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REI Quarter Dome SL 1 Tent Review

The REI Quarter Dome SL 1 is a one-person double-wall tent that weighs only 31 ounces. It is designed for light backpacking. Despite its light weight, the inside is surprisingly habitable, thanks to vertical sidewalls, multiple internal pockets to keep you organized, and a ceiling vent to assist reduce internal moisture and condensation on the outside. While a spacious vestibule gives plenty of extra space for gear storage, a dual-zippered door allows for top-to-bottom ventilation while keeping the bottom sealed for enhanced wind protection and privacy.

Specs at a Glance

The trail weight is 31 ounces, and the capacity is one person. Double-walled construction
Design: semi-freestanding
Number of doors: one
Number of poles: one hubbed poleset According to sectionhiker.com, the inside tent has the following dimensions: 31′′ x 25′′ x 83′′ (length) x 39′′ (height)
The very minimum amount of stakes to use is six, with seven being preferred. Fly and floor are made of 15d nylon ripstop with a PU coating. Olive is the color of choice. Footprint: Available for purchase separately (30d nylon ripstop)

Semi-Freestanding Tent Design

The REI Quarter Dome SL 1 is a semi-freestanding tent with a double-wall construction. The tent is supported by a single hubbed pole with three arms: two for the rear corners and one for the centre of the front side, with two rooftop arms built in to form vertical sidewalls. The tent is lightweight and easy to set up. Essentially, this implies that the inner tent can stand on its own, albeit the front corners should be staked out to optimize the amount of inside room. If you don’t stake down those front corners (for example, if you’re using a wooden platform), the tent will still hold up, but it won’t be as large or as robust.

All of the poles are inserted into color-coded grommets at the tent’s base, and then a fly drapes over the top, which is held in place by clips (known as jakes foot connectors), with the front of the fly sharing the stakes that are used to stake out the corners of the inner tent.

In fact, it is a tent that is extremely quick and simple to set up.

Door and Vestibule

There is a huge D-shaped door on the Quarter Dome SL 1, which makes it easier to go into and out of the tent. Due to the fact that the door does not obstruct the vestibule storage, any items stored beneath it will remain dry even if it rains. Although the tent features a huge side entrance that makes accessing the tent simple, there is still plenty of vestibule storage space. There’s a two-way zipper on the vestibule door, which allows you to open it a bit for more ventilation or to glance outside without having to open it all the way.

The two-way zipper allows you to open the top of the door to allow for more airflow without losing your personal space or privacy.

Livability

Interior space is ample in the Quarter Dome SL 1, with enough capacity for a large sleeping mat if you choose to bring one. A headlight or other small objects can be stored in two ceiling pockets, which are located in the rear corners and can be accessed from the rear corners. The addition of gear hooks that hang from the inner tent seams provides even more storage space, while the vertical sidewalls provide an impression of spaciousness. There’s plenty of space above your feet for you to stretch out.

Due to the fact that the inner tent’s length is 83 inches and its peak height is 39 inches, it is quite simple to sit up in the tent or change clothes without getting a black eye or punching a hole in the ceiling.

We base our measurements on the size of the inner tent (covered, usable space) rather than on the area covered by the rainfly, which is usually larger.

The fact that most tent manufacturers measure tent sizes in this manner does not imply that it is correct or beneficial.

Additionally, the back wall of the Quarter Dome SL 1 may be staked out to provide additional ventilation. While this generates an area large enough to store stuff, it is inaccessible from within the inner tent due to the nature of the design.

Footprint

For the Quarter Dome SL 1, a footprint is available for purchase, however it must be purchased separately. Considering that this tent is composed of a rather thin material, I’d recommend bringing a footprint if you want to camp on surfaces that are abrasive, such as sand, gravel, or compacted soil campgrounds to protect the bottom of the tent. The footprint also allows you to put up the tent without the inner tent if you wish to utilize the fly as a lightweight shelter, similar to a tarp, instead of the inner tent.

More Recommended 1-Person Backpacking Tents

Make / Model	Type	Weight	Price
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 1	Double Wall	34 oz	$380
NEMO Dragonfly 1	Double Wall	32 oz	$360
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 1	Double Wall	30 oz	$350
MSR Hubba NX 1	Double Wall	39 oz	$380
Gossamer Gear The One	Single Wall	17.7 oz	$299
REI Quarter Dome SL 1	Double Wall	31 oz	$290
Zpacks Altaplex	Double Wall	15.4 oz	$585
Tarptent Aeon Li	Single Wall	15.8 oz	$535
Dan Durston X-Mid 1	Double Wall	27.9 oz	$220
Tarptent Protrail	Single Wall	26 oz	$229

Recommendation

The REI Quarter Dome SL 1 hiking tent is a wonderful choice for backpacking since it can fit into a variety of smaller tent sites, including wild sites, that larger tents cannot. In particular, I enjoy the olive hues that the tent comes in because they fit in better with the scenery, which is beneficial for privacy, and because they are darker, which allows me to sleep better at night. In addition to being simple to erect, the Quarter Dome SL 1 provides lots of internal room for spreading out and relaxing.

This tent, which is less expensive than many other tents that are relatively comparable to it, is a good value for the money, in my opinion, especially considering its low price.
It also folds up into a little package, making it simple to transport when you want to limit your weight and travel quickly.
The author has disclosed that he purchased this tent.
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Although the cost of the product remains the same for you, your purchase allows us to continue to test and create unsponsored and independent gear evaluations, beginning FAQs, and free hiking guides for you.

How to Save $127.90 When You Buy The New REI Quarter Dome Tent

In the market for a tiny, lightweight backpacking or bicycle touring tent? There are a number of solid options to consider, including the Big Agnes Copper Spur, the MSR Hubba, and the Big Agnes Copper Spur Lite. Don’t forget about the REI Quarter Dome tent, too.

The REI Quarter Dome Tent:

This tent from REI Co-Op is a serious competitor with its somewhat smaller and lighter tent competitors, but because it is manufactured and sold directly by the company, it is substantially less expensive. Even though theBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 1-Man Tentis a brilliantly lightweight camping and bicycle touring tent, it is priced at more than $379 USD, which puts it out of reach for many first-time tent purchasers. Alternatively, the REI Quarter Dome tent offers a very similar tent design at a substantially lower price – at $279 USD (which is precisely $100 USD cheaper than the Big Agnes Copper Spur tent).

This is a great offer on a new ultralight tent.

That represents a substantial savings!

The pack size of the tent, its total weight, and the quality of the tent itself are other essential considerations. Fortunately, the REI Quarter Dome performs admirably in all three categories.

Pack Size:

If the REI Quarter Dome 1-Man tent is packed away, it measures roughly 6 x 18.5 inches. It’s worth noting that the aluminum tent poles are the longest portion of the total tent design, and they are a little bit longer than the poles found on the MSR Hubba and Big Agnes Copper Spur tents, although the difference in size is negligible (2 inches or less).

Tent Weight:

Regarding weight, the REI Quarter Dome tent is roughly 2 lbs. 14 oz., which is a fantastic weight for a tiny, lightweight backpacking/bicycle touring tent of this size and style. In my opinion, any tent that weighs less than three pounds is acceptable. Notably, the weight of your tent will vary based on how you pack it, the number of tent pegs you bring, and the sort of rainfly you use. Your packing method has the ability to make the tent either lighter or heavier than its typical shipping weight, depending on your preference.

Build Quality:

The REI Quarter Dome 1-man tent is also a good choice when it comes to construction quality, since it is on par with the industry standard. This freestanding tent is constructed of a high-quality, yet lightweight, waterproof nylon material that keeps water and cold weather out while also being sufficiently ventilated to ensure that condensation does not form within the tent. You’ll want to use a lightweight groundsheet to protect the floor of the tent during your camping adventures, even if the material used in its construction is rather durable.

This groundsheet is sold by REI for approximately $39.95.

I’ve personally used this tent in a variety of weather conditions, including rain, wind, snow, and sun, and it has functioned admirably in all of them.

Conclusion: REI Quarter Dome Tent Review

Over all, while it may not be the tiniest or lightest 1-man tent currently available on the market, the REI Quarter Dome 1-Man tent is unquestionably the most reasonably priced ultralight tent of similar size, weight and construction quality available anywhere in the world. A tent that is almost as nice as theBig Agnes Copper Spuror theMSR Hubba but that does not cost nearly as much as theBig Agnes Copper Spuror theMSR Hubba is theREI Quarter Dome 1-man tent, which should be taken into consideration if you do not want to spend close to $400 USD on a tent.

Purchase This Tent My objective as a “Bicycle Touring Pro” is to instill in you the confidence and motivation you need to explore the world by bicycle, no matter where you are on the planet.

I’m here to assist you in planning, preparing for, and executing your first bike tour, and to take away all of the guessing, lost time, and aggravation that so many first-time bicycle travelers experience. I’m here to make your first bike trip as enjoyable as possible.

REI Quarter Dome SL 1 Review

TheREI Quarter Dome SL 1is a one person, side entry, single side vestibule, double wall, mainly mesh inner, semi-freestanding tent. Its trail weight (fly, poles, inner) is only 32.3 oz (916 g) and it costs only $280, about $75 less than the category average. The video review below includes extensive setup instructions for both inner-first and fly-first throws. I also discuss how I camp and organize gear in a tent like this and performance in windy and humid conditions. Much of the information in the review is applicable to all tents in this category and not necessarily unique to theQuarter Dome SL 1, so users of similar tents from Big Agnes, MSR, or Nemo may find some value in it as well.

This category of tents (single person, side-entry, single side vestibule, double wall, mostly mesh inner, semi-freestanding) has evolved significantly over the past five years.

The primary US manufacturers include REI, Big Agnes, Nemo, and MSR.

These tents have an average trail weight of 34 oz / 964 g (range is 23 oz / 652 g to 48 oz / 1361 g) and an average cost of $353 (range is $280 to $450).

The following features are included: double wall, single entrance, side entry
Full mesh inner tent with a bathtub bottom that is 4 inches (10 cm) deep
Floor plan with a trapezoidal shape
Sidewalls that are vertical
Setup is made easier by using a shockcorded hub and pole assembly that is color-coded. An extra big door on the rainfly vestibule for easy ingress may be moved out of the way when the zipper is opened
An observation vestibule with a spacious side entrance for convenient entry and additional storage space for your equipment
Roof vents increase airflow and aid in the management of condensation. Guyline tie-out loops on the exterior of the structure and rainfly rollback loops on the inside of the structure allow configuration possibilities for different sorts of weather. The inside is well-organized, thanks to four compartments and six hang loops. Stake loops and guylines that reflect light
It’s possible to leave the tent at home and just use the fly, poles, and footprint (all supplied separately) as a lightweight shelter, or it’s possible to pitch the outer tent (fly) first then the inside tent from the inside. It comes with a stuff sack, stakes, guylines, and tighteners, as well as a pole-repair tube, a pole bag, and a stake bag.

The fly weighs 11.2 oz (318 g), the inner tent weighs 11.8 oz (335 g), and the pole set weighs 9.2 oz (261 g). Ten 6 in (15 cm) V-channel metal stakes with head cords are included in the price of the stakes, which weigh 3.9 oz / 111 g. Guylines: 0.7 oz / 20 g (comprising three pieces)
Footprint (optional add-on): 4.1 oz (116 g)
Dimensions (inches):

A Minimalist setup (fly, poles, footprint, 5 stakes) weighs 26.5 oz (751 g)
A Fair Weather setup (fly, poles, inner, 5 stakes) weighs 34.2 oz (970 g)
And an Inclement Weather setup (fly, poles, inner, footprint, 10 stakes, guylines) weighs 40.9 oz (1160 g). a Fair Weather setup weighs 34.2 oz (970 g

Packing dimensions: 6 x 19 in (15 x 48 cm)
Floor dimensions: 88 x 35/27 in / 224 x 89/68 cm (L x W head/foot)
88 x 35/27 in / 224 x 89/68 cm (L x W head/foot)
Floor area: 18.9 square feet (1.76 square meters)
Vestibule area: 9.6 square feet (0.89 square meters)
Peak height: 38 inches (97 centimeters)
Pole material: 7000 series DAC aluminum
Fabrics: DAC polyester

The fly is made of ripstop nylon, while the floor is made of ripstop nylon. The inner tent is made of noseeum mesh.

As a result of using this tent in wet and humid conditions, I discovered that condensation management was outstanding, which I attribute to a roof vent that is perfectly positioned and adequately proportioned, as well as steep fly walls. In addition, I had a strong suspicion that the fly fabric was constructed of a low-emissivity material, at least when compared to the silnylon and polyurethane (PU) coated nylon fly fabric samples I had in my hands at the time. In order to corroborate this hunch, I used industry-recognized emissivity measuring methods that made use of an infrared temperature sensor and an adjustable-emissivity thermal imaging camera, respectively.

Wind resistance is excellent, and the tent remains quiet and stable in gusts of up to 30 mph (the greatest speed I encountered when camping in this tent) — provided that it is correctly and snugly set with all of its pegs and guylines in place.

One of the lightest and most reasonably priced tents available in this category (see the part below titled “Compared To”) without the use of pricey and less lasting materials (see the section below titled “Compared To”) (e.g., exotic fabrics, low denier fabrics, or carbon poles). It offers the best value in its category. High quality design and production, as well as sufficient fabric stretch, result in extremely tight canopy (fly) pitches. This aids in the shedding of snow, the steadiness of the wind, and the resistance to condensation. When correctly pitched with all pegs and guylines, it is quite quiet and stable in the wind. In severe weather, it is possible to pitch the tent fly-first (an extra footprint is necessary, which is offered separately)
There is a lot of vestibule room. There is enough space on the inner tent floor to accommodate a large, long pad, as well as additional space for gear storage. When entering and exiting the tent in the rain, vertical sidewalls help to keep water from entering the tent. Tent fly fabric does not sag in response to increased humidity or wet weather when the tent is correctly pitched and fastened at the start of the season. Condensation performance that is satisfactory

If you are wearing mittens or gloves, it may be tough to snap the fly buckles since they are tiny and difficult to operate. When the vestibule door zipper guard is opened in rainy weather, it drips profusely, and part of the water can enter the tent during entry and leave. It would be beneficial to have a little awning over the door and as part of the open vestibule in this situation.

This tent is compared to other similar-sized double-wall, mainly mesh inner, semi-freestanding (i.e. no trekking poles), side entrance tents that have a maximum trail weight (fly, inner, poles) of 48 oz. The REI Quarter Dome SL 1 is the winner of this comparison (122 g).

This table only includes tent manufacturers based in the United States. *Please keep in mind that the Tarptent Rainbow is a hybrid single/double wall tent, but it has been included in this list due to its resemblance to other 1-person, side-entry, single-vestibule tents in this category.

Model	weight (fly, inner, poles, oz)	MSRP (US$)	peak height (in)	floor area (sq. ft.)	type of entry	vestibules	vestibule area (sq. ft.)	packed size (L x W, in)	pole material
REI Quarter Dome	32	$280	38	18.9	side	1	9.6	6 x 19	aluminum
REI Quarter Dome 1	39	$300	42	18.9	side	1	9.8	6 x 18.5	aluminum
MSR Freelite 1	32	$390	36	18.0	side	1	9.0	6 x 18	aluminum
MSR Carbon Reflex 1	23	$450	34	17.0	side	1	7.0	5 x 17	carbon
MSR Hubba NX 1	39	$380	36	18.0	side	1	9.0	6 x 18	aluminum
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 1	34	$380	38	20.2	side	1	9.0	4 x 16.5	aluminum
Big Agnes Manzanares HV SL1	48	$300	38	20.0	side	1	9.0	6 x 18	aluminum
Nemo Hornet Elite 1	24	$450	39	21.8	side	1	6.9	4 x 19	aluminum
Nemo Dragonfly 1	32	$350	39	20.3	side	1	10.0	4 x 19.5	aluminum
Nemo Hornet 1	31	$330	39	22.3	side	1	7.3	4.5 x 19	aluminum
Tarptent Rainbow 1	37	$269	43	23.9	side	1	8.2	4 x 18	aluminum

If we plot the price and the weight against each other and then regress the data using a linear trendline, we may get a sense of the value given in this market category: Points above the line reflect values that are below the average, while points below the line show values that are above the average. The greater the distance between a point and the line, the worse the situation (or better). With these figures in mind, the Big Agnes Manzanares HV UL1 and the MSR Hubba NX 1 rank as the lowest-priced tents, while the REI Quarter Dome SL 1 ranks as the most expensive.

It is only relevant to the tents listed in the preceding table. Only weight and cost are considered in the value proposition – no other performance measures are considered.

The wind stability, condensation resistance, livability, and overall value of the REI Quarter Dome SL 1 earn it a Recommended Rating from the manufacturer. The only thing keeping it from earning a Highly Recommended designation is the fact that it is still half a pound heavier than the two lightest tents available on the market in this category – the Nemo Hornet Elite 1 and the MSR Carbon Reflex 1. The REI Quarter Dome SL 1, on the other hand, is $170 less expensive than any of those alternatives, making it a very tempting option when it comes to price to weight ratio when compared to the other two.

Recommended (find out more)
MSRP:$279
Weight:32.3 oz (916 g)
Available at REI
Our Rating:Recommended (find out more)

This page was last updated on September 15, 2018.

The items featured in this review were either purchased by the author from a retailer or were otherwise supplied by the manufacturer at a discount or donation with no obligation to provide media coverage or a product review to the manufacturer(s). How we obtained these products: When it comes to guaranteed media attention, we do not take monetary or in-kind compensation. Neither pay nor donated merchandise will be accepted in return for guaranteed media exposure or product review coverage by Backpacking Light. Affiliate links are provided for your convenience. The links in this review may contain “affiliate” links, which means that if you click on a link to one of our affiliate partners’ websites (often a retailer’s website) and make a purchase from that retailer, we will get a small compensation from that retailer. This helps us fund editorial projects, podcasts, instructional webinars, and other initiatives, and we are really grateful for your support! Thank you for your generosity in sponsoring Backpacking Light.

Question: How To Assemble Rei Quarter Dome 1 Tent

The good news is that the REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 2 will not be out of stock for the foreseeable future; it is only sold out at the moment. We expect to receive additional stock in the first quarter of next year; however, shipping and processing schedules are subject to change and are dependent on a variety of circumstances.

Does REI still make the quarter dome?

The REI Co-op Quarter Dome 2 tent has been completely rebuilt with new construction and lightweight, tough materials. It is an easy-to-live-in 2-person camping tent that is durable enough to last three seasons of use. Specifications in terms of technology. The Most Effective Application Footprints from Backpacking Are Included There will be no Ultralight. Yes, it is a freestanding design.

How heavy should my tent be for backpacking?

In general, a tent should weigh roughly 2.5 pounds per person, according to the manufacturer. It’s important to remember that while hiking with a group of people, you may divide the weight of the tent, rain cover, and poles among the participants.

What does SL stand for backpacking?

Length that may be adjusted Backpack Designed Specifically for Women The Deuter Aircontact Lite 45 + 10 SL offers an adjustable torso length, allowing you to customize the fit to your liking. While multiple pockets keep you organized, the shoulder pads and hip belt wings are designed specifically for women to give outstanding comfort and support. Now is the time to shop.

What is SL tent?

At 2 lb. 8 oz., the Ultralight SL 2 camping tent is one of the lightest double-wall backpacking tents available on the market. In terms of features, it is comparable to a double-wall tent, although it is far less in weight. The tent, fly, poles, and stakes are all lightweight and can be easily divided between two persons for packing.

What is a quarter dome tent?

The REI Quarter Dome 2 Person Tent is a lightweight camping tent with two doors that weighs 3 pounds, 4.4 ounces.

It is designed for two people to sleep comfortably. The Quarter Dome 2 has been completely remodeled and now has a variety of desirable characteristics such as significantly larger side vestibules, more vertical walls, and higher ceilings over the head and foot ends of the tent.

How much does the REI Quarter Dome weigh?

In order to build a lightweight 1-person, 3-season hiking tent that is spacious, well ventilated, and robust, REI developed a novel design that combines ultralight materials with a unique construction. 2 lbs. 2 oz. in total weight

How big of a backpack do I need for a 4 day hike?

Approximately 20-30 liters (The Essential Dayhiker) Having a daypack in the 20-30 liter range is the sweet spot for most people. It will ensure that you can carry all of the basics, up to and including the following: Everything you need for the day (again, a decent lunch)

Is a footprint necessary for a tent?

Tent footprints are obviously not required, but they can assist to extend the life of your tent if you use them properly. If you have an ultralight tent with a low denier floor, it can be worth it to spend a few more dollars on a footprint or to create your own from scratch to protect your investment.

Why use a tarp under your tent?

It is important to have a tarp underneath your tent to protect the underside from wear and tear, to provide minimal insulation, and to prevent water from entering the tent by functioning as an effective moisture barrier.

Which direction should you pitch a tent?

Many campers like to pitch their tents towards east, because it is the direction in which the sun rises and sets. If you’re camping in cold or wet weather, you’ll want to position your tent so that it faces away from the direction from which the wind is blowing.

How do you keep a tent floor dry in the rain?

Instructions for Keeping the Tent Dry Under your tent, spread a ground cloth to protect the ground. Maintain a higher elevation for your tent than the surrounding region at all times. The use of a tarp inside the tent might assist to keep the flooring more dry if the tent’s floor has begun to leak. Make certain that you have a tent with a rain fly that provides adequate protection.

Where should you not pitch a tent?

Examine the state of the ground before erecting your tent by putting your sleeping bag or mattress over the area and feeling how comfortable it is. If at all possible, avoid setting up camp on a hill or in a valley. Whether you’re at the top, bottom, or center of a hill, all of these positions put you at danger of being struck by lightning.

Can I use a tarp as a tent footprint?

A tarp can be used as a tent footprint if necessary. As a result of the tarps’ longevity, we frequently use them to shield the tent’s outside from exposure to the weather. As a result, a tarp may be placed beneath the tent to protect the ground from the elements as well as ground debris.

Should you pitch a tent under a tree?

It is beneficial to pitch a tent near trees to escape direct sunlight, but it might be problematic if it rains. During thunderstorms, trees serve as lightning rods. Branches begin to fall during and after a rainstorm or thunderstorm, as well. It is not recommended to pitch a tent on a steep sloping land since you may fall downward while sleeping.

How far should fire be from tent?

Choose a location that is shielded from strong winds and at least 15 feet away from your tent, gear, and anything that may catch fire. Prepare an area around your campfire that is 10 feet in diameter by clearing leaves, grass, and anything else that can be burned down to the earth.

What is a tent footprint?

A tent footprint or ground cover is simply anything that serves to protect the tent’s floor from abrasion.

For the reason that after a tent is set up, the weight of the person sleeping within it, as well as the tossing and turning they do during the night, wears away the waterproof coating and may eventually cause the fabric to fray.

What should you not take backpacking?

5 Things You Shouldn’t Bring on Your Backpacking Trip 1) A gigantic rucksack of supplies. 2) A plethora of extra clothing. Things you can’t afford to lose: 3) Anything you can’t afford to lose. 4) There are too many multiples of too many things. 5) Large quantities of medical supplies are available for purchase.

Is 4 lbs too heavy for a backpacking tent?

Depending on your preferred style of backpacking (ultra-lightweight, lightweight, or conventional), the following are some general rules to follow. A split tent weighing less than 2 pounds per person with a foundation weighing less than 10 lbs is regarded ultra-light; 3 to 4 lbs per person is deemed lightweight with a base weighing 15 to 20 lbs; and larger than that is considered conventional.

I finally bought an ‘ultralight’ tent and it was worth every penny

This summer, I made the decision that I was done lugging an 8-pound tent up a mountain. Those tents are excellent for car camping, but if you’re going hiking, you’ll want something a little lighter. So, during REI’s Labor Day sale, I made the decision to invest in what many would perceive to be an expensive tent: the Quarter Dome SL 1 from REI. It’s important to note that this tent isn’t quite a candidate for the “ultralight” category, but it’s a close second for a plebe like myself. Real lightweight tents, such as the Zpacks Duplex ($599), are a little more expensive.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL1 and Nemo Dragonfly 1 tents in the $350 range are competitors, as is the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL1.
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In all, the REI Quarter Dome SL 1 weighs little more than two pounds, including all of its extra parts.
I’m telling you, I was on the verge of crying as I stuffed it and my sleeping bag into my hiking backpack.
It goes without saying that in order to go down to this weight, you must give up certain comforts, such as room.
However, it is a coffin that keeps mosquitoes and rodents away from you and prevents the rain from soaking all of your belongings and clothing.
To be honest, it rained nonstop on my first trip with this tent and there were no other authorized camping areas available than the mud dump you see in the photo below.

Blue: This is the room where my partner slept.

We didn’t have an option.

The rain fly — another another piece of plastic that goes over the top of the tent to keep the rain out — fits quite tightly and has two eyelets that you must connect that I was completely unaware of until now.

This same level of durability is seen throughout the remainder of the tent.

As soon as you have one of these tents, you’ll notice right away that the cloth is amazingly thin, which is necessary in order to accomplish the weight that it does.

While you should handle them with caution (and in the best case, watch a YouTube video of someone putting one together), they will not fall apart.

Setting up the tent is simple, since there are only three major legs to worry about, and the hooks on the canvas are color coded so that you know exactly where to put them.

Having said that, there were a handful of flaws in the tent’s netting that I discovered.

Would it be wonderful if we lived in a perfect world?

But there are about ten other things I’d be concerned about before this, so it’s not a big deal.

Half Dome 1 Plus, which I purchased from REI earlier this summer (but which has since been discontinued?) was another purchase.

Because I couldn’t fit it and a bear can into my Osprey Kestrel 38, the SL 1 is a godsend.

As a result, what is my overall impression of the Quarter Dome SL 1?

The fact that my fully-packed luggage was several pounds lighter than when I dropped it off is not an exaggeration; it was a true emotional experience for me when I picked up my bag.

Now all I have to do is figure out how to make my 10 degree sleeping bag fit as well, and we’ll be able to start cooking with gas in earnest.

Switchback Travel

Price:$349 3 lbs. 5 oz. is the bare minimum weight. 20DC is the denier of the floor. 1P, 2P, and 3P are the available capacities. What we like: It has plenty of headroom and huge vestibules while being competitively priced. Its materials are a little flimsy, and it only comes with nine stakes, which is disappointing (ten are required for a basic set-up). See the REI Quarter Dome 24.4 for more information. In previous years, REI’s Quarter Dome tent was on the verge of becoming a household name in the lightweight tent industry.

REI, on the other hand, addressed these flaws in a recent upgrade, and the result is a fantastic all-around tent that does not demand a price premium.

Weight and packed size, livability and internal space, durability, weather protection, storage, and other characteristics of the Quarter Dome are discussed in further detail below.

Performance

This year’s model, the REI Co-op Quarter Dome 2, has a minimal trail weight of 3 pounds 5 ounces, which is an increase of 4 ounces over the previous model, but is still competitive in the light backpacking market. However, the tapered design of the REI Hubba Hubba NX (3 pounds 8 ounces) and the popular MSR Hubba Hubba NX (3 pounds 5 ounces) are about the same weight, but the REI Hubba Hubba NX isn’t as capacious as those two tents overall. You can get away with a lighter tent, like as the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, which weighs 2 pounds 12 ounces, but it will set you back an additional $100.

The Quarter Dome’s packed size is a direct reflection of its weight, as is its overall size.

Despite the fact that we had no trouble putting the tent into our backpacks, people who are traveling with a smaller suitcase may need to detach the tent body and rainfly from the tent poles.

Livability and Interior Space

In contrast to the previous generation, which was a full redesign of the original T2 tent, the latest Quarter Dome 2 tent is far more habitable than the prior model. In particular, the pole construction, which has almost vertical walls on all sides, opens up the inside, increasing the amount of space available around the head and feet (REI claims by 28 percent and 23 percent, respectively). When two persons sit up side-by-side, this is most visible at the top of the head end (the peak height is a tall 42 inches).

However, although we appreciate the increase in useable area, the Quarter Dome is still a weight-conscious design with a very tiny footprint.

Consequently, our two regular-sized sleeping mats (each measuring 20 inches in width) took up virtually the entire breadth of the inside.

Mummy-shaped pads should be used, and if you have two 25-inch wide mats or simply want a bit extra area inside, the three-person version of the Quarter Dome is well worth considering.

Durability

From the get-go, it’s clear that REI put a strong focus on construction quality when designing the Quarter Dome 2. Everything, from the fabric and zippers to the stakes, which REI upgraded to DAC brand pegs last year, has a high-end appearance and feel to it. Having said that, the tent is made of lightweight materials that are rather thin in order to keep the weight down. The tent’s body and floor are made of 20-denier ripstop nylon, while the rainfly is made of an even thinner 15-denier nylon material.

However, the fabric has to be handled with care to avoid a puncture.

Weather Protection

In terms of weather protection, the REI Quarter Dome is comparable to other lightweight camping tents on the market. With this package, you will receive a fully-covering rainfly, a waterproof bathtub-style floor that is tall enough to shelter you from most wind, and sufficient guyout points to achieve a taut pitch. Large vestibules (discussed in further detail below) provide excellent protection for your belongings while they are kept outside. Your backpack, shoes, and anything else you keep outside are totally protected by the broad, waterproof shelter.

Ventilation

TheREI Co-op Quarter Dome 2backpacking tent is no exception to this rule, as most modern backpacking tents provide excellent ventilation. Plenty of mesh is used to adorn the upper half of the tent’s body, and the double-wall design allows for adequate space between the inner tent and the rainfly to promote ventilation and prevent moisture accumulation. A roof vent is also included in the Quarter Dome’s rainfly, which is located at the top of the tent’s head end. In addition, while this is a pretty standard feature, REI incorporates a zippered aperture that allows you to access the vent without having to walk outdoors.

Storage

When it came to the previous Quarter Dome, one of our greatest criticisms was the narrow vestibules, and REI has made substantial improvements in this area with the newest model. The former triangle vestibules were just 6.7 square feet each, which was barely enough room to handle a pack and hiking shoes without impeding with access to the tent’s interior. The new vestibules, on the other hand, are 10.75 square feet each, which is a significant increase in space. Because of the two-stake construction, not only are they 4.5 inches wider at their widest point, but they also create a more spacious “porch” just outside of each entrance.

There are three big stretch pockets built into the ceiling that are conveniently situated above you, as well as two more triangle pockets at head height near the front corners of the tent that are conveniently located in the front corners of the tent.

Finally, there is a hang hook on the inside of the tent body at each pole attachment point, which may be used to connect a light to the tent. Overall, the Quarter Dome 2’s storage capacity is unquestionably its strongest attribute.

Set up and Take Down

Setting up the REI Co-op Quarter Dome 2 is a straightforward operation that can be completed in a matter of minutes by a single person. Although instructions for setting up a contemporary, freestanding tent are included in the stuff sack, individuals who are familiar with the process will likely not require them. Simple as staking out the corners, attaching color-coordinated poles and grommets, and clipping the poles and tent body together is all that is required. Each corner of the rainfly has a buckle that matches the color of the top, making it simple to put on and take off (a nice change from the cumbersome old system that required connecting a grommet directly to the base of the pole).

Other Capacities of the REI Co-op Quarter Dome

We tested the REI Quarter Dome tent for two people for our review, but the company also makes one-person and three-person versions of the tent. This model costs $299 and weighs 2 pounds 7 ounces (which is 14 ounces lighter than the 2P). It has much less internal room than the 2P, with just 18.9 square feet of floor surface (vs. 28.7 for the Quarter Dome 2). If you want more space than the 2P (our two regular-sized sleeping mats filled up the most of the internal space), the Quarter Dome 3 is a good option to consider.

What We Like

There is only a little increase in weight compared to its predecessor, despite the Quarter Dome having a large peak height and a somewhat open interior. Fabrics, tent poles, and stakes of superior quality
Huge vestibules for convenient entry, egress, and storage
Large doors for simple access
Undercuts a significant portion of the competition by $50 or more

What We Don’t

Although just nine pegs are included with the tent, a total of ten are required for a basic set-up. The 20-denier floor is rather thin and should be handled with care. You can only use certain shapes and sizes of sleeping pads because of the tapering construction at the foot.

Comparison Table

Tent	Price	Weight	Floor	Area	Height	Door(s)	Capacities
REI Co-op Quarter Dome 2	$349	3 lbs. 5 oz.	20D	28.7 sq. ft.	42 in.	2	1P, 2P, 3P
REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 2	$319	2 lbs. 8 oz.	15D	28.7 sq. ft.	38 in.	2	1P, 2P
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2	$450	2 lbs. 12 oz.	20D	29 sq. ft.	40 in.	2	1P, 2P, 3P, 4P
Nemo Dagger 2P	$400	3 lbs. 5 oz.	30D	31.3 sq. ft.	42 in.	2	2P, 3P
MSR Hubba Hubba NX	$450	3 lbs. 8 oz.	30D	29 sq. ft.	39 in.	2	1P, 2P, 3P, 4P
REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus	$229	4 lbs. 14 oz.	70D	35.8 sq. ft.	44 in.	2	1P, 2P, 3P, 4P

The Competition

The REI Quarter Dome SL, which we have reviewed here, is a highlight in the backpacking tent industry, but they also produced the updated Quarter Dome SL earlier this year (superlight). Despite having same ground surface area and weight, the SL trims a massive 13 ounces from the equation to 2 pounds and 8 ounces. What makes it feasible for this to be true? One of the most notable features is that the pole design, which is similar to that of the ultralight Nemo Hornet and Big Agnes Tiger Wall, results in a significant reduction in peak height (38 inches compared to 42 inches for the non-SL) and results in a semi-freestanding design that requires guying out at both corners of the footbox.

The SL, like many real lightweight designs, is a little tight for two people, but we like the weight and low price of $319.
While camping in Canyonlands, we put this tent up side by side with the Quarter Dome and discovered that the two tents have a lot of similarities.
The Quarter Dome’s pole configuration does give up more area at the foot end of the tent and it has larger vestibules (21.5 sq.
vs.
ft.), but the Copper Spur wins the clear weight edge with a 9-ounce save.
Overall, we favor the Copper Spur above the Quarter Dome irrespective of price, but the $100 cost savings make the Quarter Dome a superior value bet.
All three tents have two entrances and vestibules, are freestanding designs that are simple to set up, and have competitive weights.

The Nemo and MSR, on the other hand, are symmetrical designs, as opposed to the Quarter Dome, which narrows in width and height at the foot end.

Furthermore, both the Dagger and the Hubba Hubba NX make use of a thicker 30-denier floor fabric, which will prove to be more durable in the long run.

REI’s own Half Dome 2 Plusis a final—albeit substantially heavier—option to consider.

However, we like the generous 35.8 square feet of floor area (7.1 square feet more than the Quarter Dome), and the longevity of the 70-denier floor (as opposed to the Quarter Dome’s considerably thinner 20-denier floor).

In the end, it boils down to priorities.

The lighter and thinner Quarter Dome, on the other hand, makes more sense for individuals who place a high value on weight savings.

Please note that while we often include a live pricing comparison table below our outdoor gear reviews, the Quarter Dome 2 is only available at REI. You may view theQuarter Dome 2 page hereand assist us in the process. Thanks!

Gear Review: REI Quarter Dome 1 Tent

As soon as I returned home from my Europe Triplast summer, I went online to hunt for a lighter and more compact tent to replace the one I had brought. Not to take anything away from the tent I brought with me, the REI Quarter Dome 2, which worked perfectly. It provided me with shelter for the three months that I was out there, as well as on earlier journeys over the preceding five years, but the seams started to leak, and I had to cover it with a tarp to keep it from getting wet on the inside during the rainy season (I ended up seam sealing it when I got home).

It was a nightmare.

I just needed something that was lighter and took up less room to transport on my excursions.

Initial Thoughts

The aim was to find the smallest, most “compactable” 1-person tent that could be found. After scouring the Internet, I found myself returning to the REI brand again and time again. I finally decided on the Quarter Dome 1. It weighed only 2 pounds, 2 ounces, and folded down to 6 inches by 20 inches. In addition to being a relatively new model at the time, it was also available in the popular orange and silver color scheme, rather than the green and gray color scheme seen on the previous year’s models.

While on the Adventure Cycling Colorado tour, I really misplaced the footprint and the bag of stakes, but that’s a tale for another time.
A new tent’s fragrance and feel are unparalleled when it is initially unpacked and put up in the field.
Basically, you lay everything out according to the colored tabs that indicate where the tent poles should be placed, and then snap the tent poles into position and put them into the corresponding colored tabs that match.
My early views of the tent were positive, but I couldn’t provide a definitive assessment of it until I had put it through its paces.

2 Trips With REI Quarter Dome 1

That was the case when I took it with me on my two excursions with Adventure Cycling in the summer of 2014. The Colorado Family Fun Ride was the first excursion on the itinerary. Having this tent was a godsend since it was so small and compact that I didn’t even realize it was there until I looked around. I had brought my backpacking bag with me for the trip, and I just put my tent into the bottom of the camping bag. Because I was able to put up my tent in a short amount of time, I was able to assist my teammates with other chores as tour leaders.

Because of the tiny floor arrangement, I was able to squeeze through spots that were a little more difficult for other participants’ larger tents to fit through.

We had rain and wind on a couple of days of our journey, but my little tent held up admirably and was not blown away, and my belongings remained dry and protected.

The True Test

On my two excursions with Adventure Cycling, I took it with me, and it was a big hit. The Colorado Family Fun Ride was the inaugural excursion. Having this tent was a godsend since it was so small and compact that I didn’t even realize it was there until I got closer. I basically packed my tent into the bottom of my hiking bag for that trip because I had it with me. Because I was able to put up my tent in a short amount of time, I was able to assist my teammates with various tour-related activities.

It was easy for me to fit between spots that were a little more difficult for some of the other participants’ larger tents because of the narrow floor arrangement.

Who should buy the REI Quarter Dome 1

Someone who is searching for a lightweight, three-season tent that is both quick and simple to put up and disassemble
Someone who spends their time camping in areas where there is little or no precipitation
Someone who travels light and does not have a lot of belongings to store in the vestibule
A person who is considering purchasing a sleeping bag, but who wants to be able to sit up at night
Someone who is considering purchasing a sleeping bag, but who wants to be able to sit up at night

Who should NOT buy the REI Quarter Dome 1

Someone who stands at least 6 feet tall (or taller). No vertical foot room
Someone who need extensive rain protection
Someone concerned about condensation build-up
Someone who is exclusively on a bicycle tour. The importance of comfort cannot be overstated.

My Wish List

Improvements in rain protection– Is it really so difficult to make the rain drop for an inch longer? My primary complaint about this tent, and one of the main reasons why I will not recommend it entirely, is that it is too small. Two doors– It’s possible that I’m simply accustomed to having the convenience of two doors in my previous REI Quarter Dome 2, but being able to store my stuff on both sides of my tent and having the choice to enter and depart through two doors is quite convenient. Extra pockets on the interior– Having more pockets on the inside for my belongings would be really convenient. Occasionally, the contents of the top pocket became so crammed that they began to tumble out onto my head
Other times, the contents were too stuffed to fall out.

The Video

Watch the video below to see an in-depth assessment of the REI Quarter Dome 1 tent, which I created for my Gear Review channel.

Buy Yours Here

TheREI Quarter Dome 1 and/or thefootprint are available for purchase through the links provided. Please let me know if you have a REI Quarter Dome 1 tent for sale. I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on this tent. In what ways do you agree or disagree with my assessment? Disclosing a Potentially Material Connection: Some of the links in the preceding post are “affiliate links,” which means they are paid for by the company that provided the connection. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase, I will earn a commission on the sale.

I’m declaring this in compliance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising,” which states that “endorsements and testimonials in advertising are prohibited.”

Ethan Fontole