Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent: A Lightweight Haven for Backpackers

The Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent is a highly regarded backpacking shelter that has gained popularity among ultralight enthusiasts. Weighing in at just 1 pound 10 ounces, this tent is designed to provide comfortable accommodation for solo or two-person trips without sacrificing livability.

Design and Features

The Tungsten Ultralight features a simple yet effective design that prioritizes weight savings while maintaining structural integrity. The fly and floor are made of durable nylon fabric with a waterproof rating of 1500mm, providing reliable protection from the elements. The tent’s freestanding design allows for easy setup on uneven terrain.

One notable feature is the Tungsten Ultralight’s use of clips instead of stakes to secure the rainfly. This eliminates the need for additional weight and makes the tent more compact when packed away.

Interior Space

The interior space of the Tungsten Ultralight is surprisingly roomy, with a floor area of 28 square feet (2.6 square meters). While it’s not the largest tent on the market, its vertical walls provide ample headroom for taller campers. The door and vestibule are large enough to accommodate gear storage or even a sleeping bag.

Weather Resistance

Marmot has incorporated several features to enhance weather resistance in the Tungsten Ultralight. The rainfly is designed with a unique shape that allows snow to slide off easily, while the floor’s waterproof coating ensures dry conditions inside. Additionally, the tent’s design minimizes wind resistance, reducing the risk of collapse.

Packed Weight and Packability

The Marmot Tungsten Ultralight excels in terms of packed weight, making it an attractive option for backpackers who value every ounce. The tent weighs just 1 pound 10 ounces (710 grams) when packed away in its included stuff sack. This makes it one of the lightest two-person tents on the market.

Setup and Ease of Use

Setting up the Tungsten Ultralight is relatively straightforward, even for beginners. The color-coded clips and poles make it easy to identify and attach each component. The tent’s freestanding design allows for quick setup on uneven terrain, although some users may find it challenging to get the rainfly perfectly aligned.

Comparison with Competitors

In comparison to other ultralight tents, the Marmot Tungsten Ultralight holds its own in terms of weight and packed size. However, some competitors like the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2 offer slightly larger interior spaces at a similar weight.

Conclusion

The Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent is an excellent choice for backpackers seeking a lightweight shelter that balances livability with packability. While it may not be the most spacious or feature-rich tent on the market, its impressive weather resistance and freestanding design make it an attractive option for those who value simplicity and weight savings.

Technical Specifications:

  • Weight: 1 pound 10 ounces (710 grams)
  • Packed Size: 4 x 6 inches (10 x 15 cm)
  • Floor Area: 28 square feet (2.6 square meters)
  • Peak Height: 38 inches (97 cm)
  • Material: Nylon
  • Waterproof Rating: 1500mm
  • Stakes and Clips: Yes
  • Packed with Stuff Sack: Yes

Recommendation

The Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent is recommended for:

  • Solo or two-person backpacking trips
  • Ultralight enthusiasts seeking a lightweight shelter
  • Backpackers who prioritize packability over interior space
  • Campers who value simplicity and ease of use