The 3 initial models were announced on Instagram:
- https://www.tarptent.com/product/stratospire-ultra/
- https://www.tarptent.com/product/scarp-1-ultra/
- https://www.tarptent.com/product/double-rainbow-dw-ultra/
Ultra TNT is a new DCF-like laminate from Challenge Sailcloth which is less expensive but slightly heavier.
In our testing, Ultra TNT matches or outperforms 1oz/yd DCF in most ways. The biggest performance advantage of Ultra TNT is that the fabric is stabilized by UHMWPE fibers in three directions instead of just two. This means Ultra TNT is more dimensionally stable than DCF which decreases the amount of deformation of the fabric under load. This superior stability reduces the strain on the Mylar films increasing durability along with making the fabric extremely rigid when well pitched. The coloration of Ultra TNT is also more opaque than DCF, meaning more privacy inside.
The other benefit of Ultra TNT is cost. At roughly half the price of DCF, Ultra TNT is not only better performing in many ways but also leads to much more affordable tents.
Sound very promising! Is there a difference between Ultra TNT and the Ultra 200 and 400 you see in backpacks?
Yes, they are entirely different.
Ultra 200 is woven UHMWPE and polyester and weighs 3.5 oz/yd while Ultra TNT is yarns inserted in the warp and CrossPly at 0.94 oz/yd
Their tents are ingenious and bombproof. My original StratoSpire is still going strong, surviving 40mph winds, overnight snowstorms, and miles of jostling around my pack. Roomy enough for 2 adults (plus a dog in a pinch) yet packs down into the same size as my quilt.
Agreed! I used an Aeon Li briefly on the PCT and it was roomy, sturdy and a marvel of engineering. I sold it because I thought it was actually overkill and got a tarp, but I was very impressed with the product.
More great products from tarp tent!