Terra Nova Equipment Quasar

[freestanding ultralight]

Here’s a rare find: a two-person tent at this price and weight that still delivers freestanding, double-wall performance. It’s a bit small—no surprise—but the ounce-saving dimensions (best for sleeping, not lounging) worked just fine for our long-distance-hiking testers, who used the Imogene during a 400-mile Appalachian Trail trek through Maine and New Hampshire. The shelter held firm in roaring rainstorms that forced hikers in lesser tents to flee for the lean-to, and the weight-saving, 10-denier fabrics (20-denier for the floor) survived the journey intact.

The Imogene packs down small—the size of a 1-liter bottle—and setup is speedy, using one hubbed pole. There’s just one door (at the head end), which requires careful exits to avoid disturbing a companion. The 39-inch peak height allows even 6’4” campers to sit upright. But the length and width proved “cramped for two big guys,” reports one tester, who calls the 30 square feet “just big enough for sleeping.” And we wished for better ventilation in humid conditions, when condensation collected. $300; 2 lbs. 7 oz.; golite.com

The definitive 2 person mountain tent is much copied, but never bettered. This exceptionally strong geodesic design has withstood some of the harshest conditions for over two decades.

Simple and quick to pitch with colour coded poles and continuous pole sleeves. Superb inner tension prevents sagging and creates the largest usable space possible. Two entrances and porches allow sheltered access and plenty of space to store your gear.

A combination of Watershed Endurance and Waterbloc fabrics provide excellent durability and UV resistance with superb waterproofing.