User Review: Sierra Designs Stretch Prelude 4

Sierra Designs Stretch Prelude 4
Above: The current Stretch Prelude 4, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed February 10, 1998 by Steve C.

Rating:
Design: 4 Season Expedition Dome
Sleeps: 3-4
Ease of Setup: Easy to Moderate
Weight: Approximately 10 lbs.
Price Paid: Approximately $600

After careful examination of multiple high quality 4-person, 4-season mountaineering tents I decided to purchase the Sierra Designs Stretch Prelude because it was the only tent I found that met all my criteria; quality craftsmanship, storm worthiness, can actual sleep four, weight, and price.

Over the last ten years I have purchased six tents, one of which is the Stretch Prelude. I have used the Stretch Prelude for almost two years in varied and sometimes extreme conditions and have to rate it as one of the most valuable pieces of gear I own.

The tent was used on a 12-day expedition to Rainier and Olympic Nation Forest were it accomodated four medium sized people comfortably. With proper seam sealing (extra care with fly seams around interlocks) this tent is totally waterproof. On multiple winter expeditions into the Rockies at sub zero temps. and 40-60 mph winds this tent lived up to the Sierra Designs claim for stability.

A few comparative highs and lows:

Highs

1. Can actually sleep four. However it is better suited for three on winter trips due to bulky bags and amount of time spent in the tent.

2. Huge vestibule. Accomodates lots of gear, nice place to remove wet gear before climbing in, and can be used for cooking during extreme conditions without fear of stove flare ups torching the tent.

3. Quality craftsmanship.

4. Storm worthy. This tent will provide reliable shelter in almost any condition.

5. Weight. Light weight for a double walled tent with superb stability.

6. Ventilation. When set up properly, ventilation is good. However I would only use this tent in cooler temps.

6. Price. A lot of tent for the money!

Lows

1. Floor material seems thin (compared to TNF). Although no signs of premature wear after extensive use.

2. Lack of zipper pulls. Only a factor if wearing heavy gloves.

3. Set up in some conditions. The fly sheet interlocks used to attach the fly to the tent can be a hassle in high winds or driving rain; it is an extra step not found on other tents. These interlocks are not necessary under good to moderate conditions but are integral to the tent's stability in high wind and should be used.

4. Packable Size. I can't say this tent consumes anymore pack space than any other tent in this category, but plan on purchasing a large compression sack for packing this big boy in your pack.

In conclusion I would highly recommend this tent for anyone looking for a reliable 4 person, 4 season tent. As with any tent, proper preparation before taking it into the field is a key factor in how well the tent will perform; thorough seam sealing, proper stakes for the condtions, guy lines etc.. Once in the field proper set up will provide the best performance; always anchor the tent taught, free standing or not, and pay attention to wind direction.