Testing the Gossamer Gear Solo Tarp
I’ve always been a fan of minimalist shelter setups. If you’ve read my previous tarp reviews – the Outdoor Vitals Ultralight 6-Sided Tarp or the MSR Thru-Hiker 100 Wing – you’ll know I value weight savings, ease of setup, and coverage in bad weather.
When Gossamer Gear released the Solo Tarp, I knew I had to put it through its paces. Their focus on ultralight simplicity aligns perfectly with my approach to stealth camping, as outlined in my Stealth and Wild Camping Guide.
First Impressions – Light, Compact, Simple
The Solo Tarp weighs just 9.3 oz (265g) without guy lines or stakes, making it significantly lighter than the:
- Outdoor Vitals Ultralight Tarp at around 14 oz
- MSR Thru-Hiker 100 Wing at around 15 oz
Packed size is impressively small too – roughly the size of a can of coke . For thru-hikers or minimalists aiming to cut every gram, it’s a standout.
Coverage and Dimensions
At 8.5 ft x 10 ft (2.6 x 3 m), the Twinn offers ample space for solo hikers with gear, or two hikers in tighter conditions. Compared to the MSR Thru-Hiker, it’s similar in coverage but lighter. The Outdoor Vitals tarp has a hex cut providing more varied pitching options, whereas the Solo and Twinn sticks to a rectangular design for simplicity.
Setup and Versatility
As with all tarps, pitch versatility is key. I found the Solo Tarp set up quickly in an A-frame or modified lean-to pitch. For tips on selecting sites, check out my Top Tips for Camping in the Wild.
Price Comparison
Here’s a breakdown for current market prices:
- Gossamer Gear Tarp – ~$95 USD
- Outdoor Vitals Ultralight Tarp – ~$95 USD
- MSR Thru-Hiker 100 Wing – ~$170 USD
The Solo isn’t the cheapest, its combination of low weight, robust construction, and solid coverage justifies the price for serious gram counters and beats the competition.
Pros
✅ Extremely lightweight (9.3 oz)
✅ Packs down very small
✅ Durable 10D silnylon fabric with silicone coating
✅ Versatile rectangular design
✅ Affordable compared to MSR options
Cons
❌ No integrated bug netting
❌ Requires trekking poles or natural supports for setup
❌ Single colour option (grey)
Final Thoughts – Is It Worth It?
For ultralight hikers, the Gossamer Gear Solo Tarp is a winner. It undercuts the MSR Thru-Hiker in weight and price while providing similar coverage. Compared to the Outdoor Vitals tarp, it is lighter and the same price. If minimal shelter weight is your priority and you don’t need a fully enclosed system, the Gossamer Gear Tarp delivers exactly what you need.
Ready to Upgrade Your Shelter System?
👉 Check out the Gossamer Gear Tarp here
Do you prefer a tarp, a bivy, or a full tent for your adventures? Drop your thoughts below.
