Which Snake Skin for tarp?

**PTAaron** · 05-31-2014, 09:12

I picked up a Hennessy Hex tarp, and I have decided I really should get some snake skins for it.
Searching Amazon I see several different sizes - #3, #4, and XL. The product descriptions give literally zero information as to the size differences.
I'm just looking for something that will fit the tarp, the hammock will be kept separately ... any insight on which option will fit the bill?

XL: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005J6J11E/

#4: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003ELZ5DO/

#3: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CKDH20/

I also looked at the Montaingoat snakeskins, but I'm not sure of the advantage of mesh over silnylon for these.

**ntxkayakr** · 05-31-2014, 11:02

Originally Posted by PTAaron

I picked up a Hennessy Hex tarp, and I have decided I really should get some snake skins for it. ... any insight on which option will fit the bill?

You forgot to consider Python Skins cost could be as low as $2 + a bit of cord, cord lock if ur fancy

https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...7-Python-skins

Also search with google.com or bing.com:

site:hammockforums.net "python skin"

**ntxkayakr** · 05-31-2014, 11:19

Originally Posted by PTAaron

I also looked at the Montaingoat snakeskins, but I'm not sure of the advantage of mesh over silnylon for these.

Mesh allows the tarp to dry out much faster while you travel, thus less chance of mildew. Often if there is a lot of shade or you pack up early the tarp is still moist (morning dew or rain) and you can just attach it to the outside of your backpack and move on out before it gets to hot to hike and you are able to have the best selection of campsites for the next night. Also mesh is generally lighter. Your experience may vary.

BTW there are several other vendors and many DIY and improvised alternatives like the Bath Sponge from Target or WM.

concurrent Thread, vaguely related, which discussed SS and PS.

https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/...mes-to-weather

**PTAaron** · 05-31-2014, 11:27

Great, thanks for the replies.
I like options that save money

**PTAaron** · 05-31-2014, 11:35

Hmm... That python skin link doesn't really give any info beyond saying you can make them from a shower pouf from Walmart. I'll have to search more when I get home.

**mrcheviot** · 05-31-2014, 11:50

The mesh skins that Kat from Mountaingoat sells are really superb, I've gotten rid of all of my sil skins in favor of these. As mentioned above they let your tarp breathe a bit, and although no tarp will dry while in skins the mesh ones at least prevent mildew.

The shower buffs work okay, although they're quite fragile and one is not long enough for a single tarp (at least not from the Axe buffs, you can cut it into 2x4' lengths though). The buff skins also would benefit from a rolled hem being sewn at each end.

**historyteacher** · 05-31-2014, 19:33

The other posters offered great suggestions. To your original post, the XL's work with the HH Hex. My current set up is the HH Hex, CRL, and the XL Skins.