Is It Really a Super Tarp? - ( Helikon-Tex SuperTarp )

After a great deal of testing Luke is ready to review the Helikon-Tex SuperTarp. Is it worth your hard earned money or does it have flaws that are simply too great to overlook.
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Helikon-Tex SuperTarp
What it is : This is a fairly inexpensive polyester tarp from the company known as Helikon-Tex.
Real Review Link : amzn.to/3fqJBWk
The channel remains as it always was, 100% Agenda Free with no sponsored videos and no paid reviews.
I purchased this with my own money and I'm providing my REAL opinion.
Purchase this product using this link and you will be supporting this Agenda Free Channel.
Size Setup : 10 x 10’
Size Packed : 12” x 6.5” x 1.5”
Materials : 100% rip-stop polyester, YKK zippers
Weight : 1lb 12oz with storage bags
Colors : Black, Olive Green, PL Woodland, US Woodland
Price : Retail $65 - prices are raised on Amazon - some are around $100. I’m not sure what is happening there - it says that Helikon-Tex is the seller and it is they who are charging more on the site.
Features :
19 reinforced Attachment points - check the placement of these
Taped seams
Storage bag allows for easy packing even when wet - I want to test that out specifically as storing a wet tarp is always a struggle.
Two methods of storage included - zippered sleeve and drawstring bag
Pros :
Excellent size especially for the money - there is plenty of space for two individuals under this tarp in a pinch, a ton of space for one person.
Good quality considering the price and the materials - not great but good. There are some loose threads and the tie off points are very small.
Strong considering the low price - suitable for summer time conditions and potentially low impact fall and winter camping.
No issues when it comes to waterproofness in fact, it has held up well to strong thunderstorm downpours with heavy rainfall.
Talking about wind, this tarp has seen mild to moderate winds with the highest gusts being around 15mph.
Versatile - large enough to be used any way that you like; with a tent, by itself, etc. You can even use it as an awning and it works well in that regards
Pack size is reasonable
Two storage bags are included and the mesh zippered bag is smart. I also like the shape. Both fit the tarp with little effort including guys lines.
Weight is reasonable for the price
Cons :
Not the best in terms of quality
small tie off points
Might not be a Problem : The attachment points do not surround the tarp equally as you have more points on two sides than you do on the other two sides. This could cause issues and limit your setup options in some situations.
For some a con could be the lack of guy lines and stakes; some less expensive just as good tarps will come with those items. In this case, you will have to supply your own.
Note :
I mentioned the materials and made my recommendations on use; with the materials and the build quality, summer time use is fine, fall and winter is going to be fine as well as long as it isn’t too windy and as long as heavy snow isn’t laying on the tarp.
If a stronger tarp is needed, then I would highly recommend looking at tarp made from a stronger nylon.
Summary : After countless months of testing, I can tell you that this is a good budget tarp. I had concerns about the overall quality but it has held up well for realistic and sensible 3 season conditions.
Something to remember, this is not a 4 season tarp meaning that it is not going to be strong enough to handle the worst that winter has to offer.
If you don’t need a winter strength tarp this is a good option to consider. If you are looking for a strong tarp that can handle a lot of wind, heavy snowloading, I would look elsewhere.
Note : I’ve mentioned that some sellers on amazon are trying to sell this for a higher than the suggested retail price. For what this tarp is and the materials, I personally wouldn’t pay anything more than retail; otherwise there are better tarps out there for the money.
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[@sarthalion]

This tarp can easily handle winds and snow in northern Finland. I know because I've actually used it. No problems what so ever.

[@perhaggdahl1257]

I have a totally different experience of helikon. I would say they have better quality control than most providers of outdoor gear. I have some 20 odd products that I've bought from them over the past few years. Tarps, shirts, boots, jackets, webbing etc. All top notch.

[@PivotCyroy]

Their work might not always be the most pleasing to the eye (dear lord the stitchwork) but it's sturdy and lasts a lifetime. Rocking their UTPs and Rogue hoodies daily.

[@rdkfishing1062]

Another great episode. Keep up the good work. I was wondering if you would do an episode where you talk about and show us all the tarps you've used through your years?

[@athleticgeek]

I second this

[@davestuddert4392]

Many thanks for a comprehensive review of this tarp. I've wanted to get one for a long time. Unfortunately, the Multicam version version sold out fast! The smaller version is still available where I'm from, but it looks like I've missed the boat on the camo I prefer. Keep up the great work!

[@ozloduffwmu]

I’m so glad you said about Military 1sts mark ups. I’m new to this and have spent a lot of time on their website browsing products because they come up so quickly in google searches.

[@djschultz1502]

Thanks for the review Luke.

[@suezaple4950]

Thanks for the review love the camo look and size sounds like a great price .

[@Scott7169]

I'm surprised at you comment on Military 1st having inflated prices, I've bought loads of stuff from them at the correct price, admittedly through ebay and not amazon. Great review as ever. Excellent channel I really appreciate your honest assessments.

[@jerryfife2015tacoma]

Hello Luke and great review, I have that tarp and it's been a super tarp for me has been in some serious conditions with wind, rain but it has held up really good no issues, and as far as the tie out cordage and steaks go by not having it as part of the package was no issue for me but for $65 dollars yes they should include that but I always replace the cordage with paracord anyways, Thanks Luke

[@swissguy8052]

Hi Luke, nice and fair review as always, thx. Have the Supertarp in Pencott Wildwood since 18 months and I have use it every season. Just saying, mine was made very well, no bad stitching, all fine after I've used it 18 times now. But I agree, in stormy weather or snow it works, but I feel better with my 11 year old 10x10 Nordisk SilNylon Tarp. If I need something more compact and lighter, for example testing my GHB 4 times per year, I use my smaller Basha from 0241Tactical. I've got a lot of Helikon Tex gear and clothing, literally from head to toe and I have not once a bad one, Liberty, Beanie, Balaclava, Gloves, Belts, Pants, the same grid fleece you wear here, all works fine still after years of (ab)use.

[@Eric-ew8jt]

Been waiting for this update thanks Cool hand

[@janvazquez9239]

Wow I’ve been sick and in bed and I’ve binge watched your shows and I must say I like you love the outdoors and I also have a family owned camp in NH and can’t to see more of what you do and the items you use

[@goodredman]

This is why I usually buy military surplus gear that had to pass quality control standards. Not always having to buy used many times you can find surplus new old stock military tarps tents etc. Thanks for your honest review. I would be highly upset if I paid that much for a tarp even if that size defined it had threads hanging off all over.

[@BBQDad463]

Good review. Thanks!

[@a45456565]

Thank you Luke😺👍

[@firstfighter7037]

Thank you! very usefull Video!!!

[@Lt_Tragg]

I’ll keep looking. Not having additional tie-offs on the walls and the fact it’s short on stakes and cord are deal breakers. Great tip mentioning the pros/cons nylon vs poly fabric.

[@CAVCOP]

Being in Texas, it’s one of my favorite 10X10’s. The light weight is plus for me. Better than my 10x10 DD and some generic 10X10’s. One of the first things I do with sewn products, is trim and/or burn wild or loose threads. My Super Tarp had less wild/loose threads than other products from major brands.

[@mitchforster5349]

Looks nice, love The Storage bags and the weight. but I love the durability of my aqua quest defender

[@chalion8399]

I've a couple Aqua Quest tarps in different sizes and can't see the need something that even if it's lighter weight, isn't made for what I see in a tarp.

[@sifusasdo2314]

Cool Video 👍 Thank U for Ur Info and the links 👍

[@Fedaykin8]

I commented on your preview of this tarp. I have owned it for several years now, and used it similarly to how you've laid out here. My experience and opinions of it are similar to yours. I also pack some 550 and tent stakes with it. So far so good if you use it within its capabilities. Its kept me and my gear dry.

[@mikepierson3097]

I’m pretty impressed with my new AquaQuest 10x10 at your suggestion! Little spendy but I feel it’ll last for a very long time.

[@Cee-Czar]

I’ve had the Bedee 10x14 ($40) with me last couple trips and have been really pleased. Comes with stakes and guy line as well. 10x14 is a little bigger than what I need though and can see why people love a 10x10

[@jeromeknasinski3862]

Great Review

[@kan-zee]

Thanks again , for an honest review... What do you recommend for a 4 season tarp 1) 10x10 ft 2) good stictching 3) durable material 4) lightweight 5) under $200 Cad Budget.

[@brnrecluse2946]

Groovy Luke!

[@WardenWolf]

Great episode. What poles were you using?

[@michaelzimmerman8959]

I like it, as long as it performs well.

[@nandorweiss374]

I got it for 45 bucks a year ago, had no problems with it, and I love the storage bags, although I only use the larger one. Didn't use it in winter conditions yet, but I think it would be okay, concefning the stitching:Had no problems with mine, didn't have any bad stitching or loose material. Love the review and the points you made, I got to get some winter experience with this Tarp.

[@justinbaker2813]

Luke, what’s up brother? off topic but where is that zip up top you’re wearing in the beginning of this vid from? I want one. Love the videos bro

[@LILEE376]

Thank you for the test. I wonder you can test the Decathlon/Solognac tarp.

[@helvetiabushcraft]

I'm a user of Helikon Tex. I live in their trousers and shorts. I own the Level 7 Winter Jacket. and it's a great jacket. But I don't use it often. too bulky for camping. So I keep in in my truck. I do like their gear. and these tarps are good. I still use the Australian Army issue Tarp. It's the best all around all season tarp I've ever used. I want to try the HT Poncho. See it it meets the demands my old Army Issue poncho has held up for ever.

[@mariuz5991]

Nice 👍 Greetings from Brooklyn NY ❗❕

[@lostsheep664866]

That tarp is good I use it all the time had it for 2 years and about 50 camping trips and going strong

[@brianbarton2106]

i like the light weight look of it.

[@vaclavpavlik7252]

I slept like five times under this in winter. Heavy snow and wind. It survived. I didnt have a problem with the stitching

[@TheJohnmael]

I used it in winter till -10ºC with snow on it and stay for days outside and in Congo under wind and heavy rain and It's stronger than you say. So I'm really curious about what is the extreme condition that other tarps will handle and not this one.

[@Messerjocke90]

Funny because I owned two tarps so far and both are helikon tex super tarps.. The size you got and my new taiga green 2x2,5m. I sold the big one because I didn't like the color anymore (some desert type paint), but haven't had quality issues so far. Even pulled out steaks with the tarp itself. Also my backpacks (Bergen and summit, sold the summit because of the extremely thin non water resistant material) and the haversack that I sold again because I didn't like the brown anymore. My current Edc bag that. Carry everyday on bike rides and to work is the satchel back and this one indeed gets a lot of loose threats right now. But I just cut them off and melt the ends with a lighter. I actually planned to get a new 10*10 supertarp in taiga green, because that color plus the Ranger greenish colors for their packs and bags look the best to me.

[@Alexmontis3843]

i use DD tarp 3x3, the size is perfect and for my not expertise feels strong

[@moemuggy4971]

I recently mistakenly purchased a rainfly for the ICS (Improved Combat Shelter) in ACU. It would be cool if you did a video on how you would set this up as a stand alone tarp, or a hasty-hooch. I haven't seen anyone do a video on this specific tarp. I'd be curios to see what you come up with. It's a nice piece of equipment, and there's plenty of them floating around the internet to warrant use.

[@paultruzzi911]

I live in the PNW and my day pack is heaver than 80% of the day hikers. But I was in the Seattle Mountaineers for years and they are very conservative. Even so, I'm not thinking of carrying a tarp like what you reviewed. I've spent more than a few wet evenings that would have been so much more comfortable with a tarp.

[@nelistheron83]

I have it and I am very happy with it. But agree, durability is great on Helikon products... but SO many loose threads.

[@jamesparker6383]

I'll stick with my Aqua Quest Defender, yes it cost a little more and it may be a little heavier but you get what you pay for. Buy once cry once.

[@dansklrvids7303]

Agreed on defender

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

Agreed!

[@nekonicodemus6107]

I like the defender as well.

[@johanedenberg3533]

I have about 5 different tarps. Helikon Tex supertarp S is one of them ( smaller version of the one in the video) 2 x 2.5 meters It's a good lightweight tarp, not leaking and many loops for set up. But it's true, it's not one of the stronger tarps. I have also a poly/cotton tarp from Tatonka. 3x3 meters. That one weighs 1,2 kilos and is very tough.

[@p.oneill6943]

Hi Luke I am an avid viewer of your Chanel I think you are one of the best on line, I would like to ask you a Question which I dont recall you ever doing a review on, I may be wrong anyway here is my question: Which FLASK WOULD YOU CONSIDER THE BEST , and one which will survive knocks , And No 2 What is your best mix to make a TARP WATER PROOF AGAIN

[@gsktactical8349]

I use that in the german Winter as Soldier.

[@andrewgable7273]

Nice review, but I will NOT give up my Aqua Quest tarps for NOTHING!! As for the guy lines and stakes, that doesn't bother me one bit. I choose those for myself and generally prefer quality over, good enough. Thx Luke.

[@mikegurley6018]

You mentioned cheaper tarps with similar features, could you list some alternatives?

[@outdooraf]

AquaQuest baby!

[@kennethwilson8633]

Gold Armor makes a great tarp you should try one. Have fun stay safe.

[@oldcrackadated]

If I set up a frame I’ll always get wind change in end , therefore I prefer diamond shape set

[@saintmax8512]

Please do some reviews on DCF tarps...

[@harrisdail9939]

I agree with James Parker below. Aquaquest is a much better tarp. We are loving the one we have

[@jaredstewmelt]

Alright... So, for a similar price point, what would you recommend over this tarp?

[@buddycamp_]

In Korea, it is popular in Korea, but I think it will be popular.I like color and quality

[@claytonfite3197]

I was thinking use seam sealer and or super gluing the loose threads. I like the size I'm six foot tall and would work great for me.

[@sahhull]

Seam sealer would work better than superglue. Super glue doesnt like getting wet and super glue is brittle.

[@nathancrume6217]

Hey you have you show us how you setup a tarp like you did in this video with the green elephant poles have a good Halloween my friend

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

While I have several pieces of gear from Helikon-Tex, I choose Aqua Quest Defender tarps for its durability.

[@JonStockman82]

Military1st are UK based and their website has it listed at £57.90GBP (approx $67USD). most likely so expensive due to shipping and amazon fees, wonder what it would be if ordered from their website? Was shocked to see the price that high.

[@martinhafner2201]

I'm not sure where the idea about polyester being weaker than nylon comes from. Do you have some data? As far as I can tell, polyester is about the same strength as nylon at the the same thread size, but is about 10% heavier. Polyester doesn't weaken from water absorption, while nylon absorbs some water and loses about 10% strength, thus requiring dry coatings which will eventually wear through. Nylon also stretches out when wet, which is why you end up having to tighten up the tarp lines after a rain or heavy fog, especially if both the tarp and lines are nylon. This tarp is about 80% heavier than an equivalent silnylon tarp, so there should be plenty of strength.

[@yogieyo9935]

Could you review bike tent?

[@thebeardedgorilla8596]

Does the storage bag come in the same color as the tarp? Anyone know?

[@johnskidmore9020]

Have you ever tested the cruda

[@landonjones1245]

What do you recommend for a 4 season tarp

[@mmudge70]

What are the poles you are using with this tarp?

[@4nhk066]

i've received mine today, and as far as i can see i don'see any threads protruding from the sewings, the sewings are really well done, maybe the products for european and US market aren't with the same quality (as all products), and i'm european in this case, so i think the not-so-perfect products go to the US or elswere outaude the EU

[@leemobai762]

Is there any tarp that meets all your needs?

[@therealronswanson]

i have the supertarp small, and i like the weight and form factor but it doesnt compare to the DD tarps in terms of quality imho.

[@nobby430]

Just a point to note, Military 1st are a UK company and if buying in the UK the tarp is £57.90 which equates to 66.43 USD. So whilst maybe accurate ref the USA Amazon price I don't think it's indicative of them over pricing an item in general or them to be a company to be wary off 🤔

[@The_Crow_Flies]

those tie-offs look questionable. Honestly i will stick with my aqua quest safari. costs more but i know i can depend on that. I do like that pouch it came with though.

[@kathleenshoup2394]

Luke when did it snow we seen the min video

[@gregellis3924]

What jacket is that

[@bc81]

Id like to see you try out the brilliant 3x3m DD Tarp. its very strong, pretty light for its durability. Its £40 off there site, about £70 for there ultra light.

[@andycjohnston]

Yeah agree, the DD, or the DD superlight are both fantastic.

[@ronaldcobbley9668]

I would get one that was a little heavier

[@deanhockenberry9268]

I don’t personally like the camo, it is not an effective pattern. It may as well have solid stripes.

[@chrismoore600]

I'm with you most civilian camo is not good.

[@sujiut]

Agreed: such repetition attracts attention. We're pattern detectors.

[@kathleenshoup2394]

Luke could you sell a tarp. for summer and winter because they can trust you

[@CrimeVid]

As a tarpaulin, it’s a little small ?

[@dubz3371]

hi, i have been watching your videos for about 2 years now and i have always wondered why the endings of your videos have 2 minutes of nothing on the end. can you please enlighten me. thank you

[@kenmorrison1725]

AGREED

[@jamesparker6383]

Hi luke, I received a reply from you about an hour ago, unfortunately I don't use telegram. is there another way?

[@robertkelsey812]

Who sings this song

[@seandadon4884]

I'm Giving In to You (feat. Lauren Dunn) by Loving Caliber

[@Mike...921]

Anyone know the name/maker of Luke's sweater? Please/Thanks!

[@Mike...921]

edit: the sweater at the start of the vid.

[@geektarded]

First :) A sincere thanks for all the time you spend on reviewing these items. Thank you very much 🙏

[@MrVinte66]

I'd really like to see what is ( the one ) PERFECT tarp for 4 seasons ????

[@jimcy1319]

You can pretty much use anything I guess, for years British forces issued a poncho made of nylon we made our basha's ( bivivy) with this' about 6'x4'ish, 18" high for tactical reasons and slept on the ground in thick snow in the German winter. Just don't put the open ends directly into the wind or at least block the windward side with your Bergen.

[@mlsknnr]

Can't comment on these tarps, I use D&D tarps and I also have a Free Soldier tarp that I like and I find that the are worth what I paid for them.

[@janetburrows137]

It is a flipping big tarp. It’s nice it actually fits in the bag ( for a change ). 😮😅❤❤ Hope you had a great visit with Lucas 💖🙏💕💖🇬🇧🙏💕🙏

[@IMDARKFIRE007]

Just got my Abisko tarp so I'm really not interested. I AM interested in the DOD tipi tent test night....especially since I got impatient and bought one when I saw it for 200 bucks. They run 270-320, I couldn't say no. Please don't say it leaks🤣

[@kevinhill4012]

🙏

[@keithsaulsbury4304]

in my opinion you are better off spending a little more and getting the Aqua Quest Defender.

[@cruachan1191]

I've got the Helikon-Tex Bushcraft Satchel which I use as my day hiking bag, can't say I've noticed any issues with quality or bad stitching on it. Would be interesting, as a few others have noted, to compare to the DD Hammocks 3x3 (metric sizes) and the also the DD Superlight (3x2.9), for those of us in the UK they are as close to industry standard as almost any bit of outdoor gear

[@paulsmit8147]

🤙

[@Funkteon]

The only brand of tarp worth buying is 'DD Hammocks'. Their 3x2.9, 3x3, 3x4.5, 4x4 and 5x5 are the only range of sizes you'll ever need, and they're tough-as-fk...

[@RootsLion]

only tarp i want now is the camo onewind 12ft hammock shelter an anthing under a 4x4 w a hmk s a waste a time

[@ychuen5753]

not bad....

[@newolku]

I have used mine many times before during military training. It does its job. But the bags are abnormally small and its made even worse if you leave paracord on. You want to leave the paracord on mainly to make it easier/faster to deploy the tarp and its way easier to put it up at night with no lights.

[@bobjoncas2814]

good one, keep safe

[@palinachannel]

hello 😊

[@tygeron3145]

Product would be better if it came with guide lines and stakes.

[@randymoats2059]

Four seasons or nothing on tarps have family to protect.

[@TheRealSteveEllis]

I have a DD super light tarp which is about 70GBP. Similar price but sounds like far better quality with Rip stop nylon loadsa tie offs etc, pretty much a staple this side of the pond. Not sure if you have looked at this?

[@mikeweber3441]

DD Tarps are legit, I have two different sizes in their multicam pattern. They have taken some brutal beatings and they still hold up.

[@williamcronkright5430]

I have UL tarp from DD, too. I pulled it too tight and it stretched. Now I have a hard time getting to pitch without drooping sides.