2470g / 2.52m²

What we liked: Excellent stability in wind, warm and durable, very good value
What we don’t: Tiny vestibule, no storage pockets, hot in summer

We recommend for:
Above bushline and cold-weather use.

Overview and features: The Litetrek II is classed as a three-season tent, but sits in the niche between tents with breezy mesh interiors and full alpine tents. It offers an option that’s warm, reassuring in strong winds and affordable. It’s freestanding, with a single entrance, a small vestibule and a durable 70D floor and 50D fly. 

Space and comfort: The 2.52m² floor area is small but typical for an alpine tent. Headroom is most generous near the door and narrows towards the foot. It’s a little cramped for two people changing clothes and large people might find it a touch narrow, but for short trips or smaller people it’s sufficient. 

Durability: The fabrics have higher-than-average waterproof ratings and are more durable than those found on many three-season tents. The zips are also stronger than those on the lightest tents. A repair kit is included.

In use: It’s fast and easy to pitch and sits flush to the ground for weather resistance. The inner and fly are pre-clipped, which is beneficial in the rain as the inner stays dry, and the fly can be pitched alone. The vestibule is too small to store packs and cook at the same time, but the inner can be unclipped at the entrance to create extra space. Ventilation is by small areas of door and ceiling mesh and a weather-sealable fly vent, which make it comfortable in cool weather but hot in summer. Storage pockets would be a good addition. 

Value: This tent has benefits close to those of a four-season tent for considerably less cost, and is priced at the low end of its class, making it excellent value. 

Why buy the Salewa Litetrek II? 

It is built for efficiency and value, sparing some features for the benefit of weather protection and durability while keeping the weight reasonable. It’s a great tent for summer use above the bushline, the shoulder seasons and into winter.