Best 4-Season Tents of 2023

Reasons to Buy

• Well-insulated for all weather conditions
• Ideal for high altitude and extreme weather expeditions
• Spacious
• Highly durable construction

Reasons to Avoid

• Not the most lightweight option for backpackers
• Pricier than other tents in the market
• Not the best option for warm and humid weather

The Important Specs

• Material: Nylon
• Peak Height: 41 inches
• Number Of Doors: 2
• Floor Dimensions: 83 x 56 inches

Review Roundup

If you're in the market for a beefy expedition tent that can handle the harshest conditions mother nature can whip up, the Mountain Hardwear Trango 2 is well worth your attention. This 4-season tent is specifically designed to tackle the brutal elements of high-altitude and winter camping, proving itself as one of the sturdiest contenders in its category.

Reviewers appreciate the Trango 2 for its tank-like resilience against rain, snow, and strong winds. Constructed with durable materials, a dual-wall design, and pole-clips for easy setup, this tent remains stable when the weather takes a nosedive. Users reported how the double-wall design reduced condensation build-up, something that campers regularly battle with in colder climates.

Inside, the Trango 2 offers ample floor space, comfortably fitting two adults, with room to spare for gear storage. It's the spacious vestibules though, that garnered a lot of praise. Separate entrances and expansive storage areas for each person mean no crawling over your tent-mate on those late-night bathroom trips. Users loved the convenience offered by these additional spaces.

The tent's weight, however, is a bit of a drawback. Tipping the scales at over 9 pounds, it isn't exactly your lightweight buddy on those long treks. Backpackers looked for alternatives when it came to cross-country slogs, making the Trango a choice more suited for stationary base camps than nomadic excursions.

While some users mentioned a steeper learning curve for tent setup, they generally agreed that the payoff in resilience and space is worth the initial challenge. Overall, the Mountain Hardwear Trango 2 presented no significant deal breakers for campers looking for a robust shelter in the middle of nowhere.

In terms of value, customers cited the Trango 2 as an investment. Its price tag isn't light, but they valued the high-end performance and durability against the toughest elements. Customer satisfaction generally indicated that this is a tent that can endure many treks - a 'buy it for life' piece of gear.

Reasons to Buy

• Durable and sturdy build
• Excellent weather protection
• Great interior space and comfort
• Handles snow load exceptionally well

Reasons to Avoid

• A bit heavy compared to its competitors
• Price may seem high
• Limited ventilation may lead to condensation build-up

The Important Specs

• Doors: 1
• Seasons: 4
• Material: ToddTex single-wall fabric
• Dimensions: 87x51x43 inches
• Sleeping Capacity: 2

Review Roundup

The Black Diamond Eldorado is one of those four-season tents that knows how to make its name stand out in the crowded tent market. This tried and true classic holds up whether you're facing the unpredictable hardships of an alpine environment or simply experiencing an unexpected turn of weather in the backcountry. This kind of adaptability is what has most of its users singing praises.

Constructed with a tough and durable ToddTex single-wall fabric, the Eldorado is designed to resist the elements while offering breathability. Rain, snow or high winds, it seems there’s not much that can throw off this tough cookie. Many of its users have mentioned that despite harsh weather conditions, nighttime inside the tent felt comfortable and cozy.

This tent's two-pole design makes setup straightforward and quick. Users have especially appreciated this feature when camping in harsh weather conditions where speed is of the essence. Its steep walls create plenty of headroom, leaving you with a comforting sense of space on those nights when the weather forces you inside.

One downside some users have pointed out is its weight. While it's supposedly built for two, it can be pretty snug with all your gear. But on the flip side, this compact size is a much-loved feature among minimalist backpackers and solo adventurers who appreciate lighter loads.

Although the Eldorado comes at a relatively steep price point compared to other four-season tents on the market, those who've taken the plunge have often noted that the high-quality construction and dependability make it worth every penny. It's a frequent comment that this tent feels like a safe investment that will last for many camping trips to come.

Based on the feedback out there, the Black Diamond Eldorado shines when it comes to durability, comfort, and weather resistance. That said, its snug size and heavyweight could be deal-breakers for some. If a compact, sturdy and reliable four-season tent is what you're after, this one's a popular choice among seasoned backpackers and mountaineers.

Reasons to Buy

• Great combination of lightweight and durability
• Superb weather resistance and snow load capability
• Offers good interior space and comfort
• Provides excellent ventilation and condensation management
• Easy to pack and carry around

Reasons to Avoid

• Price point may be high for some campers
• Material could be more robust relative to similar tents in the category

The Important Specs

• Capacity: 2 people
• Material: 20D Nylon Ripstop
• Dimensions: 84 x 50 x 42 inches
• Door Quantity: 2
• Pole Material: Easton Syclone

Review Roundup

Stepping out into the wild often involves encountering unpredictable weather conditions. The MSR Access 2 is a robust tent, designed to offer users comfort year-round. A favorite of winter adventurers and campers out there, it promises a reliable performance in challenging conditions.

Weighing in at only 4 pounds and 1 ounce, the Access 2 doesn't compromise on weight for its impressive durability and warm interior. It's one of those tents that won't break your back when carrying on long hikes or walks. So if you're into backpacking, the lightweight nature of this tent can be a boon.

Designed to withstand strong winds and heavy snow conditions, it sure packs a punch with its two-layer system aiming to provide excellent insulation. It uses Easton Syclone poles, known for their strength and flexibility. These all-weather poles stand up tall against harsh winds, providing a sense of security, even in challenging environments.

It boasts a comfortable living space for two people, with adequate room to sit up and stretch, making it a convenient option for couples or solo travelers who prefer to travel with extra gear. Don't worry, your backpacking gear or climbing tools will have enough storage space in this tent.

From the perspective of buyers' reviews, people prefer the Access 2 especially for its easy setup, a key feature that any camper appreciates, especially in harsh weather conditions. Also, its freestanding capability is a plus, so you can pitch it just about anywhere.

While the users praise its strength and versatility, some have raised concerns regarding the condensation while using the tent in humid conditions. The tent's ability to withstand strong winds and snow seems to come at the price of having less ventilation. But still, in such condition, it holds up pretty well.

In terms of resistance to weather, MSR Access 2 is waterproof though some buyers found frost could build up on the tent, but this is pretty common with four-season tents.

Some folks were quick to note that the Access 2 is a bit on the pricey side; however, they also mention that you're paying for top-notch quality and all-season capability.

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent value for a 4-season tent
• Highly durable design and material
• Solid weather resistance and snow load capability
• Good interior space and comfort

Reasons to Avoid

• Ventilation and condensation management could be improved
• Struggles in high wind conditions
• A bit on the heavier side

The Important Specs

• Design: Free-standing, two-pole
• Material: Nylon (fly), Polyester mesh (canopy), Coated ripstop nylon (floor)
• Dimensions: 84 x 50 x 40 inches

Review Roundup

The REI Co-op Arete ASL 2 tent is an angle on the budget-friendly end of the spectrum when it comes to four-season tents. This isn't to say it skimps on features or durability. Quite the opposite. From customer reviews, it's clear that many users have found it to be high-performing in various circumstances and well worth the price.

A constant point of praise in the reviews is the tent's versatility. Equipped for handling a range of seasons and situations, the Arete ASL 2 is designed to keep you comfortable whether you're battling harsh winters, rainy springs, or windy autumns. A few folks also left comments rating it highly for the ventilation during the summer, a testament to its all-season label.

Feedback regarding the space and set-up was largely positive too. Campers praised it for being a two-person tent that provides ample room. The interior feels spacious and it has enough storage pockets keeping things tidy and organized. The setup process is fairly straightforward and gets easier after a couple of tries, based on a number of online reviews.

However, some users did point out a few drawbacks. The tent’s heavyweight was a common negative point among users, especially for those who needed to carry it on long trails. So if weight is of concern, that might be a point to consider.

Also, while the tent performs well in extreme situations, some folks found that it falls short of the heavy-duty, four-season tents designed specifically for harsh winters. Perhaps that’s the tradeoff for being a versatile, all-season tent.

Overall, the REI Co-op Arete ASL 2 appears to be a hit among users who found it to be a worthwhile and reliable option, especially for those camping on a budget. The few criticisms raised strike as points to consider but don't seem to overshadow the numerous positive feedback highlighting its versatility, space, and value for the price.

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent weather resistance
• Ultra lightweight design
• Versatile - great for all seasons
• Easy setup
• Durable, high-quality materials used

Reasons to Avoid

• Expensive relative to similar products
• Limited internal space

The Important Specs

• Height: 64 inches
• Seasons: 4-Season
• Material: Dyneema Fabric
• Floor Area: 63 square feet
• Sleeping Capacity: 2 Person

Review Roundup

The Hyperlight Mountain Gear Ultamid 2 is a shining star in the ultralight category of 4-season tents. Weighing in at a feather-light 1.17 pounds, it's not hard to see why so many outdoor enthusiasts are opting for this tent on their backcountry adventures.

By using Dyneema, a high-strength, low-weight fabric, Hyperlight Mountain can shave off precious grams without sacrificing the durability that is so vital in a 4-season tent. This is the kind of forward-thinking, cutting-edge innovation that sets the Ultamid 2 apart from the crowd.

A customer review hailed the Hyperlight Mountain Gear Ultamid 2 with high praise, stating, 'the setup is straightforward, even in windy conditions, and the pyramid shape has held up against some seriously harsh weather.' This echoes the sentiments of many other users who experienced its resilient performance in diverse weather conditions.

What some users have noted, however, is the lack of included stakes or a footprint. This means that you'll need to invest a little more for a complete setup, but those who value weight savings above all else will likely find the trade-off worthwhile. A verified buyer highlighted this point, writing 'while the extra cost for the stakes and footprint was a bit of a bummer, the overall weight and capabilities of this tent make it priceless in my pack.'

A few users also pointed out that the UltaMid 2's single-wall design doesn't provide as much insulation as a double-wall model. One buyer reported that 'some condensation did build up inside during colder nights.' This is to be expected with most single-wall tents, so it's important to bear in mind when deciding if the UltaMid 2 is the right choice for you.

In summary, the Hyperlight Mountain Gear Ultamid 2 has been widely praised for its ultralight weight, sturdy construction, and ability to withstand diverse and challenging weather conditions. But be prepared to add some extras to your cart, and make sure that a single-wall design suits your camping needs.

Reasons to Buy

• A fortress in most weather conditions
• Incredibly durable
• Delivers good ventilation for a single-wall model
• Spacious and comfortable interior
• Easy to set up

Reasons to Avoid

• On the pricier side
• Not as lightweight as some other models
• Packability can be a challenge

The Important Specs

• Doors: 2
• Materials: ToddTex single-wall fabric
• Floor Area: 33.1 square feet
• Vestibules: 2
• Peak Height: 44 inches
• Dimensions (L X W X H): 90 x 53 x 44 inches

Review Roundup

The Black Diamond Ahwahnee is one of the standout tents for single-wall lovers, earning its fame amongst adventurers for its top-notch quality and four-season versatility. Its compact and reliable design make it an ideal shelter for solo trips or paired getaways, promising you a snug and protected nesting space under a variety of weather conditions.

Owners often praise the Ahwahnee for its two full side doors, giving this tent an edge in terms of accessibility and ventilation. The multiple doorways not only help to keep the interior cool and comfortable in high heat, but also make entering and exiting a breeze without disturbing your partner.

Design wise, many users agree that the strength-to-weight ratio in the Ahwahnee is excellent. Although it's not the lightest tent on the market, it's durability and sturdy frame setup undoubtedly makes it one of the toughest. The single-wall design cuts back on weight and is much simpler to pitch, especially in situations like rain or snowfall where a quick setup is crucial.

The tent's spacious interior is also a point of appreciation amongst reviewers. It boasts a high ceiling and roomy floor area, allowing for comfortable movement and storage space inside. A couple of internal mesh pockets further adds to the practicality by organizing your tent essentials within an arm's reach.

On the flipside, some customers have noted that condensation can be an issue with the Ahwahnee due to its single-wall construction. In certain weather conditions, moisture can build up on the inside of the tent. However, others argue that by managing the adjustable vents properly, this issue can be mitigated to some extent.

Price can also be a point of consideration among buyers, as the Ahwahnee definitely falls in the higher end of the spectrum. But most agree that you're paying for the quality, durability and versatility it offers, making it a long-term investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts.