Rei Co Op Half Dome Sl 2 Real Review

When it comes to finding the perfect tent for your outdoor adventures, the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2 often stands out as a popular choice among avid campers and backpackers alike. This review delves into the intricacies of the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2, offering an in-depth look at its features, performance, and overall value. As a lightweight two-person tent designed with a focus on both durability and convenience, the Half Dome SL 2 aims to provide an optimal camping experience without breaking the bank. In this review, we will explore how well this tent lives up to its reputation, examining its design, ease of setup, and how it performs in various weather conditions. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a casual camper, understanding the strengths and limitations of the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2 can help you make an informed decision for your next adventure.

"Just went backpacking this past weekend and I feel compelled to praise this tent based on our experience. We experienced two thunderstorms in a box canyon that swirled high speed winds and threw sheets of rain at us. This tent held up without an issue, and kept us and our packs completely dry. I actually couldn't believe that just the vestibule could keep my pack as dry as it did. Would not recommend backpacking in a thunderstorm, but would recommend this tent every time. You won't regret this buy."

"Such a wonderful tent, but, I want to mention something I found out just now. The tent body with foot print and the rainfly fits inside the REI Durable Stuff Sack (10L). Idk if anyone else mentioned or if this was already a thing but it packs down to 14 inches tall and 7 inches in diameter. Makes packing into my Trail 40 backpack even easier!"

"I was given the latest version of this tent and find it a huge disappointment given the price. I have been out a month and question the durability. Also doors poor in rain. Have had slightly cheaper REI tents in past & and camped last summer with Walmart tent that while heavier, seems as good or better, known others with older versions and this lighter weight one seems less durable and practical."

"This tent is exactly what you expect. No frills, stright forward great product. We are upgrading to a 3+ of this same tend becaaue we jsut want some extra space with our packs but have really loved this tend for our back country adventures. We made it through an early season snow/hail storm with this tent no issues."

"Great lightweight tent. Plenty of room for one or two campers. Easy setup. Ventilation is adequate, and adjustable. After one week of daily use, I have noticed the aluminum support framing is developing a slight contour bend. As long as it doesn’t get worse, I don’t think it should be a problem. Fingers crossed."

"Took our Half Dome out for the first time up into the high Sierra last weekend. Loved the ease of setup, the space, and the vestibule for storing packs and boots. However we had one night of heavy rain, and I was disappointed to see one of the top rectangular rain fly panels pool with water. It never leaked into the tent, but over time, I know it will because we had the same experience with the car camping REI Hobitat a few years back. Sadly have to return this one."

"Have used it twice this summer and am loving it so far. Can’t beat the size-to-weight ratio and it’s so easy to set up. As a backpacker newbie, I wanted a tent that I can carry for solo trips and that gives me the option to bring a friend who doesn’t have gear. Two people plus my 17 lb terrier have plenty of room."

"As several other folks have shared, the tent pole snapped. Unfortunately REI doesn't sell replacement poles. We're going to try and get them fixed, but I'm afraid of recurring issues, given that this seems to be common with this model. I would not recommend purchasing this tent - hopefully pole design/durability is improved in the future."

"I setup the tent in my living room with no issues. Then, I set it up on its first outdoor journey and after alightly bumping the top of one of the doors with my head as I was adding my gear into the tent, one of the poles that fits into the corner broke near the top of the hub. I was able to repair the pole with the included repair kit, but I am definitely going to return this tent. More reliable poles please, perhaps with a more traditional pole design vs this hub design that seems to put way too much tension at the hub given the thinness of the material!"

"This is a review based on the previous model (Half Dome 2+), but looking at the pics this is an iterative improvement on that design. Absolutely the best tent I've ever owned! A lot of 2 person tents skimp on space, to make them easier to carry - and the don't end up much smaller than this. The size and airflow of the tent is fantastic - and the revised vents on the rain fly of this version look like they make it even better! You'd be hard pressed to find anything not to like about the tent. Goes up quick, and it has tons of room for your gear. All in all a very well thought out design. When mine wears out, this is the one I'll be replacing it with!"

In conclusion, the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2 stands out as a commendable option for those seeking a reliable and affordable tent for their camping excursions. With its thoughtful design, user-friendly features, and solid performance, the Half Dome SL 2 offers excellent value for its price point. While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as its limited interior space for two people or the need for careful handling in harsher weather conditions, its strengths in terms of weight, ease of setup, and overall durability make it a strong contender in the realm of lightweight backpacking tents. If you're considering adding the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2 to your gear collection, you can expect a dependable and enjoyable camping experience that aligns well with its reputation. Ultimately, this review underscores the Half Dome SL 2's role as a versatile and practical choice for outdoor adventurers seeking quality and affordability in their gear.