Was pre-checking gear for an upcoming trip and was wondering if anyone uses them?? I'am talking about the tents that have rain flies with inside Velcro ties that are meant to go around the main tent poles in strategic locations. I have used them before with time ( lots of it) but usually in a rush I forget or don't even see them until take down. Any one use them religiously ?? I understand the point in having a more structurally sound tent, but it seems overkill most of the time. Thoughts? They don't seem to be on the lighter end of tents.

I usually don't bother either.

I use them all the time, religiously. And the tent stakes. And I tie to trees using the tie-out loops. To me, it is all part of the system and part of setting up a tent in the wilderness. I don't want to second-guess my system at night during a storm.

Yup, I usually use them - mostly because they are there. I figure some designer thought they were necessary - so why not use them.

Usually I forget they're even there, but I do need to make a habit of incorporating them in my set-up going forward.

quote bobbernumber3: "I use them all the time, religiously. And the tent stakes. And I tie to trees using the tie-out loops. To me, it is all part of the system and part of setting up a tent in the wilderness. I don't want to second-guess my system at night during a storm."

Agree 100%. The tent will withstand much more wind if the Velcro straps are attached to the poles. It essentially makes a double wall exterior on your tent. When you need it, it's too late to worry about it. Just take 5 minutes and strap 'em. Not tying and staking out ALL tie out point is just asking for a bad experience in a storm. Sleep well be prepared.

I almost always use them. I will double check to make sure they are in place if there is any possibility of heavy weather.

dd

You will find out if you should have attached these in a strong windstorm and then rain. But it's too late then because your rainfly just blew off partway in the middle of the night and you are getting wet. I use them every time I use my tent.

If you have been to any of Cliff Jacobson's classes on camping then you know to use them as they add to the structural stability of the tent in case of winds. I always make sure they are attached to the poles when I set my tent up. Same goes for setting up all of my guy lines outside the tent. I set them all up because in case of a storm I do not want to have to go out in the storm to get them in place.

We've forgotten to attach them on occasion. Got reminded once in a storm. We remember to do it every time now.

I do usually use them also. I have 3 Nemo tents that all of have these. I was setting up one of them in early September last year, just prior to my trip to make sure that I had everything and one of them came off. A week later I got to Cherokee Lake and two more come off while setting up the tent. I though no big deal. Wrong. Do you have any idea how much water can come in 3 tiny little areas where the seam sealer is missing during an all night rain? I know now. Next time one of these pops off i'll put a small piece of tenacious tape over it if I'm away from home since I normally don't carry seam sealer with me. A shout out to Nemo on this one for their great customer service. They replaced the tent for free. They would have just replaced the rain fly but they no longer make that model. Great recovery!

They also are handy for going lightweight......people just use a footprint, poles and fly. Makes a handy shelter. Attatching the fly to the poles is much needed for this situation.

Completely agree with most above: they are made to add structural strength and integrity to the tent. You'll wish you fastened them when a blow comes through at 3:00 am

Mike