I never noticed this thread until now, since i have been using the Tentsile Fltye, for backwoods/canoe camping for a few years, I guess i will chime in.
I would definitely class this as a "floating tent" and not a hammock.
The actual tent part is quite light, but the suspension and ratchet (especially the ratchet) are heavy. I am not going to go weigh parts, but I estimate the ratchet alone weighs ~4 pounds, the straps are quite long and I am also estimating a similar weight for all of them ..... so it is a relatively heavy shelter for any sort of camping that involves carrying.
I did change up a few things .... changed up the straps to suitably sized amsteel, as I didn't like the way the straps tied off, also got Dutch to make me up wider tree straps as I found the supplied straps could leave impressions in the trees. With the changes it was somewhat lighter and left no discernible damage to the trees.
As far as infield performance, once it is setup ... it gives a very flat lay and the slight give is almost like a mattress. I used mine in conjunction with a 9 cm Exped Downmat and was comfortable to about -10C ... this is the same mat I use when in my tent. As far as insulation goes, think more tent and less hammock .... I can't see an UQ being successful, while a mat works fine. As far as an UQ being "far warmer (and comfier) than any tent/sleeping bag combo", well that just isn't reality IMO, I have done both and each has it's strengths and weaknesses.
The tarp they supply works and will take some pretty nasty weather ... but it is close fitting and somewhat annoying to get in and out of and likely could have been a bit better designed (maybe a beak for exit and entry).
You do need trees, but it is surprising to me that i really never had too much issue finding trees that would work, that is likely due to the long straps giving a lot of area to find trees in.
I have moved on to GE hammock, mainly due to weight considerations ... while the hammock is comfy and warm, the Flyte is also comfy and warm ... it really comes down to the "comfy" you are looking for, if that's a bed like experience, the Flyte is as close as you'll get IMO, if it's that cushioned/cocooned feeling, then a hammock.
Brian
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