Review Title

By Brock Anderson Ranked #1777 - 3-Season Tents August 11, 2009

I've been using the "epic" fabric tent from Black Diamond for three years. Its been used extensively throughout the Northern Rockies Beartooths, Bob Marshall, Madison Range, Absaroka's, etc). We put about 20 nights per year on the tent. The first year was great - it was durable, light and repelled water in all but the most extreme rain storms. In snow it worked very well and continues to do so as long as its cold enough. Fast forward to the second summer and the fabric began to lose its repellancy. I contacted Black Diamond to find out what I could do. They suggested off the shelf cleaning products designed for outdoor gear (can be found on this site). That worked for a while...but...Fast forward another year and the tent can't handle even a sprinkle of rain. Unfortunately, it seems the fabric has a limited life span. I can't recommend the tent unless you A. plan to use it in the arid desert (it would be great), B.you're comfortable with puddles of water in your tent, or C.you're willing to fork out $300-$400 every couple of years for a new one. As for me? I'm going back to double wall tents (BD Mesa or MSR Huba will be my next tent hopefully) with the exception of the always reliable Bibler for colder climates. I won't appreciate the extra 1-2 pounds, but at least I'll sleep.

One more note - Seams do not come sealed on this tent. Prepare to do maintenance every year.

View Details: Black Diamond Lighthouse Tent 2-Person 3-Season

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