The MSR Thru-Hiker 70 Wing Tarp is a lightweight tarp shelter designed for backpackers who want reliable protection without carrying extra weight. Whether you’re hiking long-distance trails, fastpacking through mountain ranges, or camping with a minimalist setup, this tarp offers a smart balance of coverage, durability, and flexibility.
Made by Mountain Safety Research (MSR), a trusted name in outdoor gear, the Thru-Hiker 70 Wing is part of a modular system that includes the Mesh House series. It’s built for people who need gear that performs in changing conditions—without weighing them down.
Coverage and Shape
This tarp gives you up to 289 cm x 244 cm of coverage, which is enough space for one to three people depending on how you pitch it. Its rectangular shape and reinforced tie-out points let you set it up in multiple ways: A-frame, lean-to, flat canopy, or even suspended between trees.
MSR designed this tarp without poles to keep it ultralight. Instead, you use trekking poles, trees, or natural anchors to pitch it. That’s ideal for hikers who already carry trekking poles and want to avoid extra gear.
Materials and Weather Protection
The MSR Thru-Hiker 70 Wing Tarp is made from 20D ripstop nylon—a lightweight but tough fabric. It’s coated with MSR’s Xtreme Shield™ treatment, which combines polyurethane and silicone to make the tarp waterproof and long-lasting. The hydrostatic head rating is 1200 mm, which means it can handle moderate to heavy rain.
Unlike cheaper coatings that wear out quickly, Xtreme Shield™ is designed to last up to three times longer. The seams are factory-taped to prevent leaks, and the tie-out points are reinforced so they won’t tear under tension.
Weighing just 390 grams, this tarp is impressively light for its size. It packs down to 53 cm x 15 cm, so it fits easily into a side pocket or compression sack.
Setup and Pitching Options
Setting up the Thru-Hiker 70 Wing takes a bit of practice, but once you get the hang of it, it’s fast and flexible. The kit includes stakes, guy lines, and a stuff sack with instructions. Most users pitch it with trekking poles, but you can also hang it between trees or anchor it to rocks.
Its symmetrical shape and multiple tie-out points give you plenty of options. In good weather, pitch it high for airflow and views. In bad weather, pitch it low to block wind and rain.
Since it doesn’t have a built-in floor or bug netting, many hikers pair it with the MSR Mesh House 1, 2, or 3. This modular setup lets you adapt your shelter to different conditions and group sizes.
Real-World Performance
In dry climates, the Thru-Hiker 70 Wing provides shade and wind protection without trapping heat. In wet conditions, the waterproof coating and taped seams keep you dry—as long as it’s pitched correctly.
Ventilation is excellent thanks to the open-sided design, which helps prevent condensation. That’s a common issue in single-wall shelters, so this is a big plus.
Wind resistance is solid for a tarp this light. When pitched low and tensioned properly, it holds up well in moderate gusts. For exposed areas like alpine ridges or coastal zones, you’ll want extra guy lines and a low-profile pitch.
Durability and Long-Term Use
MSR is known for making gear that lasts, and the Thru-Hiker 70 Wing lives up to that reputation. The ripstop nylon resists tears and abrasions, and the waterproof coating stays effective even after repeated use.
Users say the tarp holds up well over multiple seasons. The stuff sack is roomy enough to repack the tarp easily, even when it’s wet. The included stakes and guy lines are lightweight but functional—though some hikers upgrade to titanium stakes or reflective cord for better visibility.
What Users Are Saying
The Thru-Hiker 70 Wing gets consistently high ratings from ultralight hikers. Here’s what people like most:
- “Super light and easy to pack.”
- “Perfect for fastpacking and minimalist trips.”
- “Works great with the Mesh House for a complete setup.”
Some users mention that it takes a few tries to master the setup, especially in windy or uneven terrain. Others note that the lack of included poles might be a downside for beginners, but experienced hikers often prefer using their own trekking poles anyway.
How It Compares to Other Tarps
Here’s a quick comparison with other popular ultralight tarps:
| Feature | MSR Thru-Hiker 70 Wing | Sea to Summit Escapist Tarp | Zpacks Flat Tarp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coverage Area | 289 cm x 244 cm | 290 cm x 220 cm | 274 cm x 244 cm |
| Weight | 390 g | 330 g | 280 g |
| Waterproof Rating | 1200 mm PU/Sil coating | 1200 mm PU coating | Dyneema composite |
| Packed Size | 53 cm x 15 cm | 22 cm x 10 cm | 20 cm x 10 cm |
| Price Range | £144–£159 | £180–£200 | £250–£300 |
| Modular Compatibility | Mesh House 1/2/3 | Escapist Bug Tent | Groundsheet only |
The MSR tarp offers excellent value for its weight and size, especially when paired with the Mesh House. It’s slightly heavier than Dyneema tarps but far more affordable, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious ultralight hikers.
Who It’s Best For
This tarp is ideal for:
- Thru-hikers on trails like the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, or Camino de Santiago
- Fastpackers and ultralight backpackers
- Solo travellers or small groups who want modular shelter options
- Minimalist campers who prioritise weight savings
- International travellers who need compact gear for varied climates
Its global appeal comes from its adaptability. Whether you’re hiking through humid jungles, dry deserts, or cold alpine zones, the Thru-Hiker 70 Wing can be pitched to suit your environment.
Final Thoughts
The MSR Thru-Hiker 70 Wing Tarp is a well-designed, ultralight tarp that delivers reliable protection and flexible setup options. It’s built with quality materials, performs well in diverse conditions, and works seamlessly with MSR’s modular shelter system.
While it’s not the absolute lightest tarp on the market, its balance of durability, price, and performance makes it a top pick for serious hikers. If you’re planning a long-distance trek or just want a lightweight shelter for weekend adventures, this tarp is a dependable companion.
