Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp vs Zpacks 7' x 9' Flat Tarp

Comfort is crucial for a backpacking tarp as it directly impacts your rest and overall experience. A comfortable tarp should offer ample space and good ventilation. The Six Moon Designs Owyhee is praised for its spacious design and headroom, making it feel roomy and airy. The Zpacks tarp, while also spacious, is noted for allowing users to sit up and lay down comfortably. Both tarps excel in comfort, but the Owyhee's perimeter netting for bug protection gives it a slight edge for those who prioritize a bug-free environment.

Durability ensures your tarp can withstand various weather conditions and rough handling. The Zpacks tarp, made from Dyneema Composite Fabric, is highly praised for its strong material and craftsmanship, making it a reliable choice for long-distance backpacking. The Six Moon Designs Owyhee, while comfortable, lacks the same level of durability feedback, making it less suitable for harsh conditions. For those who need a tarp that can handle extreme weather and rough use, the Zpacks tarp is the clear winner.

Weather resistance is essential for staying dry and protected in various conditions. Both tarps perform well in this category, with the Owyhee offering 360-degree protection and good ventilation. The Zpacks tarp is noted for being completely waterproof and handling high winds effectively. While both tarps provide excellent weather resistance, the Zpacks tarp's superior material and waterproofing give it a slight advantage in extreme weather conditions.

Packability refers to how easily the tarp can be packed down and carried. The Zpacks tarp is highly compact and packs down super small, making it ideal for ultralight backpackers. The Owyhee, while also packable, is not as compact as the Zpacks tarp. For those who prioritize saving space and weight in their pack, the Zpacks tarp is the better choice.

Reliability ensures that the tarp will perform consistently over time. The Zpacks tarp is praised for its quality workmanship and ability to stand up to various conditions, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. The Owyhee, while comfortable, lacks the same level of reliability feedback, making it less certain for long-term use. For those who need a tarp that will last through many adventures, the Zpacks tarp is the more reliable option.

Weight is a critical factor for backpackers who need to minimize their load. The Zpacks tarp is significantly lighter, weighing only 4.7 oz compared to the Owyhee's 24.6 oz. This makes the Zpacks tarp an excellent choice for ultralight backpackers who prioritize weight savings. While the Owyhee is still relatively lightweight, the Zpacks tarp's superior weight savings make it the clear winner in this category.