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Spider
01-19-2011, 00:44
I'm looking for a lighter-weight shelter option. This could be used for shelter, rain gear, as well as a pack cover. Anyone have any experience with this model?

http://www.golite.com/tents/pyramid-and-tarp-shelters/poncho-tarp/poncho-tarp

grayfox
01-19-2011, 01:00
Why not try this one from Campmor first: http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___20256
It is a nicer color IMO and if you hate it as a tent you have backup rain gear.

Using a poncho as your only rain protection and also asking it to be your tent is difficult at best and uncomfortable. Using a small tarp is fine in good weather with no bugs but can be a challenge in other times. Ryan Jordan's book has the best advice about using minimal tarps.

Torch09
01-19-2011, 02:17
I'm looking for a lighter-weight shelter option. This could be used for shelter, rain gear, as well as a pack cover. Anyone have any experience with this model?

http://www.golite.com/tents/pyramid-and-tarp-shelters/poncho-tarp/poncho-tarp


I recently purchased one of these ( found it for about $60 on amazon.com) but don't have any real experience with it yet. If I recall correctly, I chose this poncho because it was slightly larger than others I researched. Also, it has nylon loops sewn on the edges that allow for multiple pitching options.

The problem with all poncho tarps is the size. I have yet to find one that is wider than 5 feet. Ideally, I'd like one that is 8.5x6. I believe the extra foot would be worth the added weight.

I plan to use mine on my thru hike, along with rain pants. I'm going to figure out some sort of belt system for it because I imagine it will get blown around if there is any wind at all.

bear bag hanger
01-19-2011, 07:09
Another similar product is sixmoon design's Gatewood Cape. I've used one of these, it's larger than the Golite Poncho Tent, but can still be used as a poncho. It's about 11 oz.

http://www.sixmoondesigns.com/raingear.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage_smd.tpl&product_id=39&category_id=12

Add their Serenity NetTent when it gets buggy outside.

Spider
01-19-2011, 07:47
All solid advice, thank you. Though before I try something like the SMD, I'd probably try Golite because of the price. It's $80 retail but with the nice 40% coupon I found on this site it's $48. Still a little ways in my purchasing future though, gotta save some money and wait until it warms up a little.

leaftye
01-19-2011, 07:58
Warmlite also makes a poncho tarp, and I believe they're willing to do custom work that may get you the wide poncho you desire.