[pct-l] tarptents and wind

[RJ Lewis]

Before I bought my Double Rainbow Tarptent last year, I actually called 
Henry Shires and asked him a few questions about storm handling, wind 
handling and snow load on his tarptents, and most pointedly, which of 
them would handle it the best? I also related to him that I planned a 
PCT hike, and perhaps others, using the tent I would be purchasing from 
him. After some conversation, he told me that the 2 Rainbow tents would 
be the best bet, and discussed with me just how to pitch the tent in a 
storm- ie wind, rain, etc....to maximize its benefits. The Rainbow and 
Double Rainbow also have grommets located in the top vents that one can 
use a hiking pole to stabilize the tent in higher wind conditions. This 
grommet is easily accessible sitting inside one's tent, just by 
unzipping either side door zipper. Couldn't get much easier than that.  
The Double Rainbow also offers as an option an interior liner, to help 
with condensation problems, with a weight that registers just under 4 
oz. A nice addition for the damper climes of Washington state and the like.
 
If you have any concerns, give Henry Shires a call- he will happily 
answer any of your questions about your Tarptent. He makes them after 
all and would, in my opinion, be the expert on this matter.

Peace and have a great weekend all!
HYOH

Robert W. Freed wrote:
>   I'm trying out the Rainbow this year. I've been a ultra lite hiker 
> for some years now. But last season I got caught in Evolution Basin in 
> a sudden storm at dusk. The temperature dropped 30 degrees with wind 
> gusts up to 50+ mph. Raining horizontal. Setting up my 8x10 tarp would 
> have been a joke. I was cold in half an hour and in trouble within one 
> hour. Now I know why they built Muir Hut first hand. It leaks like a 
> sieve but at least it blocks the wind. I setup my tarp inside and was 
> warm within two cup o'soups.
>   I was lucky and I learned a lesson. It seems like the rainbow setup 
> with the wind might work. At least way better than a tarp in the wind.
>  
> Robert
>  
> ......................"kris" <kks202 at excite.com> wrote...................
> First off, I love my tarptent.  I have been through 7+ inch storms in
> it.  BUT I have next to no faith in it as far as snow loading, side
> gusts or very high winds are concerned.  What are people's opinions as far
> as ultralite tents (ie bug-proof shelters) that offer maximum wind
> protection?
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