Protection

4.7 Swivel hubs join the three poles together at two intersections, fortifying the tent against 25-mph winds during an early-season snowstorm in the Adirondacks. Waterproof panels wrap 3 to 6 inches up the walls to prevent errant precipitation from penetrating the tent.

Livability

3.9 The 32-square-foot rectangular floor accommodates two plus a dog. Store gear in the 8.5-square-foot vestibule and 5.7-square-foot covered “gear locker” in the back. A short center pole creates an above-average peak height of 41 inches, and a gear loft (included) provides overhead storage. But one door inhibits egress.

Ventilation

4.4 A group of Yosemite testers woke up dry each morning, even during a humid and condensation-prone April week. “The curved fly perimeter lets cool air flow in, while the two upper fly vents let warm air escape,” says one camper.

Durability

4.5 The Talus cruised through our durability test, and the included footprint (8 ounces) adds even more protection to the 70-denier nylon floor.

Overall Score

4.4

$199; 4 lbs. 14 oz. thenorthface.com


The Scale: 1=save your money – 5=perfect gear.

*Overall score is not an average of others scores; It’s a gut-level assessment of performance and value.