Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint Review

Let’s Talk About Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint

In the world of camping, a simple piece of gear can make or break your experience. The Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint promises to be one of those unsung heroes, quietly protecting your tent and ensuring a drier, more comfortable night’s sleep. This seemingly basic accessory from Kelty aims to extend the life of your tent by providing a waterproof barrier against the elements.

For years, I’ve dealt with the soggy aftermath of campsite selection gone wrong. Tent floors, even those boasting impressive waterproof ratings, can succumb to ground moisture, leading to a damp and uncomfortable experience. My search for a reliable, lightweight solution to this problem led me to the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the footprint’s compact size and minimal weight. The 68D polyester material felt durable, and the promise of a 1800mm waterproof rating gave me confidence. It certainly felt like a considerable upgrade over some of the cheaper generic footprints I’ve used in the past.

Compared to a heavier-duty, more expensive footprint from a competing brand (let’s call it “Brand X’s Premium Footprint”), the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint stood out for its lightweight packability, though it felt slightly less robust. I also considered a universal Tyvek footprint, but the model-specific design of the Kelty offered a cleaner fit and potentially better protection. I chose the Kelty based on its balance of weight, waterproofness, and tailored fit for my Kelty Late Start 2P tent.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While the material seemed adequate, the real test would be in the field. The promise of prolonged tent life and enhanced weather resistance piqued my interest, but only time and testing would reveal if the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint came during a weekend camping trip in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The forecast predicted a mix of sun and showers, providing an ideal testing ground. I set up my Kelty Late Start 2P tent with the footprint on a moderately damp grassy area.

The footprint was incredibly easy to deploy, and the model-specific design ensured a snug fit beneath the tent. Despite the initial sunshine, a heavy downpour arrived late in the afternoon. The Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint performed admirably, preventing any moisture from seeping into the tent floor.

I was surprised by how much drier the tent floor felt compared to previous trips without a footprint. The footprint protected the tent effectively, and I’m happy to report that no issues arose during the initial use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use across various camping locations, including a particularly dusty desert environment and a damp coastal forest, the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint has held up remarkably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to rocks, roots, and general campsite debris. The 68D polyester material appears to be more robust than I initially anticipated.

Cleaning the footprint is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. After a particularly muddy trip, I simply hosed it off and allowed it to air dry.

Compared to my experiences with cheaper, generic footprints, the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint has proven to be a superior investment. The tailored fit and reliable waterproofness have significantly enhanced my camping experiences, offering peace of mind and a drier, more comfortable shelter. It has definitely outperformed my expectations, offering a level of protection that justifies its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint

Specifications

• The Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint is specifically designed for the Kelty Late Start 2P tent. This ensures a precise fit and optimal protection.
• It boasts dimensions of 85 inches in length and 50 inches in width. These measurements are intentionally smaller than the tent’s floor to prevent water collection around the edges.
• The footprint weighs in at a mere 0.43 lbs. This makes it a negligible addition to your pack weight.
• The material is a 68D polyester with an 1800mm waterproof rating. This rating indicates a high level of water resistance.
• The packed size is a compact 1x8x10 inches. This allows for easy storage and transport.
• It features a PFAS-free DWR (durable water repellent). This is an environmentally conscious choice that reduces the environmental impact of the product.

These specifications are crucial for understanding the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint‘s performance. The lightweight design ensures minimal burden during backpacking, while the waterproof rating guarantees reliable protection against ground moisture. The model-specific design ensures a tailored fit, maximizing coverage and preventing water from pooling between the tent and the footprint.

Performance & Functionality

The Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint excels at its primary function: protecting your tent floor from abrasion and moisture. By creating a barrier between the tent and the ground, it significantly reduces wear and tear, prolonging the life of your tent.

Its waterproof properties prevent ground moisture from seeping into the tent, ensuring a drier and more comfortable camping experience. It is worth noting that the intentional undersizing means it won’t extend beyond the tent’s perimeter, preventing water pooling.

While the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint performs its core function flawlessly, its simplicity means there isn’t much room for improvement. Perhaps a slightly thicker material could enhance durability further, but that would inevitably increase weight.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint features a simple, functional design. Its tailored fit for the Kelty Late Start 2P tent ensures optimal coverage and easy setup.

The lightweight material and compact packed size make it incredibly user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve involved. Simply lay it down, stake it out (if desired), and pitch your tent.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint is constructed from 68D polyester, a material known for its reasonable durability and water resistance. With proper care, it should last for many camping seasons.

Maintaining the footprint is effortless. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For more stubborn dirt, hosing it off and air-drying is recommended.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint is a standalone product, and doesn’t come with any accessories. Its design is specifically tailored for the Kelty Late Start 2P tent, limiting customization options.

However, you could potentially use generic tent stakes to further secure the footprint to the ground, although the tent itself will typically hold it in place. There aren’t any modifications or further accessories needed.

Pros and Cons of Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint

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Who Should Buy Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint?

The Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint is perfect for campers who own the Kelty Late Start 2P tent and want to extend its lifespan and improve its weather resistance. It’s also ideal for those who frequently camp in damp or abrasive environments, where the added protection is crucial. Casual campers who only venture out a few times a year might find it less essential, but those who value gear longevity and comfort will appreciate its benefits.

Anyone looking for a truly universal footprint that can be used with multiple tents should skip this product. Also, if you’re extremely weight-conscious and willing to risk tent floor damage, you might consider forgoing a footprint altogether, although I wouldn’t recommend it.

A good set of tent stakes is the only must-have accessory, although most campers will already have these. Other than that, the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint is ready to go straight out of the box.

Conclusion on Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint

The Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint is a simple yet highly effective accessory that delivers on its promises. It protects your tent floor from abrasion and moisture, extending its lifespan and enhancing your camping experience.

At $34.95, the price is justified by the peace of mind and added protection it provides. It’s a small investment that can save you from costly tent repairs or replacements down the road.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint to any Kelty Late Start 2P tent owner who values gear longevity and comfortable camping. Don’t let a soggy tent floor ruin your next adventure – invest in the Kelty Late Start 2P Footprint and enjoy drier, more worry-free nights under the stars. Get yours today and make sure your Kelty tent has the protection it deserves!