First tarp.... Superfly?

**jerseydave** · 05-15-2011, 05:44

Hi all..... looking for some input from those in the know.

I'm brandy new to hanging. So new that I am still waiting for my first hammock, the WBBB that I bought from the forum to arrive.

Now..... a tarp.

I will be using it 4 seasons, so obviously a full coverage will be preferred, BUT...
Is a Superfly too much tarp for the other 3 seasons?
I know I wil likely own more than one tarp eventually, but would like to start off somewhat inexpensively.

Am I better off buying a Superfly and making it work for all seasons, or go the other way, starting off with something a little smaller, then buying the larger full coverage tarp in the late fall when needed.

I guess what I'm asking is:
Are there any unforseen downsides to having a "mega" tarp as my "one and only"?

Thanks,
jd

**pizza** · 05-15-2011, 05:51

I have a Superfly and a MacCat Deluxe. I usually use the MacCat for 3 season and the Superfly for winter. If I could only go with one for 4 season I'd go with the Superfly. The longer sides are better for pitching closer to the ground in cold weather. It is a bit heavier but if you aren't that concerned about trying to be ultralight you'll have no problems with the Superfly.

**Joey** · 05-15-2011, 05:57

The Superfly will give you greater flexibility. It is a perfect 4 season tarp, and one you can't go wrong with.

**jerseydave** · 05-15-2011, 05:59

Originally Posted by pizza

I have a Superfly and a MacCat Deluxe. I usually use the MacCat for 3 season and the Superfly for winter. If I could only go with one for 4 season I'd go with the Superfly. The longer sides are better for pitching closer to the ground in cold weather. It is a bit heavier but if you aren't that concerned about trying to be ultralight you'll have no problems with the Superfly.

Thanks for the reply.
How small does the SF pack down to?

jd

**The Rambler** · 05-15-2011, 07:25

A little smaller than a 1L nalgene

**exup** · 05-15-2011, 07:27

The superfly comes in the same stuff sack that the traveler comes in. Its a tight fit though and not fun to get back in. You're better off using a bigger stuff sack, that way it lays more flat in the pack rather than a tight, round and not so compressable sack.

I say go for it! Its a great tarp, can't beat the size and coverage for the price and you're covered in all season. You can always get somwthing smaller, lighter and potentially cheaper later. I got the superfly back in the winter the shortly after got a maccat standard for 3 season. The maccat will be my go too. Its lighter, smaller, and pitches in a breeze. Basicaally if I can avoid setting up the superfly, I will. Just so many places to tie out, but I know for ALL conditions I'm good. Plus it won't kill ya to carry the extra weight until you get something else for 3 season. Cut weight elsewhere.

Check out the thread on "doors or no doors". It may help a bit more.

**jerseydave** · 05-15-2011, 07:28

Originally Posted by The Rambler

A little smaller than a 1L nalgene

thanks ....

**ShellD** · 05-15-2011, 08:08

Another option is you could go with the BMJ with door kit and leave the doors at home when you don't need them.

**jerseydave** · 05-15-2011, 08:17

Originally Posted by ShellD

Another option is you could go with the BMJ with door kit and leave the doors at home when you don't need them.

For convenience wouldn't it just be easier to tie the doors of the SF open when not used rather than having "extra" gear lying around, and possibly home when needed on the trail in case of a sudden storm ?

**BER** · 05-15-2011, 08:31

Originally Posted by jerseydave

For convenience wouldn't it just be easier to tie the doors of the SF open when not used rather than having "extra" gear lying around, and possibly home when needed on the trail in case of a sudden storm ?

Yup, you can certainly just tie back the doors. It just comes down to personal preference. Some prefer not to carry additional weight if they do not anticipate needing the doors on a given trip. Others, like myself, will take the 1-2 oz weight hit for the "security" of having the doors if I want them. Most of the time you can get by without the doors with appropriate site selection and orientation to wind. But the doors are nice to have when you want them. I'll just chime in to what has already been said, that you won't go wrong with a Superfly. Great coverage, reasonably light weight, and well made.