Peak 1 Aries

I have used this tent for 3 one-week trips to Alaska and one to Montana, plus countless weekend trips. I have spent nights in horizontal, blowing rain and have never gotten wet (I did seam seal it). The front and rear mini-vestibules keep all but the most tenacious rain out even with the door and window open, which provides great ventilation in addition to the top vents. Also, the front and rear overhangs make handy spots to hang socks or camp towel to dry/air at night; protected from dew and rain. It is totally free standing; unless the wind is really blowing, you only need 2 stakes (or rocks) to pull the fly taut. My tent is getting a little tired now, but I will replace it with another Aries. I have seen many friends spend a lot more for tents that do not perform nearly as well. The only downside is it is really not big enough for 2 people, but perfect for 1 plus gear.

I know what you may be thinking: "Peak 1? One hundred and nine bucks? why not just buy a garbage bag?" But this tent has many features in common with some more expensive tents available. The poles are made of 7000-series aluminum and clip to the tent with the same type of clip that Sierra Designs uses.

It is not the most bombproof shelter available, but at only four and a half pounds, including the sturdy full rainfly, this is a great tent for anyone thinking of trying out backpacking in mild weather. I know it is somewhat resistant to heavy rain, since I have used it during a fairly violent thunderstorm and stayed dry as a bone while some girls in a Kelty Vortex were being soaked.

A great light tent for summer backpacking. Easy and fast to set up. Plenty of room for one person with gear. If you plan to use it for two of you, you better like each other really well and leave your packs outside.

I wouldn't take it out if stormy conditions are to be expected, though. The design of the rainfly is somewhat flawed. It's attached with a separate pole that keeps the ends sticking out high, making the tent susceptible to catch the wind there. It also sags quite a bit when wet and touches the inner tent. Not good if you are in a down sleeping bag that needs to stay dry for warmth. Considering the price though it's a pretty good value.

This tent totally stinks. It sets up easy, but by morning everything in your tent will be wet and the walls will gather so much condensation you can SEE it drip down the side! I even seam sealed it. I was 100 percent dissatisfied with this tent and traded it in for a Eureka! Apex 2XT, which is the best tent I have ever owned. Get the Eureka...it's worth it.

Peak 1 makes good camping stoves but their tents are horrible. I will never own another Peak 1 tent ever again. I think Coleman should stick to making their usual cheap tents which at least keep you dry. Their Peak1 line completely stinks!

Surprisingly enough, this is an EXCELLENT tent for three-season camping, probably the best value for dollar I have ever seen. Its two aluminum poles may not be great for raging winds, but I've been in some decent storms, and so far it has held up pretty well, I've even stayed quite dry.

It's also extremely light, stupidly simple to set up, and has plenty of room for two people (without gear...) and has made this the perfect tent for weekend outings, and long trips where weather PROBABLY won't be a factor. And if it is, you'll at least sleep dry.

I have used this tent numerous times and fine it holds up under extreme weather. I have camped in rainy weather and snow and never got wet.

I admit it does sweat when it is completely closed, but with the side window and the entrance open it will keep dry. I like this tent.

Good deal for the money for one person with gear. Aluminum poles, factory sealed. Definitely leave window and door screen fully open to allow ventilation if camping in warmer areas. Held up great over quite a few trips so far, stayed dry in the rain. Wish it had more ventilation, and a little bigger (I am of moose-like proportions). If they made a 4-person version I would buy it.

The tent is very easy to set up. It is also very light. It hasn't leaked yet. Pretty sturdy. It will sleep 2 people without gear. They also have to be good friends.