Yama Mountain Gear 7′ x 9′ Flat Tarp: Versatility Meets Sustainable Design

Adaptable, durable, sustainable outdoor tarp

You're speaking my language when you start talking about versatile, adaptable gear. And let me tell you, the Yama Mountain Gear 7′ x 9′ Flat Tarp is a piece of equipment that has a certain rhythm to it.

You see, the flat tarp measures 7 by 9 feet, and it's made from SilPoly fabric. Now, what's great about this fabric is it doesn't sag when the mercury drops. It's also got a knack for retaining less water than its cousin SilNylon, making it a reliable partner in uncertain weather conditions.

Perhaps what strikes me most about this tarp is its sheer adaptability. It comes with a total of 17 tie-outs and five hang loops, giving you a multitude of pitching options. It's like a chameleon, changing form to suit your needs, whether that be for a minimalist camping trip or a full-blown base camp setup.

Now, this might sound peculiar, but two of the ridge tie-outs/hang loops are set at varying distances from the edges. Why you ask? Well, this is a clever feature that lets you choose either end as the ‘head-end', depending on your needs. Maybe you're using an inner that pairs better with one orientation than the other, or perhaps you're looking to fashion an improvised beak for added coverage. Either way, this tarp’s got your back.

Of course, the tarp is as rugged as it is smart, with cord loops at tie-outs taking the brunt of the wear and tear. That's good news for the longevity of your ties. As for pairing it with a bivy? It's a match made in outdoor heaven.

However, do note that guyline and tensioners aren't included with this tarp, so you'll need to do a little DIY or purchase additional accessories. You can easily add Lineloc tensioners or try out the Fastline Clips for relocatable guylines. And before you head out, make sure to seal the ridgeline and panel tie-outs to prevent any unwanted surprises in the wilderness.

And here's the kicker: it's all made right here in the USA, albeit from imported fabric. It's also made from recycled polyester, a nod to a more sustainable future.

In my opinion, the Yama Mountain Gear Flat Tarp is a splendid piece of gear. It's functional, flexible, and carries an element of care for the environment. For those of us with an active spirit and a thirst for the outdoors, this tarp seems to check a lot of boxes. And let's face it, there's something enticing about having a piece of equipment that can adapt as readily as we can.

Let's delve into the pros and cons of the Yama Mountain Gear 7′ x 9′ Flat Tarp:

Pros:

  1. Versatility: With a total of 17 tie-outs and five hang loops, this tarp offers a multitude of pitching options. It's a flexible piece of gear that can adapt to a variety of outdoor scenarios.
  2. Material: Made from SilPoly fabric, the tarp is designed to not sag when the temperature drops and to retain less water than SilNylon. This makes it a reliable companion in diverse weather conditions.
  3. Sustainability: The tarp is made from recycled polyester, a testament to Yama Mountain Gear's commitment to sustainable practices.
  4. Durability: The cord loops at the tie-outs ensure wear and tear is on the replaceable loops rather than the ties, contributing to the longevity of the product.
  5. Design: The ridge tie-outs/hang loops are set at different distances from the edges, allowing for adaptable pitching options, including the creation of an improvised beak.
  6. Made in the USA: Manufactured domestically, this tarp contributes to local industries and ensures high production standards.

Cons:

  1. Excludes Accessories: The tarp doesn't come with a guyline or tensioners. These must be added separately, which could be a hassle for some users.
  2. Seam Sealing Required: The ridgeline and panel tie-outs need to be seam sealed prior to use, which may be an additional task for some. However, there is a service offered by the company for this.
  3. Price: Priced at $145, it might be considered expensive compared to other options on the market, though its quality and features could justify this price point for some users.
  4. Fabric Imported: While the tarp is made in the USA, the fabric is imported. For those particularly concerned about local sourcing, this may be a drawback.

In summary, this tarp offers a host of advantages, including its adaptability, high-quality material, and sustainability. However, be prepared for some extra steps in setup and potentially higher costs. All considered, it seems to be a product well-suited for the adventurous outdoor enthusiast.

$145

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