@Dan did you try this? how does it handles the snow and wind? @Alen and @Dan I am looking for a tent to use it almost all seasons, but not in extreme winter conditions. I am stuck with deciding in between Copper Spur UL2, Alto TR2 and Tiger Wall 2. What one do you guys suggest?
When you pitch the tent it dramatically extends the length of the video - which in this case is already over 20 minutes covering what I believe is essential info on the tent. As such, unless there is something super interesting about the pitch I will likely not including as it adds time with little value. And, the Telos TR2 pretty much pitches like most 3 season, dome, double walled tents. Where it does vary - how the rainfly only pitch works, the rolled back rainfly option, and the gazebo options, I do highlight that as they are important to know. Best, -alan
Thanks for doing this review, I’ve been refreshing RUclips daily and waiting for something to come out (in English!). Awesome review, fantastic tent with lots of good features. I’m tempted.... Happy Hiking 🥾- Julia from the UK 🇬🇧
Cool tent, I have been looking forward to a tent that can be pitched AFTER deploying the rain fly (for setting up in the rain. Can you say what the height of the door opening is?
The under door upward venting makes me shiver just thinking about it. I’m confused. Does this mean my tent will be drafty or, in the very least, my tent will always be chilly? I’m always cold and don’t like extra ventilation 🥶.
I bought the tent now and after a quick pitch in my living room it seems like a dream. I think I'll just love it on future bike/backpacking/camping tours. Just one question: How on earth did you get the left exit rainfly part up as at 14:02? There's a single loop down left but the top right of the left rainfly part did not doesn't seem to have any loop. Honestly not sure where / how you attached it there? Would be great if you could answer this. I basically gave up on it and even read the instructions twice. Nope. No chance. It always dangles half (ok, more like third) way down. Would still be usable but obviously I'd still like to roll it up as clean as you did.
hook the toggle up to the loop just above it. Maybe 12" above it. Then zip the zipper down as far as it will go. Took me a while to figure it out too. best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co "Took me a while to figure it out". Wow. I'm honestly happy that someone like you who has lots of tent experience had trouble, too. Today I set up the tent (again; this time not in my living room but in my parent's garden). And finally figiured it out. I'll leave this here for reference. First things first: You need to start rolling up the tarp / plane / sheet from the top / right side first. Then it finally works. Even "simply attaching the lower hook" worked in that case. But somehow I noticed there's another hook, too (suddenly, no idea where it came from :D look precisely on the photo where which hook is attached and it suddenly makes sense). Took a photo: imgur.com/a/Ee2eGY0 Overview picture: imgur.com/a/Xlo6uph (you can clearly see how low the lower hook is and why I was so confused about it) I hope these pictures help other people as well! (after pitching it outside today, I have some new questions regarding guylines and whatnot - I'll post them in a new comment to keep it clear and easy to read)
I've been eyeing this thing ever since they announced it and Backpacker gave it that great review. My only problem is that I have to wait until REI gets them in :) Thanks for the review....it was great to see it put together
Alan - Thank you so much for the in-depth review. I'm newer to backpacking and buying a tent in this price range is a big decision for me. After watching your video and doing a lot of pros/cons for what I want out of a tent, I decided to go with this one because of the internal volume and newer innovations like the hangout mode and the ventilation system. I figured this would be a great size for my wife and me - plus be a decent car camping tent too. Luckily, I was also able to save a good amount of money, getting 20% off with Moosejaw's Fall Sale - which makes this even more competitive in price! Thanks again for the great review - there isn't a lot out there on this tent.
I still have some questions and comments... my second comment about this after setting this up (this time in my parent's garden; I still feel the ants creeping up my legs!). In my case, the front and back have the problem that the inner tent touches the outer tent (obviously not at the sides). Is that a problem? Is that supposed to be that way? Or is that a guarantee for water dropping into the tent? Might I be spanning something wrong? And now the real question: There are 4 guy lines inclueded. 2 white (long) and 2 grey (short) ones. Not sure how I should use them (ignoring hangout mode). Where should I attach them? Side where the wind strikes? Smaller foot side? Bigger head side? I am planning to (spontaneuously) go to Island this summer (in case Covid-19 allows me to). There "might" be a bit of wind. I'm really missing any points on where to attach the guy lines in your video as well as in the offical instructions... (there are enough - too many? - possibilities on the tent itself). Last but whatever: Do not buy the tent because of that stupid light bar. No idea how that's supposed to work. My Decathlon headlamp fits in it, but barely in a way that spreads the light. So either you could just hang in your light normally. Or the lightbar woudln't help anyways. My headlamp isn't only too big in the correct orientation, even if you somehow manage to fit it in there, you'll have the problem of not being able to reach the right buttons. Dislike. Or at least not like. Also that diffusor shield. Thinking about getting rid about it.
Thanks Great detail 👍I have been researching for ultra light free standing tent I didn't know this existed 😀 I think this is a front runner for me WOW!
Sea to Summit make some great gear! My sleeping pad has been excellent. I love the numerous innovations in the TR2: Huge gear loft, massive vents, multiple bags converting to interior storage and a lighting diffuser AND a sun shelter configuration! Absolutely brilliant. Thanks for the comprehensive review Alan.
Thank you for this review. I decided to buy this tent based upon this review, you did a great job of showing its features. I did get lucky to get it 20% off at REI!
Gran bella recensione sulla tenda che ho scelto per le mie prossime avventure con la mia gatta 🐈😀costa un po' ma son stanco di claustrofobia e poco spazio 🤔poi così posso godermi le stelle che poi è per quello che faccio escursioni ❤️
First and only review I can find online- love it thank you!! How do you think it would fare in rough windy and wet conditions? I live in the uk and am planning a trip round Scotland so weather protection is important. Thanks!
Pros for Scotland would be #1 condensation control (and yes, I have hill walked and camped in Scotland). And I would say that it would be fine for rain protection. As to camping out exposed to the wind it's OK but not a standout. Would probably be OK. But a tent like the SlingFin Portal would be much stronger exposed to Highlands winds without anything to block some of the wind. I suggest you read our full review. Link in the description of the Video. Best
Yep, fly doesn't go down completely for ventilation reasons. And snow can be crazy and get into every single corner. Should otherwise be fine if for some reason it would start snowing at some point. However, if you plan to regularly camping in conditions with light snow, go for the "Plus" version which is exactly what Alan refered to - the solid inner. Also has a thicker ground with higher water resistance.
Sorry for the naive response but which one has the solid inner you are referring to or the "plus" option. I am in AU so not sure if you perhaps have a different version..
@@simonepreston9114 the "plus" one has the more or less solid inner. It's also "plus" weight and "plus" price of course ;) This guy has the Alto Plus, if you want to see more about how it looks: ruclips.net/video/cKiDreyYo9s/видео.html
wow, i see they also thought about raindrops rolling up to that big vent in windy conditions and added sort of a turtle neck around it, nice touch! i'd love to test that out!
Absolutely love the design, but just have to wonder - Is 8 oz of weight and $100 worth it over the Nemo Dragonfly 2P? Telos 2P Advantages: More internal volume, Can be set-up in the rain, Better ventilation Nemo 2P Advantages: 8 oz lighter, $100 cheaper, same durability, similar floor space, also has a built-in light diffuser I was actually looking at buying a 2P free-standing tent this year so this further complicates things 😅 Is there anything I'm looking past in my comparison Alan?
Internal volume is what you are missing. Floor area doesn't really tell the story. Nemo 2p is considered my many to be a large 1p tent given how little "volume" it has above floor level. Take a look at my tent guide for more on this. see "Pro Tip | How Much Tent Do You Need? Liveable Area - Why Tent “Volume” Matters" www.adventurealan.com/best-tents-backpacking/ Best, -alan
Great Review !!! I saw another video but yours show all the features !!! I Like it to MUSH. I am from Canada and hope to try to have one !!! Thanks !!!
you'll probably fit great. I am 6'3 and this 1 of the top 3 tents in its category. In this weight and budget you aren't really gonna find something bigger (as far as i know of). You can see the msr hubba hubba but its more weight and it doesn't have some of the great features.
Good Q Luuk. Yes it does. There are velcro loops to attach the fly to the poles on the backside of each fly tieout loop on the outside of the fly. Best, -alan
The Alto TR2 is about a pound lighter - a huge deal. It saves weight being semi-free-standing. That is, you need to stake out the front corners of the tent. Not a big deal to our minds to save nearly a pound. -a
Hello Adventure Alan. Just wondering if you could add further on the Rain Fly Pitch option? How easy is it to pitch the Rain Fly first and then (from underneath, I presume) attach the inner tent? That would be for a scenario where you are pitching in the rain. Also, is it possible to pitch the inner and outer together, i.e. they go up as one? I agree with most of the other comments, it certainly looks like a versatile tent. Be interested to hear how you fare out with it in bad weather. ATB, Wadirunner.
My old tent could be pitched with rainfly and inner tent simulatenously (actually it was the standard way of doing it). Now I bought the Telos TR2 (thanks for this great video! Helped a lot!) However, that's basically impossible with this tent. The reason is that you cant "attach the poles afterwards". Either you first set up the poles witht he rainfly first and hang in the inner tent afterwards or you pitch the inner tent with the poles first and add the rainfly afterwards. There's no way you could get the poles between the inner tent and the rainfly while those are connected to each other. As far as "how complicated is it to first pitch the rainfly and hang in the inner tent later": It's called "Dry Setup" in the instructions. The fact that it's not the "standard way" of setting the tent up is probably for a good reason. I haven't tried this method, yet though. Should be quite ok, though, just that you need to crouch a bit more.
Do you think you could have 4 people sitting in the tent? To play cards. We have a two person trekking pole tent and are looking for something where we could hang out as a family of it’s raining or super buggy and bring two 2-person tents. The other tent wouldn’t really work. We have a talus 4 but it’s heavy and not really big enough for 4 of us anymore.
@@adventure_alan_co thanks for the reply. Wish they made two person tents that could accommodate two wide sleeping pads. I know they want to save weight but wish they didn’t make the foot end narrower.
Alan, thank you for the review! Have you been able to take it up in the mountains? If so, do you have any updates to the initial review? I'm considering this tent as well as Nemo Dagger (tried and true)
I'm leaning towards one of these tents. Have you been able to do any real world testing of this tent since this video came out? Not many informative vids on youtube about this tent
Do you foresee any issues with rain combined with wind allowing water in through the top vent? Seems like some sideways rain could make for a very wet night.
No I don't foresee any issues. There is a huge overlap of the vent cover vs. the size of the vent. As such it is super well protected. You'd need almost 100% horizontal rain before any started coming in - the tent was tested in 30mph winds and rain! And the vent can be zippered shut during most treacherous rainstorms. Finally, and I can't emphasize this enough, camper's biggest concern should be managing humidity and condensation inside the tent. This is by far the most likely way you and your gear will get damp/wet. For some reason people are far more concerned with a few drips from a leaking fly or a bit rain getting blown in. That is rarely the major problem for keeping you and your gear like a down sleeping bag dry. Humidity and condensation are the big enemies - keep those vents open! Warmest, -alan
I bought the tent now and quickly pitched it up in my small living room. So I can't say much about it, yet. However (yes, Alan already wrote this but I have skipped that small sentece when I last read this comment), there's a zipper that allows you to completely close the top vent. Obviously, that'll harm ventilation but definitely protect you even from horizontal rain. The instructions say you can open and adjust that upper vent according to wind direction etc. - I guess they mean which part of the zipper you want to open. For max ventilation, you'll obviously have to open it completely.
Alan, I was really interested in this tent and struggling to find a decent review until I found your video and your website, and it certainly is very thorough. Could you please give me an idea how the Telos TR2 will cope in an exposed site against the winds found in the mountains of the UK and is this tent more durable against the wind than my current tent, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 (2019 edition). Many thanks. Charles
Would probably be OK in winds up to 30 mph - so similar to your current tent - would not expect it to astronomically better tho. But a tent like the SlingFin Portal would be much stronger exposed to Highlands winds without anything to block some of the wind. I suggest you read our full review. Link in the description of the Video. We do compare it to other tents including the SlingFin Portal. Best -alan
@@adventure_alan_co Alan, thanks so much for the response and certainly the Slingfin Portal certainly does seem like a superb tent and the reviews are great and would fair far better with the windy conditions found in the mountains of the UK and my next main trip is doing the Skye Trail on the Isle of Skye in Scotland which will certainly be exposed to the elements. One difficulty however is first that the tent is out of stock worldwide, and new stock will not be available until mid-June in the States and I am not sure on that basis when it will be available in the UK. As a back up plan therefore is there any other tents that you would recommend that will certainly be stronger than my current Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 (2019 edition) but is also lightweight just like the Copper Spur and Slingfin Portal. Many thanks again. Charles
You are so right - tent makers largely ignore the key aspect of condensation management. I see that most of the garage gear boutique high dollar boys in the U.S. are based out west and have no clue about what 2/3 of the American population faces in terms of humidity.
really detailed well presented review, thank you! I am seriously interested in this tent, my present tent is faultless apart from the interior space, which as you implied can be a big factor in sitting out some bad weather, I love Scotland - say no more!!
is it gonna be durable thought? I want this to be my 1st tent but i am 'afraid' tha beacause it is taller the BA UL2 it not gonna be as wind proof. Is that a good argument to make or nonecese. I'd love some help here.
According to S2S and my experience with the tent it should be up to 50 kph winds. Probably more if you really guyed it out at all the critical additional tie-outs on the upwind loaded sides. Similar to most 3 season dome tents. Focus of this tent is a ton of creature comforts and decent weather/wind resistance. But this is not an alpine mountaineering tent like the SlingFin Portal, Crossbow or WindSaber - so at some point campsite selection is going to matter so that you are not exposed to really high winds. That is this tent is not designed, or priced for those conditions - for higher wind resistance you'll need to pay more and unless it's a SlingFin tent it will weigh a lot more too. Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co i thought of getting the sling fin portal 2. It's 3 season but Can become 4.season quite easily. I am Goin to be hiking in a range of different contidions in the SUMMER. The most challenging place i am going to visit will be tha alps. But i don't really see the alps having extreme contidions in july. I could still get the sling fin but i am going also to warm countries and i feel i am going to have a big problem with condensation. Opinion?
Alan, please demonstrate how you would set up the tent FLY FIRST, as you would have to do in a storm. All of these style "clip-on" inner tents are a PITA to set up in a storm. OTOH Tarptent double wall tents set up WITH THE FLY AND INNER TENT ALREADY ATTACHED. Great for setting up in a storm.
I like the looks of these tents! The Alto and the Telos although the price is a bit high. I would pay it if i knew how well it performed in heavy rain. If it passes that test it would def be worth the money. For $499 you could almost buy a dyneema tent. Their Alto one man is $399. But it is well thought out and probably worth the money. Just wish they would throw in the ground sheet or something at those prices. Nice review man!
The inner tent is basically a closed mosquito net. There is no extra vent in the inner tent, it's just a vent in the rainfly. Thus, yes, Alan is right - of course. Just wanted to add some more explanation
I would love to buy this tent but the price is to much for me.I don't go backpacking that much to take this tent on backpacking trips.My son is in boy scouts and I go with him on all of his camp outs.This was a very good review the only Con I see is the price.I liked and subscribed.
Good Price Point. Great vid ! I like it. Green should be a color option. Con; Tent's pushing almost 4 lbs. Get it down to 3, 3.5 lbs and you might have something. imho.
That is one sweet tent. A lot of thought went into the design! The massive vent right over the main body has me nervous- during medium or heavy rain. I would think splashing would definitely be coming down on my Head! Why not 2 medium sized vents on the vestibule dormers? Thanks for showing, Alan
I noticed a raised fabric flap that surrounds the vent opening in the fly clearly designed to address that exact issue. Another Sea to Summit innovation and one Alan didn't get around to mentioning. Judging by the thoroughness and care StS has put into this tent over the last two years, I'd lay money it'll work for anything less than a full gale.
uguysrnuts is correct. There is a huge awning over the vent. Rain is not going to get in. And size and location are everything. Large and at the peak of the tent is best. Warmest, -alan
Sorry but nothing special about the clothes. Just what I grabbed out of the closet. The black T is a Smartwool 150 merino. Other stuff is totally not interesting. Sorry -alan
Looks like a nice tent. However, I think that gear loft is not a Sea to Summit innovation, nor is it the configuration of the doors to increase airflow. I Saw them first on the Big Agnes Salt Creek, a tent with three doors. They call them 3-D bin pocket and Low Vent feature, respectively.
You are correct neither is new - nor do I think we claimed they were - although the execution of them in the Telos is nice. The Tension Ridge most decidedly is new. While it looks simple, the engineering to get it to work is quite difficult. And he combo with huge apex vent and under door vent does create a ton of airflow that most tents lack. All the best, -alan
Oh my bad. I agree that it's a feature-rich tent, at a good weight. And I think you present it in detail. I really like it. I wanted the Big Agnes for those two features, plus the third door. That 3-D pocket helps you free space on the ground if you do not want to use the vestibules. It's a great idea. But it was way too expensive for me in 2020. I have a question about the Telos: is it posible to attach the tent to the fly when you pitch only the fly?
@@adventure_alan_co And honestly, that Tension Ridge is so amazing. I barely ever had that spaceous feeling in a tent! No "head touching the ceiling", no "I have to sit in the center of the tent when changing clothes, because otherwise it's too low", no problems at all. Even when you hang some clothesline into there (there are a lot of loops / hooks inside that you to attach stuff to!) and some clothes / towels in there to dry at night, you'll probably not block half of your tent with them because the walls are so vertical and therefore the loops are closer to the wall than in tents with flatter walls. I really think people underestimate the power of that tension ridge thing. I just hope it turns out to be stable and not have any problems with a long life :)
When you pitch the tent it dramatically extends the length of the video - which in this case is already over 20 minutes covering what I believe is essential info on the tent. As such, unless there is something super interesting about the pitch I will likely not including as it adds time with little value. And, the Telos TR2 pretty much pitches like most 3 season, dome, double walled tents. Where it does vary - how the rainfly only pitch works, the rolled back rainfly option, and the gazebo options, I do highlight that as they are important to know. Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co Then maybe be the first to do a Utube video incorporating a timed pitching of this model, along with timed pitching of the different features. Regards Chris.
So seven(?) years ago when I bought my Sierra Designs Flashlight 2 FL, I was convinced that it was the apotheosis of lightweight freestanding backpacking tents and stopped paying attention. Now it's the future, and I'm unfrozen and found that I'm just a primitive caveman stumbling around with dated gear. What a time to be alive!
It would need to come in another "darker" colour. Using grey colored tents in Summer turns the tent into a hot box during the day, at alpine locations.
@@adventure_alan_co understood that may work where you are, but in NZ, middle of summer, sandflies will eat you or the sun will burn you. As long as its grey and not white or dark colors it will be fine.
A showcase is not a review. Not one con or critical word on the tent, no on-the-trail use shown... I have no problem with payed showcases, but they should be clearly labeled
Don, as outlined in some detail in the video, way more vertical space and internal volume due to the tension ridge, better ventilation, and far more pitching options and versatility. I think we cover all of this very thoroughly in video. Best, -alan
Great design. Now DCF-fly with carbon poles? It's a shame when the best designs use the crappiest materials? Yes, the weight's pretty good for denier fabric, but maybe under 2lbs with better materials? Get rid of water absorption too?
Tom, If weight is a concern, then the Alto is likely what you want to look at. It's 2.5 pounds but retains almost all of the innovative design of the Telos. DCF has been a challenge for the many panels, an multitude of seams in standard, freestanding, dome tents. DCF seems to work better in shaped-tarps and trekking pole supported shelters which have fewer and larger panels. And carbon fiber poles are not the salvation that people think they are. They have their downsides too. A top-notch DAC pole is a pretty optimized thing. Best, -alan
Great review, Alan! Been waiting for this tent to come out. Can't wait to try it myself.
Great, Hope you enjoy it!
@Dan did you try this? how does it handles the snow and wind? @Alen and @Dan I am looking for a tent to use it almost all seasons, but not in extreme winter conditions. I am stuck with deciding in between Copper Spur UL2, Alto TR2 and Tiger Wall 2. What one do you guys suggest?
Wind is the question after 2 years how did it hold up thanks
Awesome features. I love how they incorporate the storage bags. Genius
Glad you stoked about it. Best, -alan
Thank you for the video! Very helpful. Any experience yet with how it holds out in heavy rain?
You got this out quick, nice!! Glad to see the shoulder hasn't slowed down your video editing!
Thanks and checkout the review as well. You guys are listed in the "compared to" www.adventurealan.com/product/sea-to-summit-telos-tr2-tent-review/
Did you also review the SlingFin Portal?
Was actually hoping to see you pitching the tent. Some details really make or break a purchase deal
When you pitch the tent it dramatically extends the length of the video - which in this case is already over 20 minutes covering what I believe is essential info on the tent. As such, unless there is something super interesting about the pitch I will likely not including as it adds time with little value. And, the Telos TR2 pretty much pitches like most 3 season, dome, double walled tents. Where it does vary - how the rainfly only pitch works, the rolled back rainfly option, and the gazebo options, I do highlight that as they are important to know. Best, -alan
Hi, did you know if it is posible to set it up, rain fly first? In case it is necessary to make camp in heavy rain?
Thanks for doing this review, I’ve been refreshing RUclips daily and waiting for something to come out (in English!). Awesome review, fantastic tent with lots of good features. I’m tempted.... Happy Hiking 🥾- Julia from the UK 🇬🇧
My pleasure! Glad you found it useful. Cheers, -alan
Can you show us how to 1) pitch the tent and 2) set up the rainfly from inside the tent (referenced around 8:30)? Thanks!!
Cool tent, I have been looking forward to a tent that can be pitched AFTER deploying the rain fly (for setting up in the rain. Can you say what the height of the door opening is?
Door height is 43" or around 110 cm. Hope this helps. Best, -alan
Just bought the 3 man version and I’m watching this video again because I’m exited 🎉 wonderful video, thank you so much for all the info
The under door upward venting makes me shiver just thinking about it. I’m confused. Does this mean my tent will be drafty or, in the very least, my tent will always be chilly? I’m always cold and don’t like extra ventilation 🥶.
I bought the tent now and after a quick pitch in my living room it seems like a dream. I think I'll just love it on future bike/backpacking/camping tours. Just one question: How on earth did you get the left exit rainfly part up as at 14:02? There's a single loop down left but the top right of the left rainfly part did not doesn't seem to have any loop. Honestly not sure where / how you attached it there? Would be great if you could answer this. I basically gave up on it and even read the instructions twice. Nope. No chance. It always dangles half (ok, more like third) way down. Would still be usable but obviously I'd still like to roll it up as clean as you did.
hook the toggle up to the loop just above it. Maybe 12" above it. Then zip the zipper down as far as it will go. Took me a while to figure it out too. best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co "Took me a while to figure it out". Wow. I'm honestly happy that someone like you who has lots of tent experience had trouble, too. Today I set up the tent (again; this time not in my living room but in my parent's garden). And finally figiured it out. I'll leave this here for reference.
First things first: You need to start rolling up the tarp / plane / sheet from the top / right side first. Then it finally works. Even "simply attaching the lower hook" worked in that case. But somehow I noticed there's another hook, too (suddenly, no idea where it came from :D look precisely on the photo where which hook is attached and it suddenly makes sense). Took a photo: imgur.com/a/Ee2eGY0
Overview picture: imgur.com/a/Xlo6uph (you can clearly see how low the lower hook is and why I was so confused about it)
I hope these pictures help other people as well! (after pitching it outside today, I have some new questions regarding guylines and whatnot - I'll post them in a new comment to keep it clear and easy to read)
Love the way you presented it, and you‘ve made my curious. Any cons you have found?
It could be a bit lighter. The Copper Spur is around 4 oz less.
I've been eyeing this thing ever since they announced it and Backpacker gave it that great review. My only problem is that I have to wait until REI gets them in :) Thanks for the review....it was great to see it put together
Great review, when do you think the wind and storm review will be?
Great review on what looks like a fab tent! I’m definitely on the look out for the Alto TR1 & TR2 reviews too. 😊
Yeah, we have our eyes on the Alto 2. Best, -alan
Alan - Thank you so much for the in-depth review. I'm newer to backpacking and buying a tent in this price range is a big decision for me. After watching your video and doing a lot of pros/cons for what I want out of a tent, I decided to go with this one because of the internal volume and newer innovations like the hangout mode and the ventilation system. I figured this would be a great size for my wife and me - plus be a decent car camping tent too.
Luckily, I was also able to save a good amount of money, getting 20% off with Moosejaw's Fall Sale - which makes this even more competitive in price!
Thanks again for the great review - there isn't a lot out there on this tent.
Well thought out and comprehensive review mate.. A grade 🙌🏼
I can never figure out why the floor is not sturdy enough so one would not need the ground sheet. Or is it to make more money?
Really looking forward to this tent. I’ve had my eye on the Big Agnes tents but now I’m willing to wait a bit longer!
Our pleasure. Thanks for watching! Best, -alan
I love this tent but very expensive. Great review. Thanks you Alan.
My pleasure!
I still have some questions and comments... my second comment about this after setting this up (this time in my parent's garden; I still feel the ants creeping up my legs!).
In my case, the front and back have the problem that the inner tent touches the outer tent (obviously not at the sides). Is that a problem? Is that supposed to be that way? Or is that a guarantee for water dropping into the tent? Might I be spanning something wrong?
And now the real question: There are 4 guy lines inclueded. 2 white (long) and 2 grey (short) ones. Not sure how I should use them (ignoring hangout mode). Where should I attach them? Side where the wind strikes? Smaller foot side? Bigger head side?
I am planning to (spontaneuously) go to Island this summer (in case Covid-19 allows me to). There "might" be a bit of wind. I'm really missing any points on where to attach the guy lines in your video as well as in the offical instructions... (there are enough - too many? - possibilities on the tent itself).
Last but whatever: Do not buy the tent because of that stupid light bar. No idea how that's supposed to work. My Decathlon headlamp fits in it, but barely in a way that spreads the light. So either you could just hang in your light normally. Or the lightbar woudln't help anyways. My headlamp isn't only too big in the correct orientation, even if you somehow manage to fit it in there, you'll have the problem of not being able to reach the right buttons. Dislike. Or at least not like. Also that diffusor shield. Thinking about getting rid about it.
Thanks Great detail 👍I have been researching for ultra light free standing tent I didn't know this existed 😀 I think this is a front runner for me WOW!
Glad it was helpful! Best, -alan
Sea to Summit make some great gear! My sleeping pad has been excellent. I love the numerous innovations in the TR2: Huge gear loft, massive vents, multiple bags converting to interior storage and a lighting diffuser AND a sun shelter configuration! Absolutely brilliant. Thanks for the comprehensive review Alan.
You are so welcome.
Absolutely 💯 review thank you! I just purchased this ⛺ essentially because of this fantastic breakdown. Liked 👍 and subscribed!
Awesome, thank you!
Thank you for this review. I decided to buy this tent based upon this review, you did a great job of showing its features. I did get lucky to get it 20% off at REI!
Our pleasure! And sweeeet! Best, -alan
Tried to put down my pre-order for telso tr2- no Information on German S2S website available. Not even for ANY tent
Sorry about that. "The tents will be on sale for pre-order starting on March 15th, shipping on May 1." So I would try again on March 15. Best, -alan
How waterproof it is?
Very. Best, -alan
Gran bella recensione sulla tenda che ho scelto per le mie prossime avventure con la mia gatta 🐈😀costa un po' ma son stanco di claustrofobia e poco spazio 🤔poi così posso godermi le stelle che poi è per quello che faccio escursioni ❤️
Hi Alan! Thx for a great review! A question, is it possible to raise the fly first and then the inner? //Andy
Yes, absolutely. One of the many pitching options on the tent. Perfect for setting up the tent when it is pissing down rain. Warmest, -alan
First and only review I can find online- love it thank you!! How do you think it would fare in rough windy and wet conditions? I live in the uk and am planning a trip round Scotland so weather protection is important. Thanks!
Pros for Scotland would be #1 condensation control (and yes, I have hill walked and camped in Scotland). And I would say that it would be fine for rain protection. As to camping out exposed to the wind it's OK but not a standout. Would probably be OK. But a tent like the SlingFin Portal would be much stronger exposed to Highlands winds without anything to block some of the wind. I suggest you read our full review. Link in the description of the Video. Best
How do you think the tent would go in light snow?
OK in light snow. Better if you had the solid inner option to deal with spindrift. Best, -alan
Yep, fly doesn't go down completely for ventilation reasons. And snow can be crazy and get into every single corner. Should otherwise be fine if for some reason it would start snowing at some point. However, if you plan to regularly camping in conditions with light snow, go for the "Plus" version which is exactly what Alan refered to - the solid inner. Also has a thicker ground with higher water resistance.
Sorry for the naive response but which one has the solid inner you are referring to or the "plus" option. I am in AU so not sure if you perhaps have a different version..
@@simonepreston9114 the "plus" one has the more or less solid inner. It's also "plus" weight and "plus" price of course ;)
This guy has the Alto Plus, if you want to see more about how it looks: ruclips.net/video/cKiDreyYo9s/видео.html
wow, i see they also thought about raindrops rolling up to that big vent in windy conditions and added sort of a turtle neck around it, nice touch! i'd love to test that out!
Love the video - thanks! This makes my shopping decision even harder now. Can you give me a sense of how this compares with a copper spur?
Go to the description below the video and grab the link to our written review. It has a section comparing it to the Copper Spur. Best, -alan
Go for the copper spur.....
Copper spur is a better tent then this one
Absolutely love the design, but just have to wonder - Is 8 oz of weight and $100 worth it over the Nemo Dragonfly 2P?
Telos 2P Advantages: More internal volume, Can be set-up in the rain, Better ventilation
Nemo 2P Advantages: 8 oz lighter, $100 cheaper, same durability, similar floor space, also has a built-in light diffuser
I was actually looking at buying a 2P free-standing tent this year so this further complicates things 😅 Is there anything I'm looking past in my comparison Alan?
Internal volume is what you are missing. Floor area doesn't really tell the story. Nemo 2p is considered my many to be a large 1p tent given how little "volume" it has above floor level. Take a look at my tent guide for more on this. see "Pro Tip | How Much Tent Do You Need? Liveable Area - Why Tent “Volume” Matters" www.adventurealan.com/best-tents-backpacking/ Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co Thanks Alan! Definitely will factor that into the decision.
Really appreciate the videos and excited to see more in the future!
Great Review !!! I saw another video but yours show all the features !!! I Like it to MUSH. I am from Canada and hope to try to have one !!! Thanks !!!
Our pleasure. Thanks for watching! Best, -alan
Had to leave a review to say this was an amazing review and I am so sold!
thank you I need this tent for my dog & I
Wondering how a tall person fits. I am 6'4" and it is an issue when looking to replace my current tent.
you'll probably fit great. I am 6'3 and this 1 of the top 3 tents in its category. In this weight and budget you aren't really gonna find something bigger (as far as i know of). You can see the msr hubba hubba but its more weight and it doesn't have some of the great features.
Nice tent! Maybe I've missed it in the video, but does it come with tabs to secure the fly to the poles?
Good Q Luuk. Yes it does. There are velcro loops to attach the fly to the poles on the backside of each fly tieout loop on the outside of the fly. Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co thanks! Are there any tabs higher up on the poles? Or just low down?
Enjoyed the review!
Awesome! Do you know What’s different from Alto?
The Alto TR2 is about a pound lighter - a huge deal. It saves weight being semi-free-standing. That is, you need to stake out the front corners of the tent. Not a big deal to our minds to save nearly a pound. -a
Hello Adventure Alan. Just wondering if you could add further on the Rain Fly Pitch option? How easy is it to pitch the Rain Fly first and then (from underneath, I presume) attach the inner tent? That would be for a scenario where you are pitching in the rain. Also, is it possible to pitch the inner and outer together, i.e. they go up as one? I agree with most of the other comments, it certainly looks like a versatile tent. Be interested to hear how you fare out with it in bad weather. ATB, Wadirunner.
Hi, didn't try that but guessing that pitching the inner tent and rainfly pre-attached together would be awkward to impossible. Best, -alan
My old tent could be pitched with rainfly and inner tent simulatenously (actually it was the standard way of doing it). Now I bought the Telos TR2 (thanks for this great video! Helped a lot!) However, that's basically impossible with this tent. The reason is that you cant "attach the poles afterwards". Either you first set up the poles witht he rainfly first and hang in the inner tent afterwards or you pitch the inner tent with the poles first and add the rainfly afterwards. There's no way you could get the poles between the inner tent and the rainfly while those are connected to each other.
As far as "how complicated is it to first pitch the rainfly and hang in the inner tent later": It's called "Dry Setup" in the instructions. The fact that it's not the "standard way" of setting the tent up is probably for a good reason. I haven't tried this method, yet though. Should be quite ok, though, just that you need to crouch a bit more.
Do you think you could have 4 people sitting in the tent? To play cards. We have a two person trekking pole tent and are looking for something where we could hang out as a family of it’s raining or super buggy and bring two 2-person tents. The other tent wouldn’t really work. We have a talus 4 but it’s heavy and not really big enough for 4 of us anymore.
Given how vertical the walls are it might work. It would be very close and you might need to keep your hand close to your chest. Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co thanks for the reply. Wish they made two person tents that could accommodate two wide sleeping pads. I know they want to save weight but wish they didn’t make the foot end narrower.
Alan, thank you for the review! Have you been able to take it up in the mountains? If so, do you have any updates to the initial review? I'm considering this tent as well as Nemo Dagger (tried and true)
Excellent review. I also loved your review of the r1 techface and bough one. Thanks for sharing the info.
My pleasure! Best, -alan
Great review. Being 11 years into a Copper Spur ownership i can really appreciate some of these nuanced features that do make this a superior choice.
Glad it was helpful Jeremy. Warmest, -alan
I'm leaning towards one of these tents. Have you been able to do any real world testing of this tent since this video came out? Not many informative vids on youtube about this tent
Do you foresee any issues with rain combined with wind allowing water in through the top vent? Seems like some sideways rain could make for a very wet night.
No I don't foresee any issues. There is a huge overlap of the vent cover vs. the size of the vent. As such it is super well protected. You'd need almost 100% horizontal rain before any started coming in - the tent was tested in 30mph winds and rain! And the vent can be zippered shut during most treacherous rainstorms.
Finally, and I can't emphasize this enough, camper's biggest concern should be managing humidity and condensation inside the tent. This is by far the most likely way you and your gear will get damp/wet. For some reason people are far more concerned with a few drips from a leaking fly or a bit rain getting blown in. That is rarely the major problem for keeping you and your gear like a down sleeping bag dry. Humidity and condensation are the big enemies - keep those vents open! Warmest, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co I assume it was good @30mph winds? That's quite high!
I bought the tent now and quickly pitched it up in my small living room. So I can't say much about it, yet. However (yes, Alan already wrote this but I have skipped that small sentece when I last read this comment), there's a zipper that allows you to completely close the top vent. Obviously, that'll harm ventilation but definitely protect you even from horizontal rain. The instructions say you can open and adjust that upper vent according to wind direction etc. - I guess they mean which part of the zipper you want to open. For max ventilation, you'll obviously have to open it completely.
Alan, I was really interested in this tent and struggling to find a decent review until I found your video and your website, and it certainly is very thorough. Could you please give me an idea how the Telos TR2 will cope in an exposed site against the winds found in the mountains of the UK and is this tent more durable against the wind than my current tent, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 (2019 edition). Many thanks. Charles
Would probably be OK in winds up to 30 mph - so similar to your current tent - would not expect it to astronomically better tho. But a tent like the SlingFin Portal would be much stronger exposed to Highlands winds without anything to block some of the wind. I suggest you read our full review. Link in the description of the Video. We do compare it to other tents including the SlingFin Portal. Best -alan
@@adventure_alan_co Alan, thanks so much for the response and certainly the Slingfin Portal certainly does seem like a superb tent and the reviews are great and would fair far better with the windy conditions found in the mountains of the UK and my next main trip is doing the Skye Trail on the Isle of Skye in Scotland which will certainly be exposed to the elements. One difficulty however is first that the tent is out of stock worldwide, and new stock will not be available until mid-June in the States and I am not sure on that basis when it will be available in the UK. As a back up plan therefore is there any other tents that you would recommend that will certainly be stronger than my current Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 (2019 edition) but is also lightweight just like the Copper Spur and Slingfin Portal. Many thanks again. Charles
You are so right - tent makers largely ignore the key aspect of condensation management. I see that most of the garage gear boutique high dollar boys in the U.S. are based out west and have no clue about what 2/3 of the American population faces in terms of humidity.
really detailed well presented review, thank you! I am seriously interested in this tent, my present tent is faultless apart from the interior space, which as you implied can be a big factor in sitting out some bad weather, I love Scotland - say no more!!
Glad it was helpful! Warmest, -alan
Great review Alan! Have you made one after a few uses?
is it gonna be durable thought? I want this to be my 1st tent but i am 'afraid' tha beacause it is taller the BA UL2 it not gonna be as wind proof. Is that a good argument to make or nonecese. I'd love some help here.
i am not talking about crazy wind. I just don't want to pay 550euro and have it give me a hard time
According to S2S and my experience with the tent it should be up to 50 kph winds. Probably more if you really guyed it out at all the critical additional tie-outs on the upwind loaded sides. Similar to most 3 season dome tents. Focus of this tent is a ton of creature comforts and decent weather/wind resistance. But this is not an alpine mountaineering tent like the SlingFin Portal, Crossbow or WindSaber - so at some point campsite selection is going to matter so that you are not exposed to really high winds. That is this tent is not designed, or priced for those conditions - for higher wind resistance you'll need to pay more and unless it's a SlingFin tent it will weigh a lot more too. Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co i thought of getting the sling fin portal 2. It's 3 season but Can become 4.season quite easily. I am Goin to be hiking in a range of different contidions in the SUMMER. The most challenging place i am going to visit will be tha alps. But i don't really see the alps having extreme contidions in july. I could still get the sling fin but i am going also to warm countries and i feel i am going to have a big problem with condensation. Opinion?
Great review. Wish there was more about the zippers. The Copper Spur offers one-handed zipper operation
Alan, please demonstrate how you would set up the tent FLY FIRST, as you would have to do in a storm. All of these style "clip-on" inner tents are a PITA to set up in a storm.
OTOH Tarptent double wall tents set up WITH THE FLY AND INNER TENT ALREADY ATTACHED. Great for setting up in a storm.
I like the looks of these tents! The Alto and the Telos although the price is a bit high. I would pay it if i knew how well it performed in heavy rain. If it passes that test it would def be worth the money. For $499 you could almost buy a dyneema tent. Their Alto one man is $399. But it is well thought out and probably worth the money. Just wish they would throw in the ground sheet or something at those prices. Nice review man!
Thanks for the kind words Guitar! Warmest, -alan
A well thought out design. Nicely done S2S.
Thank you! Cheers!
Great well thought out tent. Does the vent have a mosquito net? 👍
Yes it does! Best, -alan
The inner tent is basically a closed mosquito net. There is no extra vent in the inner tent, it's just a vent in the rainfly. Thus, yes, Alan is right - of course. Just wanted to add some more explanation
All I want to know is pile size
I would love to buy this tent but the price is to much for me.I don't go backpacking that much to take this tent on backpacking trips.My son is in boy scouts and I go with him on all of his camp outs.This was a very good review the only Con I see is the price.I liked and subscribed.
Nice tent, like some of the added features that went into it. At over 3 pounds it is heavy.
Bad ass tent I want it now :/
the link above is broken? nice feature creep on tent though ; ).
Link fixed. And yes, lots of features but also weight creep. Best, -alan
Good Price Point. Great vid ! I like it. Green should be a color option. Con; Tent's pushing almost 4 lbs.
Get it down to 3, 3.5 lbs and you might have something. imho.
Checkout the alto. It's much lighter. Best, -alan
Cool looking tent!
Yup, a lot of very thoughtful engineering went into this tent. Best, -alan
That is one sweet tent. A lot of thought went into the design!
The massive vent right over the main body has me nervous- during medium or heavy rain. I would think splashing would definitely be coming down on my Head!
Why not 2 medium sized vents on the vestibule dormers?
Thanks for showing, Alan
I noticed a raised fabric flap that surrounds the vent opening in the fly clearly designed to address that exact issue. Another Sea to Summit innovation and one Alan didn't get around to mentioning. Judging by the thoroughness and care StS has put into this tent over the last two years, I'd lay money it'll work for anything less than a full gale.
uguysrnuts is correct. There is a huge awning over the vent. Rain is not going to get in. And size and location are everything. Large and at the peak of the tent is best. Warmest, -alan
Alan - great review as usual. Tell me about the new clothing you are wearing - shorts and fleece.
Sorry but nothing special about the clothes. Just what I grabbed out of the closet. The black T is a Smartwool 150 merino. Other stuff is totally not interesting. Sorry -alan
Looks like a nice tent. However, I think that gear loft is not a Sea to Summit innovation, nor is it the configuration of the doors to increase airflow. I Saw them first on the Big Agnes Salt Creek, a tent with three doors. They call them 3-D bin pocket and Low Vent feature, respectively.
You are correct neither is new - nor do I think we claimed they were - although the execution of them in the Telos is nice. The Tension Ridge most decidedly is new. While it looks simple, the engineering to get it to work is quite difficult. And he combo with huge apex vent and under door vent does create a ton of airflow that most tents lack. All the best, -alan
Oh my bad. I agree that it's a feature-rich tent, at a good weight. And I think you present it in detail. I really like it. I wanted the Big Agnes for those two features, plus the third door. That 3-D pocket helps you free space on the ground if you do not want to use the vestibules. It's a great idea. But it was way too expensive for me in 2020.
I have a question about the Telos: is it posible to attach the tent to the fly when you pitch only the fly?
@@adventure_alan_co And honestly, that Tension Ridge is so amazing. I barely ever had that spaceous feeling in a tent! No "head touching the ceiling", no "I have to sit in the center of the tent when changing clothes, because otherwise it's too low", no problems at all. Even when you hang some clothesline into there (there are a lot of loops / hooks inside that you to attach stuff to!) and some clothes / towels in there to dry at night, you'll probably not block half of your tent with them because the walls are so vertical and therefore the loops are closer to the wall than in tents with flatter walls. I really think people underestimate the power of that tension ridge thing. I just hope it turns out to be stable and not have any problems with a long life :)
this seems to be.a 3 person tent, no? because my telos tr2 has way less head room compared with this one..
Nope, this is the 2 person tent.
Would of been helpful to show putting it up.
When you pitch the tent it dramatically extends the length of the video - which in this case is already over 20 minutes covering what I believe is essential info on the tent. As such, unless there is something super interesting about the pitch I will likely not including as it adds time with little value. And, the Telos TR2 pretty much pitches like most 3 season, dome, double walled tents. Where it does vary - how the rainfly only pitch works, the rolled back rainfly option, and the gazebo options, I do highlight that as they are important to know. Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co Then maybe be the first to do a Utube video incorporating a timed pitching of this model, along with timed pitching of the different features.
Regards Chris.
So seven(?) years ago when I bought my Sierra Designs Flashlight 2 FL, I was convinced that it was the apotheosis of lightweight freestanding backpacking tents and stopped paying attention.
Now it's the future, and I'm unfrozen and found that I'm just a primitive caveman stumbling around with dated gear. What a time to be alive!
Nice...
the tent set itself up? huh. didn’t make it past 2:18.
I love you Alan
Looks like a great tent, but at 3 lbs 10 oz, that doesn't qualify as a lightweight tent. Am I missing something?
It would need to come in another "darker" colour. Using grey colored tents in Summer turns the tent into a hot box during the day, at alpine locations.
That's why you leave the doors open, or even have the fly rolled all the way back. Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co understood that may work where you are, but in NZ, middle of summer, sandflies will eat you or the sun will burn you. As long as its grey and not white or dark colors it will be fine.
A showcase is not a review. Not one con or critical word on the tent, no on-the-trail use shown... I have no problem with payed showcases, but they should be clearly labeled
🚴🏼🫡🚴🏼
Just wondering how this tent is any different from a MSR tent. Looks like an exact copy.
Don, as outlined in some detail in the video, way more vertical space and internal volume due to the tension ridge, better ventilation, and far more pitching options and versatility. I think we cover all of this very thoroughly in video. Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co Didn't watch it.
Great design. Now DCF-fly with carbon poles? It's a shame when the best designs use the crappiest materials? Yes, the weight's pretty good for denier fabric, but maybe under 2lbs with better materials? Get rid of water absorption too?
Tom, If weight is a concern, then the Alto is likely what you want to look at. It's 2.5 pounds but retains almost all of the innovative design of the Telos. DCF has been a challenge for the many panels, an multitude of seams in standard, freestanding, dome tents. DCF seems to work better in shaped-tarps and trekking pole supported shelters which have fewer and larger panels. And carbon fiber poles are not the salvation that people think they are. They have their downsides too. A top-notch DAC pole is a pretty optimized thing. Best, -alan
@@adventure_alan_co - OK, send me an Alto and I'll review it?