the first time i set up my silex to test it out it was in pretty constant 20-30mph wind. i was in a large back yard... essentially just a big open field with no tree breaks/wind cover at all. i was staked into very very cold soft snow, and had the extra lines from the top staked to the ground as well.
i was really nervous to try out the stove because of how much the wind was ripping. the tarp seemed like it was going to go flying... i left the tarp sitting there for 4-5 hours of constant wind, and there was no sign that it was going to budge- so i got the stove going, and the tent stayed up another 4-5 hours from there with no problems at all.
i've camped in the silex quite a few times now, but never had it in direct wind as bad as that first day. i also have only ever used it with trekking poles. this is my first trekking pole tent, but not my first tarp.
i think the ability to move the trekking pole up or down marginally on one side/the other/both is a pretty important function that you loose with a carbon pole. i think it's a big part of why i've only had good luck with the silex, too.
whether it's because i was on slightly uneven ground, or because the snow started melting, or i needed to get the tension *just right* between stakes- it's pretty great to be able to unlock the trekking pole and slide it up/down and inch or two to get the shelter sitting just right.
yeah thanks for the feedback. i think ill pick up a hitch.The hitch works great and will hold up in bad weather without issue. The downside is if you do not break camp you loose th use of your trekking poles.