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The North Face Tadpole NHP

rated 4.5 of 5 stars

The Tadpole NHP has been discontinued. It was replaced by The North Face Tadpole SL 2.

Version reviewed: 1993

I bought this tent as a 12-year-old and now I'm 6'1" and too big for it. Otherwise, I can find absolutely no faults with this tent.

The full-coverage fly repels water with aplomb. I was recently caught in a 12 hour continuous downpour and the tent remained dry. Water found its way above the ground cloth, but thanks to the beefy floor on all North Face tents, the interior stayed dry. I've taken this tent on too many trips to count and it has yet to show any signs of wear 'n tear (although it's never been in "extreme" weather). The small stake-out vestibule is just enough for a pair or two of shoes that should't be in the tent.

The tent itself is very small, too small for me in fact. When I was younger (read: smaller), there was just enough room for me and my pack. I would laugh if anyone tried to fit two people in there. Now I'm 6'1" and i am forced to give up this tent because I simply don't fit in it anymore.

I think this is the best tent on the market for the money and would recommend it in an instant to anyone who is shorter than 6 feet.

Design: 3 season, 3 pole, dome-ish thing
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: very easy
Weight: 4lbs 14oz I think
Price Paid: approx. $200

Very cool, very easy to set up, very light, excellent backpacking tent. It is barely suitable for two people, especially in cooler weather. Makes an excellent one-person tent. I would probably buy a bigger one for frequent two-person use. Excellent quality. Also comes with straps so you can set up the rainfly only, for a quick leanto type shelter. I have never used it in that fashion.

SPECS: 39" high, floor is 86" by 50.5". 27 sq ft, 32.5 sq ft with vestibule in front.

Design: 3 season elliptical
Sleeps: 2 (or 1)
Ease of Setup: Very easy for one person
Weight: 4 lbs
Price Paid: $215 (1992)

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Price Reviewers Paid: $200.00-$215.00

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