The DuoMid and SoloMid have previously (and continue to) intrigue me, the latter appears to be a highly versatile solo tent, and the insert is rather bug bivens-like in its own right. “Great for moderate snow loads and strong wind” sounds key but I’m still a little dubious as to how bombproof either would be: would you rock this thing at Lunch Counter? Anytime 6″+ of snow was in the forecast? Good price point – though I’m assuming you’ll be rocking Cuben fiber and stealth fabric!

The Shangri-La 3 is less appealing to me, only b/c when used floorless…it’s less useful to me than my Gatewood Cape, and I would prefer the MLD insert if I wanted to go bivy-less near some buggy swamp/lake. I like the size of the thing, but it’s less versatile for what I’m likely to do. As it stands, the Arete + one of my billion bivens + Gatewood is likely to meet my needs. I haven’t entirely given up on adding a tarp option to my kit either…just not that OP Packframe Poncho I “reviewed” in 2008!

It looks as if you’d get wet in a situation when the vestibule and the door to the tent had to be open, such as when you’re setting up and unloading yer junk.

Like the price and agree that it will complete your gear, for the most part, other than items that you’re not admitting to want/need at this time.