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How does everyone feel about this tent? It's between this...
By meg100307970
Ranked #267 - 3-Season Tents
May 17, 2011
How does everyone feel about this tent? It's between this tent and the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2. I use my tent quite often and am looking to replace an older tent with something a little bit lighter for backpacking. It will be for 2 people and the occasional dog.
I spend a lot of time in my tent and I am ok with carrying extra weight for a GREAT tent. My priorities are Likability, ability to avoid condensation, durability, then space and weight. Although a lightweight tent is a pro I'm more concerned with likability, pockets, weather resistance, durability, etc.
I'm also open for other recommendations :)
Thanks for the advice. - Megan
View Details: Black Diamond Skylight Tent: 3-Person 3-Season
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
By James Jenden
Ranked #7 - 3-Season Tents
March 26, 2012
I would disagree. People assume that because the Nanoshield fabric is single wall, you'll have issues with condensation. I've used a Hilight (smaller, similar tent from BD with the same fabric) for backpacking in 30F as well as 70F, and never had to deal with condensation on the inside. Nanoshield is easily twice as breathable as eVent or a comparable waterproof fabric, and is fantastic. This will also deal with wind better than the copper spur, whose ultralight materials will get torn apart in high winds.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
By Simon Hatfield
Ranked #25 - 3-Season Tents
May 18, 2011
Agreed with Eli - this tent will condense much worse than the copper spur. Go for the Copper spur 3 (barely any weight penalty over the 2) before the Hubba Hubba with Gear shed (read: pain to pitch) though. Also, None of the above mentioned tents are exceptionally durable - the Skylight features THIN nanoshield that isn't waterproof. The Hubba Hubba and Copper Spur both feature the same pole system that doesn't do too well in wind, and ultralight fabric for the rainflies. And now for my suggestion - I noticed you didn't mention "price", "availability on backcountry.com" or "freestanding" in your criteria. Have you considered a Hilleberg Nallo 3? Likeability - These remain totally dry while being pitched in the rain, Pitch super fast, come in 2 colors, have multiple pockets plus attachment points for a clothesline or gear loft, and will garner you total respect from all who frequent the mountains. What's not to like? No Condensation - Double walls and tunnel venting prevent condensation. Durability - Proprietary fabric and tunnel design yield a tent that can withstand legitimate 4 season storms. Gusts to 60mph+, no kidding. Space - 64"x88" + Vestibule Weight - 4lb 10oz min/5lb 5oz trail. Compare to 4lb 2oz min 5lb trail for this tent. The downsides? It isn't free standing (but pitches quickly), and its $625.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
By Eli Hauschild
Ranked #2 - 3-Season Tents
May 17, 2011
Hi Megan,, For your priorities of avoiding condensation and durability, I would lean towards the Copper Spur UL2. Any single wall tent will have condensation after a downpour or in high humidity & cooler temps. As far as another recommendation, I think the perfect tent for you would be the MSR Hubba Hubba 2 person tent, combined with the Gear Shed vestibule. The gear shed provides tons of extra room for outings when your bring the dog Especially when it's raining and you don't want a wet dog crawling around your sleeping bags and gear. It's going to be a little pricier, but I'm sure you can find a great deal online.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
Tech Specs:
- Material:
- [canopy] NanoShield (silicone-treated polyester), 100% ; [window] mesh; [floor] polyester, PU coating (2000mm)
- Freestanding:
- yes
- Doors:
- 1
- Number of Vestibules:
- 1
- Poles:
- 3
- Pole Material:
- DAC aluminum
- Pole Attachment:
- internal
- Floor Space:
- 36.6 sq ft
- Floor Dimensions:
- 88 x 69 in
- Interior Height:
- 42 in
- Vestibule Space:
- 10 sq ft
- Packed Size:
- 7 x 12 in
- Ventilation:
- mesh window
- Fast-pitch Option:
- no
- Trail Weight:
- 4 lb 2 oz
- Recommended Use:
- lightweight backpacking, mountaineering
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- 1 year
Change me.



