Since the beginning of backpacking, the need for lightweight tents has been second to none. Ever since, tent makers have toiled with fabrics and designs to trim the weight off of our backpacks. While some makers, including Canadian outdoor gear manufacturer Durston Gear, have made impeccable inroads with their renditions of the ultralight, the previously launched 1.9 lbs. being a tipping specimen, the space inside such tents continues to be a problem.
If a tent sheds its weight, it compromises durability and size. This has probably been the state of affairs in the industry for years. It is, however, changing now, and Durston is leading the drive forward with some exciting options in the company’s X-Dome series. A fitting example is the newly released X-Dome 2, which, according to Durston, is a two-person shelter with an impeccably low weight.
Designer:
With the convenience of a lightweight tent to carry, the Durston X-Dome 2 is built around the concept of durability, spaciousness, and ease of use. So, at the end of the day, when you keep the X-Dome 2 down, it’s easy to set up in calm or rough weather and is designed to ensure the sleeping quarter is separate from the utility section. Once set up, it is noticeably more spacious than comparable tents, making it one of the most “interesting two-person freestanding tents for backcountry hikes.”
Made of 100% polyester fabric, X-Dome 2 weighs 2.7 lbs (1.25 kg) and is billed as a fully freestanding double-wall 2P tent, which is based on an X-Mid floorplan and a pole set structurally optimized to provide extraordinary space and protection against elements for its weight. The floor space of the tent, when pitched, measures 52 inches in width (that can easily accommodate two wide sleeping pads) and length, measuring 88 inches, which is suitable for two tall hikers to sleep straight comfortably. Headroom inside the geometrically shaped tent measures 43 inches and is almost the same throughout the tent, with the crossbar extending the peak height all the way to the doorway. The result, “is 20 – 40% more volume than comparable tents,” the company informs. For further space and distinction, the X-Dome 2 also has dual vestibules measuring 9 sq ft each, usable as extra room for cooking, footwear, and changing out of wet gear.
Besides the weight and space, the X-Dome 2 also touts a structure, which Durston says is “stronger than most ultralight tents.” This, the company claims, is possible with the use of carbon fiber poles that are stronger for the weight than aluminum and with the use of larger diameter tubing in areas that require more strength and stability. In case of snow load or storm, the tent structure can be further strengthened with the use of trekking poles. The X-Dome 2 is available for pre-order starting at $369. It will ship as a standalone fly tent later this month, while its dual-wall option will be available in June.
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