Looking at getting a lightweight (4-5lb-ish) 2 person tent for my girlfriend and I to share. I already have a Eureka Spitfire 1 (around 2.8 lbs) for solo use. Looking to spend around $100 or so either after coupon or used.
Options I've found at Sierra Trading Post (price after 35% coupon)
Kelty Grand Mesa 2 ($78)
Pros:
Higher nylon protection from rain splatter
Ease of getting in and out through head of tent
Cons:
Small Vestibule space (6ft)
Kelta Salida 2 ($87)
Pros:
Numerous awards
higher nylon protection from rain splatter
Larger vestibule than Grand Mesa (10ft)
Cons:
Climbing over partner
Polyester floor
Alps Mountaineering Zypher 2 (aka Zenith 2) ($90)
Pros:
Large (31 sq feet)
18 sq foot vestibule
Double entry/exit
Nylon tent floor
Cons:
Low walls (splatter and wind)
I've also been looking on the gear swap and craig's list. Almost snagged a REI Passage 2 for $80, but he had a guy pick it up just before me.
My concern with the low tent walls is from my trip out to Colorado last summer, I got caught in one of those crazy mid-afternoon rain storms. My campsite was on a mostly gravel lot and although rain itself didn't get in, rocks and sand that were displaced by the rain were flying under the rain tarp, hitting the low mesh walls and in return were getting my things wet. Also, I'd assume a low tent wall would mean the tent is "colder" at night and not much fun in the early spring or late fall?
