i feel like i would be much more interested in the tarptent if i were backpacking, where a trekking pole is more common and can then serve two purposes. packing it in with my bike gear, it becomes a specialized piece of equipment that i carry around, but would never use for its primary purpose. its only function then would be to support that tarp. i do realize that a stick would probably work just as well, but spending time looking for a suitable stick each night just doesn't sound like fun to me.

however, if i ever decide to hike the appalachian trail, i will definitely give these guys a call.