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After my research on the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint, I can confidently say that it is a great choice for most backpackers. This tent provides ample space for two people and their gear, and its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry on backpacking trips. The tent’s pre-bent pole architecture boosts livable space, and the vertical side walls provide generous head and shoulder room, making it easier for you to move around inside the tent. The mesh panels in the upper portion of the tent improve ventilation and provide great views, while the ripstop panels in the lower portion provide privacy and reduce drafts and exposure to blowing dust and dirt. The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint also has two dual-stake vestibules that offer easy access and additional covered storage. The hubbed, color-coded pole assembly simplifies setup, so you won’t waste any time or energy getting your tent ready for the night.
However, it may not be suitable for solo backpackers, tall people, winter camping, group camping, or budget backpackers. Before making a purchase, it is important to assess your needs and determine whether this tent meets them. Overall, this tent is a reliable and spacious shelter for 3-season trips, and I would definitely recommend it for couples or a duo of friends who want to share a tent.
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REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint Review: Who is it for?
I recently had the opportunity to learn more about the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint and I must say, I was pretty impressed. This tent is designed for backpackers who want a reliable and spacious shelter to use during 3-season trips. It is intended for couples or a duo of friends who want to share a tent on a backpacking trip.
One of the things that stood out to me about this tent is its lightweight construction. With a trail weight of just 3 pounds and 15 ounces, it won’t be a burden for backpackers who want to keep their pack weight to a minimum. However, this tent still features all the beloved Half Dome features that REI is known for, so you won’t be sacrificing any of the important aspects that make camping comfortable.
The 2+ size floor plan provides a boost in livable space for two people, ensuring that you won’t feel too cramped inside. Alternatively, you could bring a furry friend along with you and still have plenty of space for gear. The pre-bent pole architecture helps to boost livable space and the vertical side walls provide generous head and shoulder room, making it easier for you to move around inside the tent.
Another feature of the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint that I appreciated is the mesh panels in the upper portion of the tent that improve ventilation and provide great views. The ripstop panels in the lower portion provide privacy and reduce drafts and exposure to blowing dust and dirt. This combination of features ensures that you can stay comfortable and enjoy your surroundings while staying protected from the elements.
The REI Exclusive tension-truss architecture creates stable vertical sidewalls for generous space and plenty of headroom. This ensures that you won’t feel claustrophobic inside the tent and can enjoy your time camping no matter what the weather is like outside. The two large D-shaped doors offer a spacious yet lightweight solution for ease of coming and going, and the doors can be rolled up and secured if you want to enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of your tent.
The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint also has two dual-stake vestibules that offer easy access and additional covered storage. This is great for keeping your gear organized and protected from the elements. The hubbed, color-coded pole assembly simplifies setup, so you won’t waste any time or energy getting your tent ready for the night.
The tent also includes pockets and hangloops to help organize the interior, and the fly design allows sides and ends to be rolled up to maximize views and airflow. If a storm blows in, everything can be rolled down quickly. The fly has two closable ceiling vents that provide airflow and help prevent condensation buildup, ensuring that you stay comfortable no matter what the weather is like outside.
The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint is made with solution-dyed mesh to reduce water and energy use in manufacturing, making it an eco-friendly choice for backpackers who are conscious about their environmental impact. This tent is freestanding, making it easy to set up and move around if necessary.
Overall, I think the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint is a great choice for backpackers who want a reliable and spacious shelter for 3-season trips. It is designed for couples or a duo of friends who want to share a tent, and its lightweight construction and Half Dome features make it a great choice for backpackers of all levels of experience.
REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint Review: Who isn’t it for?
While the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint is a great choice for backpackers who want a reliable and spacious shelter for 3-season trips, there are certain user profiles that may not find it suitable for their needs. Here are the worst reasons to get it:
1. Solo Backpackers: If you are a solo backpacker, this tent may not be the best option for you. The 2+ size floor plan is designed for two people and may feel too large for a single person. Additionally, the tent is relatively heavy for a solo backpacker, and there are lighter options available on the market.
2. Tall People: While the pre-bent pole architecture boosts livable space and provides generous head and shoulder room, the peak height of 42 inches may not be sufficient for taller individuals. If you are over 6 feet tall, you may find this tent too cramped and uncomfortable.
3. Winter Camping: The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint is designed for 3-season use and may not be suitable for winter camping. It is not designed to withstand heavy snow loads, and the ripstop panels in the lower portion may not provide sufficient insulation in cold weather.
4. Group Camping: If you are planning a camping trip with a large group of people, this tent may not be the best option for you. While it provides ample space for two people and their gear, it may not be spacious enough for larger groups. Additionally, the two large D-shaped doors may not provide enough privacy if you are sharing a campsite with multiple groups.
5. Budget Backpackers: The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint is not the most affordable option on the market. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider a cheaper alternative that still provides the necessary features for a comfortable camping experience.
In conclusion, the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint is a great choice for most backpackers. However, it may not be suitable for solo backpackers, tall people, winter camping, group camping, or budget backpackers. Before making a purchase, it is important to assess your needs and determine whether this tent meets them.
REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint Review: Conclusion
After my research on the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint, I can confidently say that it is a great choice for most backpackers. This tent provides ample space for two people and their gear, and its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry on backpacking trips. The tent’s pre-bent pole architecture boosts livable space, and the vertical side walls provide generous head and shoulder room, making it easier for you to move around inside the tent. The mesh panels in the upper portion of the tent improve ventilation and provide great views, while the ripstop panels in the lower portion provide privacy and reduce drafts and exposure to blowing dust and dirt. The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint also has two dual-stake vestibules that offer easy access and additional covered storage. The hubbed, color-coded pole assembly simplifies setup, so you won’t waste any time or energy getting your tent ready for the night.
However, it may not be suitable for solo backpackers, tall people, winter camping, group camping, or budget backpackers. Before making a purchase, it is important to assess your needs and determine whether this tent meets them. Overall, this tent is a reliable and spacious shelter for 3-season trips, and I would definitely recommend it for couples or a duo of friends who want to share a tent.