Simple and effective - Big Agnes Whetstone Shelter

Was looking for something reasonable light, easily packable and deploy, and self-standing. The Whetstone design is great on all counts. It's not backpacking light but plenty small and light to pack from car to beach, picnic spot, etc. Setup is straight forward with just 2 poles to give it shape. Attaching it to the ground sheet helps to maintain the proper shape of the canopy but you could get away without it in a pinch. I have the large and coverage is good for 2 adults with lots of space to stretch out or lay down but you can easily fit 4 sitting. The canopy isn't very tall so sitting on the ground or a low camp chair works best. Using the adjustment straps on the ground sheet allows for tilting 180deg so you can angle it however to get best coverage and vent. Lots of guide-out points to stake it for light winds. Build quality is very good as typical with BA stuff. Adding some closable air vents to the peak of the canopy would help lessen the parachute effect. Overall great product.

This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.