Ultra light tarp to use with tripod for backpacking shelter ?

[QT Luong]

Although I have quite a light tent, I am looking to lighten my load further on backpacking trips. Most ultra-light folks seem to use tarps. One thing which is particular about a (large format) photographer is that he has a nice tripod which provides more solid support than a pole. Given that, is there any commercially-made tarp that works particularly well with a tripod ?

[Dave Jeffery]

I'm guessing that the tarps that would suit you needs would be the light and strong ones that are designed to be used with hiking poles. There are a lot of designs.

http://www.sunnysports.com/prod/GOLT...24-100776403-2

http://www.moontrail.com/snow-peak-penta-light-tarp.php

http://www.indoorclimbing.com/Tarp_Shelters.html

Just some sample links and I am not familiar with the specific products.

Thanks as always for the LFPF!

[Robert Oliver]

hadn't thought of that.... great idea

[Robert Oliver]

I'm trying figure out a way to use two of my feisol tripod legs as trekking poles to save weight....

[Drew Wiley]

I think I'd rather use an old-time tube tent as an emergency shelter instead of an
ultralight tent. At least you get an integral floor to keep rain from blowing in at the
bottom. Wouldn't last for long, but cheap enough to replace periodically. When I traveled ultralight as a youngster I simply used my big rain poncho for the tent, and
the ice axe to support it. None of these things work very good above timberline in the
wind, but are easily jerry-rigged if you have a few trees around. Recently I've carried
a simple paint-store type reinforced tarp with grommets. Only costs a few bucks and
weighs one pound; but it's only for emergency use under otherwise clear weather
forecasts, when I'm just out a few days. In the Spring or Fall I always take a real tent.

[jeroldharter]

The best tarps I have are made by Cooke Custom Sewing. The 1.1 oz silnylon fabric is like gossamer but completely waterproof and durable. The 1.9 oz cloth is less expensive and very solid. I have there tarps and a Lean 3. For your purposes, one of their "Lean2" tarp shelters would be ideal. They are really great and provide a lot of space for storing gear.

http://www.cookecustomsewing.com/welcome.htm

[ret wisner]

army basha

[Ken Kapinski]

I have been using a Outdoor Research Helium Solo Awning for a few years now. It offers many different pitch options and is very light. I only use it when I am reasonably sure its going to be dry and when the swarms of bugs have subsided. I don't like bugs! I use hiking poles to set it up but a tripod would probably be a bit more stable?

Ken

[Brad Rippe]

QT, I use a really cool Sierra designs tarp called an Origami. Mine weighs about 1.5 lbs and is really well made. Heading to Yosemite later this week to use the last of my Fuji Acros Quickloads......

http://www.sierradesigns.com/p-122-o...ltralight.aspx

-Brad

[BOB MURPHY]

You can buy a 3 season tent at under 3lbs. The only thing between you and the wildlife. Go for a tent. Check out GEARTRADE.COM. A lot of good used stuff. COOD LUCK