I bought this item after reading user reviews about this and competitive products. We were planning a trip to Hart Mountain Wildlife Refuge in Oregon, and expected rain storms for several days. We wanted a shelter/canopy that would stand up to heavy rain and wind conditions. We were not disappointed. This canopy sheds rain like a duck's back.
In regard to setup. I set this up myself while my wife went to register the campsite. I had it up and was fastening the lanyards before she returned in only a few minutes. Although some of the reviews say not to attempt this by yourself, I found that I could walk from corner to corner, pulling the edges out until I had it expanded all the way. Also, the directions say to put the top on before fully expanding it. This is probably the better way to do it, but I found this unnecessary. I simply expanded it and then stretched the top on. This unit comes with pre-attached velcro tabs that securely attach the awning to the skeleton structure so that the wind does not rattle the awning. Very cool. One thing to remember is to attach the velcro tabs all around the inside before telescoping the legs up, otherwise you may not be able to reach the velcro tabs on the ceiling after it is fully up.
Another great thing about this design is that it comes with batwing lanyards at each corner with pre-attached cords. So it is easy to put the guy wires out for added security against the wind. Very convenient design.
We gave it a good test. It rained hard on and off for four days and this baby did not leak any water. After four days of rain, the only moisture I could find was a tiny bit on the name tag that is sewn through the canopy, and there the water wicked through, but did not drip at all.
The overall design is excellent. If you look closely, you will see many features that shout "good design" all over. I have been in product design for 20 years, so I know what is garbage and what has been thought through. This unit is well done.
The only things I would change are: (1) put rings on the ceiling for hanging wet clothing and towels (2) make the sides about two inches wider from top to bottom (all the awnings have this problem), (3) make the guy wire stakes with rings at the end instead of "nail heads," so you can pull them out easier, and (4) make the stuff sack 5% bigger. (Why don't outdoor gear manufacturers understand this?? Sheesh!)
Overall, highly recommended!