Rod R from United States, PA Public Profile

Possibly the largest square cut tarp on the market! Despite the relatively low pack down size and weight, this tarp has so many options available, simply due to its size. Material is sewn on a diagonal bias, designed primarily for a diamond configuration pitch, but can be pitched standard A frame as well. Well reinforced corners include guy lines with basic tensioners, in well thought out storage pockets, and lines are tied to sewn on rings, allowing use of poles. (not included) In addition, along each of the straight sides are three additional, equally spaced reinforced loops, as well as one center loop on top of the tarp, and four more loops on top of the tarp, equally spaced between the center loop and each corner. This provides numerous pitch options. The tarp comes with six aluminum spike stakes. Material is 100% polyester, but is not ripstop, so care will need to be taken to prevent tears and spark burns. A patch kit should probably be put together, to prevent the propagation of a small tear, if ever encountered. Seam sealing appears very good, and should weather rain very well. It would have been nice to see a center pole reinforcement, but for the very low cost of this tarp, it is not unreasonable for it not to be included. This will likely become my primary moto-camping tarp to go with my tent, as it will provide me superior protection to the current 11x11 tarp I currently use.

Was surprised to find the tarp is constructed of a 65% polyester/35% cotton fabric, very similar to what a heavyweight work shirt may be made of. This fabric I suspect would be ideal for a winter shelter, where in the proximity of a campfire, would be less prone to getting holes burned through by sparks. I would be concerned about water absorption, and what effects it would have on weight gain and stretching. The tarp construction is sewn in a diagonal bias intended for diamond configuration pitch, but can be pitched in a standard square A frame. Tarp comes with guy lines and tensioners on the four corners, with mediocre line storage pockets, that are prone to lines falling out unless great care is taken to secure said lines. Each corner also has a grommet hole for pole options. (not included) The only other tie out options on the tarp are single loops mid-span along edges between corners, severely limiting the number of pitch options without some form of modification to the tarp. The tarp is received folded in a diagonal orientation, and takes up a lot of room in its storage bag. However, I found that I can fold the tarp squarely, reducing stowed volume by about 25%, while still utilizing the included storage bag. Being that I do not do much winter camping beyond using my hot tent, and the only advantage of this tarp would come when using in winter, I probably would not purchase again. For someone comfortable winter camping with just a tarp, I would recommend it