: 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
Ditch the tent, use a hammock, I use both commercial and home made and a hammock is lighter, takes up WAY less space in your boat or pack, and there is never a worry about level smooth ground. Its hard to get out of bed in the morning because these things are so comfortable.