Update: Golite has phased out the Golite Lair shelter in favor of the Shangri-La shelter. The Shangri-La has improved weather protection with a vestibule, eliminating the need to create a custom vestibule with the Lair shelter.
Golite’s Lair 1 Shelter ($100) is an excellent example of weight conscious utility. The 12 oz. tarp covers an area of approximately 31sq.ft., accommodating 1-2 people. With the included stakes, the shelter has a total weight of 17 oz. Two hiking poles, or trees can be used in conjunction with the guy lines to erect the tarp, thereby utilizing existing equipment or geographic features without increasing pack weight.
This shelter is designed for three-season use. The footprint of the shelter is wider in the front, providing ample circulation to prevent condensation, as well as freeing up space where it is needed. As opposed to two open sides, this tarp features a closed rear end, ideal for placing against the wind. Such a configuration provides an excellent view of nature, and minimizes feelings of claustrophobia experienced in more constraining tents or bivy sacks of similar weight.
The tarp can be configured to better handle inclement weather, or to provide more open space, simply by adjusting the height. However, an open end will always exist, therefore necessitating the use of additional protection, such as a smaller nylon tarp when rain is mixed with variable winds. For $30, Golite makes a 3 oz. ground cloth, which can act as a vestibule on the Lair Shelter. One may also consider the possibility of investigating a shelter with greater protection (but greater confinement) such as the Trig 1, or Hut 1 shelter.
For bug protection, the Golite Lair 1 Nest ($80) is specifically designed to fit within the Lair 1 Shelter. The Lair 1 Nest weighs 1 lb 1 oz, and is constructed from no-see-um mesh and a polyurethane-coated 3000 mm nylon bathtub-style floor. The mesh walls are supported by the existing guy lines of the Lair 1 shelter, and form a protective microclimate that can comfortably fit one person. For two people, the Lair 2 shelter and Lair 2 nest would be a better consideration.
The combined weight of this sleeping system is a little under 2.5 lbs. The resulting effect is a fine balance between the feeling of openness and the feeling of protection.
Golite specializes in lightweight equipment and clothing. Their line of shelters vary in size and configuration, offering a solution for different seasons and party sizes. All shelters are constructed of SilLite fabric, a silicone-impregnated nylon that weighs just 1.76 oz/sq. yd., and all seams are self-sealing. Each shelter is designed to properly vent, reducing internal condensation.
