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Men’s Gear Awards: Best Tent Brands Of 2019

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The REI brand, or REI Co-Op, depending on you know them, is one of the better tent brands we’ve seen this year. They’re always great with their tents, but it’s clear that they love to go that extra mile with their tents compared to other brands.

It is uncertain how they continue to come up with more unique ways to make large tents and put them out at great, high-quality. However, we hope they never stop inventing and continue to make wild designs and forms of tents that no one has seen before.

They make us interested, heavily, in what they come up with. REI is one of the best due to the fact that they just know how to get it done each time they put a tent together.

We feel one tent represents the company well, as it shows what they are capable of doing. However, it still does not show all they can do.

Thy Kingdom Come

The REI Co-op Kingdom 8 Tent is very special. While it is obvious that it can fit at least 8 people, you’ll likely find that it can fit a few more if you needed it to do so. It appears that the tent is made for families, as it breaks up into two separate rooms inside.

This is great for parents who want their end of a tent and kids who want their own. The center divider that separates the rooms can be moved around to present different sizes for the rooms.

The vertical walls and rectangular floor offer a pretty large space. This tent was updated to increase possible stability and to make it easier to set-up. The tent uses hubbed pole assemblies, pole clips, and sleeves to offer a freestanding tent.

The color coding on the tent parts helps you put the tent together easier.

This tent has 2 big doors, with 4 zipper sliders. One of the doors has a vestibule, which can be used as a single or double door, well as turned into an awning that requires tarp poles. Those poles are sold separately.

The other door is vertical, which offers a drip-free entry as well as extra room inside.

The paneling mesh, which offers a great view as well as great ventilation. It’s also bugproof. A seam-sealed waterproof polyester rain-floor, as well as cut-in floor, comes with the tent too. Inside the tent will be pockets for extra added storage.

The tent also includes a backpack carry bag with pockets for the poles and stakes. They also include 15 stakes and 8 guylines with tighteners and a pole repair tube.

However, it is not compatible with any Kingdom products sold in 2018 and beyond.

The tent is cleared for up to 3 seasons and can handle rain well with the tarp included. It’s also able to stand up to relatively high winds. With one reviewer saying it held up well against 25mph winds without any trouble.

The price of the tent sits at $550.

Price Range

The REI tents are relatively industry-standard on pricing. For tent brands that specialize in outdoor material or tents in general, it makes sense that they’d charge some higher amounts. REI does seem to offer their tents at a competitive price compared to its competitors, however.

Some 8-person tents we’ve seen as high as $900 and up. The fact they even offer one for under $600 is impressive. Their average price range for their tents is $150-$600, which is relatively fair.

REI also has a membership program that will allow you to save a little on each purchase. Typically it’s 10% off of all purchases. You can read more about their membership here.

They also offer free shipping on orders that are $50 and up. They have a couple of other things you might want to check out regarding the shipping, so we suggest you check that out right here.

REI also offers a limited warranty on all purchases.

The GFC Platform Rooftop Tent

The GFC Platform is a thin yet durable rooftop tent that provides enough space for you to lounge in when you are on or off the road. It sets up easily for quick access any time you feel like relaxing after a tiring day of driving.

It weighs just 135 pounds and measures only six inches thick when closed. Made from durable metal and composite material, this tent provides four feet of interior space when set up, enough room for you to relax.

The GFC Platform rooftop tent props up at an acute angle on top of your vehicle to provide you with your sleeping area. Setting up this makeshift shelter is a breeze. It’s a matter of bolt-and-go. It does not require a rack since it mounts neatly atop most vehicles’ mounting points.

Likewise, this tent itself functions as a rack. The track mounting system on its side allows you to attach solar panels or roof racks without having to drill holes or design your own parts.

The GFC Platform tent is proudly made in the USA by manpower and robotic automation– from the machined hinges to the fabric tents. The concept also comes from the company’s in-house designers and engineers.

Get Yours Here

Photos Courtesy of Go Fast Campers

Imperial Motion Nano Cure Tent

You never have to worry about scratches or punctures on your tent when setting up camp on uneven grounds or under terrible conditions with the Imperial Motion Nano Cure Tent. This makeshift shelter is highly advanced than any of its kind and built for all terrain and weather.

This tent from the Washington-based lifestyle brand lives up to its name. It has the ability to reseal holes or repair on its own with just a rub of a finger. Its Nano Cure technology—a combination of NCT, a lightweight and water-resistant nylon ripstop, and special double-sided coating–makes the self-healing possible.

The reinforced fibers of the ripstop create further support around the hole, which helps with the restoration. All it needs is the heat of your fingers to fix small punctures or lacerations.

The Imperial Motion Nano Cure Tent takes three minutes to set up and is easy to take down and pack into its designated bag. It also has a large capacity and can accommodate four people. It is water-proof, has a canopy, a mesh ventilation, rain fly, and a tarpaulin bottom to keep the interior dry.

This innovative tent sells for $200 and comes in four colors: soft blue, asphalt, olive, and rust.

Get It Here

Photos Courtesy Of Imperial Motion

Tentsile Universe Tent

Finding a perfect sleeping spot when camping isn’t a problem when it comes to the Tentsile Universe Tent, a multifunctional outdoor shelter from U.K.-based outdoor innovators Tentsile. Whether on the ground, above water, or hanging from a tree, all three are possible.

It functions as your usual ground tent that you can set up on any terrain. If you’re the adventurous kind who doesn’t fear heights, then you can use it as a suspended aerial tree tent. You can even use it for recreational purposes such as a swing.

The Tentsile Universe Tent also doubles as a raft, which you can easily maneuver around on water with the use of a paddle. You can go fishing or take a nap while it floats steadily—just make sure that you have the insulated floor inflated to at least 15 psi before you set sail.

This makeshift shelter includes removable tent poles to support a bug mesh and a detachable rainfly. It offers 100 square feet of floor space and can accommodate up to five adults.  It also has more than five feet of interior headspace, so you do not have to worry about hitting your head when you stand.

The Tentsile Universe Tent retails for $1,999 and if you purchase one you are already helping the environment. Tentsile plants 18 trees for every tent sold.

Get Yours Here

Photos Courtesy Of Tentsile

SHIFTPOD 2 by Advanced Shelter Systems

The SHIFTPOD 2 from Advanced Shelter Systems is your ultimate festival tent. It is the best makeshift shelter to bring to Coachella or at the Burning Man since it can accommodate several people.

It can fit six people and up to six feet tall. Amazingly, a queen size bed can even fit inside. This tent can also be expanded using tunnels to connect other pods.

Despite the number of inhabitants, this tent remains cool inside because it keeps light out and reflects heat. It uses seven layers of composite “Dark-Out” fabric that features synthetic down thermal insulation. The fabric keeps the heat out with its reflective UV layers, keeping the temperature inside cooler and darker. It also blocks more light so you can get a good shut-eye even under the blazing heat.

Meanwhile, inside ventilation is secured by a couple of built-in doors and vents with screens and six windows. The doors and windows are also equipped with bug screens.

The SHIFTPOD 2 is portable enough to be transported in a small car or placed on the rack. Included in the tent are six heavy 12” stainless steel pins for tie-down. Setup takes less than a minute.  The item sells for $1,299.

Get Yours Here

Photos Courtesy Of Advanced Shelter Systems

Heimplanet X Uncrate The Cave Tent

Camping outdoors is fun as long as you have the right tools and shelter to provide you with a safe and comfortable stay. The Heimplanet x Uncrate The Cave tent promises to make your outdoor adventure relaxing.

This stealth version of the inflatable tent popularized by Heimplanet retains all the qualities needed for a durable and secure makeshift shelter. High-quality materials assure outstanding stability. It has sturdy double-layer air beams and diamond-like grid that fully supports the inner ripstop nylon and the polyester ripstop flysheet.

The Heimplanet x Uncrate The Cave tent is a great match for those who dare to venture the outdoors under extreme weather or in harsh conditions. The vestibule at the entrance ensures a dry tent inside. It can even withstand high winds thanks to its geodesic structure.

Likewise, its geodesic design promises an efficient setup so you can make the most of your trip. Your Heimplanet x Uncrate The Cave Tent will be ready in less than a minute. It only takes three easy steps: unroll, close the valves, and inflate with the included pump. The inner and outer tent work as a unit, so installation is only needed in the first setup. The second time you use the tent, you just need to pump it with air.

Order It Here

Photos Courtesy Of Heimplanet

Vertex Double Hammock Tent

Touted as “the only camping hammock that sleeps two occupants comfortably,” the Vertex Double Hammock Tent lets you share the rest nest with that special friend. Since it supports up to 700 lbs of weight, it’s safe to assume you can even squeeze a third friend in there…

Fitted with a patented independent suspension for each of its two beds, so when you move you don’t bother the other, the tent lets you sleep comfortably (if you’re shorter than 75 inches) and won’t tip you out. A breathable WeatherShield offers privacy and warmth inside, while an ample storage compartment can hold backpacks and other gear.

The 3-season hammock also features flexible poles that give ample head room while making it easy to transform into a ground tent. The complete package weighs 5 lbs 1 oz and comes with all bed ropes attached, poles and stuff sack but doesn’t include the Vertex Rain Tarp which can be bought separately.

Buy From Amazon $450

The Ultimate Glamping Experience with the Star Emperor

The Star Emperor bell tent is the brand new, jaw-dropping new design tent by Boutique Camping.

This bell tent is one of the most luxurious and magical bell tents on the market and it has a homely feel. The Star emperor tent is exclusive to Boutique Camping, this large star bell tent is part of the new innovative star bell range and is protected by registered design.

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The Star Emperor tent is enormous; 6.55m x 4m with 2 central poles and a unique curved star shape, making it the ideal choice for a family tent for a  weekend away. An amazing and unique feature in the star range is the 360° netting.

The 12-month offers the perfect balance of being able to look outside, keep dry on wet summer days, and being able to create some extra ventilation when it gets a little warmer, without those creepy crawlies getting into your tent. The view of your location can really be appreciated with the 360 netting.

Boutique Camping has revolutionised the way you pitch your bell tent with the unique webbing in the star range bell tents. At the base, you’ll find a heavy-duty zipped in groundsheet that gives you the option to unzip and roll up the sides with 360 netting while you lounge, letting the air flow in and around you. You’ll also be kept cool and comfortable thanks to the four zipped windows and air vents at the top, while every one of these tents is made from 100% canvas so you won’t be waking up in a sweat. It’s also mould, rot, and water-repellent.  

In front, there’s a secondary mosquito net door behind the main door, and holding the whole structure together is a 35mm center pole made with aluminium making it much lighter to carry, yet sturdy enough for strong winds.

The perfect tent for up to eight adults who can sleep comfortably inside, giving this tent the feel of a luxurious open-plan bedroom. Each tent can be assembled easily, with everything needed for assembly included in the pack.

Why not accessorise your tent and complete the experience with the huge variety of camping furniture – from chandeliers to sound systems, tables to bedding, rugs and plenty more – perfect for taking your camping experience from ‘good’ to VIP! All of the tents come with a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty for your peace of mind.

Presented by Boutique Camping.

Nesty Roof-Top Tent

Inspired by the iconic VW Westy camper van, the Nesty by Reform Life is an ultra-low profile, premium roof tent that promises to transform any vehicle into a comfortable home on wheels.

The tent has a sturdy aluminum base and is made from breathable poly-cotton ripstop fabric. It weighs 110 lb, can hold up to 660 lb, and it folds into a slim 8″ package (which is said to be 33%-46% slimmer–thus more aerodynamic–than other soft roof tents).

When opened, the Nesty can sleep up to three people on its integrated foam mattress, while a 420 D polyester removable rain fly keeps its occupants dry in case the weather takes a turn. By draping down or rolling up its side rainfly, the tent can adapt depending on the weather.

The Nesty is complete with all the essentials including a ladder, external D-rings for hanging your gear, a skylight panel, mesh windows on every wall, internal storage pockets, and even integrated twinkle lights. For every tent sold, 14 trees will be planted to help reforest the startup’s home state of California.

Preorder from Kickstarter $1,450

Photos by Reform Life

Crow’s Nest Extended Rooftop Tent

Designed and rigorously tested in New Zealand, the Crow’s Nest Extended Rooftop Tent by Feldon Shelter is one of the finest, most durable tents money can buy. It can fit on the roofs of small hatchbacks, family cars, and of course 4x4s.

Weighing in at 58 kilos, the portable shelter features a folding base made of aluminum honeycomb cell, which is dent resistant and 3x stronger than regular rooftop tent bases. The tent itself is a 300-gram poly-cotton canvas offering water, mold, and mildew-resistance, while a high-grade 130g mesh offers protection against flying buggers.

Setting the 2-person rooftop tent up is super easy–it just needs to be unfolded. Inside you’ll find a built-in high-density foam queen mattress that tucks your sleeping bag and pillows away inside and can sleep individuals up to 7ft in height.

Other features include a curved roof design that prevents water pooling and improves aerodynamics, high view window design for 360° views, base-mounted shoe & and gadget pockets for storage, heavy duty PVC travel cover with welded triple-layer reinforcement panels, all aluminium internal skeleton, marine grade stainless steel hinges and hardware, adjustable alloy retractable ladder, and more.

Buy From Feldon Shelter $2,800