We found this setup process easy because it didn’t rely on many moving parts or analytical thinking. The Eurmax Standard 10×10 is very functional, followed closely by the E-Z Up Pyramid, Clam Outdoors Quick-Set Escape, and Eureka Tagalong Shelter. All four of these models maximize space and offer several features that make them very livable. The Quick-Set Escape offers a massive, fully enclosed living space, and the Eureka Tagalong dons extra pockets, hooks, and attached sandbags. The center trusses on the Eurmax hang lower than we would prefer, limiting the available headspace, but this is our only caveat.
The Tagalong sits a little low and isn’t adjustable, which affects the user’s ability to alter the canopy’s height or angles as the sun’s rays change. Still, the lightweight and portable design makes up for this, especially in the right use cases. This metric considers each shelter’s floor space and height and any design element that may limit or enhance accessibility and maneuverability. We erected each model and measured the height and floor space compared to the other tents. Typical cathedral tents offered a 10×10 floor space, whereas many more niche tents had varying sizes. Another key aspect of functionality is the extra convenience features provided by various models.
Additionally, I encountered a few issues with the stitching during my first use which caused a couple of holes, but nothing that couldn’t be fixed. Overall, it’s a great purchase for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors while staying protected from the elements. Despite the fact that the tarp is designed to keep critters out, I personally found it to be useful more as a protective shield against ozark trail canopy the sun, wind, and rain. It was great to have the shark-mouthed duffel included as it made it easy to store and transport the tarp when I wasn’t using it. Additionally, setting it up was a breeze — the one pole, along with the stakes and guy-lines, made the process both quick and easy. One of the first things I noticed when I started setting it up was how sturdy and well-built the tarp was.
If you want a six-person tent made with high-quality materials but a traditional profile, we recommend the similarly priced Big Agnes Spicer Peak 6, or Nemo’s Aurora Highrise 6. MSR’s Habitude 6 is also a good tent, but it costs about $200 more. Unfortunately, you have to buy a separate groundsheet for the Wawona 6 and for most other tents its size as well. The partial fly does a great job of keeping rain out of the upper, mesh areas, and cleverly placed vents maintain airflow so it never feels too stuffy.
Temperatures ranged from the 50s at night to the 80s during the day. To compare tent fabrics, you also need to know their overall rip strength. For most fabrics, rip strength is expressed as a measurement of the diameter of the fibers in their thread, or a denier—the higher the denier, the stronger the fabric.
An avid swimmer, surfer, hiker, and camper, she currently lives on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, where she can be found, as much as possible, in water. We’ve tested (and recommended) Eureka tents in past versions of this guide. In October 2023, Eureka’s parent company, Johnson Outdoors, announced that it was discontinuing the Eureka brand. The product line, including its tents, should remain available through the end of 2024. A full rain cover, two vestibules, and an extra-sturdy pole structure make this the best choice for families who want to get outside in any weather.