We’ve come a long way since the days of Goldline rope and pile-fleece sweaters. What used to be done in a week is now done in a day, and alpinists today are doing more with less. They’re putting up hard routes in more truncated timeframes, which requires a careful survey of every ounce that’s coming on route.
One of the biggest ways to cleave off a few pounds is in your shelter. And the Samaya 2.5 feels like what an alpinist’s dream tent might look like in person. This tent trims the fat in ways we’ve never seen before, elevating the idea of a four-season shelter to produce something we feel comfortable calling a hyper-tent.
With electro-spun breathable membrane with Dyneema accents, it is absolutely on the bleeding edge of tent technology. And, it’s much roomier and lighter than most other tents in the same category.
In short: This spring, I took the Samaya 2.5 tent into the backcountry and glaciers of the North Cascades, aiming to, well, break it. Having failed to do so, the tent proved there’s still room to push the envelope when it comes to the “light is right” ethos. For those who want to go farther, the Samaya 2.5 makes a compelling argument to bring less. It’s highly waterproof where it needs to be, and the electro-spun Nanovent membrane breathes so moisture and CO2 are expelled. Even its hexagonal design defies nasty weather through every season.
- Type: Alpinism and basecamp
- Weight: 3 lbs., 12 oz.
- Doors: 1
- Sleeps: 2-3
- Floor Area: 34.4 sq. ft.
- Vestibule Area: (Optional) 20.5 sq. ft.
- Height: 47"
- Walls: Single
Pros
- Waterproof-breathable Nanovent membrane canopy
- 2.5-person capacity provides plenty of space for kit
- Long and deep storage pockets
- Smart overhead vent system
- Self-equalizing guylines
Cons
- Top-dollar price
- Single door can lead to drips on entry
- Finicky setup
- Included stakes aren't confidence-inspiring