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3 Season Tent

Traditional & Versatile

3-season-tent

The traditional 3 season tent is the choice of most backpackers. Reasons for this are diverse. They are familiar and therefore comfortable in an intellectual way.

Full Coverage

However, there are logical reasons for their popularity as well. Full coverage tents provide the most protection from the elements. They bring with them flexibility in terms of where and how they are used. They can be used in a very wide variety of environmental conditions. They are easy to set up requiring little practice.

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The major disadvantage is weight. However, superior lightweight structures for two people can easily be found under 5 pounds, even less if you are willing to sacrifice a little wiggle room. For a solo hiker, 2½ to 3 pound models are readily available.

Free Standing or Staked Out?

hoop-tentDiversity in form exists as well. Models differ in style. Basically you will choose between a free-standing model and a model requiring stakes and cords to erect them. Non-free standing models are often referred to as hoops because they use two or three poles in a hoop design to hold the tent above the occupant.

Is a Dome Tent Your Best Choice?

A free-standing backpacking tent is often referred to as a dome. This term accurately describes its shape. While a free-standing dome-tentmodel does not require stakes to erect it, most will require the rain fly be staked out in order to efficiently disburse condensation.

There are single and double wall models as well. A single wall relies on the breathability of the fabric to disburse condensation. This is fairly effective in cool, dry climates. However in warm, humid areas, the effectiveness is poor.

A double wall relies on air flow between the layers to dissipate condensation. The inner layer is usually primarily comprised of mosquito netting while the outer layer is a waterproof fabric.

Obviously a single wall model, with only one layer of fabric is your lighter choice. However, if you will find yourself in hot, humid conditions, you may be disappointed at its inability to keep you dry simply due to excessive condensation.

The 3 season tent provides the widest variety of diversity within one basic style of tent. If full coverage is important to you, you will certainly be able to find an appropriate choice to fit into you ultralight ensemble.

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