Eastern Mountain Sports Big Easy 6

[most versatile]

“It’s a two-fer deal,” says one tester of the double-wall Volt 2, which kept her comfortable in both summer and winter conditions. Huge floor-to-ceiling mesh doors and fly vents on the two vestibules facilitate cross-breezes and virtually eliminate condensation. Through rainy nights in the Cascades, our tester saw zero moisture inside—even when she camped in a drippy meadow. And by zipping the doors’ fabric panels closed, testers converted this freestanding dome into a warm refuge on subfreezing fall nights.

Bonus: The fly extends closer to the ground and provides more protection than is typical with many three-season tents. A short brow pole above the doors straightens walls and creates excellent headroom. “And since the door extends right up to the ceiling seam, I don’t have to fold myself in half to get inside this tent,” says one tester.

Living space is adequate for six-footers (but not taller). And the nine-square-foot vestibules accommodate packs and boots with room to spare for exits. Transparent window panels on the fly brighten the interior on rainy days. Downside: It’s a tad heavy for the floor space. But for comfort in a range of conditions, the Volt is hard to beat. $309 CAN; 4 lbs. 6 oz.; mec.caAs the name suggests, the Big Easy goes up quickly and is spacious, an ideal base camp tent to launch your adventures from.