Hi all,

I've been in the market for a lightweight solo tent all summer and I think it's about time to make the purchase. The only problem is I can't seem to make myself pull the trigger on anything in particular.

I don't need a tent that is light as a feather, but I'd like tent that is around or under 3 lbs that can withstand harsh mountain weather (I work in the Tetons in the summer) and muggy heat (I spend time in the Everglades in the winter). I appreciate having enough room to sit up and read or write, change my clothes, etc... and a reasonably spacious vestibule is key. The biggest catch is that I can't really spend over ~$175.

I've been looking at the Six Moons Designs Skyscape Scout, which looks great, but I'm a bit skeptical of its ability to endure mountain storms. I also found the Sierra Designs Light Year 1 on sale, and it seems like it's got a good reputation for solo tents. TarpTents are also intriguing as well as some Big Agnes models. I just can't decide on anything in particular.

So I'd really appreciate some advice on the matter as I'm getting frustrated with this process. I just want a reasonably lightweight, comfortable, affordable tent that can hold its own when need be.

Gonna be tough to get perfection at that price point.

Did you find any Big Agnes's or Tarptent's at your price point?

It sounds like you are down to the SMD or the lightyear.

One is more lightweight specific and one is more off the shelf. Either should work for you. I think you are being overloaded with information. Take a step back stop getting other people's input and make a choice for yourself.

All Big Agnes stuff is 25% off at REI right now. The Seedhouse SL1 is $187 with free shipping. It's a pretty nice tent and meets your sub 3 pound requirement.

A friend of mine bought a SMD skyscrape trekker and once we replaced the pole that connects the trekking poles together I was very impressed, we made a new one out of pex tubeing. The part that comes with that tent is a joke but its very easy and cheap to replace. The scout being the same structure I think is a great choice. But if you dont have trekking poles I dunno, then I might go for a lightyear. Trekking poles are strong but those little staight poles that everyone uses to replace trekking poles kinda scare me. they are much better when held with a bow in them like most tent do.

Some may think it is old and heavy but I actually like the MSR Hubba. Used to have a BA Seedhouse SL 1 but disliked the front entry, goofy 3-pole shape, and very thin floor. I sold it and got a Hubba on sale. For 8oz more the Hubba has a side entry, more durable fabrics, great headroom, and seems to have less condensation problems in my experience.

e-OMC has the MSR Hubba on sale for $187 right now.

+1 on the MSR Hubba. I've owned a lot of tents, and I keep using this when the weather goes bad on long hikes....It's not a bomber mountaineering tent. Nor is it close to be the lightest tent. It isn't the best in any particular class, but it's pretty good at most classes. Think of it as in the same vein as an all-mountain snow ski that performs reasonably well in most snow conditions.

The Hubba is relatively easy to setup/take down and has a very basic, functional design. Plus, it's gone through quite a few iterations and enhancements.

That much said...with summer coming to a conclusion, I would imagine that a lot of stuff will show up on the gear trade section of the forums, so you might be able to get yourself a great deal on a lightly used, well maintained bomber tent.

I am sure others will have good experiences with other tents. There are other choices that would be every bit as good or perhaps better than the MSR, I just haven't had any experience with a tent that would compare favorably to the Hubba considering the lack of fiddle factor.

Dirk

Check out Tarptent for reasonable prices and great designs.