Customer Reviews

Pacific Outdoor Equipment S1 Tarp Shelter (Discreet Green)

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This tarp is heavier than most because it is made of 40D silnyl, but that can be an advantage in rough weather. I just returned from an over-night backpacking trip during a thunderstorm and high winds. The S1, staked down, was fantastic at keeping out rain and wind. The grommets are reinforced very well. The length is actually 9 feet 6 inches, which I liked. Due to the catenary curve and my sewing in extra stake loops, the width of the interior is enormous: lots of room.

However, the tarp has some limitations:
(1) At 20 oz, it's heavier than 30D silnyl tarps, spinnaker, or cuben.
(2) It needs 4 more stake-outs for pitching it to the ground in high wind weather, so I sewed stake loops in.
(3) There is a curve along the ridge line, sloping down to the center. While this makes for excellent handling of wind, if you want a higher center, you won't get it. Also, when condensation forms, it does not drip down the sides very well. So, when the rain pelted my tarp, I was sprinkled with condensation. An A-frame would reduce this problem.

In sum, this is an excellent tarp, especially for the price. It also makes a great option for people wanting to use a tarp for the first time. You'll learn a great deal from how it's made and how it performs, and it won't break the bank.