December 2016

Read more from

December 2016

Price:

$$799

Our Rating:

The Carina II is a sturdy and spacious 2.9m² tent that maintains a reasonable trail weight (2.3kg) for its size.

Two main poles, and a third which provides more shape than stability, form the frame of the tent and allow it to be free standing. This allows the fly to be completely rolled up to view the sky or for ventilation on warm nights. If it rains, it’s a quick task to unfurl and clip to the pegs.

The fly and inner are pitched separately; good for versatility, but not so good for pitching in the rain. The fabrics are light, but not so light they might tear easily, and the floor, while lightweight, is actually sturdy and comes with a 5000mm rating – enough that using a footprint is not essential.

Interior space is abundant, easily accommodating tall people and their gear – and that’s without counting vestibule space, which is generous.

Steep walls and large entrances add to this tent’s living appeal.

Cam-lock guy line tensioners, a stuff sack that separates wet and dry parts of the tent and a practical pole and peg bag enhance a reliable product.

Mark Watson

About the author

Mark Watson

Wilderness gear editor Mark Watson divides his workdays between graphic design, writing and photography. His passion for tramping, climbing, cycling and storytelling has taken him all over Aotearoa and the world in search of great trails, perfect moves and epic light. He has published four books and his photographs have featured in numerous publications. Especially motivated by long distance travel, he has tramped Te Araroa and cycled from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.

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