Durston - X-Mid Pro 2

I’m 6’6” and have a xmid pro 2 for myself diagonally. Not wide enough for two talls on a thru hike imo. Xmid 2+ certainly is though. Trekking pole tents that will fit you almost certainly will have a large footprint. I’m sure you could make it work. Odds are you’ll have room to pitch it or be able to cowboy camp. If space is truly a concern y’all could consider each carrying 1p tents like aeon li’s instead.

X-Mid 2. Ridiculously good value (even being the most expensive on the list) and lighter than the other options. I got the Pro 2 for the AT later this year and the amount of room, ease of setup etc. is awesome, though the Pro is... not cheap. It hurt... but it won't hurt my back!

I'm about to take the Pro 2 on the AT. If you ventilate well with a good pitch, condensation is minimised and it's super light, plus it's big enough I'm not in any danger of brushing against the sides anyway. All Durston tents get massively glowing reviews and for good reason.

I've seen quite a few your height-gifted fellow hikers extolling the virtues of the internal room. Being aggressively average in height myself, I have a ridiculous amount of room!

As a 6’5 hiker I went for the x-mid 2 pro for the extra room and the ability to use it with a partner in the future. I think the slight extra weight is worth only buying one.

With our doublewall tents including the X-Dome the fly can be rolled back as much as you want. You can expose a corner or two (I show this in the pitching video) or the entire interior. So the X-Dome 2 can have any amount of ventilation from fully covered to 100% inner exposed. The regular X-Mid can do this too, but the singlewall Pro version has the fly and inner attached so the versatility is less.

The regular X-Mid has always been tips up, and the Pros have always been handles up. The main reasons for that is that a doublewall tent (regular series) doesn't have a natural pocket for the handle, so the lightest option is a grommet for the tip, whereas the Pro series are singlewall/hybrid tents so the inner wall connecting to the fly creates a natural pocket that we use to go handles up. You can go handles up without adapters in the regular X-Mid too, but it doesn't have that wall there to positively stop the handle from sliding around. It works normally but in high winds the greater security of a grommet or an adapter can be nice.

This gets a bit complicated. The X-Mid Pro 2+ has the largest fly, since the base is the same as the regular X-Mid 2 (both 85" x 100") but it is slightly taller (49 vs 48" in the Pro 2+). So the Pro 2+ feels the most spacious partly because the fly is slightly larger but mostly because it is a singlewall in some areas, so you have the space right out to the fly instead of the inner walls. The floor length is spec'd slightly shorter, but really what matters for length are the fly walls because that is what you would hit if you are too long. And the fly walls are almost identical shape. So I would consider the X-Mid 2 and X-Mid Pro 2+ basically the identical size except the Pro version feels larger since it's partially singlewall. Then the X-Mid Pro 2 (non-plus) is smaller for sure.

We’ll be announcing an update to the X-Mid 2 in a week or so. The 2025 model is now lighter.

I only used Durston but it is not free standing (the one I used) and in very windy Utah wild areas and by the California beach winds, it was untouchable. But I have used a hammer and stronger stakes than the ones they offer (the lightweight ones bend). I have XMidPro2 and 2+ (but it is one piece), here is the two part - XMid 2 - they updated it even more, not much more heavier than the pro2, but again they use trekking poles and I used rocks on the flaps during very heavy storms. Lol. I don't know how to use the storm lines yet. They send them with tent but I never learned how to use it. Though, at 300 price tag and below 2.5 pounds and the space inside, you may wanna check, got my comment removed for link, so had to remove the link. For hammer in hard soils, I used MSR mountaineering one, the link doesn't go through, sorry!

Durston is my vote! I got two tents from them, was thinking to resell one but thinking to keep it if my son starts hiking on his own, so he can keep it. I want to buy the nylon one (two wall tent) next. It would be better for the winter than the one wall tent (XMidPro) that I have I think. But, the quality of their products is great! If the shipping/fees isn't too bad, consider it.

I had the original X-Mid 1P that Durston put out through Massdrop/Drop.........and now have the X-Mid Pro 2P. Not to sound harsh or argumentative, but I haven't a clue why one would need the pole adapters that you suggest........and am constantly surprised when I see people feel they need to put tips up/handles down. These tents naturally have a pocket/cradle that the trekking pole handles fit nicely and firmly into and you don't need to then worry about a sharp pole tip ruining the tent. Just no need to do that at all. Feel free to waste your money, but those aren't needed.

Totally agree. I have had two of Durston's tents and have my end-game with the Pro 2. I do like the the concept with the new free-standing tent, but not willing to waste money and such to pull the trigger on that. If anyone has done their research, they would see the short-comings on the Zpacks vestibule setup and entry where the screen door drops to the floor rather than to the side and out of the way. The Durston waterproof zippers are awesome and simple and reliable. Haters gonna hate, though.....

Any of the x-mid tents are going to be extremely easy to set up. It’s probably the easiest to set up trekking pole tent out there. You just need to stake out the corners, put up the poles, then tighten up the corner lines. It’s nice to stake out the vestibule and there are some other points on the tent where you can add guy lines for additional stability, but they are optional and aren’t necessary 99% of the time. I’ve got a xmid pro 2 and it’s super light. They are expensive, but I saved some cash by buying it used.

I have a Durston xmid pro for backpacking and a CORE 10-person instant cabin tent for car camping. It’s like owning a Yorkie and a Great Dane. 🤣 You can get pretty cheap car camping tents since you don’t really have to worry about how heavy they are. Worth it for the super easy setup and tons of space. Only reason I’d opt for the half dome is if it was going to be cold. Your body heat isn’t going to keep a big tent warmer than outside temps.

The number one issue that I hear about in regards to the Duplex is the vestibule. It's pretty much worthless. There's no zipper, and the fabric barely overlaps. It has only one spot to the secure it, at the very base, so the wind just howls through it, and brings the rain in as well. If the tent is pitched properly, the bottom edge of the vestibule is at least six inches off the ground, if not more, making it useless against splashback when it's raining. Yes, the Duplex Zipper fixed the zipper issue, but I've seen way too many reviews where the quality control on the zipper was lacking. When you combine the terrible vestibule design with a door placement that sucks because of where the trekking poles go, and then tack on a $700 price tag? Yeah, it's not very appealing to a lot of people, and is a MASSIVE price barrier for people who are just getting into backpacking. Add that it's a single-wall tent, which is something more than a few people dislike due to moisture-management reasons, and you have a tent that's basically only for those with spare cash who value weight savings over just about everything else. The Durston X-Mid 2 Pro is, in pretty much every possible way, a better, more well-thought out design. It was, in fact, such a huge improvement that ZPacks finally had to stop coasting on their old designs and actually offer a zippered Duplex in order to compete. THAT is why the Duplex Zipper exists, despite the vestibule design being a sore point for years. They had no competition, so they never bothered. Then Durston came along, and OH NO WE'RE LOSING SALES.

I have the XMid Pro 2 and backpack with one of our huskies almost every trip. Mika is 45lbs, Max is 50lbs. Just one dog and me fit easily with extra room for gear. Two people and one of our dogs would work but be tight. (replaced a Strat Li but below applies to both tents) To protect the floor, I bring a full size z-fold pad (generic z-lite). I cut it into two pieces - about 1/3 and 2/3rds. I place them together to put where the dog will be sleeping. I cut it into two pieces so that I can use the 2/3rd piece under my pad in the event I get cold. They can still use the 1/3rd. I lay a costco quilt over the top of the pad. The like to "dig" sometimes. Between the pad and quilt, it protects the floor long enough until I can tell them to stop. For just casual walking in and out of the tent, laying down etc, there would be no need to protect the floor. Kneeling on a sharp rock or stick would probably do more damage than a dog stepping on the floor. We also have a Big Agnes UL2 and UL3 we've used for people and dogs. Only damage to any of the tents (first time out in a brand new UL3) was when I walked away with the dog in the tent and she paw'd at the screen and ripped it. Luckily, she hit the pocket so it didn't affect the door.

I backpack with one of our Siberian Huskies (one is 45lbs, other is 55lbs) using either and XMid Pro 2 or Copper Spur HV UL2. I'm about 5'10". I like having some room in the tent for stuff or just hanging out. Both of the above tents work great for this.

Same. Despite published reports that an X-Mid Pro 2 can be set up with only 4 stakes that's kind of a joke perpetuated on the newbies. I carry 10 stakes and I am not afraid to use them along with rocks if needed.

My thought was that if I am going to carry more guy line, then I might as well have it already attached to the tent rather than just stuffed into the tent bag. And then I thought: As long as I have to carry the stakes and the guylines are already attached to the tent, then I might as well stake out the guylines, too. And then I thought: I might as well leave the tent stakes girth-hitched to the guylines in two sets of three. So that's what I do: https://imgur.com/a/ti-shepherd-hook-stakes-girth-hitched-to-tent-cords-Mj5Iv1D

669 g is about the same weight as my Zpacks Duplex and my Durston X-Mid Pro 2, so this tent is NOT 100g heavier.

I love my X mid pro but it does condensate a lot with 2 people if it's closed up. I'm out West and I can't imagine always camping in a super humid and cold wet environment. If the vestibules aren't open (say due to rain) my quilt gets wet. Just the nature of single wall tents... Now if you keep both vestibules open it's much better and a non issue.

I paid $700 for my Durston X-mid 2 Pro. I forgot about the cheaper version.

I have the Durston X-Mid Pro 2 and love it. Super lite, compacts very small, and can be set up in the rain. Whatever you get, I'd highly recommend getting a tent 2 person tent even if it's just one person. It's so much easier to put clothes, food, electronic gear, your panniers if needed, etc, inside the tent with you, just in case. I used to have a bivy, travelled quite extensively with it actually. And when I moved to a 2 person tent it was a real game changer.

Because you haven't actually bought your tent yet, I'd recommend that you try to do some research first. Durston Tents are not obscure/hard to find anymore like they are a few years ago. If you live within a reasonable distance of any population center, it's likely you can find individuals that own the various models of Durston tent for you to try out. Your major concern - because of your height - is that they'd be long enough. By default you've chosen probably the biggest possible configuration - the 2 Pro +. I'd encourage you to find people who have these tents that would be willing to allow you to lay down inside of them to see if it truly does require the largest possible configuration to make you comfortable. I say this as an owner of a 1 Pro, a 2 Pro, and a standard 2P. The 1 pro is surprisingly roomy and longer than you might think. It also weighs 125 grams less than the 2 Pro +, and can fit in smaller footprint areas (which is sometimes a concern.) Other stuff: * If you REALLY feel like you need a groundsheet, consider polycro instead of the Durston groundsheet. It weighs about a third of the weight and is a small fraction of the cost * Consider using your tent stuffsack stuffed with whatever clothing you are not wearing to bed as your pillow * 135 grams for your 750 ML pot is heavy. A Toaks 750, with handles and lid (both of which are unnecessary) is 100 grams. And the mesh bag for it could be replaced by a ranger band. * I recommend splitting the fuel canister into the empty can weight (100 grams) and the fuel weight (110 grams). The fuel weight can be marked as a consumable. * Your S2S sponge and detergent seems excessively heavy. You can likely cut a small chunk off of a sponge in your house, acquire a Litesmith container, and take a fraction of the detergent. I'm not familiar with that specific detergent, but Dr. Bruhners is a concentrate, meaning you could get bye with even less of it. I personally carry a 10ml Litesmith bottle and 10 ml of Dr. Bruhners for a total weigh total weight of 14 grams. And my sponge is a chunk of a scotchbrite sponge that weighs 3 grams. * Consider a McDonald's McFlurry spoon (5 grams) vs the 18 gram titanium version * Consider an Rovy Von flashlight for 18 grams vs. your headlamp's 80 grams. * I'd list out each and every item in your first aid kit with weights for each one. You should rationalize exactly what you NEED for each item. 120 gram FAK might be overkill depending on what's inside. And that's not even counting the "medics" line item you've got. * A couple things to think about with respect to emergencies in the backcountry: First they are very rare events. Second, you have the rest of your gear with you, so the need for a space blanket, when you've already got a quilt and shelter, is dubious. Third, there's often not much you can do about them. Stabilization and evacuation are your best bet for anything beyond basic cuts and scrapes. Which brings me to a concern: you have cables listed for your Garmin, but haven't listed a Garmin. * 460 grams in camp clothes seems excessive, and again, is all bundled together under one opaque heading. LIst each item separately so it can be evaluated individually. If those items aren't made of Alpha Direct, that would be one easy way to cut the weight. And I'd make your camp clothes the same garments as your "hiking merinos." It's unlikely you'd be hiking in those garments every day. You may start out in those garments, but will likely change out of them after a few minutes and you begin to warm up. They should serve double duty as your sleep clothes * 416 grams for a par of conversion pants is excessive. My $30 ones from Academy (Magellan) are 307 grams, *and that includes the belt.* * If you're not familiar with Litesmith, you should check them out. They have all sorts of trinkets to cut your weight. For instance, they have lighter versions of several of your listed items: Lip balm, tooth brush, bottles for repackaging liquids, etc. For example, I 'd repackage both your sunscreen and bug repellant and cut those weights by two thirds. * I see you have hiking *boots* listed, as well as camp sandles/slippers. If you're old school and refuse to try trail runners, OK. Otherwise, I'd recommend you try them out. Trail runners are generally comfortable enough that s separate pair of camp shoes is unnecessary. One of the nice things about PackWizard is that you have a ready-made database of other folks packing lists that you can study, and a tabulation of everybody's base weight. If you haven't taken the opportunity to use that resource, I encourage you to do so. Every individual has their own cost/benefit/comfort balance they need to strike. I encourage you to study PackWizard and see what stuff other folks used to accomplish the same tasks you have. Some will be expensive and not meet your cost/benefit/comfort balance, but some will be cheap and easy (like the Litesmith stuff.) Good luck

Yeah, this is the way. You really arent saving anything going with the 1p over the 2p, unless you are camping in some insanely small/limited campgrounds. I have had both the OG 2p pro and now have the 1p pro. If I could go back in time Id stick to the 2p. (I see the 2p as a big 1p, and the 2p+ as the only real two person alternative).

I would agree that the 2+ is quite overkill for a person+dog, but the 2p should work fine for the PCT from what Ive read on here.

I'm a 1-pole guy that likes 2-pole space so sometimes I carry a Durston Z-Flick Pole (3.1 oz) so that I can pitch my X-Mid Pro2 or my Duplex (I have too many tents). Many Duplexes have been sold and I'd guess you could find a used one in pretty good condition. That plus a Z-Flick and some stakes should be under 24 oz.

I using Durston x-mid 2 pro. We did some thru hikes with my gf and we have no problem ( and I am 190cm tall ). Also we got a puppy and on short trips ( about 3 days ) we sleep two inside and puppy in vestibule. If you want bigger I will take a look on BA 3 person ( that's the lightest I found for 3p ).

I carried the OG X-Mid 1P for 700 miles on the PCT. Space wasn't an issue when I used it, but I eventually swapped it out for a tarp because I was cowboy camping most of the time. I now have a 2P Pro and it's also great. I think the only benefit I could think of to not get the Pro version would be if you wanted to setup the inner-only for stargazing on a buggy night. Otherwise, lighter is better for a hike that long. If I had to do it over again and wanted more protection than the tarp, I would look into the Tarp Tent Rainbow Li. Seems to strike the right balance of weight, protection, ease of use and smaller footprint size. I didn't really care for the larger tent so I have more room mentality. You're only sleeping in it, not hosting dinner parties.

I'm 6'4". Of those, I have the XMid 2 Pro. I can sleep without going diagonal, so I think it'll work for you. The footprint is indeed very large, and that has been a constraint at times.

I’m 203 cm and use the Pro 2 — not the Pro 2+ — for solo use. It’s a tight fit and I need to sleep diagonally, but it works. That said, I do sometimes wish that I had the Pro 2+ instead.

durston xmid 2p. pro if you can swing the cost. I use a 1p pro it's a great tent and dan is a great human. he sells z poles that are extremely light for them if you don't want trekking poles.

I’m 197cm. I had a lanshan pro 2 and it was way too small, both hair and toes got soaked from condensation. I have an x-mid pro 2 now and it’s manageable if I pitch it very well and position myself carefully, kinda wish I would have gone for the 2+ though. Tarptent dipole looks interesting too, although it seems very heavy for a 1 person single wall shelter that costs that much.

Durston recommend the x mid 1 for up to 6”4, and the 1 pro for up to 6”8. I suspect it would be a pretty tight fit, but probably manageable, especially in the double wall configuration where touching the mesh inner isn’t going to make you wet. I use a thick sleeping pad (10cm) which impacts usable room, and need space for my dog, so I went for the 2. With a good pitch on flat ground, and sleeping on the long diagonal of the 2 pro I can avoid touching the walls even as I toss and turn at night, but there’s maybe only 5cm of clearance. I mention the 2+ because it’s only 20g heavier than the 2 pro, but has steeper walls on the long diagonal so seems like it should feel a lot roomier for me.

I don’t have the X-Dome (yet) but my X-Mid Pro 2 has the double zippers for the entrance to the inner and I love them! It’s so easy to find the pulls, I don’t have to open the tent as wide to bugs if I’m reaching in or out of it, and they come together at a sharp point that has a small triangle covering them on the inside. I love my X-Mid Pro 2 but have definitely had the experience that a rock or root is hiding exactly where I need to put a stake. And after moving it a little I find a rock or root on a different corner. Of course this only happens when I have my dog along and I’m trying to beat the rain so I’m not breathing eau de Wet Dog all night.

I just looked on the website for a visual and understand now. I assumed the geometry was the same as the X-Mid and the third zipper was smaller and went right from the center of the x/y axis. I can see the pros and cons of how it actually works. I’m someone who always loses the zipper pulls. If I go right they’re left. I think they’re too center, nope they’re bottom right. It happens for me because I’m constantly having to move them to access different parts of the tent when it’s a rectangle. With the X-Mid and X-Dome layout, it’s so much easier for me to put everything in one oblong corner without having to put some here, some there, etc. and the zipper on my X-Mid is perfect for accessing that for me. I just slide the bottom zipper open and snake my hand in, grab what I need, and zip back up. The biggest obstacle was actually teaching my dog to wait until I got both zippers open because he can’t really see the fine mesh so would try to plow right through.

I have the sharp corners on my X-Mid Pro and love them. It’s the only tent I’ve had like that though, all the others I’ve owned had the curved zippers that caused some exasperation at least once a night. I think there are pros and cons for either. Of course, it all boils down to personal preference and how each individual uses their gear.

Lanshan 2 Pro is a great tent for the price, an absolute palace. If I had the money and really wanted a 2 person I would go Xmid just because it's higher quality, not a Zpacks rip-off. The Lansahan is Fine. I've seen some storms with it and been peachy. I'm looking to move to an Xmid pro just because there is too much room in the Lanshan. I simply don't need it all and it makes pitching in sneaky wildcamps harder. ETA: I had to seam seal the Lanshan, twice, and spray the fly with silicon to stop misting.

Through the PCT and CDT I’ve had a Big Agnes copper spur, Zpack duplex, Tarptent Notch Li and a Durston Xmid Pro in search of the perfect tent. Xmid pro was my favorite. I recommend the dyneema bathtub on it.

Look into the X-mid pro by Durston

My wife and I both slept in them all last summer for 5 months while hiking the continental divide. Best tent I’ve owned and I’ve owned a lot of them. The can use tracking poles so if you have some you are bringing, great. But for biking I bought the ultralight extending poles they sell for it on Durstons site to keep the weight/size down.

I am talking about the hornet Osmo…maybe not elite, not sure, returned it. I had cables and poles snap on me. After that I would never look at the half free standing style again. It’s trekking pole or free standing tents for me. The Durston X-Mid is a great tent. So is the Big Agnes copper spur. I have a 2 person for sale.not in your $400 budget though. Unless you are meaning American dollars

Mine is $440 us including the ground sheet, only used once on a 4 night trip. I bought a Durston xmid pro.

The use cases to justify the extra weight of a Portal over a traditional ultralight tent don’t exist outside of bizarre edge cases on the PCT. You can save a bunch of weight and have an equivalent shelter for your needs by going with a Xmid, duplex or similar. I use my Portal 2 over my Xmid pro when I am going to be camping in exposed terrain deep in shoulder season with a forecast showing some gnarly weather in the Canadian Rockies. Otherwise the Xmid is in my pack - it’s far more resilient and storm worthy than what the weight would suggest, though it takes some effort to pitch properly as the penalty for an improper pitch is higher than with a Portal.

Looks easier to pitch than my Xmid Pro. After a year of setting it up it still pisses me off that half the time the bathtub doesn't have erected sides. The thing we do for UL.

I'll second that the X mid Pro ticks all boxes in my opinion

I don't know much about it but it looks ok, I have seen on you tube on an American channel and it looks ok. Terra nova do 4 season tents like the southern cross 1 or 2, bombproof and not too heavy. You can usually pick them up for £500. Or there's Nortent Vern 1 or 2 at the same price but heavier, really good reviews on YouTube. I use my x-mid all year round unless I'm expecting really bad weather then I use the Terra nova Southern cross. Hope that helps

The newer version was revised with a grommet for the tip, Dan said in an explainer video that it was less likely to slip and allowed for a sturdier setup. So now you need to go handles down. I think pro series still goes handle up but regular and solid are tip up. Edit: hear it direct from Dan at [ 4:22 in this video ](https://youtu.be/fOJ4BKIoKGs?si=hYzemLr8ZoBpXFw1)

I agree it makes the alarm bells go off thinking about it but I make sure my hand is over the tip as I'm placing the pole into the tent, that the pole ends are not too wet or dirty so that it might slip in my grip, and that the fly fabric is loose/poles are adjusted down so no pressure is on it until everything is in place before using the pole extension to create tension. Never even had a close call doing that but if one was careless I'm sure it could make issues.

My favourite is the Tarptent Notch Li. It’s a 1 man with adequate internal space and double vestibules. It’s the easiest pitch I’ve ever had from a tent including in the wind. The shape is excellent for spilling the wind and it’s done great for me in winds upto 50mph. It weighs 600g. I had the V1 for a while and then upgrade to the V2, I bought them both off eBay for circa £450. Because it’s a trekking pole tent, with adjustable poles you can set it very low or very ventilated. It’s also got some great vents and you can pitch it with the vestibules rolled back in calm warm weather for a fantastic view. The net stops midges, it’s proven strong and durable. I love this tent so much. I also think it’s worth getting the DCF version, not only for the weight saving but you can just shake the water off it and it doesn’t stretch when cold and wet. I think the closest competitor is the X-Mid pro which is pretty much the same weight but has more internal space but is less good in the wind and a little bit slower to pitch. I’ve pitched my notch on summits in minus temperatures and high winds, as long as your stakes hold, it’s been good for that. I got myself some Titan ground anchors to ensure the main-stays will defo hold in high wind. P.S if you look through my posts, you will find it in quite a few of them. I apologise in advance for all the ridiculous stuff in there :)

I did the Dientes Circuit with an old GoLite Shangri La 2 about 10 years ago. You don’t really need a freestanding tent for the trek - but it might make your life just a little bit easier. There are enough stones laying around to secure pegs in stormy weather and it is possible to find semi-sheltered spots along the way. But of course your tent should be resistant to high wind/storm. From todays tent selection I would recommend the Durston xmid pro or wait for the freestanding version, that is announced for October.

X-Mid 2 footprint is 7.67 feet/2.34m long and 52"/132cm wide. It can fit two wide large 25" x 77" rectangular pads. Please explain to me how this is only meant for dwarfs.

I've not heard a single report of anyone having a problem with *any* 15D floor treated appropriately.

Buy once, cry once. I'd go for the x-mid 2. It is a super solid and useable tent which can't be said for many on that list.

pioneer a 1.5 person tent, i found the helm 2 too tight for 2 and personally i think it is overrated, saggy inner and unless you are under 6 foot too short either side of the centre. I have a hubbahubba clone and we find it fine for 2. Our main tent is an X-Mid 2 and that appears to tick all your boxes. Easily best 2 person tent we have used.

Depends on what you like to do, for car camping I have a Coleman 6 man & for backpacking I have a 2 person Xmid from durston. I’ve never had any issue with either, the Coleman was about 1/3rd the price of the xmid and it comes in very handy when a friend or two wants to tag along on a weekend

The Stratospire and X mid 2 are your best bet - just get a couple of CCF pads to protect the floor.

The X-Mid 2 is fine for me to fit a large and a regular S2S inflatable pad head-to-head and not touch the pads against each other or jammed into a corner of the tent. Yes, the person on the side with the more sloped wall is not going to have a ton of headroom, but you're not even close to actually touching the tent wall if you're positioned properly. This is with a pillow and sleeping on the back. Not that it'll matter anyways once you put your sleep mask on 🤷

Being a shortie with a shortie partner is always surreal when reading this sub and other ultralight resources. "A 2 person is really a 1 person tent" "for me personally the X-Mid 2 is simply unusable for two people with position head to head" meanwhile me and my partner both fit into a X-Mid Pro **1** lmao

Checkout r/ultralight. They have the best recommendations for lightweight tents. Duston 2 is great if you want a trekking pole tent. A cheaper option is the Paria Aches which I personally like a lot. For free standing i have enjoyed my naturehike vik but it does condensate a good amount so a double wall might work better for you like the Paria Zion 2 person.

My kids are 5 and 7. I’ve been backcountry camping with them since they were babies. I do 2-3 short backcountry trips each year with combos of one kid, both kids, and my family of four. Here are some of my thoughts.  1. My kids’ stamina and pace is the limiting factor. I keep their bags small. I have an Osprey jet 12 and jet 18 for them. They are essentially simple frameless bags around 1lb. No need for a 3lb bag with frame when they can only carry a few pounds.  2. I have a seek outside divide I usually use with them. It’s moderately light (for the volume and load carrying ability) and carries great. I’ve had it pretty loaded down sometimes.  3. My boys have Big Agnes Little Red bags. They’re synthetic and a bit bulky and heavy. Buuuuuttttt… they dry quickly if they get wet or have an accident. And my boys haven’t ever complained of being cold over probably 100+ nights camping in them.  4. I use cut down CCF z-rest style mats for them. They haven’t complained they are uncomfortable and they are pretty light.  5. I’m constantly undecided on shelters. We currently have an x-mid 1p and 2p and a heavy 4 man tent (4kg!). This year I plan to take the 2p and 1p for all four of us. 2x2p would be nice. I might get a 4p pyramid tent for all four of us and for just me and 2 kids.  6. I got my own sleep kit ultralight. It comes on every trip (as I’m on every trip) and I won’t outgrow it (unlike the kids). I’m also quite ruthless about removing my own luxury items.  7. We have a 1.3 L evernew titanium pot. I have some GSI bowls that fit inside it. Allows me to make a light modular cookset that is sturdy and safe enough for kids. I can use it for any combo of 2-4 of us.  8. Keep your food as ultralight as possible too. Bring stuff your kids will eat. I’ve had to pack out a few backpacker dehydrated meals that my kids wouldn’t eat.  9. Bring candy for motivation on the trail.  10. Remember to keep it fun! I struggle with this when I’m feeing anxious about getting a tent spot at camp. But have fun on the trail. My kids like to play hide and seek and sing songs and for me to make up stories. 

I have two X-mid 2 to accommodate the fam and it is excellent! Recommendation - buy the [Tarp Tent Pole Adapters](https://www.tarptent.com/product/trekking-pole-handle-adapter/). When putting my poles handle down, pack rats ate my handles. These allow you to put the tips down.

Well directly below your question was the right answer in another post. 😁 A Durston X-mid. Unfortunately a bit out of your price range,. Though cheaper/lighter and better designed compared to its competitors. https://preview.redd.it/04q8n421bgue1.png?width=2204&format=png&auto=webp&s=f97bf5397b034706d0032fc991044a0aa840af21

The Nemo is however more expensive then a much roomier X-Mid 2p. Which also pitches in around 3 mins with outer on. So ideal for random and often wet UK weather. Packs into my 5L cargo pack too \[just\]. Not freestanding though which was the \[minor\] compromise I made.

We downsized the tent we take on kayak trips to save on space and a bit of weight. Our 3 person marmot is almost 8 lbs vs my Durston XMid but if I didn't also want something for backpacking a Naturehike Mongar 2 would be a good balance between size, weight and costs.

I just got an X-Mid 2P that’ll be used solo and for my wife and I

Those Stormbreaker tents are solid choices....for car camping. You don't want to carry that much weight on your back though. Durston X-Mids are excellent value. Look up the Youtube videos on how to set them up...they're not difficult so don't let the trekking pole issue scare you. Also trekking poles can be purchased for reasonable prices as well...Costco for example. Freestanding tent options are plentiful. There's a couple of things to consider, namely weight and entry style. Personally I vastly prefer dual side entry vs just a single head end door but that's a personal preference. The Naturehike Mongar 2P is well under $200, about 4lbs trail weight and is a big 2P. If you're willing to spend more you can lower the weight with similar models from MSR, Big Agnes, Nemo etc

Just buy the Mongar. It's a much better tent if you're looking at the lower price points. If you can stretch budget then the Durston XMid's better suited to backpacking given the weight savings but that doesn't sound like the issue for you in which case the 20D Mongar's a great choice.

I love my Durston Xmid 2p it’s roomy and super lightweight and not a bad price.

I will stick with my X-MId 2 that you can get for $269.

Its not as easy/roomy to fit two people side by side without one person having a tent wall in their face. Not my video but a good example [https://youtu.be/2l8Hqb8zYD4?si=dSYSbnOw6OY-KNu0](https://youtu.be/2l8Hqb8zYD4?si=dSYSbnOw6OY-KNu0)

I second the Durston. If you’re hesitant to get a non-freestanding tent, don’t be. I had mine staked down in packed sand during a rainstorm that dropped 1.5”-2” per hour for 3 hours according to a ranger station nearby and it took it like a champ.

You can find big brands on sale generally between $200 and $350 depending on the tent. For cottage brands you're generally going to pay MSRP with maybe the occasional 10% discount, and they range from $250-$700 depending on materials. I kinda gauge tents by the Durston Xmid for non-free standing and use the Big Agnes Tiger Wall or similar tent for free standing. The Xmid is under $300 and the Tiger Wall is about $400 (but you can find discounts) iirc.

The xmid is easy to set up. I just got a tiger wall UL1 and it takes me longer to put up than the xmid. If you want a two person shelter that’s lighter you can check out the Gossamer Gear The Two. You lose floor space and double walls though. That’s kinda the tradeoff you’ll find most often.

For the same price, you can have a X-mid 2, which is much bigger and lighter. If you want something smaller and less expensive, the X-mid 1 is also a good choice. Polyester is better than nylon (doesn't sag). Durston after sale service is top notch and it's also a canadian company

I'd recommend the x mid 2 or 3 from durston equipment. Great value trekking pole tents. I love mine!

I'd second this. I had my Xmid 2 solid out in the cairngorms last summer. Winds we hit were pretty consistent at 30mph through. The tent outer deforms a little and it does flap, but inside I was fine. I only bought mine a year ago so I'm still getting used to how I should guy it out in those conditions. Size would be perfect for you though - myself and my partner have been out in it several times with our kit and our collie. If you're only occasionally trekking out in those conditions the xmid could be a good call

Starting with a lighter pack is great. Also, where/when you're camping, how long, budget, etc.  Maybe a sling/fanny/bag for the kids to carry their water bottle and snacks. If you're carrying all the gear, it might be lighter/easier to do a double pad, like the exped duo large (3r/5r) -- you can sometimes find them cheap (saw one at REI for ~$80 once). I think that'd fit in a x-mid 2, which is a great tent that can be found for ~$200 shipped usually. Things seem really on the cusp if you'd be able to fit everyone on that pad, in that tent, but once you step up cost/weight gets much higher (3p tent + 3 pads). And in the long run, you could also have the kids use/split the tent while you upgrade to another solo setup (the tent/pad weigh about 2lbs each, so once they can sleep more alone, they'd be able to handle the weight). You can also fairly easily MYOG a couple apex quilts that snaps in the middle to make a big double quilt, for way cheaper than anything you'd buy.

I had an XMID 2p on my AT thru hike this year— but I hiked with several Big Agnes users who were very happy with their tents. I think you’ll be fine. You may even enjoy the versatility of a freestanding tent out west— it sounded to me like the PCT and CDT often presented rockier campsites that problematize tarps and trekking pole tents. Chat, please correct me if I’m wrong.

Love my xmid. I was new to backpacking and tried a semi freestanding Sea To Summit Alto for a few years. X mid is way easier to pitch. X mid has huge very usable vestibules. 2 is huge, I'm going to save up for a 1 pro to make it easier to find places to pitch.

I've used my Xmid 2p with two adults comfortably. Fits your price range.

The X-Mid (non-Pro) has the advantage of being a double-wall tent, so even if you brush against the walls, you won’t get wet. However, when it comes to height support, I find that Durston tends to overestimate. I'm 198 cm tall, and only X-Mid Pro 2+ is usable for solo use. I definitely wouldn’t go for the one-person X-Mid 1 if you're around 193 cm or taller. As for solo tents, the now-discontinued Zpacks Offset Solo was the only one that really works for me. A friend of mine, who’s 195 cm, uses the Tarptent Dipole 1 and says he can sleep comfortably in it, but considering the weight, I’d personally lean toward the Zpacks Offset Duo, X-Mid Pro 2+, or even the standard X-Mid 2 for solo use. If you want a tent for two people that can fit a tall person, get Zpacks Offset Trio.

I have used a Durston XMid 2p in Yosemite for years. I also took it in the JMT last year. I have no issues setting up on granite slabs. There has always been a plethora of rocks around for the big rock/Little Rock method. I would leave the freestanding tent at home.

We had to pitch our xmid 2P with gusts arround 19m/s which was pretty terrifying, but I definetly learned that it can hold much more than I would have expected. I think with good ground conditions for stakes it is still doing fine in wind but I would never choose to sleep in it when conditions are like that. I am pretty happy with it still but it was a bit of a bummer to realise I did not think of this downside when choosing a hiking pole tend. Good luck finding another good tend might check in to see what to get next.

Yes, that's very true; I thought about it myself. However, the XMid 2P has a larger footprint and sometimes I tent in small spaces so I decided to go with the 1P over the 2P. But I did seriously think about the 2P!

If we're talking about ease of setup, I want to throw something out that's not freestanding. I'm no Durston Gear evangelist, but the XMid 2P is fucking dead simple to set up. The inner/outer stay together always, so just stake it out in a rectangle, and pop it up with the [poles](https://durstongear.com/products/z-flick-tent-pole). Stake out the fly's doors and you're done. So simple, and the setup is perfect almost every time. Easier to setup than EVERY other tent/shelter I've used. Loads easier than any other pyramid or tarp-like shelter. Medium spacious for a 2P tent (which means still cramped, but not obnoxious). As you probably know sometimes ground conditions can be a PITA for non-freestanding. But I would still prefer a well-staked non-freestanding tent in a storm.

Hey, good for you! My kids are teenagers and finally able to carry gear and actually have fun on extended self powered trips. Air mattresses have become much better per ounce (also more expensive). Quilts might also be your answer for getting more coverage and more longevity out of gear. Kids outgrow sleeping bags fast, but quilts are useful forever. Tents have gotten lighter too, check out the Durston semi-frestanding tents. More than gear, I'd say the main thing is planning fun trips. Good food, friends, things to do (slingshots eventually became a big motivator for getting my kids out). Also, patience, they may/probably won't like the same things you do. I went years dragging my kids out backpacking more or less against their will until somehow the switch flipped and now they are planning thier summer trips here in march. For a few years there I just took them on canoe/car camping/rafting trips, and that was fine. Type 2 fun doesn't turn on until kids are a bit older. Do a couple of short simple trips first, before dropping a ton of $ on gear.

I think it'll depend on the storm-worthiness of these tents. I have an X-Mid which'll do great for through hiking but for rough conditions, I currently use a Terra Nova Pioneer Compact 2 (double poled) weighing in around 2.5kg, so far from ultralight but in the UK we need to be prepared to face strong winds for summit camping.

If you live somewhere damp, you can’t go wrong with the X-Mid.  If you live somewhere dry, consider the single-wall The Two from Gossamer. It’s a tad harder to set up but quite a lot lighter. 

I got the xmid having never used another tent before other than ones my family had for car camping when I was younger. Can't say I've really found anything I dislike about it tbh. My only gripe is maybe there's not much "living space" with the inner clipped in, but tbh that isnt something that really bothers me and it can be worked around, but ive not had it out in the middle of a serious downpour yet, just odd showers here and there.

There are some pretty good clearance deals right now as the big brands are changing their lines over for spring. Big Agnes and Nemo have a few left on Amazon and REI still, I think. I snagged a ba fly Creek ul 2 for 200ish on Amazon that's going to serve as a backup/summer tent, and a 3p nemo tent (that isn't ultralight) for family trips with 2 people and dogs. If you can't find an amenable deal on sale, get an x-mid. It's the best value overall.

I’ll second the lanshan. Surprisingly good build quality for the price. I like that the 1p only requires one trekking pole to set up. I have the pro version and it’s like 650g or something… Otherwise I’d also absolutely recommend the X-Mid. Probably the best overall tent on the market and reasonably priced

bug mesh is annoying and unnecessary in the snow. xmid is fine but a true mid will offer more protection and stability

works just fine. pitch is similar to a mid, other than one more pole.

The biggest two problem of Lanshan: 1. It uses nylon 2. It’s not factory sealed, and they’ll charge you $35 if you want them to do it for you. Just go ahead with X-mid, they are not comparable at all.

Wind will push the walls in on X-Mid and it becomes very narrow.

I used the X-Mid this year and it was awesome. Highly recommend

I had one and didn't like it either, struggled with it for a couple years. Hard to get it pitched just right, it seemed to need endless adjustments to get it somewhat taught and even then mine flapped a lot in the breeze. The geometry of mine looked slightly off, I think it wasn't quite sewn correctly. I had a similar issue with condensation. I much prefer the steeper walls of the x-mid. I can also pitch it i much quicker.

I use my X-mid or just a bivy+tarp in winter. I've use these things on Volcanoes and in the cascades in winter. If its going to be windy enough that these wont work its not a storm I will be camping in. 4 season mountaineering tents are for waiting out storms when climbing Denali. Not winter backpacking.

That's a great idea.  I've used the x-mid a few times without the inner in the snow and in low-bug situations and really liked it.  I also contemplated buying the deschutes + with the bug netting some years ago.   An x-mid with a bug skirt sounds brilliant. 

Durston Gear X-Mid all the way, baby!

Look at the X-Mids. Superb value, superb tents.

2 xmids and a UL tarp is my setup for our family of four, with kids age 6 and 9, plus our 50lb dog! It works great. My kids love having their own tent (and so do mom and dad…). Hanging the tarp between the tents sounds super cool but I’m not sure you’ll always find campsites to accommodate. When it rains, we usually end up putting the tents in “porch mode” and getting them as close to the tarp as we can. Everyone in our group carries a pack, even the dog. ULA makes child size UL backpacks that adjust with them as they grow. They’re spendy but my kids love them. My 9 year old can carry his whole kit other than his food and the items we share as a family, like cookware, toiletries, water filter, and med kit. The 6 year old carries only his sleep system and clothes. I think offloading even a little weight to the kids and pets will help a lot. Plus my kids love wearing their own (lightweight) backpacks and using their own trekking poles. Makes it seem more adventurous.

Lots of X-Mids cope fine in NZ condition. Love mine, and its held up great.

The main tent that comes to mind as stronger, cheaper, and lighter that doesn't make large compromises to usability is the durston x-mid. And it still makes some compromises in that it isn't freestanding. For 3 season backpacking in Colorado/rocky mountain US the copper.spur is solid.

I’ve used a Durston X-mid and a Zpacks Duplex. These are two of the pinnacles of backpacking tents. I also use a Naturehike Cloud Up which is the best budget tent I’ve used

I loved my xmid (earlier version) on my 2022 thru. If you're hiking with trekking poles, get it. A handful of times I wished I had freestanding but not a big issue. Most people I hiked with still carried poles, but barely used them by the end, myself included. If I did it again I'd consider shipping home after the sierras/any major snow/water crossings. If I had a freestanding tent that is, I'd carry poles specifically for the xmid because it's so good. I'm not familiar with the pro, but being double walled is specifically why I bought it. Being able to use it without the inner net rules. Double walls is essential hiking in wet Appalachia where I'm at so I can use it at home too. I'd opt for the standard xmid over the pro. The weight difference isn't a big concern, but durability is. Maybe if you're good at being gentle with your gear. Similarly I'd opt for tyvek over polycro by the same reasoning, but I'm sure many will disagree. For 150ish days of use I'm glad I had the more durable option and weight was never a problem as long as your big 3 are moderately reasonable.

I also highly recommend this tent, I love that thing. Super easy to set up. If you dont want to spend for the "pro" the regular xmid is the same design just heavier.

Excellent tent and an excellent deal. I'm an Eagle Scout and I would have flipped out if my mom had ever bought me camping gear this nice. I will say, it is a "2" person tent but like most it is tight with 2 people. One person and their gear inside the tent will fit fine. For me, I much prefer ultralight tents nowadays like the Durston Xmid style, which really are around the same price and quite a lot lighter. But. For short scout trips and for a free stranding tent this cannot be beat. It's worth the $500 retail and at less than $300 it's an absolute steal. Also I'm 6'4" so the "long" version would be appreciated. What I'm trying to get at is... I'm 38 yrs old but will you adopt me and get me one too?

The correct answer is both. A 4p or 6p family camping tent when you are with friends and a smaller 2p backpacking tent (Durston X-Mid, 3F UL Gear LanShan, Naturehike Star River or CloudUP, Marmot Super Alloy etc) for color trips.

I bought the Pro because I hit 60 and decided to way lighten up my gear. Bought my 31 year old son the regular 2P for his birthday. I on the other hand bought a Durston Kakwa 55 pack, the X-Mid and a bunch of other much lighter replacement gear.

I’ve got 3 boys — we rock a Durston X Mid and a Big Agnes Tiger Wall ul3. I carry one tent plus bear can. My wife carries the second tent. Older boys help with cool set, etc., and they all carry their own stuff. Works great!

I've had condensation issues in it once. High humidity. Couple. The worst case you wipe it down with a pack towel and rinse it out the door once during the night and once in the morning. It's over exaggerated.

Yeah, I think 2 tents are the way to go. If your gf only goes occasionally, do you even need an UL tent? I have a Durston xmid for solo and an REI Quarter dome for the wife. When I go with her the miles are not priority and even with the heavier tent I still carry less than my wife.

100% agree with this. I went with a Durston X-Mid tent. At the time, there was only the 1-person, non-freestanding version, but there are other configurations now. All of them are excellent. My guess is that they'll be more challenging to acquire in Europe, but I think for the money they're the best tents around right now.

Set up on the X-Mid is by far the easiest of the tracking pole tents, but in reality it’s only slightly lighter than a Big Agnes Copper Spur. I know trekking pole tents are the big rage, but if you’ve never used one, there are conditions where it’s more difficult. Rocky or sandy conditions make it difficult at times.

Check out the X-mid by Durston. Two doors on it, loaded with features, ready to go out of the box. My list looked almost identical to yours and then I looked at backpackers subs and the x-mid kept popping up. It’s 30$ more than the Lanshan 1 but man is it worth every penny. You can swap out inners for winter or summer, pitch it without the inner or with the kit you can pitch the mesh inner without the fly.

The biggest backpacking tents are usually 2 people. The best backpacking tent on the market right now for beginners and experienced backpackers is the Dan Durston Xmid. Get a 1 or 2 person.

I have the copper spur and my brother has the dan durston xmid. The xmid is better. It has more room inside and it’s lighter

TNF Stormbreak 2P is a good tent. It's heavy at 5.5lbs /2.6kilos range. It's quick to set up. Utilizes clips instead of sleeves. Water-resistant bathtub floor with taped seams. It's a decent mesh-to-solid ratio, though I'm not sure why the top of the dome is solid. It's not the best design for stargazing / big open sky. You may want to expand your search and look into trekking pole tents. Trekking pole tents will offer you the most weight savings. There's a bit of a learning curve to trekking pole tents, so you will need to do practice pitches. The Lanshan Pro 2 (3 season) is affordable. You'll have to seam-seal-it yourself, but that's cheap and easy to do. Durston X-mid is a lot nicer than the Lanshan. But it's also more expensive. Alternatively, you could go straight up bushcraft with a tarp and bug net combo. Mountain Laurel Designs' Cricket Pyramid tarp is pretty neat. Though you'll definitely get rained out without a bathtub.

I'll second the X-mid. I do not use a ground sheet and it's been fine.

I've used the X-Mid 1 for 4 years, 2000+ miles. It would be a good, light weight choice for under $300.

Of the two you've linked the Indie is the better tent - has more space and headroom. The Ranger is a coffin - might as well get a bivybag. Some other options: [Macpac Sololight](https://www.macpac.co.nz/macpac-sololight-1-person-tent-v3/121720.html?dwvar_121720_color=Citronelle%2FWoodbine&dwvar_121720_clearance=no) [Macpac Microlight](https://www.macpac.co.nz/macpac-microlight-1-person-tent/114084.html?dwvar_114084_color=Kiwi&dwvar_114084_clearance=no) [Macpac Duolight](https://www.macpac.co.nz/macpac-duolight-2-person-tent-v3/121721.html?dwvar_121721_color=Citronelle%2FWoodbine&dwvar_121721_clearance=no) On Aliexpress, search for 3F UL gear lanshan 1 pro or 2 pro [The Durston X-Mid 1 and 2 ](https://durstongear.com/pages/tents)are great tents but need trekking poles or sticks for for support. A 3mx3m square flat tarp is what I use when the sandflies/mosquitoes aren't bad.

Of the two you've linked the Indie is the better tent - has more space and headroom. The Ranger is a coffin - might as well get a bivybag. Some other options: [Macpac Sololight](https://www.macpac.co.nz/macpac-sololight-1-person-tent-v3/121720.html?dwvar_121720_color=Citronelle%2FWoodbine&dwvar_121720_clearance=no) [Macpac Microlight](https://www.macpac.co.nz/macpac-microlight-1-person-tent/114084.html?dwvar_114084_color=Kiwi&dwvar_114084_clearance=no) [Macpac Duolight](https://www.macpac.co.nz/macpac-duolight-2-person-tent-v3/121721.html?dwvar_121721_color=Citronelle%2FWoodbine&dwvar_121721_clearance=no) On Aliexpress, search for 3F UL gear lanshan 1 pro or 2 pro [The Durston X-Mid 1 and 2 ](https://durstongear.com/pages/tents)are great tents but need trekking poles or sticks for for support. A 3mx3m square flat tarp is what I use when the sandflies/mosquitoes aren't bad.

Thanks to everybody for all the suggestions , much appreciated ! I’ll be going with the Durston X-Mid as I already own a pair of trekking poles and I believe it best suits what I’m aiming for

Thanks for the variety , the durston and lunar solo really look like what I’m looking for in a tent I’ll look into them more