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The North Face Quartz 22

rated 4.5 of 5 stars

The Quartz 22 has been discontinued. If you're looking for something new, check out the best three-season tents for 2024.

photo: The North Face Quartz 22 three-season tent

I was sold on this tent for its design. It breathes very well and I haven't had a problem with condensation. A little under the fly at times, but nothing dripping.

The fly is always open, allowing air to flow through even in the rain (unlike every other tent that is almost completely sealed of when in the rain). You even get a view in the rain, which is really nice. I like watching the rain and lightning while keeping myself dry, and this tent allows that.

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The two big drop down doors are great, and having the zippered window in them is a nice touch for additional air flow and privacy. I use a clothesline clip to keep windows fully open, they'll just hang or stuffed inside between the mesh otherwise (which is fine really).

I left the windows open during a heavy storm and did get a little mist through them, so keep them closed in heavy rain. Even with them closed, you can still see outside through the half vestibule wings.

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Though not completely enclosed, the little vestibules were enough to keep boots, stove and some other small stuff covered and dry from the rain. I was able to cook using my Jetboil in the half vestibule.

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The brow pole on the fly is very nice, keeping most of the rain out while entering/exiting the tent. The plastic pieces holding the brow pole seem a little flimsy, but they haven't failed me yet. There are four good size, useful, well placed pockets inside.

I primarily use this tent solo and with a dog. I have had my girlfriend in it with me and it was fine, though most gear was inside with use, we where comfortable. I wouldn't want to share this tent with another dude. The interior height is good (I'm 6'3"). The poles are average DAC aluminum that I don't ever see having a problem with. Pitching is very easy. Be sure to guy out the bottom ends of the fly for maximum air flow.

My only real issue with this tent is the quality. I'm not saying it's bad, but it does seem like TNF didn't put to much effort in the construction. The mesh seems a little cheap and looks to have some runs (like in pantyhose). Not a lot and not big runs, but they are noticeable. I have checked others in stores and see they all have that. But I have faith that it will last and hold up.

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I would have liked to see one more clip on the tent to hold it up, there is an area that looks like it needs one (see picture) but it performs fine. 

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There are six loops inside that look out of place a bit. I don't use gear lofts but couldn't imagine using one in this tent anyway, seems awkward. There is no flashlight loop in the center of the ceiling (bummer). The fly has only one Velcro fastener on each corner. I feel it could use more.

I don't have the fitted footprint, but can't imagine it being to stable pitching it fly only (which supposedly can be done). They provided some nice guy lines but horrible stakes.

The colors are horrible too - orange and tan fly, brown floor and dark mesh. I miss the nice darker green they used a few years ago on some TNF models like the Rock and Tephra. But at least it's a more darker orange and not Marmot day glow. It would be nice if TNF made this design with a higher quality, lighter material in a different color. I'd buy another. The weight is not great for it's size at over four and a half pounds.

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I do really like this tent, and it is my main tent to use in late spring, summer and early fall. Even though it's a bit heavy to use solo while backpacking, I think it's worth it due to the design and size.

I recommend this tent for soloist who want room and don't mind the weight, couples and for people who like a to see their surrounding during rain and lightning.

Ease of Setup: Couldn't be easier.
Price Paid: $140

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Price Historic Range: $138.95-$169.00
Reviewers Paid: $140.00

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