Hello,
I am looking to get my first tarp to go with my first hammock . I have read through many of the post here, but want to get some specific input before I buy. If I choose to go diamond shape, I will get the Kelty Noah 9. I am leaning this way because it is only 2 stakes (which I may be able to reuse for the WBB tieouts). I don't know if this the best idea for a beginner, is there any reason to not do a diamond tarp?

If I go rectangular, I will be going with the Chinook 12'x9'6". This will provide me with more protection and a spot to cook in the rain, but the tarp is bigger when packed and I fear I will be carrying more stuff than when I had my tent.

Either way, I will be using the tarp for Michigan hiking late spring to early fall. I have a Warbonnet Blackbird DL 1.0. I don't know if I'll do winter with it, but which is better of my two options for winter.