Rab SilTarp 2 Review

The Rab SilTarp 2 is an 8 feet by 10 feet silicone nylon tarp targeted at the fast and light crowd. Rab uses a 30-denier, 1.1 oz. parachute, rip-stop nylon impregnated with 1/4 oz. of silicone. This level of impregnation gives the nylon the ability to withstand 1 lb. per square inch or the equivalent of 2 feet depth of water pressure. They claim that’s enough to withstand leaks from even strongest rainstorms.  The tarp has 16 nylon webbing loops sewn to the corners and at 2-foot intervals along the edges. A ridge-line seam, that needs seam sealing, runs 10 feet down the center of the tarp. An additional tie out point is in the center of the ridge-line seam. It comes in olive, yellow or gray. It weighs 14 oz.

Note: Rab purchased Integral Designs and rebranded the tarp under the Rab name.

I bought this tarp in 2001 and have used it on many trips as my primary shelter. When tent camping with a group, because the tarp is light, I tend to bring it along to use as a cooking shelter and place to hang-out on rainy days. Because the tarp is simple in shape without any catenary cuts, unlike the Kelty Noah Tarp or the Snowpeak Penta, I’m able to adjust the set-up based on the situation I’m in. I like the versatility allowed by the simple design. The number of webbing loops along the seams allows for many stake out points, which means that even in a storm, I can secure the edges to help prevent flapping. Even during bad rainstorms, unless I made a pitching mistake, the tarp remains dry. I like the gray color, because it remains unobtrusive to the eye when set-up. In the woods, the gray hides the tarp from view.

Although I don’t know how many days I’ve used the tarp — I’d venture a guess of 100s — the tarp looks as new as the first day it came out of the stuff sack. That’s a testament to both the fabric and the workmanship of Rab. After inspecting the stitching for the review, it looks as good as new with every stitch straight and nothing missed — I can’t say that about all my silnylon gear; most notably the Tarptent Double Rainbow.

When a product is this good, it’s hard to find anything to complain about. But I do have a few small nit-picks. The first is that the tarp doesn’t include stakes or guy lines. For the price, I’d expect that, at least, they’d include line. I recommend buying six Easton Stakes and a pack of Kelty Triptease. Together these items add 3.1 oz. to the total weight. The second nitpick I have is the lack of side-lifter, tie-out points. It’s easy to add them using a coin or smooth rock, but I use them often, so having them sewn in would be better than not. The third is the stuff sack. It’s sized to just fit the tarp and stakes. I find I have to roll the tarp to get it to fit perfectly. Stuffing the tarp, especially when it’s wet, takes extra time and is a struggle.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, versatile tarp, then this is it. Buy one.

Specifications

Length: 10 feet
Width: 8 feet
Weight: 14 oz.
Capacity: 2 to 3 person
Packed Size: 4 inches by 8 inches Silcoat stuff sack
Colors: Grey, Yellow, Olive

Price: $145 | Buy Here | More Info