NEMO Equipment, Inc. Pentalite 4P

[alpine weight saver]

Problem: Single-wall tents shave ounces, but usually collect condensation. Solution: The Mojo’s effective single/double-wall hybrid construction, which combines mesh walls at the tent’s head end (protected by a partial fly) and single-wall technology at the foot. The result looks like something Batman would deploy, and it foiled moisture buildup in New Mexico’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

In challenging 8°F temperatures, frost accumulated only on the foot of our tester’s bag. The freestanding Mojo pitches lightning-fast, thanks to one hubbed pole that clips to the tent’s exterior. The stout geometry and taut pitch make it a bombshelter in strong winds; 35-mph assaults along the Colorado Trail didn’t budge it. And although there’s just one door, its large dimensions (opening to a 38-inch peak height) make for easy coming and going.

A pair of 6’1” testers deemed its 27 square feet and 84-inch length adequate for fast-and-light types; that means sleeping space is tight, and their feet brushed the tent walls. Weight-saving fabrics proved plenty durable over a 20-day thru-hike. Caveat: Storage space isn’t the Mojo’s strong suit—the seven-square-foot vestibule is too small for more than one pack. $400; 2 lbs. 11 oz.; sierradesigns.com

Five sides are better than four. That was our conclusion after brainstorming the possibilities for a single pole pyramid-style tent. Compared to conventional square pyramid designs, Pentalite 4P offers a full vestibule and significantly more usable space. Convert Pentalite into a full tent by adding the optional Wedge inner mesh tent and floor. With side guy out vents, a vent up high in the back and the ability to keep the vestibule doors rolled back, this isn’t your standard pyramid tent. Pentalite uses a waterproof/non-breathable 30D PU Nylon for the body.