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Backpacker Magazine – November 2008

Little Big Houses: Three-Season, Double-Occupancy Shelters

At right around two pounds per person, these three-season, double-occupancy shelters do everything but weigh you down.

by: Kelly Bastone, Photos by Brooks Freehill

Black Diamond Mirage
Black Diamond Mirage
Kelty Corrie 2
Kelty Corrie 2
The North Face Vario 23
The North Face Vario 23
Nemo Nano
Nemo Nano
Big Sky International Convertible 2P Shelter
Big Sky International Convertible 2P Shelter
Mountain Hardwear Helion 2
Mountain Hardwear Helion 2

Best All-Around | Storm Ready | Top Single-Wall | Big-Guy Favorite | Customizable | Lightest

BEST ALL AROUND
Black Diamond Mirage

 

 

 

The double-wall Mirage hits the sweet spot in this rarefied weight class, combining a roomy interior, rock-solid weatherproofing, and durable materials. The hubbed-pole setup is fast and easy, even in driving wind, and the fin-shaped design stood firm in 40-mph gusts and shed several inches of heavy, wet snow during a spring Colorado storm. In fair weather, the fly rolls back to expose enough mesh for stargazing. Ventilation is superior in all conditions, thanks to good airflow through the vestibule vent on the fly and broad swaths of mesh. The large floor and 37-inch peak height allowed our 6'2" tester and a companion to comfortably ride out a prolonged rainstorm. The tent's single door is angled to the side rather than centered, which allows you to store packs and boots without blocking the entryway. Drawback: One door is less convenient than two. Reader service #101

  • Floor space 30 sq. ft.
  • Vestibules One (10 sq. ft.)
  • Weight 4 lbs. 4 oz.
  • Price $299
  • Info bdel.com

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READERS COMMENTS

hi to all of you... i am clven troy.. a local guide to the highest peak in the philippines.. MT.APO!!! if ever you want to come and experience the Majestic Mt.Apo this APRIL-MAY season climb, just contact me... take care!!!
Posted: Jan 27, 2009 Clven Troy

Hi, Although i'm a gear nut i think that there are far lighter and better tent out there for the same or less money that where not included in this survey- also better versions- The North Face Spectru 23 is far superior and lighter than the Vario- Just a thought-

Being able to travel far and fast doesn't mean you have to sleep on the cold, damp earth. Weighing just over four pounds, the Spectrum 23's lightweight design allows outdoor enthusiasts to remain unencumbered by bulky equipment but retain the comfort of protection against harsh elements. Withstanding winds of 130.2 mph, you'll be blown away by how resilient this tent just is.

Features Wind-tunnel-tested for those on the move
DAC Featherlite™ NSL aluminum poles using reverse-combi technology
Two Nano-Knuckle™ swivels
Fusion pitch with ultralight MicroClip™
Fully seam sealed canopy
Fully taped ultralight floor
Freestanding design with pull-out vestibule
High-low venting with overhead vents and zip closure
Ultralight 1' pole sleeve
D-shaped door
Color-coded poles
Reflective guyline and zipper cording
Compression stuffsack included


Posted: Jan 26, 2009 Brandon

Hi, I just wanted to say that I really enjoy the Backpacker Magazine on line. I am 64, love the outdoors and have learned a lot from your many informative departments. I live in Tucson,Az and enjoy the dessert climate and learning about all of the different aspects of this area.
Posted: Jan 25, 2009 skip shephard

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