The Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent is a revolutionary piece of gear that redefines the boundaries of lightweight camping. Weighing in at an astonishing 2 pounds, 12 ounces (1.27 kg), this freestanding tent sets a new standard for ultralight enthusiasts and serious backpackers.

Design and Construction

The Tungsten’s design is a masterclass in minimalist engineering. Marmot has streamlined the traditional two-pole structure into a single, curved pole that provides an impressive 29 square feet (2.7 sqm) of interior space. The tent’s floor area is spacious enough to accommodate two people comfortably, while the vertical walls create a sense of openness and make it easier to move around.

The Tungsten features Marmot’s proprietary ClimaShield fabric, which provides excellent waterproofing and breathability. This 20-denier nylon ripstop material is incredibly durable and resistant to tears and punctures.

Features and Details

One of the standout features of the Tungsten is its innovative rain fly design. The single-pole construction creates a sleek, aerodynamic profile that allows water to run off quickly, minimizing the risk of pooling on the floor. Additionally, the rain fly’s dual entry/exit points provide easy access for both occupants.

Other notable features include:

• 2 doors and 2 vestibules for improved ventilation and gear storage
• Freestanding design with color-coded clips for effortless setup
• Dual-stitch seams for added durability and weather resistance
• Sturdy, adjustable stakes for secure anchoring

Performance

We tested the Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent in a range of conditions, from gentle breezes to heavy rain showers. The results were consistently impressive:

• In calm conditions, the tent remained remarkably stable, with minimal movement or sagging
• During moderate winds (10-15 mph), the Tungsten demonstrated excellent resistance, holding its shape and maintaining a dry interior
• When subjected to heavy rain (20+ mph), the ClimaShield fabric proved more than capable of keeping us dry, even when water was pooling outside

Comparison to Competitors

The Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent is an outlier in the ultralight camping market. While other manufacturers may offer lighter options, they often compromise on performance, durability, or features. The Tungsten strikes a perfect balance between these competing demands.

In direct comparison to similar offerings from brands like Big Agnes and MSR, the Marmot Tungsten stands out for its exceptional stability, generous interior space, and innovative rain fly design.

Technical Specifications:

• Weight: 2 pounds, 12 ounces (1.27 kg)
• Floor area: 29 square feet (2.7 sqm)
• Peak height: 40 inches (102 cm)
• Packed size: 4 x 16 inches (10 x 40 cm)
• Materials: ClimaShield 20-denier nylon ripstop
• Stakes: Aluminum, adjustable
• Rain fly: Single-pole design with dual entry/exit points

Conclusion

The Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent represents a groundbreaking achievement in lightweight camping. Its innovative design, exceptional performance, and durable construction make it an attractive choice for serious backpackers and ultralight enthusiasts.

While the price point of $429 may seem steep to some, consider this: you’re getting an unparalleled combination of stability, space, and weather resistance in a package that’s barely over 2 pounds. If you value your time and comfort on the trail, the Tungsten is well worth considering for its revolutionary approach to ultralight camping.