Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Its very rare that I do immediate reviews on durable goods. I needed a beater tarp for Texas sun, because I already destroyed a good tarp in it. I looked at everything available on Amazon, eBay and several outfitters and finally decided on this one. With the 5 year warranty and satisfaction guarantee, it seemed like a good risk. The material is ripstop polyester, backed with ehat appears to be minimal (probably ¼oz per yard) polyurethane coating. It also has a DWR(Durable Water Repellent) application on the face. Its very similar to the DD tarp, that costs more than twice as much. It does not compare that favorably to my AquaQuest Safari, but if it did, Id just be more angry about the Safari than impressed with this(just a comparison to a 'real' tarp). Its a bit heavy at 1.8lb, but its also a bit large at 10x12(only size I could find. Would be very impressed with this, in a 5x7 at ~$20). It appears put together well, but not precise, so it doesn't pitch very tight. However, being polyester, it also wont stretch and sag, like nylon. Even the camo pattern is surprisingly good and has great colors(will see if they last). Though, it does have a grey border that kinda compromises the camo. I chose camo as a courtesy to other hikers and nature lovers, not for serious concealment, so its not really a problem. If you're looking for functional concealment, you might consider the olive green tarp, or a different brand. Unless it falls apart or leaks badly, Im going to predict that this is a good buy. Ill update after my first thorough field test, at 6 months and a year of heavy use. As it stands, it gets 3 stars, for being as advertised. If it lives up to first impressions, the price alone, will get a 4. We shall see if can rise to a 5. 1st Update: moderate thunderstorm last night. 15 minutes of ~35 - 45mph wind gusts and several hours of heavy rain. It handled the rain flawlessly, with no leaks or sagging. The DWR is still working fine, but will doubtlessly require reapplication at some point. One of the plastic tieout rings broke and some stitching on another tieout popped. I think it will be ok and its an easy fix. I think some reinforcement of the stitching will make a big difference, if you can sew. Ill upload pics, when I've done the reinforcement. Update 1a: Stitching has held fast and DWR still at +80% - water no longer beads, but forms sheets that immediately recede with no surface wetness, when the rain stops. I removed all of the plastic tieout rings(cut them with scissors, to give an idea of how strong they are). This is a highly recommended immediate modification, because they absolutely, without question, WILL break and if it happens in wind and rain, it won't be a pleasant experience. The cloth loops are sufficient and are at no disadvantage to rings. ** Update I purchased another camo pattern tarp, to keep in my car and it appears some upgrades and possible changes have been made. 1) The plastic grommets have been upgraded and though I haven't yet tested them, they appear to be sufficiently strong and lightweight(they also look better). 2) They have added a reinforcing stitch, to the perimeter tieouts, that should prevent them from tearing, under even harsh conditions. 3) The fabric is notably softer and the print is darker. I can't yet say how it performs, compared with the previous version. In all, these are good changes and show that they pay attention to customers. Ive added a 4th star, for this pleasant surprise.