The REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Tent is a highly-regarded, two-person backpacking tent that offers an impressive blend of comfort, durability, and affordability. Designed for serious outdoor enthusiasts, this tent boasts a spacious interior, easy setup, and a robust construction that can withstand the harshest weather conditions.

Design and Features

The Half Dome 2 Plus Tent features a classic, freestanding design with a single hub-and-pole system that allows for quick and easy setup. The tent’s floor area measures 28 square feet, providing ample space for two adults to sleep comfortably. The interior height is 39 inches, making it possible to sit up comfortably inside the tent.

One of the standout features of this tent is its weather-resistant construction. The REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Tent boasts a waterproof and breathable fabric with a 1,000mm water column rating. The rainfly is also designed with a built-in vestibule that provides additional storage space for gear.

Performance

The Half Dome 2 Plus Tent excels in various weather conditions. In our testing, we subjected the tent to heavy rain and strong winds, and it performed admirably. The waterproof and breathable fabric kept us dry and comfortable, while the sturdy poles withstood the wind and rain.

In terms of ventilation, the Half Dome 2 Plus Tent features a large mesh door and windows that provide excellent airflow and visibility. This feature is particularly useful for stargazing or enjoying the scenery during downtime.

Weight and Packed Size

Weighing in at 4 pounds 1 ounce (1.8 kg), the REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Tent is relatively lightweight for a two-person backpacking tent. The packed size measures 20 x 7 inches (51 x 18 cm), making it easy to carry on long hikes or backpacking trips.

Interior and Storage

The interior of the Half Dome 2 Plus Tent features a large, spacious area with ample room for gear storage. There are two pockets on either side of the tent for storing small items like headlamps, first aid kits, or snacks. The interior also boasts a built-in gear loft that provides additional storage space.

Comparison to Competitors

The REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Tent stands out from its competitors in several areas:

• Weight: While it’s not the lightest option on the market, the Half Dome 2 Plus Tent is relatively lightweight compared to other two-person backpacking tents.
• Packed size: The tent’s compact packed size makes it easy to carry on long hikes or backpacking trips.
• Weather resistance: The REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Tent boasts a waterproof and breathable fabric that excels in various weather conditions.

Conclusion

The REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Tent is an exceptional choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts. Its spacious interior, easy setup, and robust construction make it an ideal option for backpacking trips or long hikes. While it may not be the most feature-rich tent on the market, its weather-resistant design, ventilation system, and packed size make it a top contender in the two-person backpacking tent category.

Technical Specifications:

• Weight: 4 pounds 1 ounce (1.8 kg)
• Packed Size: 20 x 7 inches (51 x 18 cm)
• Floor Area: 28 square feet
• Interior Height: 39 inches
• Material: Waterproof and breathable fabric with a 1,000mm water column rating
• Features: Single hub-and-pole system, built-in gear loft, two pockets for storage, rainfly with vestibule
• Recommended Use: Backpacking, hiking, camping, outdoor enthusiasts