December 21, 2000


What's the best single-walled tent for mountaineering?

I'm climbing Aconcagua in February, and I'm looking for the best single-walled tent. I know that you don't sympathize with single-walled tents, but when you are all alone—as I will be—they can save you a good chunk of weight. If you can comment about double-walled tents, I'd appreciate that also. Thanks a lot!

— Croatto Hernan

Oh, I certainly think single-wall tents have their place. I just think that in many cases their cost does not justify the weight savings, which sometimes are very slight.

Solo climbing presents an exception. Overall, the best solo/ultralight tents for mountaineering are single-wall models. And if I were in the market for one, I would not look far: The Bibler I-Tent ($575). Although technically a two-person tent, the I-Tent is ideal for the solo climber who may want to bring some extra gear inside. It's light (three pounds, 12 ounces), very tough, and has decent ventilation. Moreover, the I-Tent's compact footprint (48 X 82" without the vestibule) means you can set it up in tight spaces.

There are a few other choices. Integral Designs Mk 1 Lite ($450) tips the scales at three pounds, 13 ounces, and is similar overall to the I-Tent. I haven't used the Integral Designs single-wall tents, whereas I have used Bibler, so I can't speak to overall quality. But it's meant to be a serious tent for serious trips.

In a double-wall tent, Moss's Outland ($379) is an extremely sturdy little tent, designed for the solo mountaineer. In general a double-wall tent is a little warmer than single-wall models, which may be a factor. But you do pay a weight penalty here: the Outland is five pounds.

Any of these three tents should work well for you. Hope you have some great adventures!

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