I got a silnylon tarp from a reputable manufacturer. The first time I tested it in a heavy downpour, I believe I witnessed it mist through--I could see it, and there were slightly damp spots on my hammock and sleeping bag.The manufacturer was not keen on my exchanging the tarp and insisted it was leaking because I had the tarp pitched wrong, the theory being the tarp was too low and the rain drops hitting the tarp were knocking down excessive condensation. Or rain was coming out the pullouts, where I should have sealed but did not. (They did leak but were not the problem.)
I began setting the tarp higher and have not had any problems, but the tarp has yet to see that kind of rain again. None the less, I don't trust it, and want to make it my winter only tarp. Currently, as I type this post, I am considering a custom poly tarp, constructed of heavier nylon.
The cuben fiber is suppose to be the best strength vs weight, but it rattles like a bag of chips (I have a cuben bag). And it is really expensive.
Best Luck Tarping
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