Looks like a zelt to me.
I think I’ve mentioned it a couple times in the past, but one thing I’ve always wanted to get my hands on and examine is a German zeltbahn. Unfortunately, originals (and even repros) are hard to find at reasonable prices. Fortunately, other countries adopted the basic design and, surprisingly, Sportsmans Guide has some Swedish ones. At least, they look like zeltbahns. Check this out. It isn’t that I necessarily think this design is any better than the current ones (although it is much more imaginitive), but I’d like to have one to examine and experiment with and, if I like it, use as a template for a version using modern materials and camo patterns. I have a copy of the original German (translated) manual for the use, care, and specifications of the Zeltbahn and while it’s an old design I think it has one or two advantages of the modern rectangular one. Regardless, I’m gonna have to order up a couple of these just to goof around with. If nothing else they’ll make nice covers for my bicycle when it’s locked up outside.
That sort of looks like a ‘cape’ but has a folded front ‘bib’ in front of it. Does that sound like a reasonable description ? Capes are far easier to climb in or descend than ponchos (being open, you avoid stepping on the front edge), I learned this from climbing ladders wearing them.
I finally got around to reading all the “zeltbahn” info. I would say the main difference is the triangular shape. The 2 examples I listed are Poncho / Shelter Half, but much more cape shaped. Similar to the Swiss military poncho’s I wear for bike riding. The zeltbahn is definitely more versatile than just the single use shelter half’s they made us carry in the Suck. Usually we just wrapped up in our poncho and sleeping bag or poncho liner. I’m going to have to check the budget and see if the budget allows the purchase of 2 this month.
So why are those “zeltbahns” and not the Hungarians Shelter Half, WX2-219062? Or even the actual German Shelter Half WX2-219342.
Good article, great food for thought. Keep them coming.
Shelter halves are a completely different shape and not quite as versatile.
Soooo…. it’s a poncho?
Sometimes.