Tent suggestions

[Montego]

I have to say that this is the best site of its' type I've found on the net so far. All of you here seem to be knowlegable and most of you have a sense of humor to boot. I'm a former (if there is such a critter) backpaker that has been away from it for a long time. I am starting to gather my equipment for an '08 AT through hike (starting in May) and then, hopefully, will continue on west across the northern tier of states or, perhaps, into Canada. I was looking at a Eureka Alpinelite 4-season tent, but scratched it off the list as being too heavy to pack. Though I'm not into ulta-light I would still like to keep my pack as light as I can. I am considering a Eureka Wabakimi tent (6lb 2.9oz actual weight) www.outlawcamping.com. If I go with the Wabakimi tent, then my big four (backpack, tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad) wieght is 17lb 14.4 oz, which I don't consider too bad for a winter kit. Seems the more manufature web site I look at, the more undecided I become. I am trying to stay away from fiberglass poles (had bad experience with them breaking in strong wind) and price is important. Sure could use some suggestions for a possible low priced 4-season or 3+-season tent. Thanks

"All men die, not all men live" Braveheart

[Lyle]

Off the top of my head I have no suggestions for you, but in looking at the Wabakimi, I will caution you about getting a tent with a flat top. The weight of any snow tends to form a saucer and increase the possibility of leaks in areas like this. For the same reason (snow load) you want to avoid long, low sloped tent styles. Steep, supported top and sides are what you should look for.

I've recently started experimenting with hammocks, but ground sleeping is easier to stay warm during the really cold weather. Are you experienced with winter camping?

[Appalachian Tater]

18 pounds for your big four sounds like a lot even on a winter hike. The lighter your pack is, the happier you'll be, at least to a point. Why don't you post your entire list here? There are some people with a lot of winter hiking experience. You also may not wish to use the same equipment for the whole hike.

[Lyle]

If you like the Alpenlite, check out this:

http://www.amazon.com/Eureka-Alpenli...0863311&sr=1-4

$149.99, with free shipping. Don't think you'll find a cheaper four season than this.

[mountain squid]

If for a "thru hike" beginning next May, a 6# tent is extremely heavy (and you likely won't need a 4-season tent on the AT). If you start off with a tent that heavy, the possibility exists that you will swap it out at Neels Gap for something lighter.

(You might need a 4-season tent in Canada, but do you want to carry the extra weight for 2000 miles and 6 months until you do?)

Consider the following tents: http://www.sixmoondesigns.com/ and http://www.tarptent.com/. Both offer great, lightweight tents.

See you on the trail,
mt squid