Innovative Shelter Transforms Cars into Campsites with Tent-like Wing that Connects to Any Roof Rack

Protecting From Harsh Sun and Unpredictable Weather, the New Kelty Carport is Easy to Set Up, Simple to Use, and More Versatile Than a Tent

BOULDER, Colo., April 28 -- Every successful summer tailgate gathering shares the same essential ingredients ... good food, good friends, and a good spot in the shade.

Making room for all three, the camping experts at Kelty are unveiling a new concept tent-shelter hybrid, known as the Carport.

This protective wing securely and gently fastens to a vehicle's roof rack on the side or rear to form a comfortable shelter. Shielding against harsh sun, wind and light rain, the Carport is much like a three-sided tent, with two large side entrances and abundant protected headroom (http://www.kelty.com/).

Designed to be sleek and sturdy, the Carport's strength is in its versatility.

"From the kids' soccer games to a weekend trip with friends, the Kelty Carport has been fantastic. It's so much more convenient than a tent because it gives us the shade and extra space we need right next to our car, not out in a field somewhere," said Sarah Welch of Portland, Maine.

All Kelty Carports are made of lightweight, durable and weather-resistant polyester taffeta. The frame is supported by two aluminum poles which assemble quickly and fit easily into clearly marked pole sleeves.

The supporting poles connect to a lightweight but strong horizontal pole, which is laid across any standard roof-rack, then attached with a simple strap system.

Anchor loops at the base of the support poles are designed to clasp stones, sandbags or other heavy objects, helping secure the Carport in blustery conditions.

The large Kelty Carport is roomy enough to host a mini-festival. The broad shelter covers 113 square feet and is tall enough to fit on trucks, vans and SUVs. It also features roll-down side panels for privacy ($250).

The medium Kelty Carport is an ideal extension of a station wagon tailgate, with a ceiling high enough to allow the hatchback to open, and a coverage area of 83 square feet ($200).

Founded in 1952, Kelty is based in Boulder, Colorado, and uses the natural backdrop of the Rocky Mountains to test, create and continually innovate within their diverse line of quality outdoor products. For more information on Kelty, please call 800.423.2320.