Big Sky Evolution 2P

Excellent tent with most of the features important to me: freestanding (although staking recommended), easy setup, vestibules, keeps the weather out.

I've owned this tent since 2008 and have been very happy with it. I've used it on about 10 3-4 day trips in all kinds of weather and climates. Setup is easy and fairly quick (5-10 minutes): two poles that attach at the corners and cross in the middle, secured with clips. One stake at each corner if stablility is required. The rain fly should be staked down for maximum effectiveness.

The upper part of the tent is mostly mesh, so you can enjoy the stars on a clear night! I haven't had condensation problems with the fly on even in moist climates, since the peak of the tent is well ventilated. I was most impressed with its perfomance on a trip when there was a huge thunderstorm one evening. I got the tent set up just before the first drops fell, and the ensuing storm was of the monsoon variety —  heavy rain for hours — and I stayed as dry as a bone! There wasn't a drop in the tent. I owe this to the simple fact that the manufacturer made sure that the fly extended WELL over the edges and corners of the tent.

Other tents I've owned were always skimpy with material, and they always got wet inside. Other great features are the doors on the side, making for easy entry and exit without disturbing your partner. The fly also provides a vestibule at each side for gear storage, since there won't be room if there's two in the tent.

I treat this tent with care, like one should with all ultra-light gear, and I hope to get a lot of life out of it. I would definitely recommend it.