OES 11'x10' vs Warbonnet Superfly

[StumpJumper]

This thread helped convince me to order a superfly (okay, I didn't need help to spend more money on gear but at least helped me choose where to spend it). What I didn't like about the oes winter tarp was the cat cut on the doors seemed to leave a pretty big gap. Also the included pullouts on the SF were nice. Brandon also claims that seam sealing isn't needed but if I feel different, I've done the work more than a few times.

Not that it matters now, but if you simply put "straight cut doors" on an OES order, you'll get doors that completely close... as much as you'd like them to.

One advantage of OES is that you get exactly what you want. WB has great products (I own a BMJ), but there are zero options to customize - length, width, cuts, tie-outs, colors, etc, etc. I really like my WB tarp, but I just put in an order for my third OES. I absolutely love the fit/finish Brian puts on his tarps (I also agree with the comments on reflective qualities of grey vs black/dark previously mentioned). To me, they feel handmade from a real craftsman.

I believe Brandon's ridgelines don't need to be sealed, but the side-pulls do. I could be wrong though.

Just my 2-cents

[philthy]

out of interest SWANK-E, which tarp did you go with and why? let me know what its like when it arrives, I'm in the market for an all-in-one tarp too

[Roadtorque]

Given the option I will only use black tarps. In the winter when I typically have the tarp as sealed up as it can be I feel like it helps trap the warmth (as long as the sun is shining). In summer I hang the tarp with a more open feel (ie porch mode) which allows enough air through to prevent it from being warm but it provides a deep shade allowing me to stay cool in the hammock. Of all the colors I've seen black seems to be very stealthy. I think black is the most versatile color for tarps

[shumway]

I believe Brandon's ridgelines don't need to be sealed, but the side-pulls do. I could be wrong though.

You are correct. I forget where I read that info otherwise I'd reference it. I sealed my panel pulls and not the seam. 2 weeks camping with rain every night and not a drop came through. I love my superfly.

[rip waverly]

i'll just say -

i prefer brandon's ridgeline method. real slick. never sealed and never a drip.
not over built - but just right. my spinn bmj is going on 2 years with no issue.

now, oes and brian will work with you on customization - and he really finishes his tarps, i mean real slick. just got his oes 12 x 10... still waiting to set up. i like the ridgeline hanging loops. nice touch.

[SWANK-E]

out of interest SWANK-E, which tarp did you go with and why? let me know what its like when it arrives, I'm in the market for an all-in-one tarp too

Hi Philthy,

I have actually settled for a WB Diamond Tarp for my first tarp and it's now in the mail!!

In terms of a larger tarp, I am still undecided, but now Terra Rosa Gear is also in the mix, thinking of supporting Australian local cottage industries.

http://www.terrarosagear.com/tarpshelters.htm

[SwampFoot]

Wilderness Logics Old man winter , Warbonnet Superfly.....both great tarps for maximum coverage.