tarptent (Just over 2 lbs with everything)
Its on the pricey side (around $200) but it looks very easy to set up. I have 0 experience with pitching tarps so I figure this easy hybrid will do the trick.
The other (cheaper) option I'm considering a bug bivy and just a 8 by 10 Silnylon Tarp.
Is the tarp tent worth the extra $70 dollars I would spend?
Footslogger
11-01-2005, 12:47
Is the tarp tent worth the extra $70 dollars I would spend?
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Well ...it was worth it to me. If you like the Squall, logon to Six Moon Designs website and check out the Lunar Solo-e. A bit smaller and lighter than the Squall (which I also own) but a very nice one person shelter.
'Slogger
have you ever considered a hammock:cool: neo
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=7889&c=577
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=7105&c=577
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/vbg/showimage.php?i=5981&original=1&c=577
Kerosene
11-01-2005, 14:42
Definitely worth the extra money. I too would suggest the Lunar Solo (you'll want to purchase 5 8" pegs (http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=290&parent_category_rn=4500663&vcat=REI_SEARCH) such as these to maintain ventilation). For all-around comfort you can't beat a hammock, but I do think that there is a lot of tinkering needed to land on the cool-weather solution you'll need for all but the warmest months.
gravityman
11-01-2005, 14:46
Greetings all
Looking to buy a new lightweight shelter.
I'm looking at the Squall 2 Tarptent (Just over 2 lbs with everything)
Its on the pricey side (around $200) but it looks very easy to set up. I have 0 experience with pitching tarps so I figure this easy hybrid will do the trick.
The other (cheaper) option I'm considering a bug bivy and just a 8 by 10 Silnylon Tarp.
Is the tarp tent worth the extra $70 dollars I would spend?
yes, it is absolutely worth it. The full bug protection and space gives you something you won't get with the tarp/bug net combo. This is an amazing tent, held up very well over our thruhike, and we will keep using it.
A lot of people seem to like the idea of a hammock, but it seems like out on the trail most people with them froze in the southern section, and we didn't see any past virginia...
Gravity
Neo- I might be willing to give hammocks a shot one day but I spent too many stiffbacked days in Brasil after sleeping in a hammock to consider them for long term trips.
The Lunar does look nice but its only a One man. I plan to do a couple week longs over summers with friends. I may be doing some solo hiking but even then the Squall isn't more than a few ounces more and is a nice thing to have.
Also the Solo is about 50 dollars more. Always better to think with your wallet :D.
For those of you that have used both the Lunar and the Squall what is the exact comparison between size + weight between the 2?
For those of you that have used both the Lunar and the Squall what is the exact comparison between size + weight between the 2?
I ordered the previous version of the Lunar Solo and it was much smaller than my Squall. I have an '03 Squall and love the roominess. The weight isn't that much different, a few ounces maybe. I sent the Lunar back, it wasn't as large lengthwise as I had imagined. Not as much headroom as the Squall either. The newer version of the Squall, with the T-bar, makes for even better headroom. Condensation is rarely a problem when there is ample room to move and dress without hitting the roof or sidewalls. I went with the Squall and am very happy with it. Course, I bought it used and saved an absolute fortune!!:D