Team Geared Up

User ‘tparty’ just added a great review of the Mountain Equipment AR Ultralight Helium Tent to FindMeATent.com. This tent is the #1 most visited on the site.

I have just bought an AR 2(!) two person tent. These are my first night impressions. The package is good quality, extremally light, sized my Prolite 4 sleeping mat.

After opening there are clear instructions, big repair kit containing fabrics, pole repair tube and glue, poles (divided into 4 pieces each) and pegs in nice fabric bags. After reading the instructions decided to try it. Setting the tent is simple and quick. Poles are strong and light, I have never seen so good lightweight pegs (!), the fabric is like a paraglider Porcher Marine 44 (looks the same), floor simmilar but slightly thicker (does not look stronger though).

Proper tension of all surfaces requires a lot of work, with average result. Qality of make is superbe. Zips and loops are fine, apart from top door and front peg hooks- some hard to open plastic (does not look reliable). After all work done, the tent is larger than I tought. A luxurious single or a reasonable for two, comfortable to seat (I am 6 ft tall). Space for 50l backpack boots behind each dors.

Poles are not vertical, but wider below (more stability and space). Not enough space for feet in front. Stability good for a lite tent, poor for a regular. In wind like 10 m/s causes a lot of noise, movement and no shape is mantained, however still stable inside.

A few additional peg loops would certainly help. Wind direction is crucial. If set the steep part towards wind, works great. Water resistance is good (tested with garden shower). Water can be rubbed in, but dries up within minutes on the wind.

Floor is too gentle, single use (I bet), if set on stones or in the forrest (with no footprint). Great design as far as doors, poles placement ,vents are concerned. Overall, a good tent. Not for windy weather.