That $450 ultralight tent was a total waste of my money

I bought the Hyperlite Ultamid 2 last spring after everyone in the forums swore it was the best thing since sliced bread. Took it on a 5 day trip on the John Muir Trail and the condensation was so bad I woke up soaked three mornings in a row. For that price I expected something that at least breathes, but it was like sleeping in a plastic bag. Has anyone else found a decent alternative that doesn't cost a fortune and actually works in humid conditions?

2 comments

2 Comments

bettyk531mo ago

Everyone in the forums swore it was the best thing since sliced bread" - that part gets me too. I think half those people only tested it in their backyard or in perfect weather, you know? The JMT is no joke with how the weather changes, and waking up soaked three mornings in a row would have sent me over the edge. I had a similar experience with a different expensive tent (a Big Agnes I won't name) where the breathability was terrible in any kind of humidity, and it made me realize these ultralight companies are chasing weight savings at the expense of actually being comfortable. The Lanshan 2 Pro sounds like a solid move, I've heard good things about it from folks who actually hike in wetter areas, and at least you're not out $450 if it doesn't work out.

grant.jason1mo ago

Got the same tent and had the exact same problem man. That thing is great in dry climates but put any moisture in the air and you're basically camping in a Ziploc bag. I was so pissed after my second trip I listed it on eBay the same week. Ended up switching to a Lanshan 2 Pro which is way cheaper and actually lets you breathe at night. Still not perfect in heavy rain but at least I don't wake up drenched in my own sweat every morning. Makes me wonder if all those reviewers actually used the thing in real conditions or just set it up in their backyard.