dd tarp review DD Superlight Tarp 510g Ultralight for Hammock – Wylies Outdoor World

dd tarp review DD Superlight Tarp 510g Ultralight for Hammock – Wylies Outdoor WorldDD Superlight Tarp 510g Ultralight Camping Tarp for Hammock and Backpacking The DD Hammocks Superlight Tarp weighs only 510g and packs to half the size of the standard 3x3 tarp, making it the lightest option in the DD tarp range. This 2. 9m x 3m ultralight tarp provides coverage for solo hammock camping and backpacking. Made from 20D ripstop nylon with silicone coating and 3000mm waterproof rating. Available in Olive Green, Coyote Brown, or Sunset

DD Superlight Tarp 510g Ultralight Camping Tarp for Hammock and Backpacking

The DD Hammocks Superlight Tarp weighs only 510g and packs to half the size of the standard 3x3 tarp, making it the lightest option in the DD tarp range. This 2.9m x 3m ultralight tarp provides coverage for solo hammock camping and backpacking. Made from 20D ripstop nylon with silicone coating and 3000mm waterproof rating. Available in Olive Green, Coyote Brown, or Sunset Orange.

IMPORTANT: This tarp does NOT include a ridgeline. Purchase ridgelines separately from our tarp suspension accessories collection.

DD Superlight Tarp Weight 510g Half the Weight of Standard 3x3

The Superlight Tarp weighs 510g compared to 790g for the standard 3x3 tarp, a 280g weight saving that makes a significant difference on long-distance hikes and ultralight backpacking trips. The packed size is approximately 20cm x 15cm, half the volume of the standard 3x3, fitting easily in ultralight backpacks without taking up valuable pack space.

The 20D ripstop nylon construction with silicone coating provides the weight savings while maintaining 3000mm waterproof protection. The lighter fabric packs down smaller and is less prone to folding damage over time compared to heavier polyester tarps, making it better suited for regular packing and unpacking on extended trips.

DD Superlight Tarp Drew's Personal Favorite from Almost a Decade of Testing

Wylies Outdoor World's owner Drew has personally tested every DD Hammocks product over almost a decade, using them 4 nights a week in the best and worst weather the UK has to offer. The DD Superlight Tarp is Drew's personal favorite from the entire DD tarp range because the packed size and weight make it practical for extended trips where every gram matters.

Many of the product images shown are from Drew's own adventures using the Superlight Tarp in UK conditions. This extensive real-world testing provides confidence that the tarp performs reliably despite its ultralight construction. The weight savings allow for longer trips without compromising weather protection, making it the go-to choice for serious ultralight backpacking.

DD Superlight Tarp Size 2.9m x 3m for Solo Hammock Camping

The 2.9m x 3m size provides coverage for one person and gear in hammock camping setups. The slightly smaller dimensions compared to the 3x3 (which measures 3m x 3m) contribute to the weight savings while still providing adequate coverage for solo use. When set up as a diamond or A-frame over a hammock, the Superlight Tarp keeps rain off with minimal excess material.

For solo backpacking where you want the lightest possible setup, the Superlight Tarp provides the right balance between coverage and weight. Taller users or those carrying extensive gear may prefer the DD Superlight Tarp XL which offers additional coverage while maintaining ultralight construction.

DD Superlight Tarp 20D Ripstop Nylon Lighter and Packs Smaller

The 20D ripstop nylon fabric provides significant weight savings compared to the 190T polyester used in standard tarps. The ripstop construction prevents small tears from spreading, important for ultralight fabrics. The silicone coating provides 3000mm waterproof protection while remaining lighter than PU coatings used on standard tarps.

The 20D fabric packs down to a smaller size than heavier polyester tarps, taking up less space in your pack. The fabric is also less prone to folding damage over time compared to polyester, making it better suited for regular packing and unpacking on extended trips. The lighter fabric requires more care to avoid punctures from sharp rocks and sticks, so clear your camping area thoroughly before setup.

DD Superlight Tarp 19 Attachment Points for Versatile Setups

The 19 reinforced attachment points provide the same setup versatility as heavier DD tarps. The attachment points use reinforced fabric loops that handle the stress of guy lines and stakes without tearing. These points enable A-frame, diamond, lean-to, and other configurations suited for different weather conditions and terrain.

The attachment points are positioned identically to the standard 3x3 tarp, so setup techniques and configurations transfer directly between the two tarps. This makes it easy to switch between the Superlight for weight-conscious trips and the standard 3x3 when you prefer heavier fabric.

DD Superlight Tarp Available in Three Colour Options

Olive Green provides natural colour that blends into UK woodland environments. Coyote Brown works well in open moorland and varied terrain. Sunset Orange provides high visibility for safety and emergency signaling, useful when camping in areas where visibility matters or for group trips where you need to locate your shelter quickly.

DD Superlight Tarp Specifications

• Size - 2.9 metres x 3 metres
• Weight - 510g excluding pegs and guy lines
• Weight Saving - 280g lighter than standard 3x3 (790g)
• Packed Size - Approximately 20cm x 15cm (half the volume of standard 3x3)
• Material - 20D ripstop nylon with silicone coating
• Waterproof Rating - 3000mm hydrostatic head
• Seams - Taped seams
• Attachment Points - 19 reinforced loops
• Colours - Olive Green, Coyote Brown, Sunset Orange
• Included - Stuff sack with drawcord
• NOT Included - Ridgeline, pegs, guy lines (sold separately)

When to Choose DD Superlight Tarp Over Standard Tarps

Choose the Superlight Tarp when pack weight and volume matter more than maximum coverage. The 510g weight and compact pack size make it the right choice for long-distance hiking, thru-hiking, bikepacking, and ultralight backpacking where every gram affects your performance and comfort over multiple days.

Choose the Superlight Tarp when you prioritize low weight for solo camping. The weight savings of 280g compared to the standard 3x3 adds up significantly when combined with other ultralight gear choices.

Choose the DD Superlight Tarp XL if you need additional coverage while maintaining ultralight construction. Choose the standard 3x3 if you prefer heavier polyester fabric, or the 3.5 x 3.5 or 4x4 for more coverage.

DD Superlight Tarp Complementary Ultralight Equipment

Pair this tarp with ultralight hammock suspension accessories like DD Superlight Amsteel Rope for ridgelines. Use DD Superlight Pegs for staking out the tarp in softer ground. For complete ultralight hammock camping setups, combine with ultralight hammocks and hammock quilts.

DD Superlight Tarp Limitations to Consider

The 20D ripstop nylon fabric requires more care to avoid punctures from sharp rocks, sticks, and rough ground compared to heavier polyester tarps. Clear your camping area thoroughly before setup and use a groundsheet for ground dwelling configurations to protect the fabric from sharp objects.

The 2.9m x 3m size provides adequate coverage for solo camping but feels tight compared to the 3x3 or larger tarps. Taller users or those carrying extensive gear may find the coverage insufficient. The Superlight Tarp does not include pegs or guy lines, so you must purchase these separately, adding to the total system weight.

The silicone coating can be slippery when wet, making the tarp harder to handle during setup in rain compared to PU-coated tarps. The lighter fabric also flaps more in wind, creating more noise than heavier tarps.

DD Superlight Tarp Care and Maintenance

Handle the tarp carefully during setup and takedown to avoid snagging the 20D fabric on sharp objects. Clear your camping area of rocks, sticks, and anything that could puncture the fabric. Use a groundsheet when setting up ground dwelling configurations to protect the underside from abrasion.

Allow the tarp to dry completely before packing for long-term storage. The silicone coating resists mildew better than PU coatings, but moisture can still cause problems if stored wet. Store the tarp loosely in its stuff sack rather than compressed tightly for extended periods.

Inspect the tarp regularly for small tears or punctures. Repair damage promptly using silicone-based repair tape or patches designed for silicone-coated fabrics. Standard PU-based repair tape does not adhere well to silicone coatings.

DD Superlight Tarp Advice from Wylies Outdoor World Fife Scotland

Questions about whether the Superlight Tarp suits your camping style and weight priorities? Need advice on caring for ultralight fabrics or choosing between the Superlight and Superlight XL? Contact us for guidance based on Drew's years of hands-on experience using the Superlight Tarp as his personal favorite from the DD range.

DD Superlight Tarp Frequently Asked Questions

How much lighter is the Superlight Tarp compared to the standard 3x3?

The Superlight Tarp weighs 510g compared to 790g for the standard 3x3, a 280g weight saving. The packed size is also half the volume, making it significantly more compact for ultralight backpacking.

What are the advantages of 20D ripstop nylon over polyester?

The 20D ripstop nylon is lighter, packs down smaller, and is less prone to folding damage over time compared to 190T polyester. The fabric requires more care to avoid punctures from sharp objects, but provides the same waterproof protection at significantly lower weight.

Does the Superlight Tarp come with pegs and guy lines?

No, the Superlight Tarp includes only the tarp and stuff sack. You must purchase ridgelines, pegs, and guy lines separately. This allows you to choose ultralight options that match your weight-saving goals.

Which size should I choose, Superlight or Superlight XL?

Choose the standard Superlight (2.9m x 3m, 510g) for solo camping where weight matters most. Choose the Superlight XL for additional coverage while maintaining ultralight construction. The XL suits taller users or those carrying more gear.

Can I use the Superlight Tarp for ground dwelling?

Yes, but use a groundsheet to protect the 20D fabric from abrasion and punctures. The lighter fabric requires more care to avoid damage from rough ground compared to heavier tarps.

What colours are available?

Olive Green and Coyote Brown blend into natural environments. Sunset Orange provides high visibility for safety and emergency signaling, useful when visibility matters or for group trips where you need to locate your shelter quickly.

How does the waterproof rating compare to standard tarps?

The Superlight Tarp has the same 3000mm waterproof rating as standard DD tarps. The silicone coating provides reliable waterproof protection while remaining lighter than PU coatings.

Why is this Drew's personal favorite tarp?

The combination of 510g weight and compact pack size makes the Superlight Tarp practical for extended trips where every gram matters. The weight savings allow for longer trips without compromising weather protection, making it the go-to choice for serious ultralight backpacking based on almost a decade of regular use.