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A lightweight, compact shelter with the usual top quality materials and construction you'd expect from Hilleberg. The Tarp 5 is a practical solo tarp that provides reliable protection from the elements.
Hilleberg says
A tarp provides essential weather protection but still allows you to feel fully “outdoors.” In addition, a tarp can be used to create a breezy patio over your tent’s entrance, or as a kitchen away from your campsite for greater safety in bear country. Tarp use is nearly limitless, and they can be pitched with trekking poles, paddles or branches, and can be suspended from trees, as well.
Our smallest model, the Tarp 5, is designed specifically to cover a single person while also providing extra room for gear. Its shape makes it easy to get into and out of, and it can be pitched fairly high off the ground for the full, airy, tarp experience, or with its edges nearly, or even fully, on the ground for a remarkably protective refuge from bad weather. Using a Bivanorak when sleeping under the Tarp 5 – or any of the Tarp models – adds both sleeping bag protection and an extra defense against bad weather.
In keeping with its minimalist mission, the Tarp 5 is made from our very light yet strong Kerlon 1000, used in our 3-season, Yellow Label tents, and comes with attached 2 mm guy lines. The Tarp 5 also pairs perfectly with our Mesh Tent 1, and the two together weigh just 730 g (1 lb 10 oz), creating an excellent and complete warm-weather shelter solution for those wanting a minimal yet comfortable – and very light – option.
The larger Tarp 10 and Tarp 20 have a more traditional rectangular shape. Both are available in a lighter UL version, made from our Kerlon 1200 fabric, used in our Red Label tents, and a heavier duty XP version, made from Kerlon XP. Both come with attached 3 mm guy lines.
Designed for two person use, the Tarp 10 pairs wonderfully with our Mesh Ridge, our Mesh Box 10, and our Mesh Inner Tents. Any of these combinations are a lightweight – and bug free – choice for warmer weather trips. The Tarp 20 pairs with the Mesh Box 20, and is ideal for larger group use.
Any of our Tarps are excellent things to have with you on any hike: use one during a break as an out of the weather gathering spot, or as a “dining hall” at lunch or dinner. The Tarp 5 will provide shelter for one to two people, the Tarp 10 is a good choice for two to four hikers, and the Tarp 20 will easily cover larger groups.
Our Verdict
Hilleberg's Tarp 5 uses an angular design to maximise the sheltered area while also making it simple to set up. This is a versatile tarp that provides plenty of space for solo camping no matter the weather conditions. With the multiple coatings of silicone on the fabric you get an impressive 8kg tear strength and 5000HH level of waterproofing for standing up to any conditions.
The use of Hilleberg's lightweight Kerlon 1000 fabric provides impressive strength and durability for the overall weight. This is the same fabric used in their Yellow Label range which is certainly enough for most three season conditions. It comes with the lighter 2mm Hilleberg guylines which are still solid performers. All peg/guy points are well reinforced so strength and durability should not be an issue.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
(Unfortunately, we are unable to ship Hilleberg products outside the UK)
Features
- Made from very light yet strong Kerlon 1000, used in our 3-season, Yellow Label tents
- Comes with attached 2 mm guy lines
- Pairs perfectly with our Mesh Tent 1
Specifications
- Weight: 296g
- Dimensions: 3.15 m x 2.15 m 10.2 ft x 7.1 ft
Materials
- Fabric: Kerlon 1000, 20 D High Tenacity Ripstop Nylon 66
- Fly treatment: Coated on both sides with a total of 3 layers of 100% silicone, and treated for UV resistance during dyeing and coating
- Hydrostatic head: 5000 mm/49 kPa (ISO 811)
- Tear strength: min. 8 kg (ISO 13937-4)
