deciding on the right tent

Hey guys. I've been looking into different tents, trying to find the one that would be perfect for me. I would need a 2 person, lightweight, 2 door with vestibules, free-standing tent. I live in Florida but I want to be able to use it pretty much anywhere. I think I've narrowed it down to the Marmot Earlylight 2P, MSR Hubba Hubba, and the Black Diamond Mesa. If someone could provide me with opinions and tips for deciding on which one is best, I would very much appreciate it. I'm sure there are still tents out there I havent heard of that meet my requirements, so bring other models to the table if you think it would help. Thanx.

Hey Josh ..

If you do a " search" on this web site, you'll find a handful of excellent reviews..

I own a Mesa . . and ( IMO) call it the perfect three season tent ( i.e. I wouldn't take it to high elevations in the mid of winter . where High winds and significant snow loads are a possibilty )

A big plus ... the length and height offered !!!

Josh,

Big Agnes Emerald Mountain SL2 is similar to the Hubba Hubba, with a little more vestibule. I bought a pre-production model from Big Agnes, and was greatly impressed. Unfortunately, I don't know how the quality of their pre-production (aka test units) compares to their production one.

BTW, I saw a website today with the Hubba Hubba on sale for $195, which is the best price I've ever seen on one.

Linda

thanx Scott and Linda. I appreciate the feedback. i think ive decided on one. merry christmas.

Josh,
My opinion for what it's worth when it comes to 2 man three season tents - is not to spend too much money. For a little more quality and a little less weight - you pay pleanty.

I look for something with good zippers, a front and rear vestibule and two entrances. Front for cooking, rear for gear. The tent needs to have a full fly to be totally dry in heavy rain, tall enough to sit up in, large enough to spend a day or two in without going crazy. The tent needs to be breathable for hot dry weather, and low condensation and totally bug proof. It is hard to find something strong and cheap, with these features weighing less than six pounds.

I purchased a new High Peak "Hyper Lite" from e-bay for $30.00 plus shipping. It weighs 6.6 lbs. Not so light - but a good tent if you look after it.

My friends have paid three and four hundred dollars for small tents. Those tents are lighter and a little better than mine. I backpack with a tarp, canoe with a tent. My money is best spend elsewhere.

Good Luck

If, you want a tent that truely WILL work everywhere, most 3 season models are not quite what you need. Two current tents that ARE about the best you could buy are, the Integral Designs Yukon and the Hilleberg Allak.

I have bought a few tents from www.bearriveroutfitters.org with total satisfaction, they are one source that I trust and they handle both brands.

Hille. and ID are NOT cheap, but, they work superbly well, will handle any weather and last a long time.

Thanks to everyone. I value my time and appreciate that each of you were willing to share some of yours with me. I'll think about what you guys have said. Thanks again.

I just bought a Big Sky Evolution 2 person tent. Weighed it today. 2.98 pounds for tent, fly, carbon poles, 6 titanium stakes and an REI compression stuff sack. Spacious and has 2 doors and 2 vestibules. The manufacturer had some major problems in the past with delivery times. I got my tent from Vsrgo Outdoors 2 weeks after I ordered it. Not too bad. Quality and stitching is good and it came seam sealed. I'll post again when I road test it.

Anxious to hear your report :)

I like and own the Sierra Designs Electron. It has vestibules,good ventilation for tropical climates, and is very cost-effective for the quality. Ebay offers some great deals on these and other Sierra Design tents. We currently own 3 different models and have gotten great customer service, free repairs, and outstanding value. I bought an Electron at half-retail, and it included a free footprint, attic, and cup holders too.

Traptent Double Rainbow

http://www.tarptent.com/doublerainbow.html

What you guys think of the Sierra desighnes Lightning 2 ?
I know it won 2004 backpacker but I read some wicked reviews about it (poor isolation, plenty of condensation etc). I know every man see things otherwise, so I need some reasuring...

I think 77" sleeping pads wouldn't fit since the floor space is only 31 square feet. It would be too tight for me as the Electron is as small as I can go for my ThermaRest pads fitting.

space is an issue...but also weight.
I have the old fashioned pad (those that rolled and stick out of youre pack...rubbed against leaves and branches etc.

I ment a foam sleeping pad