Marmot Alpinist Tent 2-Person 4-Season - 2006 BCS

I agree with most of what the previous reviewer has said. And it's very roomy for the weight. But I would also add that the vestibule really sucks. The bottom of vestibule is too far off the ground: any wind, and the vestibule space is filled with snow. Moreover, when you open the vestibule door, you’re guaranteed to have snow/water fall into the tent from the roof. Also, the mesh pouches are badly positioned: you loose a lot of headroom because of where they are hanging down from. Make sure you seam seal the ceiling vent zippers, or else you will get a shower when snow on the roof melts.

I just purchased this Marmot tent and I love it! This is my first true 4 season tent. I have only used it 3 nights in and around Mt. Rogers in late December. I love the simple design which allows for easy access in and out, ample guy line loops that allowed for pitching the tent in 40plus mph winds on Wilburn Ridge. The only complaint that I do have is when setting up and breaking down the Alpinist, the poles and buckle (which can't be removed) can get easily caught up in the sleeves. Other than that, I love it...it is perfect for myself and two dogs (75lbs and 120lbs) and left me feeling confident in going out on more and more winter backpacking trips. In the past I have used my ultralight (MSR Zoid). Needless to say, I froze on many occasions due to the all mesh walls. With the Alpinist, condensation was not a problem with the 3 vents. I felt totally safe in some nasty conditions, and the small vestibule was big enough to let me boil water while letting the morning sun come through the vestibule window. I am itching to use it again and would recommend it to anyone who wants a light weight, simple, four season tent that so far seems bombproof.