Nims

The Tarptent Notch is a classic single-person, trekking pole shelter that has earned its keep in the ultralight community for years. It's a true minimalist's tent, designed for solo thru-hikers who want maximum protection for minimal weight. The Notch is unique in its double-wall hybrid design: a mesh inner tent (or solid for cold weather) is suspended inside a separate tarp fly. This allows for excellent ventilation, superior condensation management for a trekking pole tent, and the ability to pitch the fly first in the rain, keeping your inner tent dry. Setup requires two trekking poles (or optional vertical struts) and a moderate number of stakes. Once dialed in, the pitch is surprisingly stable in wind, and its low profile helps shed gales. The vestibules, accessed by folding back the fly, are small but sufficient for a pack and shoes. We’ve found its ability to handle persistent rain to be excellent. The silnylon fabric is durable for its weight, though it can absorb a small amount of water and sag slightly when thoroughly wet. For solo backpackers who are comfortable with non-freestanding shelters and prioritize ultimate weight savings without compromising too much on weather protection or condensation control, the Notch is an outstanding choice. It's a testament to efficient, functional design. **Highlights** * Extremely lightweight for a double-wall shelter * True double-wall design offers excellent condensation management * Pitches with two trekking poles * Fly-first pitch keeps inner tent dry during setup in rain * Available with mesh or solid inner for varied conditions **Watch-outs** * Requires trekking poles and practice to achieve a taut pitch * Vestibule space is minimal * Interior space is strictly for one person * Silnylon fabric stretches slightly when wet, requiring re-tensioning