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The SplitWing tarp used on its own is a super lightweight shelter that provides more weather protection than a standard tarp; it’s easy to erect and versatile in its set-up options, but it can also be combined with the SplitWing Mesh Body and the SplitWing Vestibule to create a two walled shelter that has all the benefits of a tarp, with the protection of a tent.
SlingFin says:
The SplitWing is our most minimal shelter for people whose top priority is achieving the lowest weight possible without compromising weather coverage. Designed with thru-hikes and FKTs in mind, the SplitWing and its modular accessories are adaptable to the wide range of conditions that are likely to be encountered on a 4-month-plus adventure.
When used on its own, the SplitWing is palatial for one and cozy for two. A pair of hardcore UL hikers (or very close friends) will appreciate sharing a shelter that packs down to the size of a grapefruit and weighs less than two packs of ramen per person.
At 7.9oz (224g) without the 6 included DAC j-stakes (10.3oz (292g) all-in), the SplitWing is damn light. Strategically-placed reinforcements made of our Expedition Series fly fabric keep the SplitWing in one piece when conditions get gnarly.
Unlike most shaped tarps, the SplitWing can be pitched with the front trekking pole anywhere between 105cm-120cm thanks to its front "wings", allowing you to prioritize floor area and storm protection with a low pitch, or provide generous headroom when pitched high. It's closed at the foot end to reduce drafts and increase weather protection.
The optional vestibule covers the front opening of the tarp, providing 360-degree coverage, perfect for those who are looking for the light weight of a minimal tarp shelter but would rather not give up the comfort and security of a tent. Add the SplitWing Mesh Body and the full system offers all the protection, versatility, and coziness of a double-wall tent but at a scant 21oz trail weight!
Our Verdict
The SplitWing Tarp is similar to a traditional tarp, but it provides more weather protection; the closed foot box, which, if used optimally, should be oriented into the wind, seals off the end of the tarp, providing protection from wind and rain. The split wings on the tarp entrance shield the user from rain and provide wind protection.
As the tarp uses trekking poles for support, you have some versatility when pitching the SplitWing; by setting the pole as low as 100cm, you have a low but wide shelter with a low wind profile, you can set the tarp as high as 130cm which will result in a shelter with a smaller base with more headroom. If you want to increase the room inside the tarp even further, two additional guy-out points located on the side of the tarp can be used with a stick, additional pole, or nearby tree to increase liveable space inside the tarp.
The tarp can be easily combined with the SplitWing Mesh Body, which connects to the inside of the tarp with a few clips; the resulting shelter pitches both inner and outer at the same time, so you don’t run the risk of the inside of your tent getting wet, I've never seen a tarp/mesh combo do this, it’s really quite innovative. If you want a fully enclosed tent, the SplitWing also has an additional vestibule to protect from the elements in all directions; this all-encompassing shelter weighs just 569g, which for a double-walled shelter is incredibly light.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- UL shelter for 1-2 hikers
- Front pole can be pitched from 105cm-120cm
- Can be optimized for headroom or width
- Apex guy points allow the tarp to be set up between two trees
- Reinforcement panels at high-stress areas
- Enclosed foot area provides more shelter from wind and rain than open tarps
- 9 perimeter stakeout loops
- 2 side guyout points
- Front guylines with clips for easy entry/exit
- Front wings provide storm coverage while pitching taught at a range of heights
Specifications
- Our weight: 245g (excluding pegs & bags)
- X6 pegs weigh: 66g
- Brands stated minimum weight: 224g
- Brands stated packaged weight: 315g
- Packed size: 8" x 4" x 4" (20cm x 10cm x 10cm)
- Floor dimensions: 90" x 60"-72" (head, depending on pitch height) / 36" (foot) (229cm x 152cm-182cm / 92cm)
- Floor area: 27-32 sq ft (2.51-2.97sq m) (depending on pitch height)
- Interior height: 41"-47" (104cm-119cm) (head), 24" (61cm)(foot)
Material & Construction
- Fabric: 10D Nylon 66 Ripstop Sil/Sil 1200mm
- Reinforcement Fabric: 20D Nylon Ripstop PE 1800mm
