Showing posts with label backpacking tent. Show all posts
Showing posts with label backpacking tent. Show all posts

8/18/2011

Sierra Designs Clip Flashlight 2 Two-Person Ultralight Tent Review

Sierra Designs Clip Flashlight 2 Two-Person Ultralight Tent
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
First the bad news: this tent is a tunnel design, so it is not free-standing. This means that you have to pull stakes to move it. In all my backpacking I have *never* had to move a tent before I was ready to leave (though my companion and I awoke one morning to find our Clip-3 had been in the middle of a storm-started stream all night--the seals held, and we both slept through it!). Also, I have only occasionally camped where the ground was so rocky I had trouble putting the primary stakes down. I camp mostly in the Pacific Northwest--your mileage may vary, so ask friends who camp in your area. My conclusion: "free standing" means little to me.
So why buy a tunnel design instead of a geodesic? Because tunnel designs offer the best interior space to weight ratio. In human speak, you get more space and less pack weight. You can reduce the ~4 pound pack weight further by purchasing some premium titanium stakes from aftermarket manufacturers. Many newer "ultralight" tents from Sierra Designs and others cost twice as much and weigh over 6 pounds.
Some tunnel tents from Stephenson's offer even lower weight, but are custom made--cost is very high, you may wait several weeks to receive it, and I would worry about availability of replacement parts. Sierra Designs is common enough that most outdoor chains can quickly sell you spare poles or parts should accidents occur while traveling.
This tent is a breeze to set up--takes only a few minutes, and regularly garners compliments and amazement from other campers who watch.
I only wish that Sierra Designs would offer the very similar but larger Clip-3 tent again. Mine packed under 5.5 pounds (with spare stakes), and had 42 square feet of interior space. That's less weight than most two-person geodesics and more space than most three-person tents! And I find the three person version a lot less claustrophobic.
Before purchasing a tent, I suggest you consider carefully how you will use it. This piece of gear is one of the most expensive and heavy you'll take into the wilderness. Each feature adds weight, and you may decide some are not worth carrying. Backpacker Magazine has excellent annual reports on tents--compare features there (it is often available in public libraries).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sierra Designs Clip Flashlight 2 Two-Person Ultralight Tent

A best-seller, year-in and year-out, the Clip Flashlight features a hoop design for less weight, a generous vestibule, and Swift Clips for easy set-up.Tent Guard with Ultra Fresh, a SuperSeal Floor, Cam-Locs, color-coded webbing, reflective guy-outs and DAC Featherlite poles make the Clip not only a great value, but a top performer.

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7/24/2011

Swiss Gear Niesen Hiker Tent (Orange/Grey) Review

Swiss Gear Niesen Hiker Tent (Orange/Grey)
Average Reviews:

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We bought two of these for our recent family camping trip to replace a huge Coleman tent. It set up quickly, just the right size for two people in each and looked great. However, the center pole broke on one of the tents the second night and then the other tent had both its side poles broke a day later. The first tent had more breaks and finally collapsed four days into the trip. The other tent barely stood with more breaks. The collapse was even after reinforcing the initial break. We checked into a nearby hotel the rest of the way. Obviously, I do not recommend this tent.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Swiss Gear Niesen Hiker Tent (Orange/Grey)

Swiss Gear Niesen Hiker Tent is ready to go with you for your overnight stay. Sleeps up to 2 people comfortably with a 50' square surface area. Signature features begin with a shoe pocket to conveniently store muddy shoes, E-port for convenient access to electrical cords, Sewn-in security lock so you never misplace keys, Interior Rings keep flashlight or valuables secured and a Carry Duffel that converts to handing storage during camp-out. Customer care at 1-800-325-TENT (8368), or www.wenzelco.com

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7/12/2011

Eureka Timberline 2 Adventure 7-Foot by 5-Foot Two-Person Tent Review

Eureka Timberline 2 Adventure 7-Foot by 5-Foot Two-Person Tent
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I have been using a two-man Timberline tent for decades. It's easy to set up, keeps me dry when seam-sealed and stands up to wind quite well. It can be set up without any stakes but you would want to have at least four to hold the rain fly away from the tent. In dry climates, I use it without the fly. It claims to be a two-man tent, and we did sleep three in it on one time on a backpacking trip in the rain, but it's best for one person. My first Timberline has been all over the United States and I bought a second one after the waterproofing in the floor gave way some 20 years later. As with most tents, you want to use it with a ground cloth in damp climates. Otherwise some moisture might seep in but my biggest issue is with all the dirt, decayed matter, used bubble gum from a previous camper, and so forth that sticks to the bottom. I bought this third one for my son to use on a bicycle trip. For the money, I think it's one of the best tents out there.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Eureka Timberline 2 Adventure 7-Foot by 5-Foot Two-Person Tent

One of the world's most popular tents (with over a million sold), the classic A-frame Eureka Timberline 2 offers a roomy, well-ventilated shelter for two campers. Ideal for casual backpackers or as starter tents for new campers, the Timberline 2 weighs less than 6 pounds and can be used for three-season camping. This free-standing tent is quick and easy to set up, thanks to a sturdy shockcorded 0.5-inch aluminum frame, ring and pin attachments, and clip attachments.
It features a breathable nylon wall, polyester fly, and polyester bathtub floor that keeps seams taut and high off the ground for superior protection from the elements. It has a large front door and two windows (on in the door, and one in the back). The windows are closable as well as hooded by the fly, so they can be open even in rain. Other features include:
Shockcorded side guy outs and fly attachments give stability and tear resistance in stormy conditions
Twin track zippers for separate operation of the window in the door
Two mesh gear pockets
Clothes line loop, flashlight loop
Tent, pole, and stake bags included

Specifications:
Area: 38 square feet
Floor size: 7 feet by 5 feet, 3 inches
Center height: 3 feet, 6 inches
Wall fabrics: 1.9-ounce breathable nylon/1.9-ounce permeable taffeta nylon
Floor fabrics: 1.9-ounce Taffeta nylon with 1200 mm coating
Fly fabrics: 1.9-ounce Polyester with 1200 mm coating
Pack size: 6 by 24 inches
Weight: 5 pounds, 13 ounces

About Eureka Though the exact year is unknown, Eureka’s long history begins prior to 1895 in Binghamton, New York, where the company still resides today. Then known as the Eureka Tent & Awning Company, its first wares were canvas products--most notably, Conestoga wagon covers and horse blankets for nineteenth century American frontiersmen--as well as American flags, store awnings, and camping tents.
The company increased production of its custom canvas products locally throughout the 1930s and during the 1940 and even fabricated and erected the IBM "tent cities" just outside Binghamton. The seven acres of tents housed thousands of IBM salesmen during the company’s annual stockholders meeting, which had since outgrown its previous locale. In the 1940s, with the advent of World War II and the increased demand for hospital ward tents, Eureka expanded operations and began shipping tents worldwide. Ultimately, upon the post-war return of the GIs and the resultant housing shortage, Eureka turned its attention to the home front during the 1950s by supplying awnings for the multitude of mobile homes that were purchased.
In 1960, Eureka’s new and innovative Draw-Tite tent, with its practical, free standing external frame, was used in a Himalayan Expedition to Nepal by world renowned Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person documented to summit Mt. Everest only six years earlier. In 1963, Eureka made history during its own Mt. Everest ascent, with more than 60 of its tents sheltering participants from fierce 60+ mph winds and temperatures reaching below -20°F during the first all American Mt. Everest Expedition.
For backpackers and families, Eureka introduced its legendary Timberline tent in the 1970s. Truly the first StormShield design, this completely self-supporting and lightweight backpacking tent became one of the most popular tents the entire industry with sales reaching over 1 million by its ten year anniversary.
Eureka tents have also traveled as part of several historic expeditions, including the American Women’s Himalayan Expedition to Annapurna I in 1978 and the first Mt. Everest ascents by a Canadian and American woman in 1986 and 1988. In recent history, tents specially designed and donated by Eureka sheltered Eric Simonson and his team on two historic research expeditions to Mount Everest, this time in a quest for truth regarding the 1924 attempted summit of early English explorers George Mallory and Andrew Irvine. During the 1999 expedition, the team made history finding the remains of George Mallory, but the complete mystery remained unsolved. Returning in 2001 to search for more clues, the team found amazing historical artifacts which are now on display at the Smithsonian.
Amazon.com Tent Guide Selecting a Tent Fortunately, there are all kinds of tents for weekend car campers, Everest expeditions, and everything in-between. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Expect the Worst In general, it's wise to choose a tent that's designed to withstand the worst possible conditions you think you'll face. For instance, if you're a summer car camper in a region where weather is predictable, an inexpensive family or all purpose tent will likely do the trick--especially if a vehicle is nearby and you can make a mad dash for safety when bad weather swoops in! If you're a backpacker, alpine climber or bike explorer, or if you like to car camp in all seasons, you'll want to take something designed to handle more adversity.
Three- and Four-Season Tents For summer, early fall and late spring outings, choose a three-season tent. At minimum, a quality three season tent will have lightweight aluminum poles, a reinforced floor, durable stitching, and a quality rain-fly. Some three-season tents offer more open-air netting and are more specifically designed for summer backpacking and other activities. Many premium tents will feature pre-sealed, taped seams and a silicone-impregnated rain-fly for enhanced waterproofness.
For winter camping or alpine travel, go with a four season model. Because they typically feature more durable fabric coatings, as well as more poles, four-season tents are designed to handle heavy snowfall and high winds without collapsing. Of course, four-season tents exact a weight penalty of about 10 to 20 percent in trade for their strength and durability. They also tend to be more expensive.
Domes and Tunnels Tents are broadly categorized into two types, freestanding, which can stand up on their own, and those that must be staked down in order to stand upright. Freestanding tents often incorporate a dome-shaped design, and most four-season tents are constructed this way because a dome leaves no flat spots on the outer surface where snow can collect. Domes are also inherently stronger than any other design. Meanwhile, many three-season models employ a modified dome configuration called a tunnel. These are still freestanding, but they require fewer poles than a dome, use less fabric, and typically have a rectangular floor-plan that offers less storage space than a dome configuration. Many one and two-person tents are not freestanding, but they make up for it by being more lightweight. Because they use fewer poles, they can also be quicker to set up than a dome.
Size Matters Ask yourself how many people you'd like to fit in your fabric hotel now and in the future. For soloists and minimalists, check out one-person tents. If you're a mega-minimalist, or if you have your eye on doing some big wall climbs, a waterproof-breathable bivy sack is the ticket. Some bivy sacks feature poles and stake points to give you a little more breathing room. Also, if you don't need bug protection and you want to save weight, check out open-air shelters.
Families who plan on car camping in good weather can choose from a wide range of jumbo-sized tents that will accommodate all your little ones with room to spare. A wide range of capacities is also available for three- and four-season backpacking and expedition tents. Remember, though, the bigger the tent you buy, the heavier it will be, although it's easy to break up the tent components among several people in your group. It's also helpful to compare the volume and floor-space measurements of models you're considering.


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7/11/2011

4 Person Floor Saver Nylon Review

4 Person Floor Saver Nylon
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I ordered this product to fit the Alps Mountaineering 4-person tent, which has a thin floor -- but the "floor saver" is made of even thinner fabric and isn't waterproof. It looks as though they had an excess of useless material and decided to find a way to market it. A true waste of money -- you'd be much better off with a "money saver/floor saver" tarp for $10. The tent is okay so far -- have only used it in the past week -- but this is very disappointing and discourages us from ordering from this company again.

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Nylon Floor Saver - 4 PersonManufacture ID: 77110044 person floor saver - Dimensions:90" x 102"- Weight:20 oz. - Nylon

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7/10/2011

Sierra Designs Vapor Light 1 One-Person Ultralight Tent Review

Sierra Designs Vapor Light 1 One-Person Ultralight Tent
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)

This tent is well worth the purchase for anyone looking to travel light. I use it for motorcycle camping and its light weight and compact size are impressive.
The tent is an absolute cinch to set up. I purchased the optional footprint, and the entire setup, including rain fly, takes just a few minutes. As the prior review notes, the walls are steep which results in adequate space for a true one-person tent. The "vestibule" area under the rain fly is quite small, so don't expect to keep much beneath it.
Tear down is also easy, although I find the plastic clips for both the footprint and rain fly to be somewhat difficult to remove. This may be because I'm a bit concerned about the quality of the plastic "H-clips" and so I'm extra cautious when handling them. At the end of each tent strap (one at each corner), there is a single plastic piece with two H-clips. The plastic clips on the footprint and rain fly attach to the H-clips. The H-clips seem a bit flimsy to me. After just a couple uses, the H-clips are intact, so, at this point, this is more of a concern than a criticism. I have included a photo of the H-clips in the product description. I have no other concerns about the build quality. I have not used the tent in the rain, but have used it in colder weather when the grass is very wet from dew, and there has been no issue with water getting through the floor (there are no seams on the floor). I also have not used it in high winds, so I cannot yet comment on how well it would hold up.
I am 5'5" and about 160 pounds and this tent provides plenty of space for me, both in width and length. It should accommodate a person up to 6' or perhaps taller. Regarding interior dimensions, I use a Thermarest Pro Lite Plus mattress, size large, which is 25" x 77" (63cm x 196cm) and it fits just about perfectly on the tent floor.
Overall, I am very pleased with this purchase and highly recommend it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sierra Designs Vapor Light 1 One-Person Ultralight Tent

One of the most important trail accessories for serious backpackers is a lightweight tent, as you don't want to trudge across miles of wilderness with extra pounds of poles and fabric. Enter the Sierra Designs Vapor Light 1, an ultralight tent that sleeps one person comfortably yet tips the scale at a mere 2 pounds 14 ounces. The tent is equipped with sturdy DAC Featherlite NSL poles, which undergo an anodization process during construction that is gentler on the environment than conventional methods. The tent's SuperSeal floor, meanwhile, combines the benefits of catenary and bathtub floors, with raised, PVC-free side seams to keep water out regardless of the conditions. And users needn't spend their first 15 minutes at the site fussing with a bunch of unruly poles and complicated instructions. Instead, the tent offers Spider Hub technology to keep all the poles locked in place, along with Jakes Feet at the tent corners for easily attaching the poles, fly, and footprint.
Despite its compact size, the tent is plenty large enough for one person, with 15.5 square feet of sleeping space. Other features include Ultralight Clips and a color-coded main door/rainfly; a 40-denier nylon taffeta floor; and a 7-square-foot vestibule. The tent comes with stuff sacks, stakes, and a guyline.
Specifications:
Seasons: 3
Design type: Freestanding
Sleeping capacity: 1
Fast pack weight: N/A
Average minimum weight: 2 pounds 14 ounces
Average packed weight: 3 pounds 7 ounces
Floor area: 15.5 square feet
Vestibule area: 7 square feet
Peak height: 38 inches
Doors: 1
Body material: 20-denier nylon ripstop
Floor material: 40-denier nylon taffeta
Rainfly material: 40-denier nylon taffeta
Pole material: Aluminum DAC Featherlite NSL



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7/04/2011

Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent - 2 Person Review

Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent - 2 Person
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Having now taken this tent out several times, and in plenty of rain, I'm very happy with the performance. The fly has good coverage and good seam-taping and I've never had a wetness problem other than some small amounts of condensation on cold mornings. I've used this in seasonable weather, from low 50's to high 30's and it's performed well. The ventilation is decent even with the fly on and without much wind. It's not easy to stargaze, but you can get a view if you position your head at the door. One great feature is the fly vent, which pops up and stays open thanks to a little hoop of wire in it. Hopefully it will not get mangled over time. The floor is a little thin (cut yourself a tarp groundcover) and I think abrasion could definitely be a problem. Those with dogs might want to be take extra care tht Fido's nails don't rip right through the floor. Condensation was slight overnight and only at the foot of the tent, not bad for the humidity in WI. Also the mesh kept the bugs out, which was very important.
It's not the hugest--things would be tight with a second person, and taller folks might feel cramped in the length dept. However, the design does allow the tent to have a small footprint and yet seem ok for two people even if not super comfy. A good compromise for me, a camper who was wavering between 1 and 2 person tents. The vestibule isn't big, but it's better than many tents at a similar price point. There's a loop in the ceiling for hanging gear, and a couple of gear pockets at the front of the tent. Aluminum poles are good, although I was not expecting them to be shock-corded.
Probably bulky and a tad heavy for serious backpackers. Easy (EASY!) to setup and take down, though I agree with another review that I'm in the dark on the guywire operation. I didn't need 'em anyway, though the shape of the tent (basically rectangular) leads me to think that high winds could be a problem. Stakes are ok, but surely will get replaced sooner or later.
With aluminum poles, a good fly, some vestibule space, good amounts of mesh, sealed seams, some gear pockets, and an ok brand name, this is a good tent for the money. Similar models at this price point tend to skimp on at least one of these features. If you want to spend less than 130 for a freestanding tent, this is a very good option.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Kelty Grand Mesa 2 Tent - 2 Person

The Kelty Grand Mesa tent is a great value for campers and backpackers. The Grand Mesa is easy to pitch and offers great ventilation with side wall vents and a mesh ceiling for star gazing. With taped floor seams you can leave your gear for the day and enjoy your favorite trail. For extra room you have internal pockets and a single vestibule giving you plenty of overnight storage. The noiseless zipper pulls are great for keeping tent mates asleep when you have to answer the call of nature. Weighing just over 4lbs you have a tent that will easily take you to the places you have always wanted to go without a big price tag.Other Features:Wall Material: 68D 190T Polyester TaffetaFloor Material: 1800mm PU Nylon TaffetaPoles: 2 Doors: 1 Clip/Sleeve: Clip Seam Sealed: Yes Pockets: Internal Dimensions: 82" x 58" x 44" Floor: 29 sq ft Vestibule Area: 6 sq ft Capacity: 2 Minimum Weight: 4 lb 2 ozPackaged Weight: 4 lb 10 oz Ventilation: Door, mesh and side vents Warranty: Lifetime Use: Backpacking, camping, 3 season

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6/25/2011

Eureka Juno 3 XTA 7.5-Foot by 6.5-Foot Three-Person Rectangular Dome Tent (Amazon Exclusive) Review

Eureka Juno 3 XTA 7.5-Foot by 6.5-Foot Three-Person Rectangular Dome Tent (Amazon Exclusive)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
We had been looking for a light-weight backpacking tent with enough room for two. That seems simple enough, unless you've actually been inside of some of the "two-person" tents. Some of the expedition tents meet the size requirements, but are too heavy to be considered backpacking tents. We have just used this tent for the first time, and we are so far pleased. Plenty of room inside for two adults with large sleeping mats and sleeping bags, and a bit of gear. A large vesitibule on each side provides plenty of room for packs. I believe this will be a great warm-weather tent, with all of the mesh. The night we used it, it dropped below freezing. We woke to a ceiling (rainfly) covered in ice (on the inside). Didn't really expect that, with all of the ventilation, but as it was ice, it didn't drip on us. I'll chalk this experience up to extreme conditions until we use it in warmer weather. One thing that I don't like, although thus far it has not been an issue, is a seam running through the middle of the floor. It has been taped and sealed at the factory, but I just don't like the looks of it. I will seal it again before spring use, and edit this report, as we are sure to end up in a downpour here in south Texas. The tent is in fact lightweight and roomy, and so far, I am pleased. I will amend this report after having enountered weather with it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Eureka Juno 3 XTA 7.5-Foot by 6.5-Foot Three-Person Rectangular Dome Tent (Amazon Exclusive)

Remarkably lightweight with a compact pack size, Eureka's Juno offers top-performance features and makes a great option for three-season backpacking treks to the backcountry. Sized to sleep three campers comfortably and weighing less than six pounds, the freestanding design boasts two doors for convenient entry and exit and two large vestibules for an additional 13.4 square feet of storage space to stashing your gear out of the way.
The Juno offers superior ventilation--with its mesh side panel and mesh doors--to maximize air circulation for ultimate camping comfort. A no-see-um weave will keep out even the tiniest insects. while a poke-out vent at side of tent promotes cross ventilation. All major seams and reinforcements are factory sealed to prevent water entry through stitching. The wrap-up bathtub floor minimizes ground level seams to keep water out and the floor dry, ensuring a dry and comfortable adventure. In addition, the full-coverage fly provides great rain protection while side-release buckles attach to the tent body and frame, allowing for incremental adjustment.
Designed with Eureka's StormShield features, this two-pole tent is quick and easy to set up with its durable shockcorded fiberglass frame, taffeta rod pockets, clip attachments, and pole sleeve attachments. The pole pocket captures the frame on one end while a locking post and grommet is used at the other end to attach the tent's body and frame at the base. Pole sections are interconnected with shockcords for quick set-up and to prevent lost parts. A ball end helps guide the pole effortlessly through the rod sleeve and prevents wear and tear to the pocket end.
Lightweight and durable, the frame is constructed of 7000 aluminum, shockcorded poles for easy set-up. The tent's fly and floor is made of UV-resistant polyester fabric. With a nicely sized footprint measuring 7 feet, six inches by six feet, six inches, the Juno is ideal for a weekend camping trip for two or three adventure seekers.
Specifications:
Style: Two-pole rectangular dome
Seasons: Three
Sleeps: Three
Footprint: 7 feet, 6 inches by 6 feet, 6 inches
Peak height: 4 feet, 2 inches
Area: 48.75 square feet
Vestibule area: 13.4 square feet
Weight: 5 pounds, 15 ounces

Materials:
Floor: 70D 190T nylon taffeta, 800mm polyurethane coating
Fly: 75D 185T polyester taffeta, 800mm polyurethane coating
Walls: 70D 190T nylon taffeta, 800mm polyurethane coating
Mesh: 40D Nylon no-see-um
Frame: 9.5mm 7000-series aluminum

StormShield Construction Details:
Double-wall construction minimizes condensation build-up inside tent by allowing air to circulate between the mesh tent roof and waterproof fly.
Doors vent from the top and/or bottom, providing options for moderating air flow; warm air exits from the top and cool air enters at the bottom.
Cross ventilation through breathable interior fabric, large windows, and roof vents allows fresh air to enter and moist air to escape the tent.
High perimeter seams of the bathtub floors couple with factory taped floor seams and fly seams to keep water out.
Self-supporting frames flex to absorb and dissipate stress from strong winds.
Fabric reinforcements add an extra layer of protection to high wear and high stress areas.
Anchors for harsh weather include storm guyout rings, loops, and webs.
Nickel sliders on self-healing nylon coil zippers keep windows and doors working smoothly.
Shockcorded poles take the guesswork out of assembly, save time, and prevent lost parts.
Ring and pin assemblies make setup easy and reduce stress and abrasion where the frame and tent floor connect.
Post and grommet attachments speed set up and augment the tent’s structural integrity.
The twin-track zipper system allows door windows to operate independently of doors for convenience and ease of entry and exit.

What's in the Box? Eureka Juno tent, fly, two shockcorded aluminum poles, stakes, stuff sack
Manufacturer's Warranty Limited lifetime warranty
About Eureka Though the exact year is unknown, Eureka’s long history begins prior to 1895 in Binghamton, New York, where the company still resides today. Then known as the Eureka Tent & Awning Company, its first wares were canvas products--most notably, Conestoga wagon covers and horse blankets for nineteenth century American frontiersmen--as well as American flags, store awnings, and camping tents.
The company increased production of its custom canvas products locally throughout the 1930s and during the 1940 and even fabricated and erected the IBM "tent cities" just outside Binghamton. The seven acres of tents housed thousands of IBM salesmen during the company’s annual stockholders meeting, which had since outgrown its previous locale. In the 1940s, with the advent of World War II and the increased demand for hospital ward tents, Eureka expanded operations and began shipping tents worldwide. Ultimately, upon the post-war return of the GIs and the resultant housing shortage, Eureka turned its attention to the home front during the 1950s by supplying awnings for the multitude of mobile homes that were purchased.
In 1960, Eureka’s new and innovative Draw-Tite tent, with its practical, free standing external frame, was used in a Himalayan Expedition to Nepal by world renowned Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person documented to summit Mt. Everest only six years earlier. In 1963, Eureka made history during its own Mt. Everest ascent, with more than 60 of its tents sheltering participants from fierce 60+ mph winds and temperatures reaching below -20°F during the first all American Mt. Everest Expedition.
For backpackers and families, Eureka introduced its legendary Timberline tent in the 1970s. Truly the first StormShield design, this completely self-supporting and lightweight backpacking tent became one of the most popular tents the entire industry with sales reaching over 1 million by its ten year anniversary.
Eureka tents have also traveled as part of several historic expeditions, including the American Women’s Himalayan Expedition to Annapurna I in 1978 and the first Mt. Everest ascents by a Canadian and American woman in 1986 and 1988. In recent history, tents specially designed and donated by Eureka sheltered Eric Simonson and his team on two historic research expeditions to Mount Everest, this time in a quest for truth regarding the 1924 attempted summit of early English explorers George Mallory and Andrew Irvine. During the 1999 expedition, the team made history finding the remains of George Mallory, but the complete mystery remained unsolved. Returning in 2001 to search for more clues, the team found amazing historical artifacts which are now on display at the Smithsonian.
Amazon.com Tent Guide Selecting a Tent Fortunately, there are all kinds of tents for weekend car campers, Everest expeditions, and everything in-between. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Expect the Worst In general, it's wise to choose a tent that's designed to withstand the worst possible conditions you think you'll face. For instance, if you're a summer car camper in a region where weather is predictable, an inexpensive family or all purpose tent will likely do the trick--especially if a vehicle is nearby and you can make a mad dash for safety when bad weather swoops in! If you're a backpacker, alpine climber or bike explorer, or if you like to car camp in all seasons, you'll want to take something designed to handle more adversity.
Three- and Four-Season Tents For summer, early fall and late spring outings, choose a three-season tent. At minimum, a quality three season tent will have lightweight aluminum poles, a reinforced floor, durable stitching, and a quality rain-fly. Some three-season tents offer more open-air netting and are more specifically designed for summer backpacking and other activities. Many premium tents will feature pre-sealed, taped seams and a silicone-impregnated rain-fly for enhanced waterproofness.
For winter camping or alpine travel, go with a four season model. Because they typically feature more durable fabric coatings, as well as more poles, four-season tents are designed to handle heavy snowfall and high winds without collapsing. Of course, four-season tents exact a weight penalty of about 10 to 20 percent in trade for their strength and durability. They also tend to be more expensive.
Domes and Tunnels Tents are broadly categorized into two types, freestanding, which can stand up on their own, and those that must be staked down in order to stand upright. Freestanding tents often incorporate a dome-shaped design, and most four-season tents are constructed this way because a dome leaves no flat spots on the outer surface where snow can collect. Domes are also inherently stronger than any other design. Meanwhile, many three-season models employ a modified dome configuration called a tunnel. These are still freestanding, but they require fewer poles than a dome, use less fabric, and typically have a rectangular floor-plan that offers less storage space than a dome configuration. Many one and two-person tents are not freestanding, but they make up for it by being more lightweight. Because they use fewer poles, they can also be quicker to set up than a dome.
Size Matters Ask yourself how many people you'd like to fit in your fabric hotel now and in the future. For soloists and minimalists, check out one-person tents. If you're a mega-minimalist, or if you have your eye on doing some big wall climbs, a waterproof-breathable bivy sack is the ticket. Some bivy sacks feature poles and stake points to give you a little more breathing room. Also, if you don't need bug protection and you want to save weight, check out open-air shelters.
Families who plan on car camping in good weather can choose from a wide range of jumbo-sized tents that will accommodate all your little ones with room to spare. A wide range of capacities is also available for three- and four-season backpacking and expedition tents. Remember, though, the bigger the tent you buy, the heavier it will be, although it's easy to break up the tent components among several people in your group. It's also helpful to compare the volume and floor-space measurements of models you're considering.


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6/23/2011

ALPS Mountaineering Vertex 4 Backpacking Tent Review

ALPS Mountaineering Vertex 4 Backpacking Tent
Average Reviews:

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I got this tent on Amazon for a little under $200 and for that price it is a good tent. My wife and two kids(4 & 7 yrs old) have backpacked with this tent twice already. It hasn't rained hard yet, but so far has been easy to use seems to be well made.
There are lighter, more expensive tents out there, but this one serves the purpose for

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ALPS Mountaineering Vertex Backpacking 4 - Person Tent... easy to assemble and lightweight! Take a hike with this lightweight Tent! The Vertex is a 2 door, 4 person Tent that'll keep your pack light. Once you reach base camp, assembly is a cinch... just snap the tent clips in place over the strong and lightweight alloy aluminum poles. Mesh side panels and roof vents offer up superior ventilation and a scenic view, while the spreader section at the top of the tent gives you 52" of head room! Fast set-up, reliable performance: 2 doors with vestibules to store your gear; 2 aircraft aluminum poles are strong and lightweight; Poles are shock corded together as one continuous system; Weighs approx. 9 lbs.; Polyester fly and nylon floor are urethane coated with factory sealed seams for weather protection; Mesh storage pocket; Fly buckles to tent for secure attachment; Stakes and guy ropes included; Center height: 52"; Base size: 90 x 102"; Vestibule area: 31 sq. ft. Order Today! ALPS Mountaineering Vertex 4.0 AL Backpacking Tent

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6/13/2011

Sierra Designs Zeta 2 Two-Person Three-Season Tent Review

Sierra Designs Zeta 2 Two-Person Three-Season Tent
Average Reviews:

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I was fed up with discount-store tents whose fiberglass poles snapped after just a few outings. I needed quality, and i found it in Sierra Designs, with thoughtful design and construction at a good price. After hours of online research of reviews more detailed than this one (cheers to them), i settled on this item and have been happy i did. It was obvious upon seeing the physical product that Sierra Designs doesn't skimp on quality. The different types of connectors for the poles, including the proprietary "Jake's foot" design, allow reliably strong connections with enough ball-and-socket type flexibility that you don't worry the frame will snap apart in a strong breeze. The Jake's foot really is an efficient, well-designed mechanism. I'd like to buy that Jake a beer. The shape of the tent combines the best of the "tunnel" and "dome" designs, with lots of headroom at the center and the ends both, plus plenty of length for sleeping. The walls are mostly (durable) mesh, providing airflow that will prevent condensation inside the tent when the rainfly is installed, and allowing a fine view of the starry sky in fair weather. Finally, the doors (one on each side) are a great design too, with a zipper placed at the top that goes around 360 degrees allowing the door to "hang" from the top, rather than the door becoming a flap that can touch the ground and get stepped on and wet.
As with any tent purchase, remember to buy 1 "person size" up from what you need. That is, a "2-person" tent is really a tent for 1 person and their stuff; a "3-person" tent sleeps 2 persons plus stuff; etc. Also, do buy the footprint, which will protect the bottom of your new tent from wear and tear. Finally, before taking your new tent camping, make sure you do a test run setup in your living room or backyard. You'll be glad you've had the practice, when you leave the house late (as usual), encounter traffic on the way to the woods, and then reach your campsite with only a few precious minutes before dark falls.
One small gripe is that i wish the little window in the rain flap were bigger; that in itself is not enough of a complaint to subtract a star. My other gripe is that the aluminum pegs don't seem nearly so durable as the rest of the tent. I've already bent two of them. You'd do well to pick up a few spare tent pegs so you'll be prepared if the ground is hard on your trip (as was Indiana's during our drought this past summer). A 5-star product would be durable enough that i wouldn't need spare parts for a long time. They were probably trying to shave off ounces for the hard-core backpackers, but in the case of the pegs i think they goofed.
All in all, i would certainly recommend this product to a friend. It was merely a bonus that as a math geek i was attracted to the name being a Greek letter. -sj

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The new Tunnel Dome pole configuration of the Zeta 2 gives 32 sq ft of livable space for this roomy freestanding tent.Two doors with two large vestibules(8ft and 13ft) and full coverage rain fly make the interior space dry and accessible.Jakes Foot and Swift Clips makes set up fast and easy - even with one person.

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6/09/2011

Eureka Spitfire Tent - 1 Person 2010 Review

Eureka Spitfire Tent - 1 Person 2010
Average Reviews:

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In January of 2008, REI put their Chrysalis UL single person backpacking tent on sell (115 dollars). I had just received an Eureka Spitfire (not UL) tent as a Christmas gift (89 dollars). Both of these two wall tents received many favorable reviews on the internet. Both tents advertise a weight of ~3 lbs. I decided to do a non-outing tent to tent comparison. If you look at all the web reviews available, it is clear both these tents can handle weather that you would prefer not to be out in. That was not my concern. I was more interested in which of these tents worked best for me and if there were any show stoppers between the two.
Component weights (ozs):
--------------------------------------------------------
Eureka Spitfire
Poles:................8.875
Fly:...................18
Body:..................17
Stakes:...............6.25
Stake Bag:............0.375
Pole Bag:.............0.625
Stuff Sack:...........1
Guy Lines:...........0.5
---------------------------
Total wt:...........52.625
Ti Stakes:...........2.5 (8)
Total wt. with
Ti Stakes:..........48.25
---------------------------
Min wt. (poles,
fly, body,
Ti Stakes,
Guy Lines):..........46.875
................(2 lb 14.875 oz)
--------------------------------------------------------
REI Chrysalis UL
Poles:.................12.125
w/o pole repair tube:..11.75
Fly:...................16.125
Body:..................17.375
Stakes:.................3.375
Stake Bag:..............0.25
Pole Bag:...............0.5
Stuff Sack:.............2.75
Guy Lines:,.............1.375
------------------------------
Total wt................53.875
Ti Stakes................2.25 (7)
Total wt. with
Ti Stakes...............52.375
-------------------------------
Min wt. (poles,
fly, body,
Ti Stakes,
Guy Lines)..............49.25
....................(3 lb 1.25 oz)
--------------------------------------------------------
The component weights show some of the compromises that were made in packaging the tents for sell. The fact that the Chrysalis is free standing results in a higher pole weight. The steel stakes that are standard with the Spitfire weigh too much. The Chrysalis UL's stakes are lighter, and of better quality, however I personally do not like the design. I strongly suggest the stakes for both tents be replaced with Ti stakes. The stuff sack used on the Spitfire is a simple no frill sack. The Chrysalis UL stuff sack has provisions for compressing the radius of the sack. This results in extra weight without any real advantage. If you wanted to use a tent compression bag, it should be the tent fabric parts only, and compress both the radius and length.
Both tents have a vent in their fly to help control condensation. The Spitfire also has a zipper at the top of the tent body that allows you to access the vent. When examining this zipper, I noticed as others have that the zipper does not completely close. A small opening about 1/2 the size of the radius of a tent stake remains open. A little better zipper termination would have eliminated this issue. This should be of no major concern, but it distracts from the tent's design. In the Chrysalis, the tent door needs to be opened to reach the vent.
The overall quality of the materials, sewing, and finishing of both tents is very good. The Chrysalis is a little better than the Spitfire, but this should not be an issue for either of the tents. When examining the fly coverage of the tents I noticed that the very end of the Spitfire tent body was not completely covered by the fly. There is about 1 to 2 inches of seam right at the end buckle that you would need to be sure you sealed. I do not consider this a major issue, but again something that could have been avoided in the tent design.
Both tents are very easy to set up. As mentioned before, the Chrysalis is free standing. The Spitfire is not free standing. The Spitfire is so easy to setup, I do not consider this a major reason for choosing one tent over the other. One of the advantages of a free standing tent is that the poles and fly can be put up first in rain and the rest of the tent pitched under the protection of the fly. In the case of the Spitfire, Velco ties on the underside of the fly and the tent body's external clip system also allow the fly to be setup first in the rain. You do have to improvise a loop on the fly end snaps (both ends) to do this. In this manner, both tents can be setup as a fly/poles only tarp.
The Spitfire's vestibule is only large enough for boots. It is triangular shaped with a ground apex of ~ 1 foot. A second similar area is available under the fly, but only accessable by being outside and reaching under the fly. The vestibule is considerably larger in the Chrysalis (apex ~2.5 feet). You could put your boots and a small pack in it. A large pack would not fit. The Spitfire has some built in pockets in the mesh side that are big enough to hold glasses and a flashlight. Head room in both tents is adequate for me to sit without touching the roof. The Spitfire has a few extra inches of head room compared to the Chrysalis UL.
The Spitfire has considerable more mesh than the Chrysalis. This would be an advantage when a person wanted to do without the fly. The Chrysalis has a little porthole window in the fly, and the tent body has some panels of translucent fabric that make it very light inside. The porthole window is intriguing. It would be easier to look out at the weather with the fly on, but I would need more data on whether it would hold up. It seems a little like a gimmick.
When I lay in both tents, I came across a show stopper. I was able to lie in the Spitfire with over 6 inches at both ends of the tent to spare. Not all of this space would be usable by a taller individual, but it was there never the less. I was able to roll side to side without touching the tent sides. In the Chrysalis, my feet were touching the bottom of the tent and my head was touching the front of the tent. It was very uncomfortable. I'm 5 feet, 8 inches tall. The Chrysalis floor plan is nonsymmetrical at the wide end and narrow end of the tent. It forms an uneven parallelogram like shape. This results in an large unusable area next to your head and a similar small area at your feet.
My decision was to keep the Eureka Spitfire and return the REI Chrysalis UL.


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The Spitfire by Eureka sets up fast and easy with post and grommet corner attachments and clips for attachment to of the body to the frame. A large side entry, ample headroom (3ft. 4in center height), ventilation, and lightweight make the Spitfire a desirable choice of all backpackers. . Model Year: 2010, Product ID: 107676, Shipping Exclusion: This item is only available for shipment by UPS to the lower 48 United States. APO, FPO, PO BOX, Hawaii, and Alaska shipments may not be possible for this item. (Please call prior to purchase.), Special Order: This is a Special Order item, will be shipped from the manufacturer, and is not stocked in our warehouse. All Returns/Exchanges are subject to a 20% restocking fee. This item does not qualify for our Price Matching Policy. Order processing time may vary.

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6/05/2011

Texsport Phoenix 3 Season Tent Review

Texsport Phoenix 3 Season Tent
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Now this is what I call a 3-season tent! It has aluminum poles, & the rain fly is fitted and goes the whole way to the ground (You should see what some retailers call a 3-season tent). It was very easy to set up & take down. I am 4'10" and I left the directions (not very detailed but I have found that all tent directions are not very detailed)at home by mistake but was still able do it by myself. There was plenty of room for 2 people and a medium sized dog. Only setback is that a queen size mattress would not fit, but a twin would. The lines follow that of the mummy sleeping bags. There are two huge doors in the rain fly that match up exactly to the two doors (one on either side for easy entry & exit of both occupants) in the tent. There are two separate mesh doors with their own zippers that are the whole size of the doors. There is also a mesh top which allows for easy stargazing. It is the only mesh portion which does not have its own separate zipper cover, but is covered by the rain fly. With these three huge mesh areas, it is very ventilated for those warm summer nights, but with the full coverage rain fly and zipper doors, this tent has almost two entire layers to keep you warm on those cold fall nights. There is a taped seam on the floor and there is one taped seam on the rain fly. This tent folds up to be very small, compact & lightweight, thus would also make a terrific backpacking tent for 2 people(& a dog!).

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Great design and lightweight poles make this a easy to use technical tent.

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6/04/2011

Eureka Tetragon 5 Adventure 7-Foot by 5-Foot Two-Person Tent Review

Eureka Tetragon 5 Adventure 7-Foot by 5-Foot Two-Person Tent
Average Reviews:

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For the price, I figured this was the dirt tent.
I was wrong...When I opened this tent, I water proofed it first thing. Sealed the seams and the fly. Left it outside and of course, we got a healthy DUMPING of rain! It wasn't intentional but as it turned out, it was the ultimate test. This tent does not have high marks for water resistant but let me tell you that after sealing it, it DOES! Like all other EUREKA tents, this one has the "bathtub" bottom which means they designed it to stay dry by engineering the material to have little seams AT the bottom. Instead they are sewn 3-4 inches above the ground line which creates a lip that keeps the whole bottom dry. You have to step over it to get in but ... who cares! Once sealed, this tent hits a home run!
So now the durability test: The kids played in the tent for three days. I have two boys that know how to test stuff, believe me! Little did I know that they were playing ball with the dog and were tossing the ball inside the tent. I was horrified to watch the dog jumping in and out of the tent. Oh, the dog tried to jump through the screen as well! AUUGHH...but the tent not only survived, it came out unscathed. The fabric is VERY tough and took a beating with no scratches!
The tent was easily packed into a hiking backpack and is very lightweight. The room inside is terrific and you CAN share it with two full adults if you HAD to. I don't recommend it unless you really LIKE that other adult. he he...
Overall, this tent rocks. My only thing is that between the tent price and the shipping, I paid too much for it. :(($60)
It was on sale at our local *grocery store* for much less!
*DOH*
So Amazon is great and you get good research but sometimes it doesn't hurt to look locally once you are finished because the vendors charge WAY to much for shipping and thats disappointing. This does not take away from the tent itself though. This tent is the best backpacking tent I've had bar none.


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The Eureka Tetragon 5 two-person tent provides all the shelter you need for a trip to the backcountry. Designed using Eureka's StormShield technology--which combines moisture-repelling materials with a tough, reinforced construction that resists wear and tear--the tent keeps you warm and dry for spring, summer, and fall camping. The tent features 35 square feet of sleeping space, with a twin-track, brim-covered side-opening door, a brimmed rear window, and a pair of vents. As a result, you'll enjoy extra sun and rain protection and plenty of ventilation during inclement weather. The tent's Tetragon bathtub floor, meanwhile, protects you and your gear against splashing rain, a must during downpours. Best of all for serious hikers, the tent sets up quickly and easily, with a durable shock-corded fiberglass frame, ring-and-pin attachments, and color-coded webbing.
Other features include a hanging gear loft, two detachable interior storage pockets to keep essential items handy, mesh panels that allow for clip-in accessories, and a center height of 4 feet.
Specifications:
Seasons: 3
Sleeps: 2
Floor size: 7 by 5 feet
Tent area: 35 square feet
Pack size: 4 by 25 inches
Center height: 4 feet
Minimum weight: 5 pounds, 13 ounces
Frame: 7.9mm fiberglass
Vents: 2
Doors: 1
Windows: 2
Walls: 75D polyester taffeta, 800mm coated/uncoated
Fly: 75D StormShield polyester, 800mm
Floor: 75D polyester taffeta, 800mm
Mesh: 50D no-see-um

About Eureka Although the exact year is unknown, Eureka's long history begins prior to 1895 in Binghamton, NY, where the company still resides today. Then known as the Eureka Tent & Awning Company, its first wares were canvas products--most notably, Conestoga wagon covers and horse blankets for 19th-century American frontiersmen--as well as American flags, store awnings, and camping tents.
The company increased production of its custom canvas products locally throughout the 1930s and early 1940s. The company even fabricated and erected a series of IBM "tent cities" just outside Binghamton, housing thousands of IBM salesmen during the company's annual stockholders meeting, which had outgrown its previous locale. With the advent of World War II and the increased demand for hospital ward tents, Eureka expanded operations and began shipping tents worldwide. Ultimately, upon the post-war return of the GIs and the resultant housing shortage, Eureka turned its attention to the home front during the 1950s by supplying awnings for the multitude of mobile homes that were purchased.
In 1960, renowned explorer Sir Edmund Hillary used Eureka's new and innovative Draw-Tite tent--with its practical, freestanding external frame--in a Himalayan expedition to Nepal (Hillary had climbed to the summit of Mt. Everest only six years earlier). In 1963, Eureka made history during its own Mt. Everest ascent, with more than 60 of its tents sheltering participants during the first all-American Mt. Everest Expedition, where explorers braved fierce 60-plus mph winds and temperatures reached below -20F.
Eureka introduced its legendary Timberline tent in the 1970s, targeting it to backpackers and families. The first to employ the StormShield design, the lightweight, self-supporting backpacking tent became one of the most popular tents in the industry, with sales reaching over 1 million by its 10-year anniversary. Eureka tents have also traveled as companions on other historic expeditions, including the American Women's Himalayan Expedition to Annapurna I in 1978 and the first Mt. Everest ascents by a Canadian and American woman in 1986 and 1988. In recent years, Eureka designed and donated tents to Eric Simonson and his team. The group took two historic research expeditions to Mt. Everest, this time in a quest for truth regarding the 1924 attempted summit of early English explorers George Mallory and Andrew Irvine. During the 1999 expedition, the team made history by finding the remains of George Mallory, but the overall mystery remained unsolved. Returning in 2001 to search for more clues, the team found several historical artifacts that are now on display at the Smithsonian.
Amazon.com Tent Guide Selecting a Tent Fortunately, there are all kinds of tents for weekend car campers, Everest expeditions, and everything in-between. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Expect the Worst In general, it's wise to choose a tent that's designed to withstand the worst possible conditions you think you'll face. For instance, if you're a summer car camper in a region where weather is predictable, an inexpensive family or all-purpose tent will likely do the trick--especially if a vehicle is nearby and you can make a mad dash for safety when bad weather swoops in. If you're a backpacker, alpine climber, or bike explorer, or if you like to car camp in all seasons, you'll want to use something designed to handle more adversity.
Three- and Four-Season Tents For summer, early fall, and late spring outings, choose a three-season tent. At minimum, a quality three-season tent will have lightweight aluminum poles, a reinforced floor, durable stitching, and a quality rain-fly. Some three-season tents offer more open-air netting and are more specifically designed for summer backpacking and other activities. Many premium tents will feature pre-sealed, taped seams and a silicone-impregnated rain-fly for enhanced waterproof camping.
For winter camping or alpine travel, go with a four-season model. Because they typically feature more durable fabric coatings, as well as more poles, four-season tents are designed to handle heavy snowfall and high winds without collapsing. Of course, four-season tents exact a weight penalty of about 10 to 20 percent in trade for their strength and durability. They also tend to be more expensive.
Domes and Tunnels Tents are broadly categorized into two types: freestanding, which can stand up on their own, and those that must be staked down in order to stand upright. Freestanding tents often incorporate a dome-shaped design, and most four-season tents are constructed this way because a dome leaves no flat spots on the outer surface where snow can collect. Domes are also inherently stronger than any other design. Meanwhile, many three-season models employ a modified dome configuration called a tunnel. These are still freestanding, but they require fewer poles than a dome, use less fabric, and typically have a rectangular floorplan that offers less storage space than a dome configuration. Many one- and two-person tents are not freestanding, but they make up for it with less weight. Because they use fewer poles, they can also be quicker to set up than a dome.
Size Matters Ask yourself how many people you'd like to fit in your fabric hotel now and in the future. For soloists and minimalists, check out one-person tents. If you're a mega-minimalist, or if you have your eye on doing some big wall climbs, a waterproof-breathable bivy sack is the ticket. Some bivy sacks feature poles and stake points to give you a little more breathing room. Also, if you don't need bug protection and you want to save weight, check out open-air shelters.
Families who plan on car camping in good weather can choose from a wide range of jumbo-sized tents that will accommodate all your little ones with room to spare. A wide range of capacities is also available for three- and four-season backpacking and expedition tents. Remember, though, the bigger the tent you buy, the heavier it will be, although it's easy to break up the tent components among several people in your group. It's also helpful to compare the volume and floor-space measurements of models you're considering.


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5/06/2011

NEW South Col 4 Season Backpack Tent. Aluminum Poles, Big Fly, Quality, Warranty Review

NEW South Col 4 Season Backpack Tent. Aluminum Poles, Big Fly, Quality, Warranty
Average Reviews:

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The zipper and some other parts of the hardware are breaking after about 15 uses in 1 year. It has withstood some nasty weather. It is a decent tent for the price but it won't last too long. Most 4 season tent are $400+ this one only cost $150 but is not as good of quality. I guess you get what you pay for.

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This High Peak High Peak South Col 3000mm Waterproofing All-Season 3 person tent is the perfect way to lightly go wherever you want to go. Built to be compact for the avid hiker and backpacker, this tent is loaded.Premium quality tents like this don?t last at this far below retail.It features 2 entrances, spaces for 3 sleepers, inner tent pockets, a 100% polyester floor, and weighs only 9.7 pounds.This High Peak South Col compact tent is sure to meet your every imaginable need and more.

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4/27/2011

Eureka Apex 2XT Adventure Two-Person Tent Review

Eureka Apex 2XT Adventure Two-Person Tent
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I've taken this tent out three times so far. Once "car camping" and two backpacking trips. Two of those trips we had very heavy rains. Both times the tent stayed completely dry. I was very impressed. This is also one of the only two person tents that I've camped with that is actually comfortable for two people. The dual vestibules give plenty of gear room. Set up is simple even for one person. It's a little on the heavy side for backpacking - if that will be your main use I suggest looking at the Pinnacle Pass which is the same tent but with aluminum poles that make it about a pound lighter.

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Nicely lightweight with a compact fold size, the Eureka Apex 2 is a great choice for three-season backpacking treks to the backcountry. It also offers good storage space, with full vestibules on each side (6.7 square foot apiece) for stashing your gear out of the way. The Apex XT balances maximal thermal efficiency with superior ventilation, thanks to one entire wall of no-see-um mesh--great for stargazing on clear summer nights. The other walls are waterproof while a sturdy double-coated StormShield polyester fly protects the mesh wall in inclement weather. It also features a factory-taped, bathtub floor that keeps seams taught and high off the ground for superior protection.
This free-standing, two-pole tent is quick and easy to set up with its durable shockcorded fiberglass frame, ring and pin attachments, pole sleeve attachments, and color coded webbing. A poke out vent in the sidewall provides additional ventilation when needed. Other features include:
Twin track zippers for separate operation of the window in the door
External guy points on the fly help secure your tent in high winds
Two mesh gear pockets for internal storage
Clothes line loop, flashlight loop
2 doors, 2 windows
Tent, pole, and stake bags included

Specifications:
Area: 36.5 square feet
Floor size: 7 feet, 5 inches by 4 feet, 11 inches
Center height: 3 feet, 7.5 inches
Wall fabrics: 1.9-ounce 70D Polyester taffeta 800mm coating
Floor fabrics: 1.9-ounce 70D Polyester taffeta 800mm coating
Fly fabrics: 1.9-ounce 75D 185T StormShield Polyester 800mm coating
Pack size: 6 by 18.5 inches
Weight: 5 pounds, 12 ounces

About Eureka Though the exact year is unknown, Eureka’s long history begins prior to 1895 in Binghamton, New York, where the company still resides today. Then known as the Eureka Tent & Awning Company, its first wares were canvas products--most notably, Conestoga wagon covers and horse blankets for nineteenth century American frontiersmen--as well as American flags, store awnings, and camping tents.
The company increased production of its custom canvas products locally throughout the 1930s and during the 1940 and even fabricated and erected the IBM "tent cities" just outside Binghamton. The seven acres of tents housed thousands of IBM salesmen during the company’s annual stockholders meeting, which had since outgrown its previous locale. In the 1940s, with the advent of World War II and the increased demand for hospital ward tents, Eureka expanded operations and began shipping tents worldwide. Ultimately, upon the post-war return of the GIs and the resultant housing shortage, Eureka turned its attention to the home front during the 1950s by supplying awnings for the multitude of mobile homes that were purchased.
In 1960, Eureka’s new and innovative Draw-Tite tent, with its practical, free standing external frame, was used in a Himalayan Expedition to Nepal by world renowned Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person documented to summit Mt. Everest only six years earlier. In 1963, Eureka made history during its own Mt. Everest ascent, with more than 60 of its tents sheltering participants from fierce 60+ mph winds and temperatures reaching below -20°F during the first all American Mt. Everest Expedition.
For backpackers and families, Eureka introduced its legendary Timberline tent in the 1970s. Truly the first StormShield design, this completely self-supporting and lightweight backpacking tent became one of the most popular tents the entire industry with sales reaching over 1 million by its ten year anniversary.
Eureka tents have also traveled as part of several historic expeditions, including the American Women’s Himalayan Expedition to Annapurna I in 1978 and the first Mt. Everest ascents by a Canadian and American woman in 1986 and 1988. In recent history, tents specially designed and donated by Eureka sheltered Eric Simonson and his team on two historic research expeditions to Mount Everest, this time in a quest for truth regarding the 1924 attempted summit of early English explorers George Mallory and Andrew Irvine. During the 1999 expedition, the team made history finding the remains of George Mallory, but the complete mystery remained unsolved. Returning in 2001 to search for more clues, the team found amazing historical artifacts which are now on display at the Smithsonian.
Amazon.com Tent Guide Selecting a Tent Fortunately, there are all kinds of tents for weekend car campers, Everest expeditions, and everything in-between. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Expect the Worst In general, it's wise to choose a tent that's designed to withstand the worst possible conditions you think you'll face. For instance, if you're a summer car camper in a region where weather is predictable, an inexpensive family or all purpose tent will likely do the trick--especially if a vehicle is nearby and you can make a mad dash for safety when bad weather swoops in! If you're a backpacker, alpine climber or bike explorer, or if you like to car camp in all seasons, you'll want to take something designed to handle more adversity.
Three- and Four-Season Tents For summer, early fall and late spring outings, choose a three-season tent. At minimum, a quality three season tent will have lightweight aluminum poles, a reinforced floor, durable stitching, and a quality rain-fly. Some three-season tents offer more open-air netting and are more specifically designed for summer backpacking and other activities. Many premium tents will feature pre-sealed, taped seams and a silicone-impregnated rain-fly for enhanced waterproofness.
For winter camping or alpine travel, go with a four season model. Because they typically feature more durable fabric coatings, as well as more poles, four-season tents are designed to handle heavy snowfall and high winds without collapsing. Of course, four-season tents exact a weight penalty of about 10 to 20 percent in trade for their strength and durability. They also tend to be more expensive.
Domes and Tunnels Tents are broadly categorized into two types, freestanding, which can stand up on their own, and those that must be staked down in order to stand upright. Freestanding tents often incorporate a dome-shaped design, and most four-season tents are constructed this way because a dome leaves no flat spots on the outer surface where snow can collect. Domes are also inherently stronger than any other design. Meanwhile, many three-season models employ a modified dome configuration called a tunnel. These are still freestanding, but they require fewer poles than a dome, use less fabric, and typically have a rectangular floor-plan that offers less storage space than a dome configuration. Many one and two-person tents are not freestanding, but they make up for it by being more lightweight. Because they use fewer poles, they can also be quicker to set up than a dome.
Size Matters Ask yourself how many people you'd like to fit in your fabric hotel now and in the future. For soloists and minimalists, check out one-person tents. If you're a mega-minimalist, or if you have your eye on doing some big wall climbs, a waterproof-breathable bivy sack is the ticket. Some bivy sacks feature poles and stake points to give you a little more breathing room. Also, if you don't need bug protection and you want to save weight, check out open-air shelters.
Families who plan on car camping in good weather can choose from a wide range of jumbo-sized tents that will accommodate all your little ones with room to spare. A wide range of capacities is also available for three- and four-season backpacking and expedition tents. Remember, though, the bigger the tent you buy, the heavier it will be, although it's easy to break up the tent components among several people in your group. It's also helpful to compare the volume and floor-space measurements of models you're considering.


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4/25/2011

ALPS Mountaineering Chaos 2 Person Aluminum Pole Backpacker Tent (4-Feet 8-Inch x 7-Feet 2-Inch) Review

ALPS Mountaineering Chaos 2 Person Aluminum Pole Backpacker Tent (4-Feet 8-Inch x 7-Feet  2-Inch)
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Just got back from a rainy camping trip and my first time using the Chaos 2. I was really impressed when I had woke up in the morning and couldn't find a drop of water in the tent even though it had been pouring literally all night. There is plenty of ventilation which kept any sort of condensation build up out of the tent. I'm 5'9 and my girlfriend is 5'2 and we both had more than enough room with our packs inside. Not to mention the 2 vestibules were great for storing our extra gear out of the rain. Freestanding and extremely easy to set up. You really can't find another tent that shares the same quality as Alps Mountaineering tents for anywhere near the cost.

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Alps Chaos Tent. Strong, Lightweight, Weather - proof, Roomy! Packs light and tight, and goes up in a flash! Once you're inside, you're protected from seeping water and bad weather by the thick poly walls and floor that come factory-sealed. Roomy, too... helps prevent going "stir-crazy" in bad weather. Nice features: Free-standing pole system with 7000 series aluminum poles; Easy assembly with clips that quickly snap over tent poles; 2 vestibules for extra gear storage; Factory-sealed fly and floor for top-notch weather protection; Full-coverage fly offers maximum protection; Mesh roof vents improve ventilation; 2-door entry; Extra-large #8 zipper on doors and vestibules; Includes mesh storage pocket, gear loft, aluminum stakes, guy ropes.; The technical stuff: 75D / 185T polyester taffeta floor with 2000 mm coating for strength; 75D / 185T polyester fly resists UV damage and stays taut; Base size: 4'8" x 7'2" (2-man); Center height: 3'5" (2-man); Vestibule area: 17 sq. ft. (2-man); Total weight: 5 lbs., 6 ozs. (2-man). Order Now! Alps Chaos 2-person Tent

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4/22/2011

ALPS Mountaineering Lynx AL 4 Tent 4-Person 3-Season Review

ALPS Mountaineering Lynx AL 4 Tent 4-Person 3-Season
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We got this tent as a rental from an outfitter. We were surprised, we were expecting a Kelty Gundison. We did not despair, figuring the outfitters knew what they were doing. We weren't disappointed either. This tent is light, compact. It weighs the same and is only slightly bigger when compressed than our ten year old three man backpacking tent (Eureka Pinnacle). It is a breeze to put up. My husband managed it the first time in the dark and the rain in just a few minutes. The two-pole clip system that many of these tents have is great for this. Looking at the build quality, it seemed sturdier than a similar REI tent we looked at. (The clips looked thicker and the floor didn't feel as thin). We got a ground cloth which we used and a gear loft which we didn't. I think my favorite feature about this tent is the awesome vents in the fly that pop open and still keep you dry. There are also clear plastic windows in the fly which are kind of cheesy, but it's nice to be able to see out. My only gripe is a small one and that is in the design of the gear vestibules. The zippers pull from the bottom, so if you are in the tent and want to get out you have to lean way out to reach the zipper. The vestibule is somewhat useless, I think since it is wide and low. This is a really common tent design and I can't figure out why these vestibules are so popular. There's not much you can really do with them. If you had four people with four backpacks, there's no way you'd get them all in there.
We just mostly use the vestibules to keep our shoes dry. It does that fine, but our Eureka Pinnacle does as well and has no extra vestibule zipper to cope with, just an overhang that will keep a small amount of stuff dry. When the weather was nice we pinned back the vestibules so that it was easier to get in and out of the tent. There was also the option to just have half the vestibule open, which worked really well.
If the zipper on the vestibule pulled from the top, I'd probably have given it a five star review.

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When you're sharing a tent with three other people, you need all the ventilation you can get. The Alps Mountaineering Lynx AL 4-Person Tent features four half-mesh walls for excellent breathability and seam-sealed fly and floor construction for three-season camping protection.Product Features
Material: [fly], 75D polyester w/ 1500mm urethane coating; [floor], 75D taffeta floor w/ 2000mm urethane coating
Freestanding: yes
Doors: 2
Number of Vestibules:
Poles: 2
Pole Material: 7000 series aluminum
Pole Attachment: clip
Floor Space: (64sq ft) 7ft 6in x 8ft 6in
Floor Dimensions:
Interior Height: 4 ft 4 in
Vestibule Space: 25 sq ft
Packed Size: 8 x 22 in
Seams:
Ventilation: 4 half-mesh walls
Fast-pitch Option:
Trail Weight: 7 lb 9 oz
Recommended Use: fall, summer, spring camping and backpacking
Manufacturer Warranty:


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4/09/2011

Chaos 3 Tent - 3 Person by Alps Mountaineering Review

Chaos 3 Tent - 3 Person by Alps Mountaineering
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This tent was everything i hoped it would be. i did not intend to test it out the way i did on it's first outing... I read the reviews and even set up several tents in a local store before deciding on the catalyst 3 (Chaos 3) tent from ALPS. i took it out on an over night backpacking trip this weekend and man did i test it out. the downpour started at about 2am and it did not let up until i was home on my couch at 12 in the afternoon. my wife and i were dry and warm the entire night and in the morning i took the tent down inside of the dry safety of the rain fly and the footprint, I did not get wet until i had to take down the rain-fly! however by that time i had packed EVERYTHING else and only had to deal with the fly and footprint. i would say that this tent was the single best piece of equipment i have bought for my wife, dog and i to go backpacking with yet. it sets up in under 5 minutes including staking it out and weighs only 5-6 pounds which i think is fine for a 3 person tent that KEEPS YOU DRY regardless of the storm outside. we got over 1.5 inches in a few hours and this might as well have been a boat at some points during the night. the tent dries quick once you get it hung-up in your garage and feels roomy inside with a 30lbs dog my 5'7" wife and a 6'2" me together with her 65L pack and my 80L pack.
Muddy boots never went inside due to the good sized vestibules that housed our boots dry and out of the rain all night and head lights kept up in the gear loft meant that we never wondered where to find a light.
If you are looking for a mid-light weight 3 person tent for 2 (3 people in this tent would be VERY cozy....) then you should buy this immediately if one person carries the poles and footprint and the other the tent and the fly the divided weight is really great. and for the size, comfort and Especially the rainproof performance, this tent cannot be beat.

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220236 Features: Protect yourself and your companions from the weather with the urethane-coated floor and fly that are seam sealed for improved water proofness; fly is UV resistant Stay out of the weather and keep gear dry in the 22 square feet of room in the 2 vestibules Strip weight with the 7000 series aluminum poles that can be easily assembled with the included pole clips Get improved ventilation through the mesh roof vents and mesh door panels Stabilize the tent in poor weather with the extra guy-outs Mesh storage pocket and tent bag Specifications: Capacity to suggested use: 3 person to 3-season Trail weight: 6 lb 4 oz Floor to vestibule area: 41 sq ft to 22 sq ft Dimensions: 66 x 90 x 44 inches Number of poles to freestanding: 2 to yes Doors to windows to vestibules: 2 to 0 to 2 Floor to canopy to fly material: 75-denier polyester taffeta to 75-denier polyester taffeta to 75-denier polyester taffeta Stuff size: 7 x 24 inches

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