This was, and remains one of the most versatile mountaineering class tents ever designed. While the design elements are now a bit dated, from a performance/utility standpoint, it still competes well with the current crop of elite single wall mountaineering tents. Two doors, removable vestibule, excellent ventilation, very strong 3 layer waterproof breathable tex fabric, internal pole sleeves, bomber internal and external guy out points, very rugged overall design at a relatively light weight. Out performs the Eldorado/Fitzroy (ventilation is unsurpased). I have not had any issue with the zippers on the tent, but then I lubricate them and always draw my finger along the track as I zip it up. This is a tent you can take on any trip anywhere, any time (not that you would choose this tent over an ultralight for summer-time backpacking. The tent can be fully erected from staking to entry in less than two mins. It is a very rare tent. If you can find one, buy it. Its a piece of elite tent design history. I give it 4 stars only because its an older tent with some basic design elements that are fully functional but are now a bit dated. But for its day, it was a milestone in tent design.

Customer Service

Sierra Designs customer service has always been extremely helpful.

Similar Products Used:

Bibler Eldorado, Mountain Hardwear EV2, Nemo Tenshi, Sierra Designs Convert2.

I have to disagree with the prior review of this tent. I picked mine up used (the only way to get them anymore - SD is not making this model anymore) and would suggest that anyone who can do the same. The tent sets up as easily as any other single wall tent, i.e. two long intersecting internal poles - make sure you have them seated in the rear corner pockets before putting them under tension and inserting into the front pockets. The tent has two top vents (both with nylon and mest covers) front and back. Small poles inserted along the vent edges hold them open, and it takes a few trys to figure out how to attach the open end - but just a few trys. Not the best engineering in the world, but not the worst either, and the vents work well. It also has floor level vents at the rear corners. In other words, lots of versatility on vents. The vestibule is easily attached and is large enough to cook in. Side tie out cords add to inside space and add stability.

I have a Marmot single wall as well, and give the SD a slight edge.

Customer Service

I called them to say I was buying one of their discontinued tents used (how is that for being disconnected with current sales) and still the sales rep went thru their old catalogs and faxed me the pages. What more could you ask for?

Similar Products Used:

Marmot Asylum

Once you get this thing set up, it works ok. However, beware of the following; very expensive($699), although I paid $299, and you can probably find them at this price since SD no longer makes them; the two small poles used to provide ventilation are very difficult to insert, I broke one installing it; the zippers catch CONSTANTLY, and are virtualy impossible to unsnag without tearing the material, you will get condensation if you don't use the ventilation system properly; the first time I used it, I punched a hole in the floor of the tent, requiring a return to the manufacturer; 'nuf said? Don't buy this tent,unless you want mine - I'm replacing it witha Stephenson!

Customer Service

Customer service is excellent. I have had to return this thing 4! times, and there has never been a charge. Fortunately, I live nearby.

Similar Products Used:

other SD, Moonstone bivy.