Winter Tent, one wall or two?

[Iceman]

I would like to get a tent for winter backpacking. I am considering a single wall tent to save weight. They are expensive and some have a condensation problem. I was wondering what everyone else is using when they are not staying in the shelters?

Iceman

[dog]

For portable one wall - it's the almost the same , as 3 seasons , exept more and stronger poles and geometry - to hold snow and wind .
I explored a couple of them , but only inside Campmore .

I think , it would be useful in this matter to look , what alpinists , who go high , have .

[mediclimber]

Mountain Hardwear Trango 2. Absolutly bomb proof. Sometimes it's more tent than needed, but overkill in this department isn't a bad thing. Set up is fast and easy and the stake out options are too numerous to try and mention, just take a look at the fly and you'll understand. It comes with an internal guy system that stiffens it up for super windy conditions. I'm actually thinking of getting it's big brother the Trango 4 to use as a base camp type of shelter for extended winter trips. My Trango 2 has seen some epic snow storms and altitudes above 14,000 with heavy winds so I know from experience it's a great tent.

[redhawk]

Most important thing is strength, wind resistance and ability to handle snow load.

If you can find a double wall tent that meets the specs, you're better off then with a single wall to cut down on condensation.

[Iceman]

I've read the rave reviews of the MH Trango 2. They all agree with mediclimber. They also all complain about the weight at aprox. 9 lbs.
There is some debate over sleeves vs clips but I like the clips for an easier setup.

[JohnnyMac]

I assume you are looking for a solo or two man shelter.

I prefer single wall tents because of weight savings. The Bibler models made with Toddtex is as good as it gets for single wall offerings. Integral Designs also makes a few good ones with a similar fabric. Of the more affordable lot, consider a lightweight pyramid shelter from BD and/or Golite. These are generally large enough to minimize condensation issues with only one or two people inside.

Hilleberg makes some lighter weight double wall shelters. I own their Akto and like it.

John

[Trailpatrol]

One wall, one stove

Personally, I prefer the Empire Canvas Snowtrekker tent with woodstove.



Go to http://www.empirecanvasworks.com/ for more info.

I use a pulk sled and a backpack in the winter. It can be 26 below outside the tent and 75 above inside.

Ski safe,
Hans

[Iceman]

Hans,

Looks like you have all the comforts of home there!

I like the Bibler tents but I don't like the price tag. I took a look at the MH Trango 2, impressive tent at 9 lbs for $450. Campmor is not carrying that model this year. They tried to talk me into the MH Spire 2 at half of the weight, new for 2006 and $25 less than the Trango 2. The doors are on the sides rather than front and back of the tent.