MEC Mantis Tarp

If you canoe-camp on exposed islets or run rivers above the Arctic treeline, you know what you need at the end of the day – a safe haven from the wind and the bugs. This floorless shelter is enclosed in the front by no-see-um proof bug mesh. Fabric flaps along all bottom edges keep bugs from tunnelling in.

The low, angled end cuts the prevailing wind, keeping the tarp stable. Open the window in this corner to maximize airflow or batten it down completely in heavy weather. A zipper in the mesh panel allows adjustments to be made from inside. In most conditions, the front corner can be suspended high enough for two or three people to stand. In this mode, the Mantis will accommodate six for dining and socializing. Should you take pity on some other unfortunate victims of weather or winged horrors, you can find room for two or three more.

To save space and weight, the Mantis does not come with a front corner pole. It can be supported from trees, driftwood, paddles, or you can purchase an optional adjustable pole. In strong winds, rig the Mantis with its front to the ground. Let the ends of the arch pole spread wide before staking them, this lowers the entire structure, reducing headroom and space, but creates a shape that foils wind.

• Made of 75-denier ripstop polyester, polyurethane-coated for waterproofness to 2000mm.
• 420-denier ripstop reinforcements.
• All seams are factory-taped.
• Anchor points allow rigging for additional stability.
• Arching pole is 7001-T6 aluminum alloy.
• Includes five Easton Gold 20cm aluminum tubular stakes for superior holding power in soil, firm snow, or sand.
• Enclosed area is 11.2sq. m.
• Maximum interior height is 188cm.
• Minimum weight is 2.4kg, packaged weight is 3.3kg.
• Packed size is 65 x 21cm.
• Sewn in Vietnam, materials from Taiwan.