View Full Version : First tent purchase, need some help, recommendations. (Tent, not tarp or hammock)
old fat guy
05-20-2010, 09:22
The wife and I are new to hiking/camping and have been bitten by the bug, we’re researching our first tent purchase and online, we've been looking at and comparing the following 4 tents, what are your thoughts on these?
Six Moons Designs Lunar Duo http://www.sixmoondesigns.com/shop/shopexd.asp?id=47 (http://www.sixmoondesigns.com/shop/shopexd.asp?id=47)
As I see it: Pros it is light weight, it has two doors and at $310 not too pricey. Cons, I've heard people say that tarp tents can have some condensation problem, isn't this referred to as a single wall tent? I'm not sure that I like having to use walking poles to hold it up and it is $310, which isn't cheap.
MSR Hubba Hubba http://cascadedesigns.com/msr/tents/fast-and-light-tents/hubba-hubba/product (http://cascadedesigns.com/msr/tents/fast-and-light-tents/hubba-hubba/product)
I've read enough on white blaze to know it is highly recommend, its fairly light weight, I think its considered a double wall tent which helps with the condensation problems, has 2 doors and can be found online for around $250.
Cons, it is listed at 4lbs 11oz, not as light as the Lunar Duo.
MSR Hubba Hubba HP http://cascadedesigns.com/msr/tents/fast-and-light-tents/hubba-hubba-hp/product (http://cascadedesigns.com/msr/tents/fast-and-light-tents/hubba-hubba-hp/product)
Pros, pretty much the same as the above but it is 7oz lighter than the Hubba Hubba.
Cons, list at over $100 more than the Hubba Hubba.
And finally the Eureka Scenic Pass 2 http://www.eurekatent.com/p-208-scenic-pass-2.aspx (http://www.eurekatent.com/p-208-scenic-pass-2.aspx)
Pros, to my untrained eye this tent looks a lot like the Hubba Hubba at about half the cost.
Cons, it is listed at 4lbs 14oz but thats only 3oz more than the hubba Hubba.
I am not a fan of a tent that needs treking poles to make it work, so I'm not even going to comment on the Six Moon, but I'm sure their are plenty of people on hear who can help you with that.
The MSR Hubba Hubba is a nice tent, very popular on the trail, and this board. You have the package weight listed, but I would go more by the trail or minimum weight, which is 4 pounds 3 oz. For just about the same price, but more room, more ventilation, same weight, bigger vestibules, more options and better color, look into the Big Agnes Emerald Mountain 2 http://bigagnes.com/Products/Detail/Tent/EmeraldMountainSL2
They list at $350 but have seen plenty of them online in the $250 range.
The HP version of the Hubba Hubba is very nice, but is it worth the extra $100? Not to me, but 7 ounces and a hundred bucks can make the difference and the investment worth it to some.
The Eureka Scenic Pass 2 is a real nice tent for the buck. I have a bunch of Eureka tents, just picked up their new Forte 2XT tent. Very cool tent, but at a bit over 5 pounds, not good for the long distances. I got it for short hikes with the old dog who can't go far but wants to be out there. I didn't need it, but like the design, set up options and got it at a great price. We use to use the Backcountry 2, but it has no vestibules so the Forte replaced it (well thats my excuse to the ole lady for buying yet another tent ;)). But I did look at the Scenic Pass, which is the replacement to the Pinnicle Pass Eureka used to make, and they have their pluses. I really like the closeable windows in both doors, but thats part of what adds the weight. Nice color too. Never had serious issues with Eureka, they have good customer service and great prices for a middle of the road tent.
It all depends on what you are willing to carry, spend and how much you are going to use it. I don't think you need to spend over $200 to get a good shelter. Good luck.
I just noticed that the Eureka Scenic Pass you are looking at does not have the full vestibules. You will have to keep some gear inside during the rain. They have the XT version that has the full vestibules (two big 13 + sq ft). But its at 5 pounds 8 oz. http://www.eurekatent.com/p-209-scenic-pass-2xt.aspx
The Eureka Forte 2xt with vestibules is 5 pounds 4 oz http://www.eurekatent.com/p-206-forte-sq-2xt.aspx#
And without the vestibules 4 pounds 8 oz. http://www.eurekatent.com/p-207-forte-sq-2.aspx
Both Forte's have only one door though.
bigcranky
05-20-2010, 11:01
We have tried a lot of two person tents over the last 15 years. Our current tent is the Lunar Duo, and it's the best we've ever used.
The interior volume and length are huge. It has two doors on the long sides, with two very large vestibules. Plenty of room for two large hikers and all their gear. It sets up quickly and easily once you've done it a couple of times.
Condensation: Yes, this is a single wall tent. Yes, like any tent there can be condensation issues. In our experience, even the worst condensation (which happens maybe 1 night in 20) isn't bad, and many nights we get none at all. All that ventilation is there for a reason -- I often leave the vestibules rolled up for views and air, which helps too. We carry a small camp towel and wipe down the inside of the tent as needed.
Note that silnylon doesn't soak up water, so the tent dries very quickly.
Trekking Poles: well, we both use poles, so that's not a problem for us. If you don't, then you can purchase poles for the L.D. from the maker.
bigcranky
05-20-2010, 11:03
Let me add this -- for any tent you are considering, look at the design of the doors and the vestibules. Think about getting in and out in a heavy rain.
We had one double wall tent from a major tentmaker which had a sloping door and fly -- open the door, and in comes all the rain. The bathtub floor then filled up with water, and became a bathtub. Not optimal.
Look for vertical doors, if possible.
old fat guy
05-20-2010, 11:10
I just noticed that the Eureka Scenic Pass you are looking at does not have the full vestibules. You will have to keep some gear inside during the rain.
Good catch, I didn't see that but with a floor space of 59" by 89" wouldn't we room to put stuff inside when raining?
You might also check out the REI Quarterdome T-2. It is comparable to the Hubba, less expesive and slightly lighter.
Good catch, I didn't see that but with a floor space of 59" by 89" wouldn't we room to put stuff inside when raining?
Depending on how big the two of you are, you should have room for stuff inside. But thats not to say you can't make use of the little bat wing vestibules. Packs can go out there, just put your raincover on your pack and face it to the rain.
garlic08
05-20-2010, 12:29
This is similar to the Lunar Duo: http://www.tarptent.com/doublerainbow.html
But you don't have to have trekking poles in non-free standing mode, it's a few bucks cheaper, and one ounce heavier.
I've had similar experience to Big Cranky's with two people in a single-wall shelter. In general, you need to add some thought process in site selection to make up for the lighter weight. I've been using nothing but Tarptents since 2003 and can't think of a single trip when I wished I had a double wall tent. I do like how fast silnylon dries--five minutes of partly sunny with wind, and you're ready to go.
I saw a LOT of Hubbas on my AT hike, more than any other double wall tent that year. That must mean something.
old fat guy
05-20-2010, 12:36
Garlic08
We've looked at the tarptents and have even considered the Scarp 2. http://www.tarptent.com/scarp2.html
Mountain Wildman
05-20-2010, 12:45
e-omc has the Hubba Hubba HP on sale for $337.45 until the 31st.
http://www.e-omc.com/catalog/products/4284/MSR-Hubba-Hubba-HP-Tent.html
and the Hubba Hubba for $247.45
http://www.e-omc.com/catalog/products/6872/MSR-Hubba-Hubba-Tent.html
both with free ups 3 day shipping.
turtle fast
05-20-2010, 12:47
I have to second the REI Quarterdome T-2 tent. It is lightweight and roomy and doesn't cost $300 or $400. Also REI has a great return policy and backs up their products.
lazy river road
05-20-2010, 13:58
Im gonna throw the Marmot Aura 3p in the mix as well. Me and my finace sleep in it and its bomb proff, Ive had it in rain, hail, and sweltering heat and it holds up great.
old fat guy
05-20-2010, 14:08
Im gonna throw the Marmot Aura 3p in the mix as well.
We haven't looked at that one, thanks. I think :-?:D
Mountain Wildman
05-20-2010, 14:32
The Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 might also be a consideration for you, It is Backpacker Magazine Editors Choice for this year and it weighs in at 2lbs. 10oz. around $250
old fat guy
05-20-2010, 14:40
Fly Creek UL2 only has one door, I can see that being a problem in the middle of the night.
The Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 might also be a consideration for you, It is Backpacker Magazine Editors Choice for this year and it weighs in at 2lbs. 10oz. around $250
The Backpacker Magazine Editors Choice thing (and their whole rag for that matter) is a load of crap to me, doesn't mean anything, accept personal preference and who pays who. I know, a whole other topic.
But, keep in mind that the fly creek 2 would be very tight for two. Also, I feel the fabric is way to delicate.
malowitz
05-22-2010, 20:07
I am on the trail now (message from phone). I switched out from a Tarptent Moment to the Hubba Hubba HP. I had too many condensation issues for comfort. I already owned the HHHP because I found it online for $300 during the planning phases.
I have mostly slept in shelters for the convienience of easier pack-up. I really like the spaciousness of the tent, I am basically carrying a 2 person, 4 pound tent for only me.
One thing I would say to look for on the BA tents is how many stakes are needed to fully set-up the tent. I think the BA seedhouse SL1 I previously owned required 13 stakes. The HHHP and HH require 8. Could make you much happier if you have to set-up in the rain.
Garlic08
We've looked at the tarptents and have even considered the Scarp 2. http://www.tarptent.com/scarp2.html
I have a Cloudburst 2 from Tarptent. An excellent tent: Very high quality, light and easy to pitch. Also, made in USA, and owner, Henry Shires, will make modifications and repairs at nominal cost. Double Rainbow also worth a look...
LIhikers
05-25-2010, 22:33
Let me suggest you consider the Tarptent Rainshadow 2. It's actually listed as a 3 person tent which makes it very roomy for 2. My wife and I use one and there's plenty of room for us and either our dog or our gear.
HeartFire
05-25-2010, 23:31
How about a LightHeat tent. The solo tent is very roomy for one and there are no condensation problems. It weighs 27 oz. The duo is a palace for one prson and weighs 2 lb. Www.lightheartgear.com
I have been hiking with a Hubba. I am going to get a Hubba Hubba as my dog will soon be traveling with me. The Hubba was not the lightest tent out there but it took a beating and was nice in hot and cold weather.
You might want to take a look at Big Sky tents too. They have traditional double wall tents, but also have hybrid tents. I like the hybrid tents. Get then with the double doors and you should be able to get enough ventilation to minimize condensation on nights that it doesn't rain. On rainy nights you may appreciate the props in the vents that work to maximize air flow thru them. I believe their 2 person tents are about 3 pounds with silnylon fabric and aluminum poles. Subtract about a pound and double the price if you wait for their cuben fiber versions with carbon fiber poles. Don't buy directly from Big Sky. Buy from a vendor.
My fiancee and I use the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 and absolutely love it. It's pricier but you can find them on sale sometimes. I saw one on sale for $399 one time. It's got everything you are looking for, and it's a sub 5 pound 3 person tent. Honestly, all the "2 person" lightweight tents I have seen out there I couldn't imagine sleeping in with two people. I'm 6'-6" so I naturally need some more room. We can fit us and all our gear in the tent and still have room to move around, it's great!
#1 consideration in tent choice (besides capacity) should probably be the weather in which it's intended to be used.
If you're fat (you said it, not me - btw: you're NOT old :p) you probably sleep warm. consider that when you make a choice. If you do sleep warm, and you'll be hiking in the summer and not so much in cooler weather, you might want to consider a tent with the maximum amount of mesh.
Since I'm not a tenter by choice I can only suggest to you what I use when I hike with my wife or son. We use an REI Bug Hut 2 with a 10x12 foot Equinox tarp strung over it. It makes a huge porch for viewing during rainstorms without getting rain inside, and the floor has not leaked (we use no ground cloth) in the five years that I have been using it (admittedly only once or twice a year, for a couple of days).
Also - regular, hard use will demand that you get a premium tent (name brand). Light, occasional usage may allow you to use something less expensive.
Another option:
Lightheart Gear's two person tent (another one which sets up with two poles and is a hybrid single/double walled tent which has a lot of mesh).
Good luck finding the tent that's best for you.
Welcome to the site. :)
Here's the link to Lightheart Gear:
http://lightheartgear.com/duo.html
Pedaling Fool
05-26-2010, 09:39
I would start with a free-standing double-wall tent.
The simple advice is KISS. Keep It Simple Slick.
Don't go for the top-of-the-line when you buy your first tent, they're all about the same. So go for the cheap one until you figure out what you really want, besides you don't want to spend a bunch of money for something you'll get sick of, kind of like a car, most people buy new ones before the other one wears out. They make all kinds of excuses, but really it's because most wanted something else.
Tents are just for sleeping in so don't fall for all the bells and whistles. I bought a cheap $100 tent from Kelty 3 years ago and I've had no problems with it and I don't use footprints to protect the floor. I've done numerous long-distance hikes and cycling trips with this tent and it still has a lot of life left in it. Here's my tent, listed for $130, but I got mine for $100, just takes some shopping around. http://www.kelty.com/kelty/products....&cat=60&id=133 (http://www.kelty.com/kelty/products.php?type=8&cat=60&id=133)
I'm always looking for a new tent, the one I like the best is the MSR Hubba Hubba, because it has two doors and I like the full screen body, which seems good for hot days. However, they are so expensive, I don't understand why something made mostly of screen is so expensive. So now I'm considering my next tent be a USED Hubba Hubba. http://www.rei.com/product/762727
old fat guy
05-26-2010, 11:09
My fiancee and I use the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 and absolutely love it. It's pricier but you can find them on sale sometimes. I saw one on sale for $399 one time. It's got everything you are looking for, and it's a sub 5 pound 3 person tent. Honestly, all the "2 person" lightweight tents I have seen out there I couldn't imagine sleeping in with two people. I'm 6'-6" so I naturally need some more room. We can fit us and all our gear in the tent and still have room to move around, it's great!
In doing some more research and we came across the Copper Supr UL3 last night. At a 4 lb 3oz trail weight and 44 sq. ft. it is VERY interesting!
sherrill
05-26-2010, 11:45
When I hike with my wife we use a Hubba Hubba. You can lessen the load by splitting up tent/poles/fly/groundcloth. She carries the tent body and poles, I carry the rest.
Besides the double door and vestibules, another thing we like is that you can set up just the fly if you need (or want). This way, you can carry just the fly as a shelter, or set it up first and then the tent can be set up underneath if it's raining.
One night near No Business Knob we set up just the tent as it didn't look like it was going to rain, it was nice to look up at the stars through the mesh, plus the breeze was nice too.
In doing some more research and we came across the Copper Supr UL3 last night. At a 4 lb 3oz trail weight and 44 sq. ft. it is VERY interesting!
Yeah, I did a lot of researching before buying it and I can say I'm 100% satisfied with it. Good luck with your decision! :)
skinewmexico
05-26-2010, 23:09
How about a LightHeat tent. The solo tent is very roomy for one and there are no condensation problems. It weighs 27 oz. The duo is a palace for one prson and weighs 2 lb. Www.lightheartgear.com (http://www.lightheartgear.com)
How about some full disclosure concerning your recommendation??
Here's my personal review of the solo tent:
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=52867&highlight=lightheart+gear+tent
HeartFire
05-27-2010, 00:08
How about some full disclosure concerning your recommendation??
What would you like to know? It is well known here that I am the designer of the patent pending LightHeart tents.
Full disclosure - My height/ weight? Age?
Ask away. I will disclose.