A Classic Gets Even Better

By Brian Reyman Ranked #11 - Tents July 12, 2011

I own the 9ft. version of the slightly older Noah's tarp and love it for backpacking and kayaking for 1-3 people. It's awesome for keeping off the rain around camp for cooking, chatting, etc.

After multiple TERRIBLE experiences with the cheapo supercenter special blue or green tarps (they rip easily, are tough to fold up and even more difficult to hang properly), I decided to go with the newest version of the large 16ft. Noah for family car camping.

I've used it twice recently - once in solid rain and once in a crazy high-elevation windstorm. The tarp held up admirably in both. It keeps the rain/sun off well and protects a very large area. It's also a dream to pitch - lots of guyout points and the cut makes it hang very nicely.

The only downside is that it can easily turn into quite the kite (this is expected with its size). Make sure you have it well secured to trees in a strong wind - or be prepared to have to take it down. When the windstorm hit us, we ended up having to take it down (we were using poles as there were no trees around - and that just wasn't strong enough). I can say, though, that all the grommets/guy line attachment points held up very well. I was concerned that they might rip, but didn't have even a little tear while the wind really gave it a try. If we had it attached to trees, it would have stayed up just fine.

If you're looking for an affordable, reliable, easy to pitch tarp because you're tired of the blue monsters, go with the Kelty Noah - you won't be sorry.

View Details: Kelty Noah's Tarp

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