Marmot Ajax 2 Reviews – Trailspace
Setup was quite simple. Pros
- Even in windy situations, it is quite simple to put up. Good inside space, genuinely comfortable for two persons with enough of headroom, at least for someone as tall as I am (6’2″). Can go out of the house at night without having to crawl over your companion
- When it is pouring, it is possible to escape without allowing the entire rainstorm in
- The stakes are, in my opinion, the weakest part. When attempting to pound into hard ground, bend as little as possible. Taken some old x-body aluminum stakes from an old Sierra Designs vehicle and used them? for my four most important points
Instead of sleeves, the hubs and pole clips provide for a simple setup. Even in moderate winds, it is simple and can be completed by one person. Even with very rudimentary practice, you can knock out 3-5 minutes. There are no difficulties with stability. Even after a couple of days of rain, the roof does not leak. You don’t hear any hammering on the raincover, which results in drip, drip, drip on your nose in the wee hours of the morning. Ventilation might be improved; the rainfly descends near to the ground, which is beneficial in windy weather but not so beneficial in the heat.
- When you get up in the morning, you should be cheerful.
- There are only two pairs of boots and nothing else.
- It’s fine to be overweight.
- My hiking has been reduced in recent years due to a bad hip.
Best Tents for Backpacking
Having the ability to embark on a journey while being able to carry all you require on your back is a wonderful feeling. Finding a tent that can withstand the elements, is spacious, and is dry enough may make all the difference in the world in these conditions. Whether you’re hiking, trekking, or globetrotting, having a lightweight, high-quality tent makes life a whole lot simpler for everyone. When it comes to hiking tents, there are a variety of alternatives to choose from. We’ve compiled a list of what we believe are some of the best backpacking tents available on the market.
Best Backpacking Tents
- The Nemo Dagger Ultralight Tent is the best overall choice. Among the best lightweight tents are the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Tent, the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Tent, and the Eureka! MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Tent. Mountain Pass Tent– the best all-season tent
- Kelty Dirt Motel Lightweight Tent– the best all-season tent for those on a tight budget
- Mountain Pass Tent– the best all-season tent for those on a tight budget Tent for two people by Sierra Designs, the Meteor, which is the best tent for stargazing. The Marmot Ajax 2 Tent is the best storm-proof tent available.
1. Nemo Dagger Ultralight Tent
The best overall tent specifications are: 2 people / 3 seasons. Fabric: ripstop nylon of superior quality 31.3 square feet of floor space Weight: 1.75 kg Specifications: Full rain fly, 2 doors and 2 vestibules, Divvy dual-stage stuff sack, and a Lifetime Limited Warranty. Very lightweight, spacious design (really built for two), Divvy dual-stage stuff sack, all of which are positive attributes (for splitting the load into two), Doors and vestibules are fully adjustable and can be customized in a variety of ways, including: Excellent weatherability, and a corporation that is environmentally concerned.
- There is no footprint included with this item (which would solve floor leakage issue) Characteristics: Because of its unique design, this tent can easily shelter two persons at once.
- Pre-bent poles are one feature that allows for more vertical walls, headroom, and sitting-up area than is otherwise possible.
- It is also great for sharing because of the two entrances and vestibules; each individual has his or her own space for gear as well as a separate entrance and exit.
- It’s always preferable not to have to do that.
We actively study and employ environmentally friendly materials, such as our waterproofing chemicals, and we strive to minimize waste in all phases of tent manufacture. We are committed to protecting the environment.
2. MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Tent
The Best Backpacking Tent for Lightweight Travel Specifications: 2 people / 3 seasons Quality 30D nylon ripstop is used for this project. Floor area: 29 square feet Weight: 3 lbs 14 ounces Features include a full rainfly, two doors and two vestibules, as well as a three-year guaranteed warranty. Pros: Lightweight, spacious design, excellent weatherproofing, and a low price (waterproofing and strong wind resistance), Extremely long-lasting, A compartment in the ceiling that serves as a flashlight defuser, as well as adequate air vents Disadvantages: You will need to conduct your own seam sealing, and the footprint will not be provided.
- It is also wind resistant.
- Another convenient feature is that the two vestibules may be rolled up to provide additional space on starry evenings or in hotter weather.
- If you are familiar with the business that manufactures the tent, Mountain Safety Research (more popularly known as MSR), you will be aware that they produce high-quality tents.
- There are a plethora of knockoffs that are manufactured in China and Vietnam, but I can assure you that they are not the genuine article.
- The simplest method to tell if you have the genuine article is to check whether or not MSR will provide you with a full 3-year guarantee.
3. Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Tent
The Best Ultra-Lightweight Backpacking Tent on the Market Specifications: 2 people / 3 seasons Fabric: Ultralight ripstop nylon with a matte finish (waterproof PU coating) Floor space: 28 square feet Weight: 2 lbs 8 ounces Features include a full rain fly, two entrances and two vestibules, single-pole design, and the ability to expand the size to accommodate three people. Cons: Very lightweight, excellent ventilation design, simple setup with a single pole, and no assembly required Construction that is both durable and functional, media compartments with cable routing options, Increased useable area in the tent corners (also known as “foot-end corners”).
Features to Note: The’single-pole design’ is worth emphasizing since it simplifies and streamlines the setup process, making it practically a no-brainer.
As much as we like the lightweight and straightforward setup, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, the tent material is quite thin, which does not bode well for colder weather or the possibility of an unintentional rupture. That being said, if you are a committed thru-hiker who prefers to camp during the warmer months, this is the guide for you.
4. Eureka! Mountain Pass Tent
The Best Ultra-Lightweight Backpacking Tent on the Market Specifications: 2 people / 4 seasons Fabric: Taffeta polyester that is water resistant. Floor space: 32 square feet Weight: 5 lbs 9 ounces The following features are included: a full rain fly, two doors, and two vestibules. This includes the footprint. Upgradeable to a three-person capacity; Limited Warranty Advantages: Because it was designed for four seasons, it is quite durable. Ventilation system with a high and low vent, Excellent rainfly that is genuinely waterproof.
- Special characteristics include: While the Eureka Mountain Pass 4 is a very high-quality 4-season shelter, it is also constructed to be used in all four seasons, unlike other tents that advertise themselves as 4-season but are not.
- If winter is still a long way off, you can even leave these panels at home before heading out on your adventure.
- Of course, like with the majority of Eureka!
- The materials used to construct this tent are of good quality and will last for several years if properly maintained.
- The sole disadvantage is that it is bulkier and heavier than some of its competitors, which may be the only drawback.
5. Kelty Dirt Motel Lightweight Tent
The Best Backpacking Tent on a Budget Specifications: 2 people / 3 seasons Fiber Content: Siliconized rip-stop nylon (40 denier). Floor space: 28 square feet 3 lbs. in weight Features include a full rain fly, two doors, and two vestibules, as well as a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Pros: Lightweight, affordable pricing, spacious, large vestibules, high quality lightweight poles, water-resistant, and easy to assemble. The stuff sack with a shark mouth makes packing up a breeze. Cons: There is no gear loft, and the footprint must be purchased individually.
The guy lines are constructed of reflective material, which makes them more visible at night and reduces the likelihood of tripping over them.
The Kelty brand is also not a low-cost tent manufacturer either.
However, the negative is that the breathability will make things a little colder if you’re camping in the mountains on a cool fall night during the fall season. However, considering the price, it is difficult to find a better deal.
6. Sierra Designs Meteor 2 Person Tent
Most Comfortable Backpacking Tent for StargazingSpecifications: 2 people / 3 seasons Poly Taffeta is the fabric of choice. Floor space: 29.8 square feetWeight: 4 pounds and 8 ounces Features include: a full rain fly, two doors and two vestibules, a fast two-pole setup, and a Limited Lifetime Warranty on the frame. Pros: Reasonably priced, good mid-range quality tent, and easy set-up. Spacious, simple to assemble and disassemble, and easy to store Cons: They are heavier and of worse quality than other stakes.
It includes a spacious vestibule, which allows you to get all of your stuff inside the tent without having to worry about your gear taking up valuable interior space.
7. Marmot Ajax 2 Tent
What Is the Best Storm-Proof Backpacking Tent? Specifications: 2 people / 3 seasons Polyester is the fabric used. Floor space is 36 square feet. Weight: 5 lbs 5 ounces The following features are included: a full rain fly, a water-resistant floor, two doors, two vestibules, and press-fit poles (increased durability) Pros: Reasonably priced, water-resistant floor, spacious, lightweight, and of high quality poles. Cons: There aren’t many more features, and it’s a little heavier. Special characteristics include: It’s possible that this Marmot tent is the most underappreciated of the entire list.
This tent has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers around.
Stronger tents, often built of thicker material, are more durable and better suited for use in severe weather conditions than lighter tents.
Do you want to place a wager?
How to Find the Best Backpacking Tent?
It makes little difference whether you’re hiking out into the mountains on a trekking expedition, bushcrafting in a forest, or embarking on an indefinite backpacking journey in a foreign place; the most crucial characteristics you’ll be searching for in a nice tent will be more or less the same. These elements are as follows: It makes little difference whether you’re hiking out into the mountains on a trekking expedition, bushcrafting in a forest, or embarking on an endless backpacking journey in a foreign place; the most crucial characteristics of a decent tent will be the same no matter where you’re going.
Tent Cost
In what follows, we’ll go through some of our favorite 2-person backpacking tents, as well as what makes them stand out among the vast sea of tents available on the market today for outdoor camping. For this reason, we have concentrated our efforts on high-quality tents that will protect you from the elements and, if properly cared for, will last you for many years in the field. The tents provided here are trustworthy and adaptable, and they satisfy the five essential requirements listed above.
It follows that you will be spending more for your tent when compared to the low-cost alternatives, but that you will get the benefits in both the short and long term. In this case, the final aspect to evaluate is the price.
You Dont Want A Cheap Tent
Another way of putting it is that when you purchase a high-quality tent, you are making an investment in a pleasant, dry, and comfortable night’s sleep. Sleep is not only a need when hiking or traveling, but it is also a pleasure when doing so. It is likely that you have experienced what is being discussed here if you have ever camped out in a very inexpensive tent in the pouring freezing rain and attempted to sleep in it. There may be some recollections of a time when the rain fly blew off or the main tent zipper broke and all of the hungry mosquitoes in the woods were given the VIP treatment and let into the tent with you.
Regardless, both will almost certainly keep you awake at night.
Tent Space When Camping for Two
The focus of the tents we’ve mentioned and displayed below is on a two-person tent size, which can be suitable for a group of two and certainly sufficient for a lone trekker or traveler. In contrast, if you are traveling with a companion and are planning a longer voyage where you will be spending several nights in your humble tent domicile, you may want to consider upgrading to a three-person tent if weight and packing space are not a concern for you both. Some of the tents detailed in the following sections are also available in a three-person configuration, which we will note in the’specs’ section where relevant.
The good news is that some of the tents listed below are specifically built to take advantage of wasted space, transforming what was formerly a cramped two-person room into a spacious and welcoming environment.
Especially if it’s going to be a long one, you might want to consider going one size higher, assuming that a little additional weight won’t be an issue.
Increasing your Tent’s Lifespan and Durability
If you are purchasing a tent with the intention of using it for many years to come, there are a few basic things that you can do to ensure that it lasts as long as possible while still providing optimal performance and quality.
1. Using a tarp for extra shelter and protection
In the event that you want to camp out in your tent for several nights at a time and are not bothered about a little additional weight or a little extra time for setup, erecting an awning above your tent and camp site is highly advised. A nice tarp doesn’t have to be expensive, and it will serve as an excellent additional layer of protection between you and the weather. After all, you’ve just invested in a high-quality waterproof tent, so why would you need to do anything else? For starters, your tent will be subjected to intense ultraviolet radiation from the sun (much more so if you are at higher elevations), which will destroy the waterproofing material of your rain fly over time.
In addition, a tarp may enhance the amount of covered area outside your tent and make it easier to get in and out of your tent during downpours.
Setting up a tarp in the open where there are no standing trees would, of course, need a bit more imagination and time, but it will be well worth the effort.
2. Check that the tent seams are sealed properly
Examine and caulk the seams of your tent to ensure that they are completely waterproof. This will further improve the waterproofing properties of your tent, allowing you to stay dry even during heavy rainstorms. Many tent manufacturers will seal the seams for you, but this isn’t always the case in practice. In addition, if your tent begins to show signs of wear after several years of usage, you may need to re-seal the seams of the tent. There are a variety of sealing materials available on the market, and the process is often straightforward and straightforward.
3. Dry your tent out
In order to minimize mold concerns, make sure to properly dry out your tent before storing it for extended periods of time. The smell of mold in a tent is typically unpleasant, and airing it out will not necessarily eliminate the problem if the mold has already taken hold. Mold can also cause long-term damage to a tent, particularly to parts that are glued together rather than sewn together, according to the manufacturer.
4. Set it up properly, using guy lines
During the process of erecting your tent, exercise caution and consideration to avoid bending poles in the incorrect direction or pulling on the tent too hard, which might cause it to rip. Whenever you are building up your tent in stormy weather, or while you are using the tent in generally inclement weather, always utilize the guy lines and double-check that your tent is set up correctly. It is possible that if you do not do this, your tent will blow away in high winds when you are not present to weigh it down.
Takeaway
Keeping the five considerations that we discussed in mind will ensure that you don’t make a mistake while selecting a hiking tent. There are a plethora of tents available that will meet your needs. Wishing you the best of luck!
How to Choose a Backpacking Tent
It should be noted that Man Makes Fire is a reader-supported project. When you make a purchase via one of our retail links, we may receive an affiliate commission, which enables us to pay for our work. Find out more. How to buy the finest backpacking tent in 2016 appears to be straightforward—that is, until you try to set up your tent in the middle of a thunderstorm on the side of a mountain in the middle of the night. The decisions you make today will have an impact on your future. According to many first-time trekkers, if you select the incorrect tent, you will have to put up with it for several years before you can afford to upgrade to a better one.
Learn how to do it properly the first time by following these steps.
Choosing the finest camping tent isn’t that difficult if you know what to look for while shopping.
How to Choose the Best Backpacking Tent Size
I go backpacking with a group of friends, and we normally share a tent with two other individuals. Some males like to bring a single-person tent (in which they snore loudly), but a 2- or 3-person tent is the most adaptable alternative. Unfortunately, you cannot rely on the “size” of a tent that is specified by the manufacturer. Several so-called “2-person” tents are actually designed for two extremely little and intimate individuals. A 3-person tent is typically the most comfortable option for two medium-to-large guys who want to be as comfortable as possible.
If it’s 44 75 inches, that’s just 22 inches of width per person (which is quite little) and 6’3′′ of length (which is very long).
This is not good. If you are particularly tall, pay close attention to the length. (I’ve been burnt a few of times, so the duration is the first thing I look for.)
How to Choose the Best Backpacking Tent Design
The most effective three-season hiking tent design is a simple rectangle with two entrances and two vestibules on either side. Two doors allow you and your companion to quickly enter and depart the tent at the same time — or you may set your tent in an unusual location and still have at least one way of access. It is still preferable to have a series of poles that bend from corner to corner on diagonals in the shape of an X. Using this X construction, you can create a freestanding structure that is both dirt simple and easy to maintain.
A single door and a basic “X” pole design help to keep the weight of the Big Agnes Angel Springs UL2 trekking tent to a bare minimum.
I feel the need to design something “new” has resulted in unnecessarily intricate pole systems that provide negligible structural gains: If you purchase one, practice setting it up at home before you have to do it in the dark and wet.
What About Winter Tents or Minimalist Tarps?
Winter tents are often significantly heavier than summer tents, with stronger pole systems and single doors – all of which are great for camping in severe snow and wind, but are overkill for camping in the spring, summer, and fall months. In addition to a minimalist fly (lightweight tarps) that may be hung between two trees with ropes or supported by trekking poles, there are other types of tents. These can be really light, but they are not very flexible — they must be held down, which necessitates great soil for stakes or ropes connected to boulders or bags of rocks to draw them into taught positions, as well as suitable soil for stakes.
An open-air tent with bathtub flooring (waterproof fabric in the shape of a shallow box), as well as mesh walls that are breathable and mosquito-proof, and a rain fly to cover it all, will appeal to the majority of people.
Tents such as the Sierra DesignsOrigami 3-Person Tarp Shelter are lightweight, but they lack the ability to be used as an independent structure.
Backpacking Tent Weight in 2016
Some men feel that weight is the most significant consideration. It is not the case. The most crucial consideration for the majority of people is their financial situation. With a little forethought, you can reduce your costs, spread your budget throughout your gear, and purchase achievable tents while still investing in other essential backpacking gear to get the most of your money overall. For example, if your selected tent is just one pound heavier than a lighter, but more costly choice, that pound makes little difference when the load is divided between two individuals, who each carry only 8 ounces of weight.
When faced with this type of decision, it may be wiser to spend the $200 difference on a better sleeping bag and/or a very light air pad.
In terms of weight to cost ratio, a 6-pound tent is a suitable choice for the majority of individuals.
A 5-pound tent is preferred, and a 4-pound tent is a true delight to set up and take down. If you have the means, spend sparingly. If you’re on a tight budget, a 6-pound tent would suffice if you’re hiking with a companion — but stay away from anything heavier.
Backpacking Tent Quality
The Big Agnes Copper Spur range of trekking tents provides exceptional quality, weight, and general usability attributes in a compact and lightweight configuration. While it is feasible to save more than $100 by purchasing a low-cost tent, something will break far too quickly. During your attempt to hide in your tent, a zipper will fail, allowing mosquitoes to devour you alive. A pole will break, necessitating a trailside repair. The floor will begin to leak, resulting in a chilly, damp, and uncomfortable night.
- Your back will begin to hurt as a result of the weight.
- If you’re serious about camping and have the money to spend, consider investing in a high-quality, ultra-light tent.
- The opposite is also true: preparing to begin backpacking might place a strain on one’s financial situation.
- Here are a few tips for hiking tents that can’t go wrong:
Best 2-Person Backpacking Tents 2016
- The Marmot Ajax 2 Tent is one of our all-time favorites because it is robust, durable, and bright orange. As a closeout item, grab yours from Sierra Trading Post today before they’re gone for good. A 4-pound tent with only one entrance, the Kelty Salida 2 is dirt basic, but the pricing is reasonable for a tent that weighs that much. The REI Half Dome 2 Plus Tent costs a little more than $200 and has an extra-long and wide footprint that can accommodate two big men comfortably. Design that is both long-lasting and weather-resistant
- Sierra Designs Lightning 2 FL — The new Sierra Designs Lightning 2 FL tents have a large open entrance at one end, while still providing vestibule storage for stuff. Sierra Designs Lightning 2 FL tents are available in three sizes. Innovative and weighing just 3 lbs. 4 oz.
Best 3-Person Backpacking Tents 2016
- The Marmot Ajax 3 Tent is one of our all-time favorites since it is robust, durable, and bright orange. As a closeout item, grab yours from Sierra Trading Post today before they’re gone for good. A classic design, an exceptional price-to-quality ratio, and built-in LED lights distinguish the Big Agnes Tumble 3 mtnGLO 3 Tent. It’s a little heavier, slightly more durable variant of the Marmot Ajax 3P Tent, the Limelight 3P Tent. When the Ajax is completely depleted, take advantage of the limelight.
Best Ultralight Backpacking Tents 2016
- Exceptional craftsmanship is evident throughout the whole series of Big Agnes Copper Spur Tents, which have two-door designs and excellent packed trail weights. Lightweight tents that are virtually impossible to go wrong with
- The Big Agnes Fly Creek 2 Platinum Tent weighs less than two pounds and has only one entrance and one vestibule, making it ideal for a single person who prefers a lot of space, but it’s also spacious enough to accommodate two people in an emergency situation. Sweet adaptability, and a ridiculously low trail weight choice at 1 pound 9 ounces
Best 1-Person Backpacking Tents 2016
- With its traditional combination of design, weight, and affordability, the MSR Hubba NX 1-person hiking tent is a favorite among backpackers. MSR Hubba Tent NX 1-Person Tent – high-quality, freestanding tent weighing only 2 lbs 7 ounces and measuring 2 x 7 x 7 inches. The Nemo Hornet 1 Person Tent weighs less than 2 pounds, has a convenient side door, and provides an excellent price-to-value ratio for its weight. Although this tent weighs slightly more than 3 pounds, it features a classic free-standing design and is extremely affordable, leaving you with more money to spend on other essentials, such as an ultralight down sleeping bag (see our guide on How to Choose the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag)
- Big Agnes Fly Creek 1 Platinum Tent—weighing in at an incredible 1 pound and 6 ounces, this ultralight wonder is the lightest tent we’ve ever tested
- And The North Face Stormbreak 1 Tent.
Do You Need a Backpacking Tent Footprint?
If you’re camping, a footprint is a lightweight, waterproof groundsheet that sits below your tent to keep it from getting wet. The bottom floor of your tent may be protected from nicks and cuts, and it can also be protected from mud and tree sap with the use of these items. They are small and light, yet they contribute to the weight of your load. Necessary? No. Handy? Yes. In addition, a footprint with a tent flap can be used instead of a mesh inside, however this increases the danger of insect infestation and water seepage.
Check out our list of the 35 Best Gifts for Backpackers.
A Review of the Marmot Ajax 3 Tent: Is It Right For You?
Marmot is a well-established outdoor gear business that focuses on manufacturing high-quality, high-performance gear and apparel for those who like spending time in the outdoors. Among its various products, Marmot is notably well-known for their tents, which are popular with both novice and experienced travelers. While more experienced trekkers tend to prefer technical shelters that are light and lightweight in weight, people who take a more casual approach to hiking tend to prefer heavier but more roomy tent alternatives.
In example, the Ajax 3 tent is popular among hikers who camp with a partner and want more room than a normal 2-person camping tent can provide.
If you’re looking for something a little roomier than a 2P tent but not quite as hefty as a 4P, the Marmot Ajax 3P might be an excellent choice for you, especially given the general style of this shelter.
Design and Features of the Ajax 3
The Ajax 3 is designed in a straightforward manner, which is one of the primary reasons for its good ranking. This tent is quite simple, yet in the nicest possible manner. It’s well-built and comfy, and it has a reasonable amount of storage capacity without being unduly feature-rich. In order to fully understand some of the most significant advantages of the Ajax 3’s design, it is necessary to first understand some fundamentals.
- Backpacking tent for three people that is traditional for three seasons
- Six pounds and two ounces of packed weight
- Packed dimensions of 23 inches by 7 12 inches Floor measurements are 93′′ x 66′′. The total floor area is 42 square feet, with a peak ceiling height of 46 inches. There are two vestibules, each measuring 19 square feet. a pair of zippered doors
- Nylon is used for the tent floor, and polyester is used for the tent walls and rainfly. DAC aluminum triple poles
- DAC aluminum triple poles
Although the Ajax 3 is packed with amenities, which contributes to its ease of use, Marmot did integrate several thoughtful additions to the design of this tent, which include:
- It is convenient to enter and depart through dual doors with vestibules. Lightweight DAC aluminum Press-Fit style poles for quick setup
- Rainfly with complete covering that may be removed
- When the rainfly is removed, a durable mesh is used to keep pests at bay. Window Weld is used in the construction of the windows to increase their water resistance. a snag-free zipper flap and zipper pulls that don’t rattle
- For maximum water resistance, a catenary cut floor with taped seams has been installed. Reflective points on the tent to make it easier to find at night
Let’s get into why you would want to attempt and get an Ajax 3 tent of your own now that the specifications and important elements are out of the way.
Advantages of theAjax 3
Due to the overwhelming number of excellent reviews for this Marmot tent, it is clear that it provides significant benefits to campers. Here are the three most important reasons why the Ajax 3 is a fantastic investment.
Excellent Overall Value for the Quality
When you take into consideration the overall quality of this tent, the Ajax 3 is an excellent bargain. It is a beautifully crafted model that is on par with the sort of shelter for which Marmot is renowned. Even at its original retail price, it was well worth the money, let alone at the current reduced price that you can get them for right now. The fact that you can get this tent for less than $200 makes it a fantastic bargain, in my opinion. The Ajax 3 is built to last, and its size allows it to be used in a variety of situations.
Even if you’re an experienced hiker who specializes in ultralight backpacking, this tent is a terrific addition to your gear collection for casual car camping or camping with a companion.
Spacious Shelter for a Couple Plus Gear
Despite the fact that the Ajax 3 is large enough to accommodate a genuine trio of individuals, many trekkers believe that 3P tents are best suited for two adults and their stuff. If you compare it to other 3-person size tents, the Ajax 3 is really roomy, and it has enough of headroom as well. Because of the additional room and two vestibules, there are lots of alternatives for stowing gear without making the cabin seem tight.
Dual Entrances with Vestibules For Easy Access
The Ajax 3 is a lovely tent to camp in thanks to its twin entrances and similarly spacious dual vestibules on either side of it. It is a tremendous pleasure having two doors on a tent when it is supposed to protect more than one person. This is partly because it allows one person to quickly escape the tent without having to climb over their companion. Because of the double vestibules, each person (if you are camping with two people) will have their own area for their belongings. Additionally, whether entering or departing the tent, these twin vestibules serve to keep the rain out of the tent.
Disadvantages of the Ajax 3
While investigating the Ajax 3, you may come across some lower-rated user reviews that point out shortcomings in the design of the product.
The two most common concerns about this otherwise well-made tent are summarized in the following paragraphs.
May Need to Provide Sturdier Stakes
The first criticism leveled regarding the Ajax 3 is that, even with the stakes given by Marmot, some people believe it isn’t quite as sturdy as it should be. High winds necessitate the use of heavier stakes, which you’ll have to purchase for yourself when you’re camping. Though not a major inconvenience, especially for those who are gear enthusiasts and already have stakes in the ground, it is something to be aware of. Others have found that the Ajax 3 can withstand strong winds rather well; nevertheless, the tent would benefit from the addition of additional tie out points to assist hold up the sides as well as to maximize the amount of room available in the tiny vestibules.
Not Ideal for Constant Heavy Downpour
Despite the fact that the Ajax 3 has a catenary cut floor with taped seams and even waterproof window construction, the odd individual may still find it to be the least suited model in a severe downpour that lasts for hours. Because the Ajax 3 does not come with its own footprint, you will have to acquire one separately. Customers who have suffered leakage have found that adding a footprint of some sort, such as a tarp, and strengthening the walls of the tent with it may frequently resolve the problem.
However, if you camp in this type of weather on a regular basis or in a climate that is excessively wet, you should be aware of this limitation and prepare accordingly.
Should You Buy the Ajax 3?
However, despite the fact that the Ajax 3 is far from a flawless tent, it is one that frequently receives ratings in the 4.5-star range. The only significant drawback of the Ajax 3 is that it is no longer in production, making it difficult to locate a merchant who carries it. You may still be able to find this model on Sierra Trading Post and similar places, or you may want to explore searching auction websites such as eBay. Having said that, because Marmot is no longer manufacturing this tent, you can typically find it for a fairly low price on the secondary market.
If you happen to come across the Ajax 3 for such a low price, it will be a true bargain, and you will almost certainly be pleased with your purchase.
Further Reading:
- Marmot Tungsten 3 and Marmot Limelight 3 reviews, as well as a guide to three-person tents, are all included in our list of the best hiking podcasts to listen to.
The All Outdoors Guide team is made up of enthusiastic specialists that take pleasure in assisting people who want to improve their outdoor recreation skills. Making sure you have the proper equipment and knowledge when it’s time to get out and enjoy yourself is an important part of this. Some of our team members have performed incredible exploits like as climbing 6000 feet to the summit of mountains, while others have explored every dirt route they could find.
We even have some members that have backpacking solo across several continents on different countries. No matter what our readers desire to learn or achieve, our team is dedicated to assisting them in achieving their objectives.
Two-Person Tent Review
Unless you’re hiking in a climate that is completely free of adverse weather, you’ll need to find some sort of shelter at some point while on the path. There are many different types of hiking shelters, and this month we’ll be focusing on three double-walled tents that are around the same size. Every one of these tents is advertised as a two-person hiking tent. The longer side of each of the three tent bodies (the tent without the rainfly) is 88 inches in length, while the shorter side measures 45-55 inches in length.
For each tent, we’ve included two or, if feasible, three weights to keep it balanced.
For each tent, we utilized a portable hook-type scale to weigh it while it was packed in its stuff sack with the tent body, rainfly, stakes and poles, and any additional stuff sacks inside.
It’s worth noting that the “packed weight” provided by the manufacturer differs substantially from our measurements for two of the tents.
Eureka Midori 2 Person Tent
The Midori 2 Person Tent by Eureka is described as “a tiny and lightweight camping tent that doesn’t stint on amenities.” It includes two doors and two vestibules, as well as four mesh storage compartments on the inside and a small gear hammock on the outside.
- The cost is $179.95. Weight: according to the manufacturer, the minimum weight is 4 lbs. 11 oz., whereas the weight according to our scale is 5 lbs. 3.2 oz.
Setup: The Midori 2 Person Tent is extremely simple to erect, and basic instructions are included in the tent bag for your convenience. There is nothing unexpected or particularly difficult about the process of getting it up and running. Orienting the rainfly is made simple by the use of color-coded webbing. Our Favorite Thing: Because almost the whole tent body is made of mesh, the Midori serves as a great insect shelter even in hot weather. The gear hammock, which is conveniently located at the top of the tent, is a nice touch.
We particularly enjoy the Midori’s pricing, which is by far the lowest of all of the models in this review.
After staking the rainfly, the left-hand side of the fly door unzips and opens, however the right-hand side of the D-shaped tent entrance is not accessible, requiring the user to stretch across the tent to get inside it.
It’s a little thing, but it was bothersome enough to draw my attention. Final Verdict: The Eureka Midori 2 Person Tent is a decent two-person hiking tent that comes in at a very affordable price point.
Marmot Limelight 2P
The Limelight 2P by Marmot is comprised of pre-bent poles that form short vertical walls before arching upward into the conventional dome shape, creating greater inside room than the original Limelight. There is a footprint included with this tent that has been designed particularly for it. Each door is much bigger than the other and can be zipped almost all the way off and tucked into an attached pocket. It features two doors, with one being significantly larger than the other. In addition, the Limelight offers two vestibules and six tiny internal pockets for storing personal belongings.
- The cost is $269. Packaged weight per manufacturer 5 lbs. 10 oz., minimum weight per manufacturer 5 lbs. 2 oz., weight according to our scale 5 lbs. 10 oz., weight according to our scale 6 pounds, 6.4 ounces
Setup: Using the directions included with the tent bag, it is quite simple to put this tent together. The pre-bent form of the poles makes this tent the most difficult of the three to set up by yourself, which is a crucial consideration while setting up this tent, as we discovered. A second person was useful in keeping one end of the pole in its grommet while the other end of the pole was being fastened to the wall. Things we liked: We liked the vertical walls, which was a nice touch. This one-of-a-kind design gives the tent a noticeable increase in space.
- The two rainfly vents at the top of each vestibule are a nice touch.
- In spite of the fact that having a footprint is really convenient, the footprint is too large to keep the poles tight when trying to keep them in the grommets of the tent body and the ground tarp.
- Another mystery is why there are buckles on both the footprint and the tent body that attach to the rainfly and are not visible when the tent is not in use.
- We don’t believe the Limelight can be put up without the tent body since the structure of the tent is dependent on a short ridgeline pole that only attaches to the tent body.
- Bottom Line: Because of the roomy inside, we’d recommend the Marmot Limelight 2P above the other two tents in our evaluation for long-term use.
MSR Zoic 2
Described by MSR as a “extra large and roomy” 2-person backpacking tent, the Zoic 2 is a good choice for first-time trekkers because of its simplicity of setup and spaciousness. Note that while the Zoic 2’s actual dimensions may be greater than those of other MSR backpacking tents, they are quite comparable to those of the Eureka Midori and Marmot Limelight, both of which have been reviewed on this site as well.
The Zoic includes six mesh storage compartments on the inside of the bag.
- The cost is $349.95. Packaged weight per manufacturer is 4 lbs. 13 ounces, minimum weight per manufacturer is 4 lbs. 6 ounces, and weight according to our scale is 4 lbs. 6 ounces. 4 pounds, 13.8 ounces
Setup: The Zoic is a very straightforward tent to put together, and it comes with clear instructions that are connected to the tent bag. What We Found Appealing: We prefer the virtually entirely mesh tent body of the Eureka Midori because it provides a fantastic ventilated insect refuge, similar to the Eureka Midori. As opposed to vestibules with zippered doors in the middle, the Zoic’s vestibules have zippered doors on either side of the vestibule, allowing more of your belongings to remain dry when opening and shutting the zippers in the rain.
What We Would Change: The stuff pouch is very tiny, and it’s difficult to place the tent inside of it comfortably.
Marmot Limelight 2 Review
Price:$269 List Pros: Huge doors, feels larger than its actual dimensions, includes footprint, and is reasonably priced. Cons: The materials are heavy and of lesser quality. Manufacturer:Marmot Our Editors do independent research, testing, and rating of the top items available. We only receive compensation if you make a purchase after clicking on one of our links. We never accept free things from manufacturers. More information may be found here. Although theMarmot Limelightis an entry level tent, it is equipped with some good creature amenities.
- It appears to be more spacious than its actual dimensions imply, and the two huge side doors make it simple to enter and depart.
- We believe it is a tent designed specifically for automobile camping.
- When the Limelight is compared to any other tent in this review’s top tier, it becomes evident that it is constructed from lower-quality textiles, which has a negative influence on its weather resilience.
- Our weekend excursions were enjoyable, if not a touch drizzly.
Performance Comparison
The Limelight provides excellent comfort at an affordable price. Photo courtesy of Ben Applebaum-Bauch”> The Limelight provides excellent comfort at an affordable price. Ben Applebaum-Bauch is the photographer.
Comfort
Despite its small size, this tent provides more comfort than it seems. Despite the fact that its length is equal to that of many other tents in this study on paper, its breadth and peak height distinguish it from the competition. One or two people might comfortably sit up in it at the same time, which is something that cannot be stated for several of its lightest competitors. Plenty of room to sit up and roam about in this room. Photo courtesy of Ben Applebaum-Bauch”>There is plenty of room to sit up and move about.
- Pre-bent pole structure generates an internal space enclosed by vertical walls, which allows for a larger cross-sectional area higher up than on other tents thanks to the tent’s rather unusual design.
- Two different shapes are used: one is a D-shape and the other is a teardrop that opens nearly completely around and tucks into a pocket at the foot of the door.
- Photo courtesy of Ben Applebaum-Bauch”>If you can get away with leaving the fly off and the doors open, this tent provides a very nice view of the surrounding landscape.
- A huge double-layer pocket is located on either side of the bag.
- Furthermore, the fact that they are on opposite sides of the tent is a minor inconvenience (meaning people have to sleep head-to-toe to be within easy arms reach of their respective pockets).
Photo courtesy of Ben Applebaum-Bauch”>While the divided storage pockets aren’t very large, you can still pack a significant amount of stuff into each of them. Ben Applebaum-Bauch is the photographer.
Ease of Set-up
The Limelightis a reasonably simple device to set up. It is comprised of two long poles that intersect at a central hub, as well as a secondary cross-pole that increases the amount of headspace available. It is possible that the pre-bent poles will become unmanageable since they have a tendency to rotate around the hub when you are putting the segments together, but this is only a little irritation. There is a lot of guyline, but not nearly enough to accommodate the various guy points that need to be set up on the fly.
- The two major poles are securely connected together by a plastic hub.
- Ben Applebaum-Bauch is the photographer.
- Ben Applebaum-Bauch is the photographer.
- The six hex stakes are rather effective in anchoring and maintaining their position.
Weather Resistance
The Limelight has shown to be quite weather resistant, which we appreciate. It works well at keeping the rain at bay, and if you guy or stake the head and foot ends of the fly, there is enough gap between the tent and the mesh canopy that contact with the mesh canopy is not a problem. The ventilation is inadequate when the fly is closed up, on the other hand. Because the little vents at the top of each vestibule are insufficient, expect some nightly condensation unless you can partially or completely roll back the fly on your sleeping bag.
It is attached to the poles using the grommets at the corners, and it provides both debris protection and an additional barrier from ground moisture in addition to the other benefits.
Photo courtesy of Ben Applebaum-Bauch”>Photo courtesy of Ben Applebaum-Bauch
Durability
TheLimelightis constructed from a heavyweight 68 Denier poly taffeta. Despite the fact that it is less elastic than ripstop nylon, the thick substance makes it extremely puncture-resistant due to its thickness. Together with the additional layer of security provided by the included footprint, this tent should survive for a long time if maintained in a reasonable and regular manner.
Consider the following scenario: the pole hub, fly, and tent clips all fail before the cloth is completely worn through. Several reports have also been received that the polyester does not hold up well to repeated UV exposure.
Weight and Packed Size
This is a monstrously large tent. The two-person variant weighs in at 5 lbs. 10 oz. each individual. The heavier materials, along with the clumsy pole construction, give the impression that it is considerably larger than it is. This tent will take up the most of your pack space if you’re intending on carrying it alone. Although the weight is divided among several people, each individual is nevertheless responsible for carrying a burden that is far heavier than some other whole tents (i.e., you could each carry yourowntwo-person tent, and still be carrying less weight than oneLimelight).
In practice, this implies that it is feasible to set it up in fast-pitch mode without using the tent body itself, so decreasing the overall weight by a couple of pounds.
If you want to lose a considerable amount of weight and aren’t concerned about bugs, the rapid pitch option may be a good choice for you.
“> If you want to lose a considerable amount of weight and aren’t concerned about bugs, the rapid pitch option may be a good choice for you.
Value
TheLimelight 2is an excellent deal for couples that are mostly vehicle camping. Despite this, the fact is that its most similar competitors outperform it in practically every regard, even in terms of price.
Conclusion
This tent is ideal for the budget-conscious camper who prefers to have plenty of space to stretch out. It is spacious, pleasant, and long-lasting. We wouldn’t want to transport it any distance, no matter how short, because it’s a genuine whale of a shelter, but for the price, we are delighted with what it provides.
3-Person Version
If you are thinking about bringing on another individual, we recommend that you size up first. TheMarmot Limelight 3 provides even more space to a camping experience that is already spacious. We are unimpressed by the breadth, which increases by only 14 inches over the 2-person model (keep in mind that a standard sleeping pad is 20 inches wide). However, it only adds a modest, if not insignificant, two inches to the overall length while increasing the peak height by a full five inches. Due to the fact that most tents increase largely in breadth between two and three-person models, Marmot decided to go against the trend in every aspect of the design.
Ben Applebaum-Bauch is the photographer.
Ben Applebaum-Bauch is the photographer. However, with the additional space comes the additional weight. It weighs 6.75 lbs, which is the same as the weight of its two-person cousin. It is most effective when utilized in situations when you will not be required to carry it anyplace on your back.
