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Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp vs Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp

Editorial Team
Last modified at August 9, 2026
When it comes to backpacking tarps, the Six Moon Designs Owyhee and the Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp are both excellent choices, but they cater to different needs. The Owyhee is known for its spacious design and good ventilation, making it a comfortable option for pairs. On the other hand, the Hexamid Pocket Tarp is exceptionally lightweight and offers superior weather resistance, ideal for solo ultralight backpackers.

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Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking TarpZpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp
Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp
Hexamid Pocket Tarp
Weight

24.6 oz

5.5 oz

Dimensions

44" x 96" x 5"

Exterior:

  • Peak height: 52 in
  • Center width including vestibule: 62 in
  • End width: 36 in
  • Length: 96 in
Material

Tarp: Nylon Floor: Nylon

Dyneema® Composite Fabric

Waterproofing

Not specified

Waterproof

Guy Lines

Included

LineLoc V adjusters

Warranty

Lifetime

2 Years

Stakes

Not specified

6 to 10 (sold separately)

Headroom

Not specified

52 in

Number Of D Rings

Not specified

Not specified

Number Of Doors

Not specified

2

Number Of Poles

Not specified

1

Comfort

Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp

4.2/ 5.0

Hexamid Pocket Tarp

3.8/ 5.0

Comfort is crucial for backpacking tarps as it directly impacts your rest and shelter experience. A more comfortable tarp means better sleep and more enjoyable trips. The Six Moon Designs Owyhee excels in comfort with its spacious design and good headroom, making it feel more accommodating. Buyers appreciate the ventilation and the overall roominess, which is great for two people. The Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp, while comfortable, has mixed feedback. Some users find it snug and claustrophobic, especially taller individuals, though it does offer features like roll-up doors and good tensioning. For those prioritizing comfort, the Owyhee is the better choice.

Durability

Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp

3.0/ 5.0

Hexamid Pocket Tarp

4.1/ 5.0

Durability ensures your tarp can withstand the rigors of the trail and various weather conditions. A durable tarp will last longer and provide reliable shelter. The Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp stands out in durability with reinforced seams and waterproof materials that buyers trust to hold up over time. The Six Moon Designs Owyhee, while decent, lacks detailed buyer feedback on its long-term durability, making it less certain. For a tarp that will endure harsh conditions and frequent use, the Hexamid Pocket Tarp is the clear winner.

Weather Resistance

Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp

4.1/ 5.0

Hexamid Pocket Tarp

4.4/ 5.0

Weather resistance is vital for staying dry and protected in various conditions. A tarp with good weather resistance will keep you safe from rain, wind, and storms. The Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp shines here with excellent weather protection, handling rain and wind with ease. Buyers praise its ability to keep out straight-down rain and side rain, offering full 360-degree protection. The Six Moon Designs Owyhee also provides good weather resistance with 360-degree protection and ventilation, but it doesn't match the Hexamid's overall performance. For superior weather resistance, the Hexamid Pocket Tarp is the better option.

Packability

Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp

3.7/ 5.0

Hexamid Pocket Tarp

4.3/ 5.0

Packability affects how easily you can carry and set up your tarp. A more packable tarp is easier to transport and quicker to deploy. The Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp is highly packable, with buyers highlighting its compact size and lightweight design. It packs up well and is easy to carry, making it ideal for long-distance backpacking. The Six Moon Designs Owyhee is also packable and easy to set up, but it doesn't offer the same level of compactness and lightweight convenience. For those who prioritize packability, the Hexamid Pocket Tarp is the winner.

Reliability

Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp

3.0/ 5.0

Hexamid Pocket Tarp

4.2/ 5.0

Reliability ensures your tarp performs consistently in various conditions. A reliable tarp will keep you dry and protected trip after trip. The Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp is highly reliable, with buyers noting its ability to keep them dry and protected from wind and water. The Six Moon Designs Owyhee lacks detailed buyer feedback on reliability, making it less certain. For a tarp that you can depend on in various conditions, the Hexamid Pocket Tarp is the better choice.

Weight

Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp

3.7/ 5.0

Hexamid Pocket Tarp

4.8/ 5.0

Weight is a critical factor for backpackers looking to minimize their load. A lighter tarp makes long trips more manageable and less tiring. The Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp is exceptionally lightweight, making it a favorite among ultralight backpackers. Buyers consistently praise its minimal weight, which is a significant advantage for long-distance hikes. The Six Moon Designs Owyhee, while lightweight, is heavier and less ideal for those prioritizing weight savings. For the lightest option, the Hexamid Pocket Tarp is the clear winner.

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Conclusion & Final Verdict:

In conclusion, the Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp and the Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp each have their strengths. The Owyhee is more comfortable and spacious, making it ideal for pairs or those who prioritize roominess. On the other hand, the Hexamid Pocket Tarp is exceptionally lightweight and offers superior weather resistance, making it perfect for solo ultralight backpackers.

Choose the Six Moon Designs Owyhee if you value comfort and space. Opt for the Zpacks Hexamid Pocket Tarp if you prioritize weight savings and weather resistance.

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