With its rectangular base and a little more support than a hammock, REI’s first hanging tent hits the market for ‘Hammock Life’ enthusiasts.
Sturdier than a hammock and cozier than a tent, REI’s Quarter Dome Air lands on shelves this month. It’s the brand’s first take on the growing “hanging tent” phenomenon.
The $219 Quarter Dome Air is part of the brand’s upgrade to its super popular Quarter Dome tent line for 2017. A sturdy base, stowable bug net, and adjustable tension locks are some of the key features on this suspended sleeper.
REI Quarter Dome Air Hanging Tent
The Air is a 3-season, 1-person hanging tent built to hold up to 250 lbs. The base is 81 inches long and 23 inches wide, so it’s long enough for individuals well over 6-feet-tall.
A removable rain fly is included and the bug net can be zipped off to stow along the base.
Fly, stakes (4), and tent-bug net pack down into a stuff sack that, according to REI, weighs 3 lbs. 2 oz. The base’s form uses two integrated, horizontal shock-cord poles. These create the rectangular shape and stiffness.
First Look Review: Quarter Dome Air
We had a peek at the Quarter Dome Air before it launched and found the setup comfortable. There wasn’t the trademark “taco-ing” of most hammocks, but there was enough give to feel comfortable. Still, it wasn’t as firm or bouncy as the three-point Tentsile tree tent we’ve reviewed, which has a very taut, springy base.
Each of the four guylines at the corners use tension locks. These slide back and 
forth, adjusting the tilt of the base. There is no center pole for ridgeline structure. It is tension-based and the interior has an A-frame feel.
There is one side-entry door, four ceiling loops for storage, and a mesh pocket both interior and exterior designed to fit a 32-oz. Nalgene.
The Quarter Dome Air is available now at REI for $219. We’ll be giving this a full review and update product specifics soon.
