User Review: Black Diamond Firstlight

Black Diamond Firstlight
Above: The current Firstlight, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed February 5, 2008 by Leo Tasker

Rating:
Design: two pole, freestanding
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: super easy
Price Paid: $200 (second hand)

First off, let me say what others have said - this tent is NOT waterproof. It's not meant to be. I think this tent is best described as a softshell tent - meaning it should be used in conditions that are going to be mainly dry, be it hot or cold.

It works perfectly as alpine climbing tent, when sub-freezing temperatures mean that any moisture will fall as snow, not rain or sleet. I have been caught out in heavy rain, but nothing too prolonged. I stayed dry, but didn't expect to so I was pleasantly surprised! I nearly always take this tent instead of a bivi bag for winter climbing, as it doesn't weigh much more than two bivi bags but it makes a night out so much nicer being able to sit up, cook and read - also having two people in it will make you sleep warmer.

Hardcore outdoor users who have a realistic idea of the conditions they will encounter will love this tent. People who want a camping and backpacking tent for year round use will be better off looking at a double skin waterproof design.

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