This sub-2-pounder is a legit option for couples who want a wicked-light shelter for moderate conditions. The 29-square-foot floor is a standard two-person size, and the 44-inch peak height offers plenty of headroom. But it lacks a vestibule, so in extended rain it works best as a solo shelter, as you’ll need to store gear inside. Sleeping alone with a pack and boots stashed next to him, our tester called the space “lavish.”
How do you get so much space for so little weight? The FlyLite uses two trekking poles in lieu of tent poles for supporting the head end (a 24-inch aluminum pole, included, props up the foot end). And it’s a surprisingly uncomplicated pitch for a trekking-pole shelter: Simply position the pole’s grip into the awning above the front door, extend the pole until the fabric is taut, then repeat on the other corner. “I had this tent up in 30 seconds on my first try,” reports one tester.
Like most single-wall shelters, airflow is a weakness. We experienced drippy condensation in most conditions, but in mild temps we minimized moisture by unzipping the top of the door.
It withstood 40-mph winds along New York’s Finger Lakes Trail, though some wind-blown rain penetrated the foot-end mesh.