What’s a good tent for sea-kayaking expeditions?
I plan on doing a sea-kayaking expedition, so in the market for a durable, easily compactable single- or two-person tent to take with me. Something that stashes away and sets up easily. Any ideas? Arthur Spartanburg, South Carolina
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All sorts of choices. You’re on your own, right? I’d get a two-person tent, as weight isn’t a big issue in a kayak and you’ll be much happier with the extra space. Plus, you’ll have room for a partner if you ever decide to end your hermitic ways and find another water-seeker with whom to do some intimate bonding.
Akto
Only about a gazillion choices. REI’s Quarter Dome UL ($229; www.rei.com) is light at just under four poundspretty amazing for a true double-wall tenthas enough room for two, is palatial for one, and has double doors and a top vent for plenty of air flow.
For a somewhat roomier and beefier tent, Mountain Hardwear’s Hammerhead 2 ($245; www.mountainhardwear.com) has more floor space and a big mesh ceiling for stargazing. And Marmot’s Hypno ($349; www.marmot.com) has interesting pre-bent poles that help create walls that are more vertical, for a greater feeling of spaciousness. Plus, Marmot’s quality always is top-notch.
For a true solo tent, Hilleberg’s Akto ($345; www.hilleberg.com) is a super-sturdy all-weather tent that can withstand any coastal storm you might encounter. Very light, tootwo pounds, 14 ounces. For something a little more relaxed and airy, the Big Agnes one-person Seedhouse Superlight is the ticket ($229; www.bigagnes.com). It’s tall, sturdy, and well vented. What more could you want?