Hi Blackfoot,
Sorry to hear about the D-rings snapping. More than likely it was due to the colder temperatures affecting the plastic while under load. While we have tested them in most conditions, including single digits, and had good results, I can see that there could be conditions where they might fail (obviously). They are, after all, 1/2 inch plastic d-rings.
We decided to use those particular rings for a couple of reasons. One, they go a long way to keep the weight down. I would put Dutchware titanium d-rings on every tarp if I could afford it. They are strong and who does not like titanium?
Also, we build the tarp in such a way that if there is a failure to one of the d-rings, the remaining webbing attachment can still be used for the pullout. This allows the user to finish the trip and send it back to us for repair if deemed necessary.
We have a good number of our cuben tarps out in the market now and we have had only heard of a very few instances of failure. Few enough that manufacture defects of the d-rings themselves could be a factor.
It goes without say, but I will say it, that we will fix your tarp if you send it back to us. I apologize for any hardship you might have experienced out on the trail.
~Stormcrow
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