MSR Tent Buying Guide
Posted by Mark Richardson on Feb 02, 2024
Front Range Tarp
So compact and light, it’s hardly noticeable in your pack, the Front Range tarp shelter lets parties of four move faster on giant alpine missions and ski traverses, with all-season protection from the elements. Supremely versatile—it makes a featherweight dining hall too—this ultra-simple shelter is boosted with our Xtreme Shield™ coating for long-term durability. Whether you’re taking advantage of spring’s longer days or building a winter basecamp, the ultralight Front Range makes these suffer fests a little more Type 1 fun. The optional Bug/Floor Insert adds protection for mud and mosquito season.
FreeLite
The FreeLite tents have significant advantages over the Carbon Reflex, the twin pole aids stability, there's more head height and the fabrics are heavier and hence more durable. FreeLite's are ideal for ultralight backpacking, and we think that the extra weight compared to a Carbon Reflex tent is worth carrying given the extra space the tent offers.
Hubba Hubba NX
You can use this The Hubba range of tents is the most popular from the MSR range, the reason is simple - they are still very light weight but are also made from tough materials, use nearly indestructible poles and have twin pole hubs at either end making them very stable and freestanding. In addition, there are large sections of fabric on the inner tent to provide a degree of privacy.
Of all the MSR tents, these are the standard for ultralight and lightweight backpacking.
Hubba Hubba Bikepack
Designed for the adventurous cyclist whether they ride dirt or pavement, the new Hubba Hubba Bikepack tent has been meticulously designed for life on two wheels. Thoughtful features that all cyclists will appreciate married with spacious performance make this tent best-in-class.
Access
Access tents are MSR's 4-season backpacking tent offering excellent stability in windy conditions, relatively heavy-duty fabrics and increased headroom. The inner tent also has a high amount of fabric vs mesh. Designed for backcountry skiing, it's nevertheless an ideal tent for 4 season backpacking - if you want one tent to do it all, this could be it.
Advance Pro
Its extreme-condition, single-wall design utilizes nearly indestructible Easton® Syclone™ Poles and reinforced guy-points. A unique pole sleeve allows the tent to be set up fast by one person standing in a single precarious spot—a critical advantage when space is precious in technical terrain. Proven in harsh environments like the Himalayas, the Advance Pro™ tent delivers reliable protection on aggressive summit assaults.
Elixir
Elixir tents are essentially a more robust, forgivable tent than others in the range, by using heavier fabrics the Elixirs will have a longer life. They have a slightly better head height and much bigger vestibules. This makes them a heavier option, but they are still light enough for backpacking, especially shorter distances. Best for general backpacking, then, and car camping if you still want to keep your gear down.
Tindheim
The Tindheim is a strong and sturdy tunnel tent in either 2 or 3 man versions. The height is maintained throughout the inner tent, making it comfortable for extended periods. The vestibule is large with ample storage and has a side opening for easy access. The inner door is double layer, so is adaptable to changing environments. The tent comes with a footprint which covers the vestibule too, keeping contents off the ground. The storm pitch design allows for a quick pitch without the inner tent being exposed to the elements.
Remote
A strong, four-season refuge for two mountaineers, the Remote 2 tent offers the protection you need with the liveability that keeps you level-headed for days or weeks in the harsh alpine. Built to withstand fierce winds and heavy snow loads, the double-wall tent features a sturdy central-support frame and nearly indestructible Easton® Syclone™ poles. New rainfly vents reduce condensation, and snow flaps seal out spindrift. With its spacious interior and gear-harbouring vestibule, the Remote 2 tent becomes a secure haven when you’re hunkered down on the side of a mountain.
We stock all the key MSR tent models and on this page we look at what they are and how they differ from each other. We also give our opinion.