Gear Review: MSR Fury Tent

The Fury is a double-wall 4-season tent from MSR, which they updated for 2011. Its combination of (relatively) low weight, quick pitch, large vestibule, and ample footprint made for a solid shelter while testing in Sequoia and Yellowstone NP.

The first test: assembling the tent for the first time. In the snow. As we’re losing light. With gloves. Thanks to the color coding and simple clips, pitching wasn’t a problem, and we had it up before we needed headlamps.

Should conditions be especially rough, there are myriad guypoints to pull the pitch taut. Just make sure to pack plenty of snow stakes or make deadman anchors, as the provided stakes aren’t too useful in the snow.

The hooped vestibule makes enough room for two packs and boots, or you can dig a pit like this one and have plenty of room to fit everything and still get in and out without wading through all of your gear.

Interior is roomy enough for two. The sides of the tent pull out, making space for gear you want nearby. There are also pockets all over the place, which helps keep the inevitable bevy of winter gear organized.

You can seal the tent up fully from the elements, and I stayed warm in -10 degree temps with a 0 degree bag. MSR cleverly designed this back window so you can pop the rear vent open in the middle of the night without leaving the tent.

If I had any complaint about this tent, it would be the size of the front door. It’s a relatively small hatch for my six-foot frame, and when the vestibule is up, you need to plan your entrance and exit or get stuck in some awkward yoga move.

Although its weight and size are excellent compared to other winter tents, you will probably want to use this mostly during the fourth season. It would certainly perform well during the summer, it’s just a lot more tent than you’d need.

Bottom Line: I was very impressed with the Fury’s size, strength-to-weight ratio, and ease of setup. If you can get past the small door (both mentally and physically), this tent will serve you well throughout winter and inclement weather.

The Specs: $500
6 lbs. 3 oz. (body, fly, poles only)
msrgear.com
Also, see our slideshow on How to Pitch a Tent on Snow.

Photos and text by Will Rochfort.