#2 on this list
Deschutes Tarp
Six Moon Designs
The Six Moon Designs Deschutes Tarp delivers impressive performance for backpackers looking to step into ultralight tarp camping without spending custom-cottage prices. Built with a modified pyramid shape that features a zippered vestibule door, the Deschutes provides full 360-degree weather protection at a weight that easily rivals much pricier Dyneema alternatives. It is an ideal shelter for long-distance hikers who want quick setups and reliable storm coverage on three-season trails. Constructed from durable silicone-coated polyester, the Deschutes resists water sagging overnight far better than traditional silnylon shelters. The steep hexagonal pyramid design easily deflects shifting winds, while the front entry allows for adjustable ventilation depending on exterior conditions. Its internal space provides solid coverage for one hiker plus gear, with enough vertical peak height to sit upright comfortably during prolonged rain. The trade-off comes down to spatial efficiency for taller hikers. Because the rear walls slope down sharply to the perimeter, anyone pushing six feet in height may find their sleeping bag footbox coming close to the rear panel, requiring careful staking or the use of an elevated rear guyline. **Highlights** - High-value price point makes pyramid sheltering accessible - Silicone-coated polyester reduces fabric stretch and morning sag - Full zippered vestibule allows adjustable ventilation and weather sealing - Generous apex height allows comfortable sitting headroom - Integrates cleanly with the Six Moon Designs Serenity NetTent **Watch-outs** - Taller users may experience footbox contact against the sloping rear wall - Single front door can make ingress tight when pitched low against storms
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#3 on this list
Hexamid Pocket Tarp with Doors
Zpacks
The Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp with Doors is engineered for gram-counting purists who prioritize minimum pack weight above all else. Crafted from ultralight Dyneema Composite Fabric, this shelter strips away virtually every non-essential feature while retaining the essential protective geometry of a pyramid. It is aimed directly at fast-and-light thru-hikers tackling high-mileage days where every fraction of an ounce impacts stamina. The addition of overlapping front storm doors elevates this model from a fair-weather emergency shelter into a genuine three-season wind barrier. Because DCF does not absorb water or stretch, the tarp remains uniformly taut through prolonged downpours without sagging. Its pitch is supported by a single trekking pole, and setup is exceptionally fast once corner stake points are established. Living in the Pocket Tarp requires discipline. Interior volume is compact, meaning gear organization must be tidy to avoid touching condensation-laden surfaces. Furthermore, the minimalist nature of the fabric and hardware demands careful handling around abrasive rock surfaces, and hikers must use a separate groundsheet or bivy to manage damp soil. **Highlights** - Extremely low carry weight utilizing Dyneema Composite Fabric - Non-stretch material maintains structural tension through rainstorms - Overlapping storm doors offer modular, full-perimeter weather protection - Compact packed size slips effortlessly into external pack pockets - Simple single-pole setup saves time during fast camp setups **Watch-outs** - Minimalist interior volume leaves little margin for gear sprawl - Premium pricing typical of ultralight Dyneema construction - Requires mindful site selection to avoid abrasion to light fabric
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Deschutes Tarp | Hexamid Pocket Tarp with Doors |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 13 oz / 369 g | — |
| Shelter Style | Solo modified pyramid | Ultralight solo shaped pyramid tarp |
| Canopy Fabric | Silicone-coated polyester | Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) |
| Support Required | Single trekking pole (approx. 49 inches) | — |
| Entry Type | Zippered front vestibule | — |
| Retail Price | Approximately $190 | — |
| Support Pole | — | Single trekking pole (around 48 in / 122 cm) |
| Enclosure | — | Overlapping storm doors with hook closures |
| Minimum Stakes | — | 6 to 8 stakes required |
| Floor Style | — | Floorless (requires groundsheet or bivy) |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Deschutes Tarp
- Sub-pound pack weight while providing complete 360-degree storm protection.
- Silpoly canopy resists water absorption and maintains pitch tension when wet.
- Zippered front vestibule allows versatile airflow management and weather sealing.
- Significantly more affordable than competing Dyneema pyramid shelters.
- Sloping rear wall creates limited clearance for tall hikers with thick sleeping pads.
- Requires manual seam sealing before deployment in sustained rainfall.
- Low storm pitch can make entering and exiting through the single door awkward.
Hexamid Pocket Tarp with Doors
- Industry-leading warmth-to-weight ratio for an enclosed shelter
- Non-stretch DCF fabric maintains structural tautness through heavy rain
- Overlapping storm doors shield against wind shifts without heavy zippers
- Packs down small enough to slide into an exterior backpack pocket
- Cramped interior volume leaves minimal clearance for taller hikers
- Floorless setup requires sourcing and carrying a separate groundsheet
- Lightweight DCF fabric requires careful handling around abrasive rock
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