Kelty Zen Tents
Kelty Zen Tents
[Jun 08, 1999]
E. J. Martin
Backpacker
I bought this tent based on reputation, need, price and research...I am not disappointed. As a Scoutmaster I spend a lot of time camping and wanted a multipurpose tent. Just completed some miles on the AT and have nothing but good stuff to say about the Zen. Easy set-up, superb ventilation and light weight. I'm 6'2"" and had plenty of room, 2 people requires good friendship. At $150.00 (or even $200)you cannot find a better tent. Customer Service Called to ask about the windows...should I use any special care? Kelty gave me all the info I wanted and had a catalog on its way that day. So far I'm impressed with their service. Similar Products Used: Sweetwater Guardian |
[May 21, 1999]
Mark Scantling
Backpacker
Great lighweight tent. I got mine for a canoe trip on the Buffalo River in Arkansas last summer. My 15 year old son and I were quite comfortable. Similar Products Used: None |
[Jun 13, 1999]
Steve
Backpacker
The Zen is a great tent for one person and their gear. Two people if very friendly. First time I used it, it rained. Everything stayed dry. I am very happy with this tent. Can't beat it for the price. Easy to set up and take down. Customer Service Called Kelty service because my dog destroyed the manuals. They sent it right out. Similar Products Used: Have a Kelty Solitude sleeping bag. So far it has been very comfortable. My son loves his Kelty Clear Creek sleeping bag and his Kelty Tioga pack back. |
[Jul 12, 1999]
Rob
Backpacker
This tent rules! I got it on sale for about $90, and it is one of the better investments I have made. I've used it in the mountains of Virginia and Colorado, and it has performed flawlessly in heavy rain and wind. Anyone who tells you that Kelty gear is crap (and many of my colorado gear snob friends do) has probably never used this tent. They can have their 7lb Marmot for $350; I'll take the Kelty and save 2lbs and $260. Similar Products Used: I've slept in a Marmot Swallow. It was really nice, w/lots of features, but it is heavy and expensive |
[Jul 29, 1999]
Daniel
Backpacker
This tent is great. I am a Boy Scout and have used this tent for about a year. I have been to Philmont, and slept well every night of the 70 mile ling trek. I recommend this tent to anyone who backpacks and likes to be a minamalist. The best price I've seen for this tent is $120 from campmor which is still a good price compared to other companies. Similar Products Used: None |
[Sep 09, 1999]
a.alonzo
Backpacker
Very sturdy light weight tent .Can't say much,but you get what you pay. Customer Service none Similar Products Used: None |
[Sep 09, 1999]
Mick
Backpacker
I have caught in rain, snow, and severe wind while camping but never had to feel the elements in my Zen. It fits me and my overstuffed pack so comfortably that I might install a garage door opener and try to fit my IH Scout in with me. Similar Products Used: None |
[Sep 01, 1999]
Eric
Backpacker
I received my Zen as a present 2 years ago and have used it for many purposes; backpacking on the AT, bike touring, canoeing, BSA campouts, and this tent is the best. It's low weight (under 5 pounds) and ample room (room for one and gear or two in a squeeze) make it possibly the best non-freestanding tent ever! (on the bike tour there was even enough room to stuff our paniers, helmets, and other gear by our feet - WITH TWO PEOPLE!) I reccomend this tent to anyone and/or everyone. Customer Service I have had other Kelty products, none this good. Similar Products Used: None |
[Sep 10, 1999]
Webb Phillips
Backpacker
The coolest thing about this tent is that it is light. And cheap. The rain fly works well, although condensation forms on the inside of the tent during the night. Also, water tends to pool on top of the rain fly instead of sliding off, but this doesn't I've never used this tent in snow or cold weather -- the coldest was maybe 40 degrees -- and I don't think it is designed for such things. It's also mosquito-proof. BTW, I'm a mountain biker, not a Day Hiker, Car Camper, Backpacker, Climber, or Mountaineer, but I had to pick something... Similar Products Used: None |
[May 25, 2000]
Jim
Backpacker
The Zen is fantastic! I have an older model (1998) and was pleased with its performance in all weather. On one rainy (read frog strangler) trip I shared the tent with a friend and we stayed dry, although I did notice some condensation on the inside of the fly. Well in the pursuit on continous improvement I purchased the new fly (2000 version) with UVX windows AND best of all Kelty solved the condensation issue with a hooded vent (zippable) in the fly! I took a trip to Shining Rock NC this past weekend and during the night the frogs started to look for higher ground. It rained all night long! Woke up to cloudy but clearing skies and found no condensate at all. Best solo/2 man tent for the money. New fly is great One caveat: if you just upgrade the fly, you will have to swap the buckles with your old ones because Kelty changed the design and new and old are not compatible. Similar Products Used: None |