Hilleberg Kaitum 2 GT
Outside Magazine describes the $845 Kaitum 2 as "the best non-freestanding tent we've ever tested." It's easy to pitch in strong winds or wet weather since Hilleberg links the body and fly to keep the tent body dry. After setup, lots of guy lines prevent the Kaitum 2 from moving, and its tube shape repels heavy snows. You can even stash wet gear in the two large vestibules, or use one for cooking meals.
GoLite Valhalla 2+
In 2009, Backpacker Magazine tested the ability of GoLite's $525 Valhalla 2+ to provide comfortable shelter throughout the year and rated it an "all conditions champ." While pitched on Mt. Rainier, it handled the windy, snowy conditions with ease, and cross-ventilation between its two doors and two zip-up vents prevented condensation. Inside the Valhalla 2+, the generous 42-inch-high ceiling and spacious 9.5-square-foot vestibules easily absorbed the testers and their gear. GoLite's performance under these demanding conditions is even more impressive when you consider its 4 lb., 14 oz. weight. It's a space-to-weight ratio that's hard to beat.
Exped Aries Mesh
Another rugged and lightweight tent is the $325 Aries Mesh. It's built like a bunker with tough materials like 210-denier nylon, and the 5-inch gap between its body and fly eliminates the possibility of condensation. Since Exped's design has the body and fly clipped together, setup is a snap, and you can do it during a storm without soaking the interior. Once inside, you can stash your gear in the oversize 16-square-foot vestibule, and a mesh pocket and clothesline are also provided for your convenience.
Sierra Designs Convert
As Backpacker Magazine's top ultralight of 2009, the $449 Convert is one of the lightest and toughest four-season tents you can buy. It weighs in at just over 4 lbs., but its spacious four-pole design withstood the punishing winds on Mt. Baker during real-world tests. Two ceiling vents in Sierra Designs Convert do a good job of preventing condensation, and a small, detachable vestibule provides storage for one person's gear. Since it's roomy enough for two 6-foot 2-inch campers, this Convert proves you can shed the weight without sacrificing space.
