User Review: Bibler Ahwahnee

Bibler Ahwahnee
Above: The current Ahwahnee, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed October 9, 2005 by edthecow

Rating:
Design: 4 season freestanding single wall
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: super simple- after a few practices
Weight: about 5 pounds
Price Paid: $330

Lots of gear is pretty good. A few pieces are truly great. And then there is a category, more akin to art than gear, that so few pieces fall into that it's is almost legendary. Gear that works, every time, gear that lasts. Gear that is functional and beyond -- almost beautiful in measure and method, in its fulfillment of purpose. That is this tent.

And I don't even like tents that much. This tent, a 4-season workhorse (though I'd go for the I-Tent or Fitzroy or Bombshelter for hardcore mountaineering) is super adaptable and super simple, and therein lies its beauty. It's single walled. It's fast to set up (once you try it a few times), roomy enough for two adults and a toddler, is light, solidly bombproof, and versatile as can be. From 100 degree f. desert nights to chilly 10,000 high winter camps, this tent can do it all--and all fairly well.

I've never had a problem with condensation, as the mesh netting allows plenty of air thru in warm months (it's like a beach cabana) and the fabric breathes well enough to zip it tight in bad or cold weather. It is simple, takes little space on a ridge or ledge, and its yellow color is light and pleasant on dreary days. I love the side door setup (I have the one door model, but would get the two next time). There is room for two full length Therm-A-Rests and some gear (I don't have the vestibule), and adding that it would be plenty of storage. You can fully stretch out.

The floor is bathtub style and sealed. The tent itself is waterproof and breathable, so storms are no worry. Its anchor points are solid and they can be fully guyed for serious conditions, but doesn't need to be for a simple camping trip. It packs small, only has three poles, and has inner mesh pockets.

I can't really think of anything bad to say--I love it! Even my wife, who flipped at the price (I got it used on ebay for $330), now loves it and refuses to even let me consider selling the Bibler. Save your pennies, buy one--it's all the tent most will need for 98% of the wilderness stuff most people do, year round.