I happen to be a big fan of our first up. There were a couple gatherings that we could have done without it but that is out of 10 - 12 outings.
Dan introduced me to the benefits of an easy up on our
very 1st outing.It broke the icy blast of a 20 MPH 28
degree wind. As you can see we were huddled in.
I bought this little cheap one it was , as described ,
at best a bird poop deflector.
I actually recieved my 1st up at the summer gathering
and it went in place over the galley. Ol what's her name
will turn red as a coke can and pass out with too much
direct sun so it was a God sent item at that Gathering
85 to 90 in the direct sun.
Seems everyone was looking for shade that day
At the 08 Shivaree a sustained winds of 35 MPH ALL
evening and night long it was a haven from the wind.
We had it tied every which way and was luck to keep
it on the ground.
The spring 09 gathering it got a test. Torrential rain
Sat. night and with full side curtains it protected the
galley we were cooking in the height of the rain storm.
below : it made a pretty picture but was hardley
used we tended to gather at the fire.
The 2010 shivaree it was nice as a large kitchen
and gathering room but was barely used.
I don't have a picture of the last fall gathering
but 38 to 42 and raining there were 15 of us under
my first up with side curtains in place we were standing
shoulder to shoulder telling story and catching up on
all the news and gossip while to rained. That my friend
makes it priceless.
Sun and rain can be tough on us old wimps and I would
just as soon have my 1st up and not need it as to need
it and not have it.