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backpacker wanting a full featured mild-weather tent at minimal weight. Topcat works best for campers up to-average-size requiring a full-featured, lightweight backpacking tent for mild conditions. Lil might be perfect for one bigger than average person, but not two. (Yep, Lil is from our favorite flower, the California Tiger Lily; and we find it an apt moniker as well. If you want a gymnasium, that tent, Tiger Jym, is still in development.)

and reasonable shelter from light rain as needed; and wide-eye view of the stars when not. Dew cap is fast and simple to put on and take off; and weighs only 7oz. It is waterproof, yet with UL6 abundant ventilation avoids most if not all condensation. UL6 wall nylon breathes, offering superior comfort in dr1er conditions. Wet nylon seeps until saturated, becoming waterproof, not breathable, and less taut. Breathable rain shield protects zipper, which can be snaggy unless you use a finger to keep it clear. Rain shield and corners above tub are not taped and will leak; seam sealing will mitigate. Dew cap is ideal minimalist shelter when you don't expect wet but care to be prepared for it at about 1/3 the weight of conventional fly. It fits to allow a bit of seeing out.

resistant with fly. Dew cap fits UL5, but leaves exposed netting.

weight under 1.5 lbs. Zippers can be 'cracked' at top, and with over-size vent at foot end, these three points of ventilation help keep condensation in check. Large vestibules on each side provide undercover storage.

EZ BINDER loop clamps pole intersection for greater stability when needed. Knees want to turn on the axis under stress. Guying is generally not necessary but will increase stability in load-stress conditions. Topcat UL Lil is not recommended for snow or wind load. If snow builds up on un-guyed tent, be sure to knock off both sides at once, then both ends at once.