Hello fellow kayakers,

We all have a favorite tent- one that is always there to protect us, to weather storms for us, to shiver in the cold so we can stay toasty warm. For me it's my old Kelty Streamside II, circa somewhere around 1995. For years she's done me well, and aside from a cracked pole which I lashed back together and the seam tape all coming off which I resealed, she hasn't let me down. I realize that Kelty isn't the top name in tents, but I cannot fault my old Streamside II, except that it is quite heavy for its size.

Now it's time to step up. This time I'm going lightweight, modern fabrics- all out. Tents have come a long way since 1995, and I need something lighter and more durable. I am considering the Nemo Espri 3P. It's light, roomy, can be set up with just the rainfly (I like that for when you get caught by a storm but aren't staying long), and it has lots of mesh which is great for my climate. I especially like the optional vestibule which zips in and adds a nice roomy place to store wet gear. I like a vestibule that allows me to get in out of the rain and shake off my boots before stepping into the tent. It also allows a place to cook when weather is less than favorable.

http://www.nemoequipment.com/nemo2011-espri3p-tent

So- what's your favorite tent? Any recommendations on new tents? Any thoughts on the Nemo?

The requirements I have are: Must have the rainfly/ground tarp only option. I do multi-week treks and want to be able to throw up the rain fly and tarp when I just need to dodge a passing storm. Must have a roomy vestibule. Needs to be fairly lightweight for multi-week trekking. I live in the tropics, and typically travel to warm places, so I prefer a three-season with lots of mesh vents. I want a good rainfly and ability to handle wind- not really concerned with snow. It would be nice to have an eyebrow vent on the rainfly. Large two-person or small three-person preferred.

Thanks for any input.

Malcolm