This review delves into the Outdoor Vitals Ultralight 6-Sided Tarp, a lightweight shelter designed for backpacking adventures. Weighing under 10 ounces, its 20 Denier material offers a surprising balance of durability and minimal weight, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing pack space. The six-sided design provides ample interior space, comfortably accommodating two people and their gear, even in low-to-the-ground setups. Its versatility shines through its adaptable pitching options – from freestanding with trekking poles to traditional anchoring with stakes. We'll explore the ease of setup, water resistance, and overall performance during various weather conditions.This in-depth review will assess the tarp's performance in both fair and challenging weather, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. Particular attention will be paid to the included stakes and their impact on setup convenience. We'll discuss the tarp's suitability for solo backpacking trips and its effectiveness as a shelter for two. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation, enabling readers to determine if the Outdoor Vitals Ultralight 6-Sided Tarp is the right choice for their backpacking needs.
Read more: 5 Best PVC Camping Tarps for Your Next Adventure
Setup and Versatility
The Outdoor Vitals Ultralight 6-Sided Tarp is incredibly versatile. Its lightweight design (20 Denier) makes it ideal for backpacking. The setup is straightforward; I've even set it up freestanding using two trekking poles, offering flexibility in various terrains and locations.
This eliminates the need to rely on trees or other fixed points for anchoring, granting you freedom to pitch your shelter anywhere suitable. You can also choose to tie it at both ends to trees, as with most tarps, depending on your needs and environment.
Size and Capacity
Even in my low-to-the-ground configuration due to the rainy weather, there is ample space within the tarp for two people comfortably. The spacious design ensures enough room for gear and provides adequate protection from the elements.
The actual dimensions will vary depending on your setup, but the 6-sided shape optimizes space for its lightweight nature. It's great for solo backpacking or for a comfortable bivouac with a companion.
Features and Accessories
The tarp comes with six red stakes for tying off the top. However, these are small spikes, not traditional tent peg hooks, and this slight design choice makes the setup process a little more fiddly.
This is my only real critique; standard tent peg hooks would significantly improve setup time and ease. Aside from this minor detail, the tarp's weight (under 10 ounces) makes it an excellent addition to any backpacker's gear.
Water Resistance and Performance
During my rainy day test, the tarp effectively repelled the water, keeping the interior dry. Its water resistance is impressive, providing dependable protection from the elements. The lightweight 20 Denier material still offers impressive durability.
The reflective quality of the tarp was also noticeable, highlighting its ability to manage various weather conditions. This makes it a reliable companion on any outdoor adventure.
Conclusion
The Outdoor Vitals Ultralight 6-Sided Tarp is a lightweight, versatile shelter suitable for backpacking. While the included stakes could be improved, the overall quality, design, and performance are outstanding. Its ease of setup, spacious interior, and exceptional water resistance make it a worthwhile purchase for any outdoor enthusiast.
The low weight is a significant advantage for backpackers. Consider the stake issue a minor drawback, easily remedied with alternative pegs. Overall, I highly recommend this product.