Backpacker 3/06 Aeolos 2P

Cathedrallike living space and outstanding sturdiness for a tent under 5-1/2 pounds – that was our testers’ impression after they stayed comfortably dry through steady rain in the Olympics. Credit two long crossing poles that bend midway to make the walls more vertical, and two short bridge poles that increase headroom. At 90 inches long, the interior lets tall guys stretch out, and it’s wide enough for two pads plus gear and clothing. The two big doors and vestibules are spacious enough for boots, packs, and cooking. Detailing is five-star, from the welded window and vent to the taut pitch using dual-diameter DAC NSL poles (which taper from middle to ends for stability). The price, alas, is also five-star.