They’ve since come out with a newer version, but this is a review of the model available in 2016. Having tested this tent in all conditions except pitching camp on actual snow pack, I can safely say I am completely happy with this tent.
I initially was concerned the lightweight material would be its demise, its perceived delicacy made me a bit concerned. But having backpacked over 700 cumulative miles with this tent, I feel more than confident in its durability. If I properly clean, maintain and store it, it could last a lifetime. I do suspect I’ll need to lubricate the zippers soon, they have some slight friction that’s built up. Beyond that it has performed in every way one can expect. It compacts nicely and has a great design. It holds up to intense and prolonged lightening, hail and wind storms. Most importantly, it comfortably sleeps two 6′ tall adults and it is very much livable – not at all claustrophobic. I can fully sit up without my head touching the ceiling. For solo trips it is downright spacious, after 2 months in the Pyrenees I didn’t want to go back to sleeping in a bed and I still think about pitching in the back yard. It’s a place to rest your achin’ bones, it’s home.
The two porches on each side are just large enough to cover a large backpack, though you’ll get some splashing if it’s under heavy rain. The side walls of the inner are great for this reason. The vent is effective, the rain fly and stakes hold up well to severe conditions. It proves itself as a three-season tent.
My points where I take issue (but have come to accept):
-Curved poles. I’m a bit concerned that they may crush at some point. Particularly, say, if it’s in checked luggage on a flight. Even just the beating your bag can tack on the trail, there’s potential that the poles will get damaged over time.
-Moisture. The rain does an excellent job of keeping moisture out. However, it also does a great job of keeping it in. Condensation can build up on the inside of the fly during the night, and will shower down if jostled. The inner netting does a decent job of catching and diverting individual drops, but when there’s a lot it will come down on you.
-Heat. If you’re not breaking camp and decide to take a nap on a sunny day, the tent heats up quite a bit and does not provide adequate shade.
Beyond those complaints, this tent is outstanding. I can’t recommend it enough.
The defining moment where I knew I loved my tent, which I still feel pride recalling, was when I had set up camp between two small lakes. Intense rain and hail persisted through the night, but I slept dry. When I woke up, as my eyes came into focus I could make out my watch floating as if on a water bed. In a panic I quickly sat up to assess the flooded tent, only to realize I was still completely dry. I couldn’t believe it. Fortunately I had brought my pack inside the night before. So I packed everything up inside and then took a peak outside at the downpour. The two lakes had overrun the land bridge where I hd chosen to set up my camp, with two inches of standing water. In that moment it felt so rewarding to verify that the advertised waterproofing of the ‘bathtub floor’ was truly and completely waterproof. It is comforting knowing you can completely rely on your tools and equipment when you’re isolated in nature with no outside support. And knowing that I had adequately prioritized quality in my gear setup, hadn’t cut corners. Having dependable gear when you really need it is so very reassuring.
A Day With Gray 