GoLite Poncho Tarp

[freestanding ultralight]

Here’s a rare find: a two-person tent at this price and weight that still delivers freestanding, double-wall performance. It’s a bit small—no surprise—but the ounce-saving dimensions (best for sleeping, not lounging) worked just fine for our long-distance-hiking testers, who used the Imogene during a 400-mile Appalachian Trail trek through Maine and New Hampshire. The shelter held firm in roaring rainstorms that forced hikers in lesser tents to flee for the lean-to, and the weight-saving, 10-denier fabrics (20-denier for the floor) survived the journey intact.

The Imogene packs down small—the size of a 1-liter bottle—and setup is speedy, using one hubbed pole. There’s just one door (at the head end), which requires careful exits to avoid disturbing a companion. The 39-inch peak height allows even 6’4” campers to sit upright. But the length and width proved “cramped for two big guys,” reports one tester, who calls the 30 square feet “just big enough for sleeping.” And we wished for better ventilation in humid conditions, when condensation collected. $300; 2 lbs. 7 oz.; golite.com

The ultimate in lightweight versatility. A shelter, waterproof-breathable rain top & bottom, and pack cover combined.

-Roomy, ultra-light poncho with additional coverage in the back for protecting a backpack
-Pitches with trekking pole and guy-lines (not included)
-Reinforced stake-out loops
-Converts to an ultra-light shelter using nylon tie-down loops in corners and middle of sides
-Snaps allow folding up excess fabric when not in use as a shelter

15 Denier Ripstop Nylon
Silicone/PU 1200mm Waterproof Fire Retardant Coating