[pct-l] Poncho/tarp

[Brian Lewis]

For the first 700 miles I carried a poncho/tarp and a light (not waterproof)
bivy, and I'd go the same route again --- good to have something to deal
with very infrequent rain or bugs, but not pay a big weight penalty for it.

Starting on the AT this year, I'll use a Gatewood Cape.  I have little
experience with it so far, but have liked the little use I've put it to.
I'll combine it with the same light bivy to start with and then later (when
it's warmer and buggier) swap that for the net tent that SMD sells that
works with the Gatewood Cape.  The Gatewood Cape is sold by
www.sixmoondesigns.com

Alternatives that I'm aware of (no experience) are the Alpinelite Microburst
Poncho Tent,
https://www.prolitegear.com/alpinlite-microburst-poncho-tent.html
and the Ultralight Outfitters poncho tent,
http://www.ultralightoutfitters.com/ponchotent.html

I don't know about reviews on the other options above; there are reviews of
the Gatewood cape on www.backpackgeartest.org and on
www.backpackinglight.com

I own a golite poncho and wouldn't personally want to use it as my shelter
on trips where I anticipated significant precip.  To get what I considered
adequate coverage I have to pitch it pretty low, so it's a lot less
comfortable to be in.

Best of luck with whatever you select!


Brian Lewis / Gadget '08
http://postholer.com/brianle