MSR Twin Brothers

“As big as a summer cottage!” raved one tester after packing four adults and a baby into this floorless, single-wall shelter, which offers a six-foot ceiling and a whopping 96 square feet of protected space. Two poles prop up the center, and seven stakes complete the superfast pitch.

The 168-inch length gives even the tallest campers roam-around space, and volume is palatial: Eight adults found it a pleasant, well-ventilated hangout during an afternoon shower near Utah’s Flaming Gorge. A floor-to-ceiling door on one end makes egress easy and you can roll up the sides to let breezes in. The 30-denier ripstop nylon has a higher-than-average tear strength, and the pyramid shape sheds snow, making the Twin Brothers a smart choice for high-altitude summers or year-round use.

During severe storms and 20- to 30-mph winds in Colorado’s Collegiate Range, the fabric flapped noisily but the structure never collapsed. It offers no bug protection, but for little more than a pound per person, it provides lavish living space for the right conditions.

> Floor 96 square feet

> Weight 4 lbs. 15 oz.

> Price $400

> Info msrgear.comBig brother to the Twin Sisters, this livable shelter provides all-weather protection for up to six people and pitches easily with included poles. Features include: 96 square feet of coverage, 68 inches (173 cm) of peak height with vents, a large door, snow flaps and proprietary DuraShield™ coatings that seal out the elements. An optional, removable floor is sold separately ($59.95).

Livable Volume: 6824 L / 241 cu. ft.