What To Look For
Winter tents are a genre unto themselves, since they are tents specifically designed to withstand the intense weather conditions of the harshest winters. Thus, the best winter tents will be those of the highest quality with the greatest protection from the elements. Look for tents that have a full-coverage rain fly, steep sidewalls to protect snow and rain from seeping in the sides of the tent, and at least four aluminum poles with optional free-standing construction.
Common Pitfalls
While it may seem that the term "the bigger the better" applies to winter tents, this is a faulty preconception. The larger the tent, the more capacity there will be for cold air within and, more importantly, the less stability it will have. Always look for a small, sleek, compact tent with an aerodynamic shape that will easily shed snow, ice and water.
Where To Buy
The best place to buy a winter tent is at a sporting goods store such as REI and Dick's Sporting Goods, where you will find informed sales associates who can help assess your needs and find the right tent for you. If you are looking for the best deal and have already established the type of tent you want, you can go online to discount sellers such as ebay and amazon and find your tent at a better price.
Cost
The best winter tents (as of September 2010) can cost anywhere from $300 to $700. Any less than this, and you should question the quality of the tent and its ability to withstand harsh winter conditions.
Member Comments