Tarptent Double Rainbow 2010

According to Mr Shires , the 2010 version of the Double Rainbow is about to ship.
Several tweaks have addressed the concerns/wishes that some had about the previous version.
It will have a new stronger pole but remain at the same total weight.
Notable improvements are the easier and "slimmer" freestanding attachment ( also part of a new pocket for the sleeve) , a larger pole sleeve, similar to the one on the Scarp. From the Moment it borrows the option of lifting the floor up to better wind/rain protect the ends and the bath floor is an inch taller at 5". The door zip is also closer to ground level making it easier to get in and out of the shelter.
Some pics :



Franco

Franco,

What are the differences between the Double Rainbow and the Scarp 2 (I know that you have the one-man Scarp, but it looks like the Scarp 2 is just a larger version).

I'm looking at both of these, and I don't know what about the Scarp 2 makes it more expensive. I personally think the Scarp 2 looks better, but I doubt that's the reason for the price difference.

Hi Chase
You are right , the Scarp 2 is a symmetrical design , exactly the same as the single, but wider.

The DR is a three season hybrid design. That is : a fly with two walls of mesh hanging from the top.

The Scarps are convertible 2 wall tents. Not that different on the surface from the standard single cross hoop/end supported tent that is very popular in Europe.
When you look at the details, then the Scarps have a lot of nice refinements that (I think) make them effectively larger,easier to set up and more ventilated than some.
So the extra cost is mostly the extra fabric.
This would be an ideal tent for someone that wants one shelter only all year around. Get the extra poles and it will take a good amount of snow too.
When it is hot the sides open up completely and you can unzip the end too.
Bigger and heavier than the Rainbow but still lighter than most.
Unlike with the Rainbows all of the floor space is usable with the Scarps. (great for the very tall)
Franco

Even with the optional liner it's lighter than the Scarp 2 and still a very clever design. Maybe not quite as good in the wind as a Scarp 2 but good, nonetheless.

Eric

i am going to look into this tent

This is the floor in the standard position


And the new cross pole. You can add two guylines to it or two trekking poles and two guylines for strong side winds.


Franco

Franco - are these changes for just the Double Rainbow or the regular one as well?

I don't see any news about that on the TT site.

The Rainbow was my first Tarptent ( I wasn't brave enough to get the Virga then...) so I like it as it is. Mind you mine is now two models old, still works..
But I will keep you posted.

Personal comment. I tend to like symmetrical designs, like the Scarps or the DR. Apart from esthetics they work better in the wind. So right now as a solo I like the Moment but would consider the DR instead of the Rainbow to get two entry points and two mesh walls for views and ventilation.
Franco

Those changes put it way beyond 3-season. Spindrift is still the deal-killer issue for winter/mountaineering use, but as far as wind or heavy spring snowfall is concerned, it looks pretty bullet proof.

(Speaking as a satisfied D.R. user)