The price for my little-used cape, with 5 titanium stakes, one Easton aluminum stake, polycro ground sheet, pre-cut ties, and shipping to CONUS: just $100.

For a one-person ultralight solution, nothing beats the Gatewood Cape, which combines rain gear and an excellent shelter in a compact, 12 oz. package.

“The Gatewood Cape’s unique 360 Degree Protection provides full coverage either when worn as a cape or used as a shelter. Unlike ponchos, capes don’t have long slits along the sides. While the poncho may allow for more ventilation, it does little to keep out wind blown rain. Dual zipper pulls on the front of theGatewood Cape allow you to regulate ventilation while still providing full protection. Plus, the open skirted design allows fresh air to enter the bottom.

“As a shelter, the Gatewood Cape provides significantly enhanced protection when compared to your typical poncho/tarp. Its sturdy pyramid design easily sheds rain or snow and wind simply flows around it. Any sudden change in wind direction in the middle of the night won’t leave you scrambling to re-orient your shelter or force you deeper into your bivy. Unlike a tarp, the Gatewood Cape is a shaped tarp and eliminates all exposed sides, leaving you safe and secure.

“With 35 square feet of coverage under the shelter’s canopy, you’ve got plenty of room for you and your gear. Depending upon conditions, you can even adjust the vestibule to different heights to increase ventilation. A long zipper on the vestibule makes opening and closing the shelter a snap.”

Here is my shelter in action: