Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides
Why Duck Boots are Good for Hiking
The quest to find the perfect hiking shoes is never-ending, so the next option we’re going to explore is Duck Boots. Duck Boots have been around for more than 100 years and they’re used for all sorts of outdoor activities, so we can’t discount them as a hiking boot. Let’s dive in a little deeper into what duck boots are, and whether they’re an ideal choice for your next hike.
The legendary Maine-made L.L.Bean Boot was designed by “L.L.” himself in 1912 and has been keeping feet dry and comfortable ever since.
What are Duck Boots?
Duck Boots, also known as Bean Boots, were created by Leon Leonwood Bean, who founded the company L.L. Bean. Bean, who got sick of wet feet during hunting trips, wanted to create a boot that would keep his feet dry while still being ideal for the outdoors. He theorized mixing together two types of boot, combining the rubber sole of a work boot with the leather upper of a casual or hunting boot.
The rubber sole would provide all the necessary protection from the elements, while the leather upper would retain the flexibility and comfort of a regular leather boot. Thus, the Duck Boot was born and became a huge success. Other brands now produce this style of boot, but you can never forget the original waterproof boots.
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When choosing which hiking boots you should buy, Duck Boots should be considered for their weatherproof design.
What makes a good hiking shoe?
If you’re considering Duck Boots for use as a hiking shoe, you should first know what you’re looking for. There are so many elements to consider when searching for the perfect boot, as there is no one size fits all. Different shoes are optimized for different conditions, different situations you might encounter on the trail, so finding the right shoe isn’t an easy task.
Various terrains put different pressures on your shoes during hikes. This is why hiking boots are usually split into three main categories, each optimized for a different sort of hike. Lightweight hiking shoes (trail shoes), which resemble trainers, are essentially reinforced running shoes. They provide some support, but their main purpose is to be light and breathable while still protecting your foot.
These shoes are designed for day hikes, but they’re actually a favorite among long-distance backpackers. A sturdier shoe would provide more support, but trail shoes are a popular choice long-distance as they aren’t as heavy or constricting as other boots, while still providing enough protection to keep your feet safe and happy during a hike. The only downside of trail running shoes is their lack of ankle support, which leaves you at risk of twisted ankles and other injuries.
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On the other end of the scale are mountaineering boots, designed for terrains which present more of a challenge to traverse. If you’re hiking through rocky territory or icy glaciers, this type of boot provides all the necessary extra protection. They’re much more heavy-duty than hiking shoes, often warmer, water-resistant, abrasion-resistant, and provide much more support to your foot.
Backpacking boots make a compromise between the two, as they aim to keep you prepared for any terrain. For multi-day treks, this type of boot is ideal as it’s durable and supportive enough to carry you through most challenges in the backcountry.
The materials used to construct a hiking boot define it, as the wrong fabric can cause so much suffering for your feet. Finding the right combination of waterproofing and breathability, while still being a comfortable shoe, can present a challenge. That’s why we’re going to break down the material considerations you’ll need to remember when deciding is a shoe is right for hiking.
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Full-grain leather is a very durable and versatile material, so many mountaineering boots are made using this fabric. For rigorous hikes which pass through rough terrains, full-grain leather is fully protective while remaining very comfortable. It has excellent waterproof properties, as well as being warm and highly durable. However, in return for this protection, you have to deal with the increased weight of these heavy-duty boots.
You may have heard the saying “one pound on your feet equals five on your back” and this applies to full-grain leather boots. They may not feel too heavy when you try them on, but five miles down the trail you might find yourself wishing for a lighter shoe. Of course, over rough terrain, the valuable protection full-grain leather provides is well worth the weight, but you don’t need such a heavy shoe for casual hikes.
Split grain leather offers reduced protection, but is more breathable than full-grain leather. It’s still a durable material, but it’s less heavy-duty and has reduced water-resistant properties. It’s often used in combination with synthetic materials, creating a compromise between protection and comfort, and this combination is the most common choice for casual hikers.
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Various synthetic materials are used in the construction of hiking shoes, such as nylon and polyester. One benefit of synthetic materials is that they are much easier to break in than leather. These shoes feel lighter and also dry faster, but lack the water-resistant properties of leather. Of course, you can improve the water-resistance, but this can affect the breathability. Check out how to waterproof hiking boots for more information.
Different hiking boots are better suited for different terrains and it’s best to find a pair of boots that fits your adventure.
Also, depending on the type of trekking you do, hiking boots are available in different cuts and heights. Lightweight trail running shoes are often low cut, meaning they end below the ankle. This allows for a wider range of motion but leaves your ankle vulnerable to injury.
Shoes like this are best worn on well-maintained trails, where there’s less risk of trail debris and uneven terrain. Mid-cut boots offer more ankle support and better balance and protection, but the most protective style of boot is high-cut. These boots reinforce your ankle fully and are necessary for off-trail adventures.
Many hiking boots are equipped with devices that provide extra internal support, the purpose of which is to protect both your feet and the soles of your shoes on uneven terrain. One option is shanks, which are 3-5mm thick inserts sandwiched between the midsole and outsole of your boot. These add load-bearing stiffness to hiking boots, which is important to ensure you stay stable and balanced.
Shanks vary in length, some running the whole way down the boot, others just half-way. This feature makes the sole of a hiking boot less flexible, keeping your feet in a mostly flat position.
This may seem counterintuitive balance-wise, but a flexible sole allows your foot to wrap around every root and rock you step on, which can be painful, and tires you out much faster. Having a reinforced sole is a big benefit, but it could make your boot heavier; it all depends on the material the shank is made from.
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Some hiking boots feature plates as a form of internal support, which are thin and semi-flexible. These can be used in conjunction with shanks, and they protect your feet from getting bruised by anything you step on.
All hiking boots have rubber outsoles, the part of your boot which spends the most time in contact with the ground. Some have additives such as carbon, which increases the hardness of the material. This is most commonly seen in mountaineering boots for extra durability, but the extra harness of the outsole can mean they feel slick if you go off-trail.
Traction is very important in a hiking boot for obvious reasons, so make sure you get a boot with enough traction to keep you comfortable. If you’re constantly trying not to slip, the increased pressure on your muscles can be painful and even damaging, whereas a boot with a good grip will make your hike so much easier.
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So, what makes a good hiking shoe? The ideal footwear for hiking finds the right balance between comfort and protection, and this depends on your own personal hiking preferences. In general, you need a degree of protection from the elements, water resistance, comfort, and breathability. A good hiking boot should protect your foot without hindering your process, and if you make the right choice then your hikes will be so much better for it.
Duck Boots are well-known for their water resistance and ability to be easily cleaned, but are they the best hiking boot option?
Are Duck Boots good for hiking?
Duck boots are constructed using a rubber sole and lower shoe, whilst incorporating a full-grain leather upper. This means Duck Boots have excellent water resistance. Full-grain leather is highly waterproof, as is rubber, so with these shoes, you’ll never have to worry about wet feet.
Of course, Bean Boots claim to be the “original antidote to wet feet”, so water resistance is one thing we know they’re good for. A good hiking boot should always be water-resistant, as there’s a high chance of encountering puddles, streams, and other wet terrains when you’re on the trail. There’s also always the possibility of rain, so even if you step around the puddles, your boots always need to have a good degree of water resistance. If there’s one thing Duck Boots are, it’s waterproof.
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L.L. Bean’s Duck Boots use a steel shank for additional support, and this is a great feature for a potential hiking boot. Reducing the flexibility of the sole means more protection for your feet, so this feature of Duck Boots is a big benefit. Remember, this only applies to L.L. Bean’s branded Duck Boots, as there are many other boots of the same style available which might lack this additional internal support.
Duck Boots are known for being very comfortable. Boots are the number one most important piece of equipment for a hiker, and comfort is paramount. If your hiking boots are uncomfortable, it can make you hate every minute you wear them. On the other hand, finding a pair of boots that are comfortable for you is a big first step towards having the right shoe, so regarding comfort, Bean Boots get a pass from us.
Another benefit of Duck Boots is that they’re easy to clean. This isn’t as important as other factors, but after a long hike through muddy and dirty conditions, these boots only need a quick spray from a hosepipe and they’re clean and ready to go.
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We’ve covered the benefits of wearing Bean Boots for hiking, and there are a number of reasons you might think they’re a good choice. Duck Boots are highly waterproof, very comfortable, and feature shanks which are a big help towards stability. However, there are some elements of these shoes which might mean they aren’t the best choice for hiking.
While Duck Boots offer great water resistance, their ankle support is not the best which may deter some people from using them for longer hikes.
Why Duck Boots might not be the best choice
Ankle support is a big deal when it comes to hiking boots; as we explained before it can be the difference between a successful hike and a painful injury. Duck Boots are high cut, meaning they rise above your ankles. This means they do provide some support, but it’s minimal, and ideally, a hiking boot would offer more structure around the ankle. For hikers traversing rough terrain, more protection is needed, as if you miss a step in Duck Boots there isn’t much to save you from injury.
Another important thing to consider is traction. Duck boots are designed specifically to handle wet weather, and they do it very well. If you’re in wet, muddy, slushy or otherwise slippery conditions, Duck Boots are ideal, as they have plenty of traction and grip.
However, mud isn’t the only thing which hiking boots have to put up with. On the trails, the traction Bean Boots provides is considerably reduced compared to hiking boots, the difference is noticeable and unfortunately, the traction on the soles of Duck Boots just isn’t strong enough for any sort of serious hiking.
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The materials from which Duck Boots are made make them excellently waterproof. However, rubber and full-grain leather aren’t the most breathable of materials. Although they may do a good job of not letting in water from the outside, they also keep it in.
The lack of breathability here can be very uncomfortable, leading to hot and sweaty feet. This can cause blisters, and for this reason, we would not recommend them as a hiking shoe. All hikers need waterproof boots, but there are others available which won’t make you suffer.
Blisters are something which all hikers have to deal with at some point, but if your boots aren’t breathable then they’re much more likely and threaten to ruin your hike. The best hiking boots keep your feet dry while staying breathable and comfortable, so don’t make an exception here.
If you’re keen on mountaineering, then your hiking boots need to be crampon compatible, which Duck Boots are not. Crampons help with grip when scaling rocky terrain, so having a boot they work with is necessary for safety reasons.
We have no choice but to conclude that L.L. Bean’s Duck Boots are no good for hiking. Although they are comfortable and highly water-resistant, the lack of extra support and breathability means they aren’t the best hiking boot.
A boot specifically designed for hiking could offer the same level of comfort while giving you much more support on the trails. Hiking boots made from Gore-tex would provide the same level of excellent waterproofing while still maintaining breathability, so there are better options out there.
While Duck Boots may not be the best option for hiking, they are still a great overall winter boot.
What are Duck Boots good for?
Although we cannot avoid the conclusion that duck boots are no good for hiking, they’re still an excellent outdoor shoe. Bean Boots are ideal for making your way through snow and slush, so we do recommend this style as a general winter boot.
For any outdoor activity in cold weather, these shoes are ideal, as their warmth and waterproofing will keep your feet happy, while their traction is perfect for walking in the snow. Duck Boots are much closer to snow boots or rain boots than they are hiking, so for these weather conditions, we can whole-heartedly recommend these high-quality shoes.
Other branded duck boots
L.L. Bean was the original creator of the duck boot, but other brands have made their own version. Sperry offers a shoe called the Watertown Duck Boot, and its design is very similar to the original. Sperry’s version boasts a rubber lug outsole with no-slip traction, which could mean improved grip compared to L.L. Bean’s shoe. However, this is still not a hiking sole, so it’s not ideal for outdoor adventuring.
Final Verdict:
So, are Duck Boots good for hiking? The short answer; no. Although Duck Boots make an excellent winter boot, ideal for cold and wet weather, they just aren’t up to the same standard as hiking boots in other areas. The traction Bean Boots provide is optimized for wet conditions, such as snow and slush, but it’s simply not good enough for hiking in the backcountry.
The ankle support is admittedly better than trail running shoes, but more protection is needed if you do anything other than light and easy hikes. For your next hiking trip, Duck Boots aren’t the best choice, even though they’re comfy. If you’re still looking for an outdoor shoe, you might wonder, are Timberlands good for hiking? Read our article on the subject to find out if Timberlands might be the answer you’re looking for.
Bonus tip: To learn more about L.L. Bean’s original legendary boot, check out this interesting video we found below!
Do you want to make the most of your camping experience in Alaska? Camping is the best way to cherish the mesmerizing Alaskan scenery and be in proximity to Mother Nature with your friends and loved ones.
Are you wondering where to camp, where to go, and what items to pack for an Alaskan camping trip? This article has all the answers regarding camping in Alaska! Moreover, this place comprises a few amazing bewilderments that make it different than other camping locations.
If you’re ready to explore Alaska and be immersed in its camping, here are the top 4 tips for a seamless camping experience in Alaska.
- Be ready for the varying types of weather
The temperature of Alaska is unpredictable. Hence, if you’re camping in summer in blisteringly hot weather, it would be great to carry something waterproof and warm clothes. In your Alaska travel and camping, it’s required to carry your bibbed waterproof rain pants, raincoats, and hip boots.
This is how you don’t worry about the sudden rain and catch fish all day. Moreover, camping without a bathing suit doesn’t seem right! Camping and cruising go hand in hand; hence, a trip to Alaska will help you get the most out of your Alaska trip.
- Pick a campground mindfully
Although you are not mandated to stay at a campground run by the federal government if you wish to go tent camping, it may be the best bet if this is your initial camping trip. Establishing your individual camping place in the bush might feel more adventurous. Still, when camping with small children, you should remain closer to society in case a bear visits your campsite.
When you opt to lease a camping site, you must make your booking ahead because the more renowned campsites might fill up rapidly. Look on the internet for campgrounds near the events and routes you want to visit.
- You will have the option to relax or unwind
Although some corporate Alaska campers provide cable TV and Wi-Fi facilities, none of the federal campsites do. Whether you come here expecting to remain up to date on all the accouterments of technologies (or your beloved TV show), you may feel frustrated. But what if you treat your camping vacation as a time to relax and enjoy the unique stunning scenery surrounding you? It feels exciting.
- Keep the bears at bay
Bears are amazing animals, which doesn’t imply you should invite them with welcoming hands inside your camp. You must be capable of keeping bears away from your campground if you wish to enjoy the woods with them without causing mishaps. Below are a few suggestions:
- You can bypass bear highways by not camping along riverbanks or pathways.
- Do not even camp alone: for your safety, striving to remain close to others would be better.
These are the top 4 tips to enjoy camping in Alaska. What are you thinking of? Dive into the best experiences of camping, and cherish the moments forever. Happy camping!
Backpacking Gear Reviews & Guides
Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun Review/The Best Massage Gun for Sports Lovers
Massage guns have become popular in recent years as a way to help people relax and ease pain. They are especially popular among those who enjoy sports, as the massage guns can help to reduce muscle soreness after a workout resulting in faster recovery and improved performance.
Some other benefits associated with the use of massage guns include:
Increased blood flow– Massage guns can help to improve circulation by increasing blood flow, which helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the muscles. This is especially important for those who are involved in sports or exercise, as increased blood flow can help to repair damaged tissue faster.
Improved flexibility– Massage guns also help to improve flexibility by loosening tight muscles and tendons. This allows the body to move more freely, resulting in improved performance during physical activity.
Reduced stress– The massage gun can also help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Massaging the muscles helps to release endorphins, which are hormones that act as natural painkillers. By releasing these endorphins, people can feel less stressed and relaxed after using a massage gun.
Relieves pain– Massage guns are great for relieving pain and discomfort, as the vibration helps to loosen tight muscles and release tension. This can help to reduce pain caused by inflammation, arthritis, or other aches and pains.
Enhances performance– Massage guns can help to improve performance when it comes to physical activities, as they help to reduce muscle fatigue and soreness. This helps people perform better in their chosen sport or activity.
Why Choose the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun
It’s well known that massage guns are a great way to relieve tension and soreness after a long day or workout. But with so many different massage guns on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. In this Bob and Brad C2 Massage Gun Review, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of this popular massage gun to help you decide if it’s the right one for you.
If you are an athlete or just someone looking to soothe sore and aching muscles, the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun is an ideal choice. This powerful massage gun is designed to provide deep tissue relief through its variety of adjustable speed settings and interchangeable massage heads. The ergonomic design allows for comfortable use during longer sessions, and the lightweight body makes it easy to transport and store. With its powerful motor, the C2 Massage Gun is capable of providing up to 3200 revolutions per minute. With five different intensity levels, this strong force helps to penetrate deep into muscle fibers and provides effective relief from soreness and pain.
The Bob and Brad C2 Massage Gun is designed to help athletes and active individuals recover faster after strenuous activity. It provides a deep-tissue massage that can reduce soreness, improve flexibility, and increase the range of motion in the body. This massage gun also comes with four interchangeable heads for various massaging techniques including a flat head for larger muscle groups, a round head for deeper tissue work, a U-shape for joint relief, and a conical head for smaller areas like the neck or hands. With this variety of massage heads, the C2 helps to target specific areas of discomfort and provides customized relief.
Conclusion
Overall, the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and powerful massage gun that can provide effective relief from muscle soreness after exercise or long days. With its adjustable speed settings and interchangeable massage heads, it is sure to meet your needs. So if you’re an athlete or just someone looking to give their muscles some well-deserved love and attention, the Bob And Brad C2 Massage Gun is a great investment.
Your tent may be the most important piece of camping gear you pack in your backpack. It will keep you warm and protected from the elements after a long day on the trails. For backpacking, you’ll want to choose a lightweight tent, so we’ve put together our list of the 7 best lightweight tents for backpacking.
Best Lightweight Tents for Backpacking – Winners
Check out our quick recommendations here, or keep scrolling for detailed reviews:
- Best Overall Backpacking Tent: Nemo Dragonfly Ultralight Backpacking Tent
- Best Ultralight Backpacking Tent: Big Agnes Tiger Wall Ultra Light Tent
- Best 2-Person Budget Backpacking Tent: Nemo Dragonfly Ultralight Backpacking Tent 2-Person
- Best Winter Backpacking Tent: MSR Access Lightweight 4-Season Tent
- Best Budget Backpacking Tent: Marmot Crane Creek Backpacking
- Best Luxurious Backpacking Tent: MSR Mutha Hubba NX 3-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent with Xtreme Waterproof Coating
- Best 4-Person Backpacking Tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 4-Person Tent
Best Overall Backpacking Tent
1. Nemo Dragonfly Ultralight Backpacking Tent
Quick View Information
- 05 pounds
- 80” L x 50” W
- 1-person
The Nemo Dragonfly Ultralight is a waterproof, lightweight freestanding tent that is roomy, durable, and breathable. For a one-person tent, it has a spacious living area of 20.3 square feet. It has a nylon ripstop canopy that is waterproof and resistant to tears. The tent floor is also waterproof nylon, so you don’t have to worry about the moisture from the wet ground finding its way into your tent.
This solo tent also has plenty of storage on the inside for you to keep your belongings secure and off the ground or away from your living space. For privacy, there is a large white no-see-um mesh interior that will keep you protected from insects while also being breathable. It is also built with strut vents to release humidity from the tent during rain or storms.
It’s easy to set up with color-coded anodized poles that have matching webbing. You can easily set the tent up by yourself on your backpacking trip, and it’s freestanding, so you know it will stay in place once it’s erected.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Roomy and comfortable
- Lots of storage
- Waterproof and tear-proof 3-season tent
Cons
- Not recommended for cold weather
Best Ultralight Backpacking Tent
2. Big Agnes Tiger Wall Ultra Light Tent
Quick View Information
- 15 pounds
- 49” W x 86” L x 39” H
- 1-person capacity
The Big Agnes Tiger Wall Ultra Light 1-person tent is the best ultralight backpacking tent because it weighs just over one pound yet provides UV protection, waterproofing, and durability against all of the elements. When packed down, this solo tent only takes up 17” x 5.5” in your backpack.
It is designed with the Big Agnes Tiplok Buckle design, so it’s easy to set up yourself on your next camping trip. It comes with aluminum Featherlight poles and reflective lines on the tent fabric that make it easy to construct at night.
Just because it’s a one-person tent doesn’t mean it lacks features. It has plenty of storage in the inner tent, just like the Copper Spur model. It has a 3-D elevated storage bin with additional ceiling and door pockets for you to keep electronics and gear close by.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Provides UV protection and waterproofing
- Lots of storage
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not freestanding
Best 2-Person Budget Backpacking Tent
3. Nemo Dragonfly Ultralight Backpacking Tent 2-Person
Quick View Information
- 62 pounds
- 88” L x 50” W
- 2-person capacity
Like the 1-person model, the Nemo Dragonfly is a freestanding tent made from the same materials and has the same features, which makes it the best 2-person option on our list. It doesn’t lack any stability, storage, or functionality.
Because it’s a 2-person tent, it has more living area than the 1-person model. There is a total of 29 square feet of living space in the tent. It’s a 3-season tent, so it’s best for warm weather. It has two trapezoid-shaped vestibules that have multiple areas of dry storage.
Like the one-person option, setting up the tent is easy and can be done with one or two people.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Provides UV protection and waterproofing
- Lots of storage
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not freestanding
Best Winter Backpacking Tent
4. MSR Access Lightweight 4-Season Tent
Quick View Information
- 06 pounds
- 130” W x 84” L x 47” H
- 3-person capacity
The MSR Access Lightweight 4-season tent is the best winter backpacking tent because of how warm the tent will keep you during cold weather conditions. The tent has limited mesh to ensure that heat stays inside the tent and doesn’t escape. Plus, it has Easton Syclone hubbed poles that are resistant to breaking during cold conditions.
The canopy of the tent is made of Xtreme Shield waterproof coating. This is great for all types of precipitation, including snow, sleet, and rain.
While it’s ideal for cold weather, the MSR 4-person hiking tent can also be used in warm weather. One of the best features of this MSR 4-person tent is the rainfly vents. These vents reduce condensation from forming within the tent during warm weather or thunderstorms.
Pros
- Recommended for all seasons
- Large living area of 41 square feet
- 3-year warranty
- Waterproof and lightweight
Cons
- Not freestanding
Best Budget Backpacking Tent
5. Marmot Crane Creek Backpacking
Quick View Information
- 8 pounds
- 88” L x 50” W x 43” H
- 2-person capacity
The Marmot Crane Creek is the best 2-person backpacking tent if you’re a backpacker
on a budget. If you’re looking for a 2-person tent that won’t break the bank and doesn’t lack any features, then you should consider this option from Marmot.
It has 30 square feet of tent floor space with two large D-shaped doors. Inside, there are two overhead vestibules for quick and functional storage. The canopy is fully waterproof yet breathable during those warm months. It’s a freestanding tent and has a rain fly and stakeouts that make it easy for one person to set up by themselves.
Pros
- Freestanding
- Affordable
- Ample storage
- Waterproof and lightweight
Cons
- Slightly heavy at nearly 5 pounds
Best Luxurious Backpacking Tent
6. MSR Mutha Hubba NX 3-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent with Xtreme Waterproof Coating
Quick View Information
- 3 pounds
- 144” L x 68” W x 44” H
- 3-person capacity
MSR makes top-rated tents, and the Mutha Hubba NX 3-person tent is at the top of the list. It is a 3-person, 3-season freestanding tent that uses Easton Syclone poles for reinforcement, especially during cold weather conditions. The canopy is made out of Xtreme Shield Waterproofing that will last three times as long as standard waterproof materials.
For features, the MSR Mutha Hubba NX has a rainfly system, two storage vestibules, and a compression stuff sack for easy packaging and storing.
Once set up, the freestanding tent provides 39 square feet of tent floor space plus 14 square feet of storage vestibule area. It is an extremely durable, waterproof backpacking tent that will only take up 21” x 7” in your backpack.
Pros
- Freestanding
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Strong poles and structure
Cons
- Pricey
Best 4-Person Backpacking Tent
7. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 4-Person Tent
Quick View Information
- 5 pounds
- 146” W x 96” L x 50” H
- 4-person capacity
The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL is a 4-person freestanding tent with 41 square feet of living space. It is designed with various storage compartments that make it convenient and practical. There is a 3-D storage bin at the foot of the tent that provides storage off the ground. There are media pockets within the tent that are designed so you can route your cords accordingly as they charge.
The tent is designed to be set up quickly and easily by just one person using the Tiplok Buckle technology. The Tiplok Buckle combines three functions into one. It keeps the tent secure, holds the rainfly attachment piece, and keeps the tent grounded with the stakeout loop.
The tent is made of ultralight nylon that is rip-proof and has a polyurethane waterproof coating. When the tent is packed, it takes up 19.5” x 6” in your backpack.
Pros
- Large living space
- Waterproof and rip-proof
- Easy to set up
- Lots of storage
Cons
- Heavy
The Best Backpacking Tent Buying Guide
Each backpacking tent feature is important, and what’s important to you may not be as important to someone else. So, you’ll need to ask yourself what features you want most when selecting a backpacking tent for your next camping trip.
Backpacking Tent Weight
You’ll have a lot of gear in your backpack, and your tent will be the one piece of gear that will weigh the most, but that doesn’t mean you need to choose the lightest tent you find. Some lightweight tents are inexpensive but made of cheap material that can rip, unravel, and leak.
While our list includes 7 of the best lightweight tents for backpacking, there are options on the list that are more lightweight than others.
The lightest option on our list is the Big Agnes Tiger Wall Ultra Light Tent. It comes in at weighing just 1.15 pounds. It’s not a freestanding tent which means it is vulnerable to strong winds and weather.
The heaviest option on our list is the MSR Access Lightweight 4-Season Tent, but that’s because it’s a 3-person tent that’s rated for all 4 seasons because of the heavy-duty Xtreme Shield waterproofing exterior. It weighs over 5 pounds, but it will keep you warm in the coldest conditions.
When it comes to the weight of the backpacking tent, you’ll need to put heavy consideration into the time of year that you’ll be backpacking. If you are only backpacking during warmer months or 3 seasons, you can get by with a lighter backpacking tent. However, if you plan to backpack during winter or cold conditions, you’ll want to choose a heavier tent that will keep you warm during those times.
You’ll also need to consider how many occupants will be occupying the tent. A tent made for one person will use less material than a tent made for three or four occupants.
Price and Value
A good quality lightweight backpacking tent can be pricy, but there’s often a good reason behind the price tag. This applies to both affordable tents and expensive tents.
A backpacking tent with a hefty price tag usually means the tent is made of quality materials that make it waterproof, tear-proof, and warm. They also may be UV resistant and keep out moisture while also being breathable.
Affordable backpacking tents often lack this quality. They are often more lightweight, with less protection from the elements. They may have various features like storage bins and a rainfly, but their overall quality may be lacking compared to more expensive options.
Looking at the backpacking tents on our list, the most affordable option is the Marmot Crane Creek backpacking tent. It is less than $150 for a 2-person tent, but it is only best in 3 seasons or warm weather because it lacks insulation and shielding from cold weather.
The most expensive option on our list is the MSR 4-Season Access Lightweight tent because of its durability to stand up against cold weather. It provides warmth, stability, and waterproofing against all the elements. While it provides all the protection you’ll need while backpacking, it costs just under $700.
Interior Space
You’ll want to consider the interior space of the backpacking tent, especially if more than one person will be occupying the tent.
Interior space includes the living space or tent floor space of the backpacking tent, but there may be storage vestibules inside the tent body that are also calculated to make up the total square footage of interior space.
Don’t get the floor space or sleeping space measurements confused with the total square footage of the tent. You may think you are purchasing a tent with a large sleeping area because of the square footage amount when that total may include storage vestibules in the tent’s design.
A tent with a large interior space will use more material and longer poles, subsequently causing the tent to weigh more. If the weight of the tent is a priority, then you will need to consider how much interior space the tent has. Otherwise, you may inadvertently choose a tent with ample interior space but weighs heavier than you prefer.
Durability
What type of conditions will you be backpacking in? Are you hard on your gear, no matter what it is? These are questions you’ll need to ask yourself when considering which lightweight tent to choose.
The tent can be as durable as you need. In other words, you don’t have to choose the most durable or heavyweight tent if you don’t plan to backpack in harsh conditions where you need as much protection as possible.
Tent durability will come from the materials that are used to make the tent. This includes the poles and stakeouts. If you know you’ll be backpacking in only clear, warm weather, then a lighter option tent should provide plenty of durability and protection. Choosing a lighter option tent will often save you room and weight in your backpack as well.
If you know you’ll be hiking in colder or harsher conditions, or if you know that you are hard on your gear, you’ll want to choose a more heavy-duty option. While this may cost more upfront, it will save you money in the long run as you won’t have to replace your gear as often. You should choose a tent that is not only waterproof, but that is also tear-proof. This will significantly reduce the chance that you ruin your gear.
How the tent is set up will also play a part in its durability. Tents that use stronger poles, stakeouts, and other reinforcements will help your tent withstand windy or rainy conditions, so keep this in mind if you plan to hike in all weather conditions.
Weather Protection
Along the same lines of durability and weight comes weather protection. Weather protection comes in various forms. This includes UV protection, waterproofing, breathability, and thermal resistance.
All the tents on our list offer some form of weather protection. They are all waterproof, but some of them are also tear-proof. This is a great feature to consider if you are hard on your gear or think you will backpack in cold or harsh weather.
You should also consider a backpacking tent that has a rainfly. A rainfly is a part of the tent that is waterproof and will protect the tent from being exposed to the elements. In addition to waterproofing, a rainfly will also provide warmth during cold conditions.
Ventilation
A tent with a good ventilation system will lower humidity and reduce condensation within the tent. You will need a tent with a good ventilation system if you will be backpacking in warm weather or rainy conditions. Both warm weather and rainy conditions will significantly increase the chance of humidity becoming trapped within the tent if there is no ventilation system.
If your tent has a rainfly, you will want to roll the rainfly back to increase ventilation within the tent. While a rainfly is ideal for rainy conditions, it can easily trap moisture inside the tent. When it’s not raining, you will want to roll the rainfly back so that your tent is ventilated, and moisture doesn’t become trapped inside.
Ultralight backpacking tents are usually the most ventilated because they are made of lightweight materials and designed with a mesh liner.
The best backpacking tent for ventilation is the Big Agnes Tiger Wall Ultralight Tent. You can choose between a one-person, two-person, or three-person capacity. It is designed with low vents on the vestibule doors that create airflow from the bottom of the tent.
Double sliders on the vestibule zippers can zip from the top or bottom, increasing the ventilation through the vestibules.
Storage
There are two primary types of storage that backpacking tents offer: elevated storage bins and vestibules. Both of these are important storage features to consider when choosing a lightweight backpacking tent.
Elevated Storage Bins
These are exactly what they sound like. They are storage bins that are elevated off the ground and keep items or gear dry that need to stay dry. You can use elevated storage bins to store various gear like cell phones, flashlights, compasses, and other hiking gear that need to stay safe from the elements.
Elevated storage bins are usually built onto the interior wall of the tent. They are often located in the vestibule of the tent if the tent has vestibules. If not, they will be located in the living area of the tent.
Vestibules
Vestibules are another type of storage area in the tent. This is where you will store your boots, bibs, jackets, or other clothing that you need to keep nearby but out of the way from your living space. Backpacking tents often have two vestibules: one on each side of the living area.
Having two vestibules is ideal if you have more than one occupant. This allows you to have one vestibule and the other person to have the other vestibule. It is easier to keep each occupant’s gear and equipment separate from one another when there are two vestibules.
Doors
Like vestibules, you may want to consider a lightweight tent that has two doors. This will give each of you individual access to the tent without having to share one door.
Most of the backpacking tents on our list have two doors except for the one-person options. Just keep in mind that when you choose a backpacking tent with more than one door, you will add extra weight to your backpack.
Set-Up and Take Down
There’s a variety of terms you need to familiarize yourself with that relate to setting up and taking down your backpacking tent. Two of those terms are freestanding and non-freestanding, and we will discuss those two terms in detail a little bit later.
Your tent will include poles, pole hubs, and a canopy. It may also include a rainfly that you can place over the tent at either the top or at the entrance of the tent.
Poles and Pole Hubs
The poles of the tent are what will keep the tent upright and erected. They are often made of featherlight aluminum or fiberglass. The tent poles may be telescopic or folded down for easy storage.
The poles may have color-coding as well to help you know which tent corner goes with which pole or pole hub.
Pole hubs are one central location where multiple poles will connect. Pole hubs make setting up and taking down the tent extremely easy.
Canopy
The canopy is the actual tent fabric that will protect you from the elements. The canopy will attach to the poles of the tent and may be secured using pole clips if necessary.
Rainfly
You can also attach a rainfly to your tent to help reduce moisture from becoming trapped inside the tent. If you are attaching a rainfly to the top of your tent, make sure you leave a little space between the vent at the top of the tent and the rainfly itself. Also, keep the rainfly pulled tightly so that the rain easily rolls off the rainfly and stays out of your tent.
You can also attach a rainfly above the door of your tent to keep you dry when you go in and out of the tent. The rainfly is easy to attach, but it will add a little extra time when setting up and taking down your tent.
Freestanding and Non-Freestanding Tents
A freestanding tent does not require stakes with guylines to keep the tent secure. Most of the options on our list are freestanding tents because they are perfect for backpacking. While backpacking, you may be limited to the type of terrain you need to set up camp. Having a freestanding tent makes it easy to set up your tent virtually anywhere.
Because freestanding tents don’t require stakes and guylines to keep the tent in place, they come with heavy poles that will keep the tent grounded during wind, rain, or snow. While this makes it easy to set up the tent and move it to another location, it also adds weight to your backpack.
Tent Poles and Stakes
As mentioned above, tent poles are the part of the backpacking tent that will keep the tent secure when it’s erected.
Stakes are what the guylines of the tent or rainfly will attach to. If you’re using a non-freestanding tent, then the tent will include stakes and guylines to keep the tent securely in the ground.
Tents that use stakes to keep the tent in place will take a little longer to set up. You’ll also be limited on where you can set up your tent when using tent stakes for your non-freestanding tent. You will need to find an area while backpacking that the tent stakes can easily secure to, such as soft and level ground.
If you prefer a lightweight tent and don’t mind taking a little extra time to stake your tent into the ground, you should choose the Big Agnes Tiger Wall Ultra Light Tent. It’s non-freestanding and uses tent stakes to secure the tent into the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a 3-season tent and a 4-season tent?
A 3-season tent is only recommended for use in three seasons (spring, summer, and fall). Three-season tents aren’t recommended for winter or cold weather because they aren’t made of thermal-resistant material that will hold in the warmth the way 4-season tents do.
A 4-season tent can be used in all seasons but especially in winter or cold conditions. Four-season tents can also withstand wintry precipitation while keeping you warm.
What tent material is the best?
The tents on our list are nylon or polyester. Nylon offers great UV protection but not as much waterproofing, warmth, or durability. At a side-by-side glance, nylon is the tougher of the two materials. Ripstop tents are also made of nylon which is what makes them resistant to rips and tears.
When choosing an affordable tent, it will likely be made of polyester, so keep this in mind if you consider price over quality or durability.
Do I need a waterproof tent?
A waterproof tent is always a good idea, even if you don’t plan to backpack in the rain. (Who really plans to backpack in the rain anyway?) A waterproof tent will keep you dry and warm during those times when rain may be unavoidable.
Most of the tents on our list are waterproof. It’s extremely common in tent materials that it has become almost a standard feature on backpacking tents. However, if you know that you want to be protected from precipitation while in your camping tent, you’ll want to make sure your tent is waterproof.
Tent vs bivy sack? Which is the best?
We have already covered various tent options for two people or a solo hiker, but some people may want to learn more about the bivy sack if they aren’t interested in putting a tent up on their camping trip.
A bivy sack is often compared to a light rain shell jacket. It is like a sleeping bag but offers more warmth and holds more heat than a camping tent. It is considered a minimalist shelter option often used by backpackers, hikers, and mountain climbers. The main difference is the bivy sack is used primarily for sleep while a tent, if big enough, can be used for other activities.
Final Thoughts
A lightweight tent for backpacking is important because it will limit the amount of weight you add to your pack, which will help you save your back while hiking the trails.
Just because a camping tent is lightweight doesn’t mean it is cheaply made. There are many backpacking tents on our list that are affordable but durable. That’s why it’s important to ask yourself during what seasons and what weather conditions you will be backpacking.
If you know you’ll be backpacking in the winter, you’ll need to choose a 4-seasons camping tent so that you stay as warm and as dry as possible. While this may cost a little more upfront and be slightly heavier than some other options, you won’t have to worry about freezing at night during cold conditions.
At the same time, if you will be backpacking in the summer or warm weather, you’ll want to choose a breathable, lightweight tent so that moisture from humidity doesn’t get trapped in the tent.
Finally, keep in mind that a tent with two, three, or four-person occupancy will take up more room in your backpack. If space in your backpack is limited, you may want to choose a tent with smaller interior space as opposed to a tent with large interior space.
More interior space means more materials, and more materials typically mean more weight. If the interior space and weight of the tent are at the top of your list, you should consider choosing a smaller tent with an ultralight design.
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