Gatewood Cape

Cool idea. Not for me.

Pros: 1.This design grabbed my attention with multi-use function. 2.Only needs one trekking pole. 3. Has the ability to attach a bug netting system to it. 4. lightweight. 5. A great conversation piece to talk with others. LOL 6. Thought to myself could be a cool alternative instead of using a bivy sack. Cons: 1. I’m 5’3’’ the poncho is a PITA to use efficiently/smoothly. 2. After using this design I stubbornly realized I’m too ingrained with cheap/fast high mileage day traveling on a tight schedule—so I realized stealth camping is actually more important to me. And I do that very easily with a bivy sack. 3. I’ve spent many nights not having to overthink were to put my bivy sack and don’t have to deal with finding the “sweet spot of a pitch”. 4. Windy, bad weather etc, it’s easier to just use a bivy sack, the gatewood design is not perfect it still has issues with the weather seeping through and condensation.5. I really am not convinced that the sewing lines will hold past a couple years without blowing out. I wish I could have just rented some designs from Six Moons and practiced with them. I would have quickly realized that tents or tarp tents are not for me. It sucks because overall this was an expensive mistake. Hopefully I can sell it to someone. Cool idea, real world use...not for me.

Great minimalist or emergency shelter

Small learning curve on figuring out how to pitch. Once you have that down it is a nice shelter for one. Great value for the price. This will never leave my pack.

Versatile shelter!

Years ago when I first got into backpacking the Gatewood Cape was my first ultralight purchase and it served me well for many years! After missing the adaptability of the cape I went ahead and ordered the updated model and I’m in love with it all over again! I forgot how light and small it packs down. I look forward to putting it through its paces in the field!