Backpacker Magazine – June 2009

Gear Review: Big Agnes Gore Pass 2

This two-person palace isn't ultralight, but it is ultracomfortable.

by: Ben Fullerton, Steve Pulford

Verdict
This three-season tent is ideal for hikers whose preferences lean more toward ultracomfortable than ultralight. Headroom is excellent–40 inches almost all the way around, not just in the middle. Two doors and two roomy vestibules (15 square feet each) make for easy living. And one door has two vertical zips, which allow you to pitch it awning-style (use two trekking poles). The dual-hubbed pole structure held firm in strong gusts (up to 30 mph) in Joshua Tree National Park. Pros Amazing interior space for moderate weight. Cons The vertical door's zippers are sticky, requiring two hands to open. bigagnes.com

Best For Extended tent time in any environment; big guys and space hogs

Tester Data
Ben Fullerton, Steve Pulford
Duration Oct. to March
Conditions/locales 25° to 70°F; 30-mph winds; thunderstorms; CA, CO, HI
"In fast-pitch mode [$34 for optional footprint, which saves1 lb. 15 oz.], you can shelter two more hikers."

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