Setting Up Tarp Guy Lines with 1.2 mm Z-Line Slick Cord
By Zpacks | Level Up Your Next Adventure | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Product Reviews
Learn how to replace heavy guy lines with ultralight 1.2 mm Z-Line Slick Cord for a lighter, more efficient tarp setup. Includes step-by-step instructions and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
Use 1.2 mm Z-Line Slick Cord for your tarp guy lines to save significant weight without sacrificing durability. This cord is slick enough to slide through tensioners easily and reflective for visibility at night.
Why switch to 1.2 mm cord?
Standard guy lines are often 2-3 mm thick, adding unnecessary weight to your pack. The 1.2 mm Z-Line Slick Cord offers a 60-70% weight reduction while still handling the loads of a typical tarp shelter. Its slick finish reduces friction against tree bark and rocks, making adjustments smoother.
One trade-off: the thinner cord can be harder to grip with cold or wet hands. Practice tying knots like the taut-line hitch or use a small cord tensioner to make adjustments easier.
What you'll need
You'll need 50 feet of 1.2 mm Z-Line Slick Cord, a pair of scissors or a hot knife, and your tarp with corner tie-out points. Optional: small cord tensioners or linelocs if your tarp doesn't have them built in.
How to set up tarp guy lines with 1.2 mm Z-Line Slick Cord
- Cut your cord lengths: Measure and cut six pieces: four for the corners (6-8 feet each) and two for the ridge line ends (10-12 feet each). Use a hot knife to melt the ends and prevent fraying. Common mistake: cutting all pieces the same length. Corner lines need to be shorter than ridge lines to avoid tripping.
- Attach to tarp tie-outs: Thread one end of each cord through the tarp's tie-out loop. Tie a simple overhand knot or a bowline to secure it. Leave a 2-inch tail after the knot. Checkpoint: ensure the knot is tight and the tail is long enough to not pull through. A slipped knot can collapse your shelter in wind.
- Add tensioners (optional): If using linelocs or cord tensioners, slide them onto the cord before tying the free end. Position them about 6 inches from the tarp for easy adjustment. Common mistake: placing tensioners too far from the tarp makes them hard to reach and less effective.
- Tie the free end to a stake: Drive a stake into the ground at the desired angle. Tie the cord to the stake using a taut-line hitch or a trucker's hitch for easy tensioning. Leave a loop for quick adjustment. Checkpoint: the 1.2 mm cord is slick, so a taut-line hitch may slip. Use a double half-hitch or a slippery half-hitch for better grip.
- Adjust and test: Pull the cord to tension the tarp. Adjust each line until the fabric is taut and the pitch is symmetrical. Walk around to check for sagging or loose spots. Common mistake: over-tensioning can stress the tarp fabric or pull stakes. Aim for a firm but not drum-tight pitch.
- Secure reflective ends: If your cord has reflective strands, leave a 2-3 inch loop at the stake end. This catches light and helps you avoid tripping at night. Checkpoint: reflective loops are most effective when they are not buried under leaves or mud. Keep them visible above ground.
Product facts
- 50 Feet 1.2 mm Z-Line Slick Cord: This cord is made of solid braided 100%... and was a favorite for bear bag hangs on a PCT thru-hike due to its slick performance. The slick braid means less friction when adjusting guy lines, and the solid construction holds knots well without slipping.
50 Feet 1.2 mm Z-Line Slick Cord
