NEMO Equipment, Inc. Alti Storm 4P

[foul-weather refuge]

All the tents reviewed here stand up to unruly three-season storms, but few deliver the rough-weather comforts of the Compact Light, which is ideal for regions that see plenty of rain and wintry weather year-round. Because the tent body stays clipped to the fly, this non-freestanding hoop design pitches fast and preserves a dry interior during rainy setups. Loops inside the tent make stringing clotheslines easy, and two pockets (by the door) keep doodads organized during weather delays.

The huge, 28.4-square-foot vestibule holds a trio’s wet gear, and its side-zip entry keeps those items from cluttering access to the single, large front door. The steep walls and high ceiling (41 inches) create a roomy feel, and the 34.4-square-foot floor and 90-inch length let testers of all sizes spread out in comfort. And when storms struck, the Compact Light “never rippled in wind that flattened other nearby tents,” one tester declared after howling storms hit Utah’s Green River. Ventilation is outstanding in breezy conditions, and even damp, chilly nights produced scant condensation. But the integrated fly makes it too warm for hot-weather use, and sand sticks to the siliconized nylon. $549; 7 lbs. 1 oz.; bergans.com

If your definition of adventure includes heavy snows, wind-driven sand, or sideways rain, we’ve crafted the perfect armor for your battle against the elements. The Alti Storm tents are descendents of the Losi
models, but with burlier frames and more enclosed canopies. The ridge poles continue to the ground, buttressing the tent against high winds, and the inner tent canopy is entirely breathable ripstop for blocking
out driven wind, sand, and snow. The fly is full coverage with expansive vestibules and overhead deployable vents. Every exterior anchor, guyout, and zipper pull is reflective for easy spotting in the abyss of night. A
total of four Light Pockets built into the corners of the tent provide an easy way to illuminate the interior.