View Full Version : which sil-nylon tarp?
Runsalone
12-22-2007, 00:30
Hey yall! Ive pretty well decided to get an 8X10 silnylon tarp for my 08 NOBO. At least to start. I like the variety of pitches and options.
Simple question, Who makes the best one. I figure sil-nylon will be plenty light enough for me.
Thanks for any help!!!
whitefoot_hp
12-22-2007, 00:31
the best seem to be the DIY. I have heard the seam on a campor siltarp doesnt run along the potential ridgeline.
try going smaller and looking at some poncho tarp/bivy combos
Bootstrap
12-22-2007, 00:45
The oware 8x10 looks pretty interesting:
http://www.owareusa.com/images/TarpFlyingDiamondfront.JPG
It has the 4 tie-outs in a square pattern so it can be set up in the same way as this 10x10 silnylon tarp:
http://www.owareusa.com/flattarps.html
I'm a very newly converted 10x10 kind of guy, using a urethane coated ripstop nylon tarp. I'd go for that 10x10 silnylon tarp in a heartbeat, and just might this Spring.
Good luck!
Jonathan
silshelter:
http://www.integraldesigns.com/product.cfm?id=6&CFID=39831&CFTOKEN=30641740&mainproducttypeid=1
Just like packs, it depends on the fit so with tarps. But fit in this case is based on your experience with tarps and how you plan on setting it up. What configurations do you use? "A", pyramid, diamond, tetra, mushroom, leanto? Different configs require different shaped tarps with different tie out points. How experienced are you in setting up a tarp? Choosing correct sites and pitches? Sorry for the non-answer but it really does depend on your need and expertise.
I used a Silshelter on my thru. It did an excellent job at keeping me dry. When it got buggy, I had a Bug Bivy.
On my traverse of Alaska I used a Henry Shire's Tarptent (the discontinued Virga model.) With all the mosquitoes this was a much better choice.
If I were to do the AT again, I'd probably use my Silshelter until it got buggy, then switch to a Tarptent Contrail. (24.5 oz.) Those few extra ounces, which include a bug net AND a sewn-in floor, are well worthwhile for me. Being able to escape the bugs at night is a big deal.
Two Speed
12-22-2007, 09:14
Personally I'm fascinated with the Oware Cattarp 1.5. No way I'd pay the price for the Cuben Fiber one, but the silnylon version is in my price range.
That said I prolly need my butt whooped for not learning how to use my Mom's old sewing machine. Decent all metal machine. Not too fancy, but in good working order when Mom stopped using it 15 - 20 years ago.
I used a Silshelter on my thru. It did an excellent job at keeping me dry. When it got buggy, I had a Bug Bivy.
On my traverse of Alaska I used a Henry Shire's Tarptent (the discontinued Virga model.) With all the mosquitoes this was a much better choice.
If I were to do the AT again, I'd probably use my Silshelter until it got buggy, then switch to a Tarptent Contrail. (24.5 oz.) Those few extra ounces, which include a bug net AND a sewn-in floor, are well worthwhile for me. Being able to escape the bugs at night is a big deal.
Colter makes a lot of sense, here. I have a Shires' Tarptent Squall (an older model, 2 person) weighing in at a hair under 2 pounds, with floor and bug netting. By the time you add stakes, bug protection, ground cloth, etc. to a tarp of any size, you're in the 2 pound range, too. All a matter of choice, which is best based on experience. For me, bug protection is a big factor.
Bootstrap
12-22-2007, 09:48
Just like packs, it depends on the fit so with tarps. But fit in this case is based on your experience with tarps and how you plan on setting it up. What configurations do you use? "A", pyramid, diamond, tetra, mushroom, leanto? Different configs require different shaped tarps with different tie out points. How experienced are you in setting up a tarp? Choosing correct sites and pitches? Sorry for the non-answer but it really does depend on your need and expertise.
I like your answer. I'm not the original requestor, but here's where I'm coming from.
I'm very experienced with tent camping, have recently begun playing with tarps in my yard, moving them around, setting up two at a time and comparing them, sleeping in them, etc, and have done so in a variety of weather over the last month. I find I'm using the following pitches the most, I find them very roomy, and the tarp is very stable and easy to get taught with one corner or side up high:
- Flying Wedge (the roomiest - you can stand in it!)
- Trapezoid (for worse weather)
I use these too, but I don't like them quite as well because there's less vertical room:
- Modified A-frame
- A frame
Sgt Rock's site coves these well (but he uses a differently shaped tarp, so the results look different):
This resource covers many more variations, but I find it a bit more overwhelming - it's good for finding new ideas to try, and for figuring out what someone means when they say "A", tetra, forrester, or whatever:
http://www.equipped.org/tarp-shelters.pdf
The versatility of a tarp is a great advantage over a tent. You can pitch it many different ways for different purposes, or use it as a dining tarp in the rain, or pitch your hammock under it.
I've been very happy with my Etowah 10x10 tarp for all of the above configurations. I've been using aluminum roof gutter nails, and staking the tie-outs directly into the ground, but Jim Adams says it's better to use tie-outs and tie to rocks, shrubbery, or whatever, because the stakes can slip. Some controversy on that. Someone else, I forget who, suggested using 12" cords from each tie-out to improve the shape, and staking out using them. To me, this would be good on a hot day if I wanted more ventilation, but staking the edges down gives me better protection.
I find that after a little experience, it's easier and faster to pitch a tarp than to pitch a double walled tent.
Now back to agreeing with russb - get a cheap tarp and try out a lot of different pitches, sleep with it in various kinds of weather. You can add a new temporary tie-out by sticking a marble or a smooth stone into a pocket of fabric and tying a loop around the other side - try out different placements for the tie-outs and see which ones are important to you.
I like the patterns at the end of http://www.equipped.org/tarp-shelters.pdf for thinking about tie-outs. I've been told it's easy to learn how to sew on your own tie-outs without harming the tarp, and intend to get there, but I'm not there yet.
Hope this is helpful to someone!
Jonathan
I have an Equinox tarp (10x12). I have not had any problems with it except for the fact that the first time I tried to use one of the grosgrain webbing ties along the ridgeline it simply ripped along the stitch line like a check rips out of a checkbook. I haven't had any problems with the grommets, and the ridgeline is along the long axis, so hasn't been a problem. I'd take a look at some of the tarps that Etowah makes, since they're basically products of ideas from AT thruhikers and are aimed at that market.
I would strongly suggest (as you would guess from my avatar) that you at least try a hammock before you head out on a thru. In warm weather I use a Hennessy Ultralight Backpacker, and in cold weather with no bugs I simply put up a cheap hammock (once it's been strung through my Golite zipperless bag) and pull the bag over myself - insulation all around, off the ground. Add a good size tarp and sleep like a baby.
I've been looking for a new hammock tarp recently and have looked at Oware (mentioned above) as well as Backpacking Light, Mountain Laurel designs, and Gossamer Gear. All expensive, but probably worth it. There are others out there like Mac Cat (though designed specially for hammocks) which are worth a look, but the only one I have personal experience with is the Equinox (unless you count my poncho-tarp from MLD, which is very well made).
If I relied on a tarp only and wanted the best coverage for the least weight, I'd probably go with the Gossamer Gear Spinnshelter (and may buy one to use over my hammock).
Happy Hunting!
If you have sewing skills or access to some one who does, you can go for a BlackCat tarp (http://www.jhatkhat.com/Khat/camping/bcdir/frame.html). :D It's useable for ground or hammock, fairly cheap to make and is practically bombproof!
maxNcathy
12-22-2007, 10:27
I bought the GGear Spinnshelter.MUST be seam sealed as it leaked there.
I bought the GGear Spinnshelter.MUST be seam sealed as it leaked there.
Question on the Spinnshelter. I heard that the side tie-outs are not as sturdy as the corners. Is that the case? Also recommended was applying silicone sealer to all stitching to reinforce it. Do the tie outs look under-reinforced to you, and have you had any problems with any stitching there?
Runsalone
12-23-2007, 12:23
Thanks to those who answered the question!
maxNcathy
12-23-2007, 12:45
Question on the Spinnshelter. I heard that the side tie-outs are not as sturdy as the corners. Is that the case? Also recommended was applying silicone sealer to all stitching to reinforce it. Do the tie outs look under-reinforced to you, and have you had any problems with any stitching there?
Tinker, Along each side are 5 tie-outs. The corner and middle ones are more sturdy than the other two. I had shelter exposed in high winds for several hours with no damage...not sealed except along the ridge line.
In fact the lines were about to break from the wind and yet no tears to fabric or stitching. I now use stronger line on each end (than the red cord provided.)
Sandalwood
Thanks for the info, Sandalwood.
Ramble~On
12-24-2007, 00:29
I have an Equinox tarp (10x12)
I carry an Equinox 10x12 as well and am very happy with it. I used a silicon seam sealer and have had no problems. I compared the weight to other sizes and for the extra room it provides it's golden IMO.
If I were in the market for another tarp I would get a 12x12 sil. or perhaps a Cat. For what I paid for the 10x12 and the amount of use I've gotten out of it I'm really happy. Having such a big tarp allows plenty of room to stretch out under during nasty wet weather.
Passionphish
12-24-2007, 01:56
Silnylon stretches when wet. If you can, spend the extra dough and get a spinnaker tarp. Not having to retighten or repitch in a bad rain storm can really be a relief and peace of mind.
-Passionphish
I carry an Equinox 10x12 as well and am very happy with it. I used a silicon seam sealer and have had no problems. I compared the weight to other sizes and for the extra room it provides it's golden IMO.
If I were in the market for another tarp I would get a 12x12 sil. or perhaps a Cat. For what I paid for the 10x12 and the amount of use I've gotten out of it I'm really happy. Having such a big tarp allows plenty of room to stretch out under during nasty wet weather.
and for 2 boy scouts to sleep under! I got 5 campmor 10x12 siltarps for our boy scout troop.
Bootstrap
12-25-2007, 10:39
If I were in the market for another tarp I would get a 12x12 sil. or perhaps a Cat. For what I paid for the 10x12 and the amount of use I've gotten out of it I'm really happy. Having such a big tarp allows plenty of room to stretch out under during nasty wet weather.
Why a Cat?
Jonathan
Runsalone
01-07-2008, 22:07
Well I went with an Oware for thier good reputation and nicely placed tieouts. Should get here middle of next weekish. Hopefully Ive made a good choice. Thanks yall for your help!:)
Runsalone, I ordered an Oware just the other day as well. I called Dave with my payment info this morning. I went with a FlatTarp 2, 30d Silnylon.
Nearly Normal
01-08-2008, 16:03
Granite Gear makes a good article. They even got away from that terrible cloud white. I have a 8x10 and wish I'd gotten the 10x10.
$$$ but well made.
vaporjourney
01-09-2008, 18:34
This question will depend on how you'd like to pitch your tarp. Most definitely get one with a caternary cut if you only want to pitch in the typical A-frame setup. The caternary ridge will keep a very taught pitch all thru the night, no matter what the moisture is like. It's easier to pitch taught as well. Very quick..and damn pretty once it's pitched. For this...I HIGHLY recommend the Mountain Laurel Designs Silnylon GraceSolo tarp. This was the first tarp I ever bought, and used it for half of my '07 thru.
Now if you'd like a typical rectangular tarp for an amazing array of pitching options, then stick with a tarp that one of these guys mentioned. I've never used one before, but look forward to experimenting with my Golite TarpPoncho that I just got.
queticocamper
01-28-2008, 23:46
I am looking for a good tarp to cover the cooking area and a rain shelter area when I go to quetico. I took a cheapy last year and the wind shredded it. I am also looking for suggestions on what size is best and how to rig it the best way? We have 4 in the group. It is not intended for sleeping or laying uner but to sit or stand or cook under during a rainy day
scavenger
01-29-2008, 01:56
I sleep under a golite silnylon poncho. Kinda small for pitching as a lean-to but it can be done. Works better as an A-frame I think.
SloHiker
01-31-2008, 14:28
Granite Gear makes a good article. They even got away from that terrible cloud white. I have a 8x10 and wish I'd gotten the 10x10.
$$$ but well made.
I'll second the Granite Gear White Lightnin' Tarp ..... it's about 3-4 ounces heavier than my other 8x10's, but it's got a few worthwhile features in my opinion ... slight catenary cut ... center seam & edges bound with tape (allows for a stronger/tighter pitch) .... and the seam is oriented along the long ridgeline.
Helpful tip: sil-nylon stretches when damp/wet .... use small sections of 1/8" bungee/shock cord at your tie out points - it really helps keep your pitch taut.
I just got a sil nylon 8x10 Equinox from Basegear.com for $60-delivered. I have only played with it in the yard, but it looks very nice. Weight is 14.oz and it comes in a mesh bag with cord lock. I read several reviews before I bought and it doesn't have cantanary cut edges, flux capacitors, etc. but it's well made, light, and not too pricey.
I made a Ray-Way 2 person tarp. with guylines included it weighs only 16.4 oz!!
so far I only have backyard and car camping experience with it, but I can't wait to try it for real
runsalone:
You might want to check out gossamer gear's new tarptent, The One. It weighs only 17.5 oz. and gives you bug protection and light weight. Just went on sale on 2/15/08. Here's the link:
http://www.gossamergear.com/cgi-bin/gossamergear/The_One.html
Good luck with your upcoming hike.
No one mentioned the Mountain Laurel Designs Supertarp. Square, lots of tieouts, reasonably priced. www.mountainlaureldesigns.com (http://www.mountainlaureldesigns.com)
www.outdoorequipmentsupplier.com (http://www.outdoorequipmentsupplier.com) has a number of square and cat cut tarps. They make the Mac Cat.
take-a-knee
02-22-2008, 22:43
No one mentioned the Mountain Laurel Designs Supertarp. Square, lots of tieouts, reasonably priced. www.mountainlaureldesigns.com (http://www.mountainlaureldesigns.com)
www.outdoorequipmentsupplier.com (http://www.outdoorequipmentsupplier.com) has a number of square and cat cut tarps. They make the Mac Cat.
Oware, MLD, or OES (maccat), but don't buy a hammock tarp unless you use a hammock. You do want a caternary-cut tarp, they are much easier to pitch without flapping.
etowah makes a good, simple flat tarp
stranger
02-23-2008, 01:59
The Patrol Shelter by Mountain Laurel Designs is the best weather protected tarp I've come across in years. It's an A frame designs with a closed foot which means you don't have to worry about driving rain, and you can also order it with a front beak option.
They make it in Silnylon, Spinnaker or Cuben Fibre, I hightly recommend the Spinnaker fabric, it water doesn't stick to it at all and it doesn't sag when wet. But it's pricey!
I think the silnylon verison is $120, and only weights around 10oz. Also, the tarp has linelocs on all pullouts so you can tighten it down without moving stakes...such a great thing!