Here’s a review of the Clostnature Tent Footprint (groundsheet / tarp used under a tent) — what works, what to watch out for, and how well it performs in practice. If you tell me which size (1‑person, 3‑person, etc.) you have, I can tailor it more.
What It Is & Key Specs
From the product descriptions, here are the features and technical details:
Product & Versions
- The Clostnature Footprint comes in several sizes to match different tent capacities (1.5‑person, 3‑person, 4‑person, even 8×8 ft and larger tarps).
- For example, the 3‑person version is sized at 86″ × 74″ (about 218 × 188 cm), weighing ~ 12.3 ounces (≈ 350 g)
- The 8×8 ft version (96″ × 96″) is marketed as a “heavy duty” waterproof tent floor saver, weighing ~14 oz.
- The material is generally “ripstop 190T polyester” with a waterproof coating.
- It comes with a storage bag for compact packing.
- The footprint is claimed to be waterproof (i.e. used to block ground moisture) and protective against abrasion / wear.
Strengths & What Works Well
1. Protection for Tent Floor
The primary role of a footprint is to act as a sacrificial layer between your tent’s floor and the ground — reducing wear, punctures, abrasions, and direct contact with soil moisture. The Clostnature footprint seems well suited for this.
Many users consider adding a footprint “definitely helpful” for tent longevity. (Even in forums, people argue that while a footprint isn’t strictly “needed,” it often saves damage to the tent floor.)
2. Waterproof / Moisture Barrier
With its waterproof coated polyester material, it should help block moisture creeping up from the ground. In dry or moderate conditions (damp soil, light condensation), it likely does a reasonable job.
3. Lightweight & Packable
For what it offers, the footprint is relatively light and compact. The 3‑person version weighs ~ 12.3 oz (≈ 350 g) which is not negligible, but acceptable for many campers, especially if weight is balanced for multi‑person tents.
The smaller sizes (1.5 person) are lighter (8.8 oz for 86″ × 51″ version)
The included storage bag helps it compress down for transport.
4. Versatility
The footprint is often sold / marketed as multi‑purpose: as a tarp, sun shade, picnic sheet, or general groundsheet. That flexibility gives more utility beyond just as a tent underlay.
5. Value for Money
Many product pages promote it as an affordable way to protect your tent, and user feedback tends to point to it delivering good protection for the price (i.e. you aren’t paying premium “brand” levels).
Weaknesses, Limitations & Caveats
1. Edge / Water Pooling Risk
One often mentioned issue with footprints / tarps is that if the footprint extends beyond the tent edges (or is not perfectly aligned), rainwater can collect or flow under or around the tent floor. This “funnel effect” can undermine waterproofing.
Some product descriptions don’t mention reinforced side drainage or raised hems, which could limit performance under heavy rain.
2. Abrasion / Sharp Objects Still Matter
No footprint is totally invulnerable. If you’re camping over sharp rocks, sticks, or abrasive surfaces, those can still work through or damage both footprint and tent floor. The footprint helps, but doesn’t guarantee full protection.
3. Added Weight & Bulk (Tradeoff)
While relatively light for what it does, it does add weight and space. For ultra‑minimalist hikers, every gram counts; some may skip using one for shorter or lighter trips.
4. Durability Over Time
Polyester and coatings degrade with UV, wear, repeated folding, abrasion, and exposure. The waterproof coating may wear, seams may leak, or the material may tear over time. Without many long-term field reviews, it’s unclear how it holds up after years of use.
5. Fit / Size Matching
If the footprint is too small, it won’t protect fully; if too big, it may collect water or cause issues. Getting a size slightly smaller than the tent’s floor area (so the footprint stays within the tent’s footprint) is usually best. Some users mention in product Q&A that “intermediate grommets” are missing, limiting how well the footprint can be anchored or tensioned.
6. Incomplete Information & Lack of Independent Tests
Most information comes from the manufacturer or resellers, rather than independent long-term usage reviews. That means claims of “waterproof,” “heavy duty,” etc. should be taken with some caution, until you see them in your own field use.
Real‑World Use & User Feedback
- In listings and resale sites, customers note that the footprint “kept in body heat well,” is “lightweight and compact,” and “fits Clostnature 3‑person tent perfectly.”
- One reviewer mentions that the footprint lacks intermediate grommets, which limits how well it can be anchored.
- In general outdoor gear review lists (e.g. “Best Waterproof Tent Footprints”), Clostnature often appears high up (e.g. top 10 pick) for its balance of price, functionality, and features.
- Camping / backpacking forum users generally support using a footprint: “A $65 tent will almost guaranteed have a very wet floor unless u put down a footprint.”
“Do you NEED it? No. Is it helpful? Yes. Footprints protect the bottom of the tent from wearing out.”
Some, however, skip footprints to reduce gear, trusting careful site selection.
So the general consensus in outdoor communities is that a footprint is a wise protective accessory, though not always strictly necessary, depending on use case.
Verdict & Recommendations
Overall, the Clostnature Tent Footprint is a solid choice if you want to protect your tent’s floor without overspending. It combines decent material quality, waterproofing, and reasonable weight. While it’s not perfect, it offers good value for many users.
Here’s a quick summary and advice:
| Good For | Be Careful / Watch Out |
|---|---|
| Everyday camping, non‑extreme use, moderate rain, preventive protection | Heavy, prolonged rain, very rocky / abrasive ground, ultra‑minimalist setups |
| As a multi‑purpose tarp for other outdoor uses | Overreliance on claimed durability or waterproofing under harsh conditions |
| Budget‑aware campers needing a groundsheet | Improper size / fit, leaving overhangs that scoop water, lack of anchoring |
Tips to get the most out of it:
- Select a footprint slightly smaller or precisely matching your tent’s floor so it stays within the boundaries.
- Clear debris (rocks, sticks) from your campsite before laying it down.
- Ensure proper drainage: fold excess edges inward rather than letting them sit outside the tent.
- Keep it taut (if possible) so puddling doesn’t occur on the footprint.
- Periodically inspect the coating, seams, and fabric for wear, and reapply seam sealers if needed.
