In the event of the frolic that is most camping and outdoor activities, it is only lucid to want to make the most of it. But that becomes impossible to achieve in cases where the weather decrees to bath the environs in blistering, unbearable heat or worse still, a frustrating deluge you definitely never saw coming.
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So, how do you best enjoy your outdoor activities even in the face of nature’s astringent elements? The easiest way around it is to simply get yourself a hammock tarp/rain fly.
This article comes to you as a guide with an incredibly helpful rundown of some of the best hammock tarps & rain fly anywhere. A scan through this write up will go a long way in cutting the frills through your tarp shopping endeavor.
Asymmetric And Diamond Tarps
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Our Pick: Bear Butt Double Hammock/Rain Fly Cover
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One truth stands steady when it comes to the Bear Butt rain fly cover; it is as reliable as it is resilient.
Even its fabricators have an insane amount of confidence in its adeptness.
Why else would they guarantee a full money refund in case of any glitches (however small they may be)? And in that regard, I have to admit I am bought; this is indeed one of the best hammock tarps you can get your hands on.
Having been craftily made from polyester, this tarp is eminently waterproof yet very much affordable.
Although most polyester based tarps are often substantially hefty, the bear butt rain fly tarp is buoyant weighing only a teeny bit more over a pound. That means you can dexterously shove it into your backpack without worrying about aggravating your load any further.
If you think that’s great, you are going to love this next feature. Besides being an easy set up in whatever ambiance it is also ideal for double hammock camping. That’s right; it can comfortably house dual hammocks and still spare a sizable amount of extra space.
More inclusions to this package are stout tension guy lines and metallic anchoring stakes.
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- Packs small and easily fits into a backpack
- Comes with mounting hardware
- Extremely durable
- An outrageously convenient guarantee offer
- Cheap hammock tarp
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- Doesn’t come with set up instructions
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Also Great: Ust Tarp And Camping Shelter
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For anyone who appreciates multi-purposed appendages, the UST tarp should top their list of options.
Whether camping, hunting or backpacking, this shelter may prove to be quite a worthy outdoor abettor.
First and foremost, a well-deserved acknowledgment of its ultra featheriness is due.
Being only 15 ounces heavy, it is palpable that ferrying this tarp is nothing short of a breeze. Its light nature also makes setting it up a cakewalk. In just a few seconds, you can have it up and ready for use.
Although it bests serves as a single person shelter, it does so all so copiously. It features a zipper that allows for its transformation into a tube-shaped shelter that works great in cases where the ground may be damp or wet.
The UST camping shelter is what I would otherwise call a revolutionary piece; its unique aluminized reverse side gives it a special thermal insulation capability that makes it a rarity. This silver side can also be used for reflective signaling when the need arises.
Finally, this bunch comes complete with guy lines, a carry bag, and steel mounting stakes. All this comes at a particularly low price tag.
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- The ingenious aluminum coating that only adds to the tarp’s functionality
- Ultra lightweight hammock tarp
- Affordable
- Tough as nails
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- Low-quality frail stakes that easily bend on hard ground
- Some people may consider its size too small
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Also Great: Foxelli Rain Fly Shelter
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They say the customer is always right; and if you stop to consider the growing pool of positive feedback tied down to the Foxelli rain tarp shelter, it becomes impossible to doubt its adequacy.
This multi-purpose tarp guarantees total protection from hostile weather conditions such as sizzling sun heat, startling rain torrents, and snow.
Heavy winds too pose a negligible threat to this shelter’s perpetual stability. One thing you’re bound to love about the Foxelli rain fly shelter is its concomitant all you need mounting kit which takes a huge amount of time off the setup process.
This kit comes packed with regalia such as the guy lines, metal corner loops, aluminum alloy stakes and a carry bag.
Another very important aspect about this tarp is the fact that it comes with a 120-day money back guarantee and an additional 3-year warranty offer. Its makers are clearly taking naught chances when it comes to customer satiety.
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- Great warranty offer
- All you need set up kit
- Sturdy and strong enough to stand adverse weather conditions
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- May come across heavier than expected
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Hexagonal And Rectangle Tarps
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Our Pick: Eagles Nest Outfitters Profly Rain Tarp
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The world would be a much better place if everyone strove to take better care of the environment.
This is why it is necessary to appreciate ENO’s environmental conscious production approach which aims to reduce waste generation.
The reason why this is very impressive is that despite their benevolent approach to manufacturing, they still manage to create some of the best hammock rain fly tarps on the market today.
ENO’s Profly, particularly, is like no other considering its amplified water shedding capability. Its featured six anchor points give this tarp a streamline shape that makes it easy to keep the water running off its body during a downpour.
That, paired with its polyurethane rip-stop nylon fabric makes it super water resistant not to mention extremely tough. The Profly is engineered for unsullied longevity. Notably, it is ideal for waterfront camping or for total deluge hold offs.
As dozens of satisfied users would confirm, it functions as exactly described. Its elementary setup and take down process goes on to augment its already impressive list of features.
One last thing that’s definitely worth a mention is its no-brainer portability aspect made possible by its ultra-light construct.
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- Easily portable as it packs small
- Great water shedding feature
- Simplified set up and take down the process
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- Pricey
- Limited headroom
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Runner-Up: Hennessy Hammock Hex Rain Tarp
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Sometimes good things come ridden with an unshakable frailty.
The Hennessy HEX rain tarp is perhaps one of the markets most versatile tarp; unfortunately, it is undoubtedly bulkier than most of its counterparts.
Nevertheless, if you can overlook its heftiness, you can expect nothing but top notch performance from this one of a kind hammock tarp.
Designed to assume either the symmetrical or asymmetrical mounting shape, its pool of capabilities is indeed far from shallow. For one, it can pull all the way to the ground for full coverage.
Other than that, it can also be angled out to expand its coverage expanse. Thanks to its six tie-down points, the HEX is incredibly pliable.
Further, it is made from PU coated rip-stop polyester, a fabric well known for its remarkable water resistant properties. This material is also pretty durable. This fly even comes with little stow away alcoves for cord storage.
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- Extremely versatile and flexible
- Cord stowing pocket inclusion
- Durable
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- Bulky and too heavy for most people
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Also Great: Chill Gorilla 10′ Hammock/Rain Fly Tent Tarp
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If you’ve come across any Chill Gorilla products, then you are aware that these top soaring producers have bold confidence in their product’s functionality.
Chill Gorilla products are made to squash potential competition; their 10″ hammock tarp is no exception.
Every detail about this tarp is rendered with profound precision giving it a rather reinforced fabric. Rip-stop nylon, the material used in this case, is 100% waterproof; an aspect that most outdoor enthusiasts greatly appreciate.
It is also surprisingly light and puncture resistant. With that, you can rest easy knowing that this shelter can take quite a bashing without caving in.
With 9 tie downs to work with, this tarp is reliable and rigged with rock-like stability. 9 tie downs are no joke; fortunately, is that this package includes all ropes, stakes, and tensioners needed to successfully set up the tarp.
To top things up, the Chill Gorilla hammock tarp is large enough to fully suffice a double hammock set up. And in cases where more ground coverage is needed, it can easily be angled out to this effect.
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- Durable, tear resistant fabric
- Reinforced stability
- Full set up package (includes all necessary gear)
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- Poor quality hardware
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Large/Winter Tarps
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Our Pick: Eagles Nest Outfitters Housefly Rain Tarp
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It is not heard off to take on camping even in the ravaging winter; those who’ve done it actually acknowledge it is rather enjoyable.
However, you do need to go an extra mile to successfully push through cold weather camping/hammocking.
In this case, getting yourself the ENO’s housefly rain tarp is enough extra to secure yourself an enjoyable outdoor experience regardless of the weather. Seeing as much, it is no wonder that it takes our top spot trophy under this section.
The ENO housefly is beyond any doubt on a level of its own. It has been referred to as a waterproof fortress thanks to the patented rip-stop nylon material used in its fabrication.
Its triple effect powers keep you dry, warm and comfortable all at the same time.
A majority of its users openly admit that their favorite feature is the housefly’s stow away overlapping door flaps that come complete with buckles to securely hold them shut.
The doors are indeed a clever inclusion and above all else, they help keep out harsh winter chills.
This tarp is not only perfect for cold weather hammocking, it has a considerably large coverage capacity that keeps both you and any extra gear well sheltered.
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- Flap door inclusion
- Large coverage
- Highly waterproof
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- Does not come with tent stakes
- The tarp has no reflective tie outlines
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Also Great: Yuedge Portable Tarps Rain Fly
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Are you looking for long-lasting service? Top rated water shedding competency? Or maybe just extended coverage? Yuedge portable rain fly tarp is all that and a lot more.
ts water-resistant polyester Oxford fabric does a pretty good job of keeping daunting elements out. This material gives the tarp its imperative long-lasting characteristic as well.
For maximal protection from the sun’s blistering rays and UV, the Yuedge tarp features a thoughtful and effectual silver coating.
The tarp is also large enough to extend over any sized hammock (single or double) or tent without much struggle.
To seal the deal, Yuedge throws in regalia such as aluminum stakes and nylon ropes needed for solid mounting.
Last but not least, the tarp may prove useful in more than just the elementary manner in which it is intended; it is gleefully multi-functional.
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- Very spacious and roomy
- Ultimate sunshade and UV protection
- It comes with its own storage pouch for eased portability
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- Unbearable fish-like odor right off the box
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Also Great: Free Soldier Waterproof Tarp
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Free Soldier brings us yet another military style product that is not only graciously practical but also oozes of tiptop quality.
One look at this tarp is enough to tell it was made to take on outdoor battles and emerge unscathed.
Made out of PU coated polyester rip-stop fabric, heavy downpours and winds stand no chance of taking down this rugged shelter. It is also anti-UV making it a worthy arsenal against powerful sun rays. Whatever the weather throws its way, this tarp stands rooted and unshaken.
Its general design screams perfection right down to the teeniest of details; it’s stitching, for instance, is done with impeccable craftsmanship.
A combination of reinforced ridgeline seams and vigilant material, among another thing, proficiently back its long-lasting wear resistant capacity.
On mounting, its additional grommet and attachment ports make it very flexible; basically, there is more than one way to set this bad boy up.
Other than that, it is important to point out that the Free Soldier waterproof tarp is multi-functional.
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- Can adequately shelter 1-2 people
- It is a practical tarp with a highly pliant nature to it
- Good quality material
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- Heavy to the extent of bulkiness
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Also Great: Chill Gorilla Fortress Hammock Rain Fly With Doors
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This is the lightest rain fly with doors on offer anywhere. Yes, you read that right, the Chill Gorilla Fortress rain fly has doors. In fact, it has two doors, one on either side.
I need not explain how immensely convenient the above feature makes this fly.
And guess what, it gets better. Its weightlessness can be attributed to its ripstop Si-nylon material fabric which is great for all weather protection.
Its high capacity water resistance keeps the interior dry through the rains and provides a cordial shade during the sunny seasons.
The fact that it is relatively buoyant makes it very suitable for backpacking endeavors. With the help of dual ridge lines and four ground tie-outs, this fly spreads out to offer up plenty of space and occupation room.
Now one last amazing thing about Chill Gorilla is their excellent customer service proficiency.
When you are faced with a fly related predicament, all you have to do is reach out for immediate assistance; you are guaranteed to get a helpful response.
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- Plenty of room
- Impressive customer services
- Durable construct and fabric
- The doors are a great inclusion
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- Relatively pricey
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Now that you’ve analyzed each of the above products, I am positive you are in a much better position to make a great tarp purchase.
Whether you intend to use it with a hammock or you intend to keep things old school and therefore more grounded, you will find that a hammock/rain fly tarp goes a long way into revving up your outdoor experience.
Remember, only pick what works for you; more specifically, what fits right into your intended usage plan. Maintain a keen mind all through; this way you can evade any future regrets.
Buying A Hammock Tarp/Rain Fly
Now, unless you have prior experience, buying the right tarp or rain fly can get daunting fast. It is not exactly rocket science, but it is not duck soup either. This is why a brief crash lesson through the basics enveloping the above motif is necessary. Without further delay, here we go.
How To Choose The Best Hammock Tarp/Rain Fly; Factors To Consider
Material
In order to battle ferocious weather conditions triumphantly, stand the test of time smoothly and keep you adeptly satisfied, your tarp of choice must be tough as nails. In other words, its build material has to be extremely stalwart. While it may not always be possible to secure the best tarp out there, the market has multiple options up for grabs.
The most common materials include; blue polyethylene (inexpensive but heavy), silk-nylon (super waterproof but extremely thin), PU coated nylon (waterproof and inexpensive) and cuben fiber (super lightweight, resilient and waterproof). With a bit of research, you are bound to find something that fits right into your given prerequisites.
Size, Weight, and Coverage
A tarp’s size determines the total amount of coverage it provides. In that same regard, its weight determines how easy it is to lug around. A tarp at least three times the size of its accompanying hammock is recommended for sufficient coverage.
The amount of ventilation a tarp provides may also be a principle aspect for some people; its size and shape are the key characteristics to consider in such a scenario.
Style
Hammock tarps and rain flies come in varying styles. Each design, as we will see later, brings its own sizable set of pros and cons. More often than not, a style strongly depends on the buyer’s general predilection.
Set Up
This is where ridges and guy lines come into the picture. Ridges are usually of two natures; full length or end only ridges. The former means easy and quick mounting; the latter, however, may prove a bit more troublesome to set up. Even so, more complicated mounting approaches are often a quick access to a wider range of features.
Price
Cost is always a key consideration during any shopping spree; it is no different with tarps. As you would expect, in order to acquire the best, you must be ready to dig rather deep into your pockets. Nevertheless, it is very possible to secure a quality tarp at an insanely low price tag; you only need to assume the right amount of grit during your search.
Types Of Hammock And Rain Fly Tarps
Rectangular Tarps
These are the most common traps in use today. Considering their price range and the simplicity encompassing their set up, their popularity is seemingly justified.
Rectangular tarps are set up parallel to the hammock’s position. They come with four anchor points which secure their position once they are sprawled lengthwise on the ridgeline. They offer elementary protection from harsh weather conditions.
Hexagonal Tarps
If you’re looking for something with a fair coverage expanse, good ventilation and is reasonably lightweight, this type of tarp is it for you. The only downside is that they come across as little more pricey compared to their rectangular counterparts.
Catenary Tarps
These are specially designed with curved cuts; they are also some of the lightest tarps in the market. Unfortunately, the curved out cuts make it susceptible to blowing in the wind. Needless to say, stability may be a bit of an issue with catenary tarps.
Diamond/Square Tarp
These provide the least coverage given that they only come with two anchor points. The good thing is that they are a cinch to set up. Besides that, they are very light and are perfect option when backpacking.
Winter Tarps
In the face of impending snow battles, winter tarps are the best possible bet. Not only do they offer full coverage, they are made to give maximal protection from adverse weather changes. The best part? They often come fitted with doors or access flaps.
With the help of those few basic pointers, you are now a bit more versed on how to approach the situation at hand (buying a hammock tarp or rain fly).
The following section takes things further in an attempt to simplify your search even more. Here are short reviews of what we are convinced are some of the markets current top rated hammock tarps as well as rain flies.
Photo by bear butt team, Modified by Author.
