Comparison of REI Half Dome and Quarter Dome Camping Tents
Customer feedback for the REI Half Dome and Quarter Dome tents is overwhelmingly positive, with both models praised for their spaciousness, durability, ease of assembly, ventilation, lightweight design, and value for money.
Space and Comfort Comparison
The REI Half Dome SL 2+ and the REI Quarter Dome 2 share a common sleeping capacity of two persons. However, the Half Dome offers a larger floor area, higher peak height, and a spacious vestibule, providing more space and comfort compared to its counterpart. On the other hand, the Quarter Dome prioritizes a lighter and more compact design, making it more suitable for long-distance backpacking.
| Feature | REI Half Dome SL 2+ | REI Quarter Dome 2 | |-------------------|----------------------------------|--------------------------------| | Sleeping Capacity | 2-person | 2-person | | Floor Area | 33.75 sq ft | Slightly less (exact figure not stated but smaller tent) | | Peak Height | 42 inches (offers good headroom) | Generous headroom from tension-truss architecture but generally lower than Half Dome | | Vestibule Area | 22.5 sq ft (ample covered storage) | 2 vestibules for covered storage but overall smaller vestibule space | | Weight (Trail) | 3 lbs. 15 oz. (approx. 4 lbs packed) | Very lightweight due to 15-denier ripstop nylon, ultralight materials |
The REI Half Dome is noted for its excellent livability without a major compromise on weight. It weighs under 6 lbs for a 3-person version, which is impressive for the space it offers. Its spacious floor plan and taller peak height enhance comfort for sitting up and moving inside.
Lightweight and Compact Design for Backpacking
The Quarter Dome tents utilize new ultralight materials (15-denier ripstop nylon), unique pole designs, and tension-truss architecture to keep weight down and maximize interior space relative to weight. The Quarter Dome is highly favored for backpackers who want a balance of comfort and minimal weight, making it more suited for longer-distance backpacking where every ounce matters.
Summary
- More space and comfort:REI Half Dome due to larger floor area, higher peak height, and bigger vestibule.
- Better for long-distance backpacking:REI Quarter Dome thanks to ultralight fabrics, compact packed size, and innovative pole design prioritizing weight savings.
If your priority is maximum livable space with moderate weight, go for the Half Dome. If your priority is minimizing pack weight and bulk for long treks, the Quarter Dome is better suited. The key differences between the Half Dome and Quarter Dome are in their features and specifications. Both tents can withstand a variety of weather conditions, with the Half Dome's heavier build offering slightly better resistance to harsh conditions. Both REI Half Dome and REI Quarter Dome are two popular tent models from REI.
- The REI Half Dome SL 2+, with its larger floor area, higher peak height, and spacious vestibule, provides more space and comfort compared to the REI Quarter Dome 2.
- The REI Quarter Dome 2, due to its ultralight materials, unique pole designs, and tension-truss architecture, is more suitable for long-distance backpacking as it prioritizes a lighter and more compact design.
- The REI Half Dome offers excellent livability without compromising weight, making it a great choice for those seeking a balance of space and moderate weight.
- Both REI Half Dome and REI Quarter Dome tents are equipped to handle a variety of weather conditions, with the Half Dome's heavier build providing slightly better resistance to harsh weather.
