REI Half Dome 4 Tent Review

Let us introduce you to the REI Half Dome 4 Tent if you’re searching for a family tent that is practical for both car camping and backpacking. This incredible 4-person tent provides a special way to use the tent. As the name implies, you can use only half of the tent and still be functional. Let’s look at how this tent can help you if you’re interested in trying such a novel design.

Livability and Interior Space

In terms of interior area, the exceptional REI Half Dome 4 has a design that sets it apart from most tents. Its floor area, which is remarkable at 94 by 86 inches and 56.1 square feet in size, is far larger than that of its rivals. Additionally, it has enough room on all sides to fit a few hiking pads.

You will have enough headroom to move around because the tent’s ceiling is approximately 48 inches high from the center. Additionally, it will give you a sense of spaciousness so that even with four people in the room, you won’t feel cramped. 

Despite the interior of the tent appearing to be smaller than that of its rivals, it provides enough living space.

Weight

Considering the size of the REI Half Dome 4 tent, it is reasonable given that it only weighs about 4 kg. You must remember that the Half Dome tent from REI prioritized durability and the interior room was overweight. So, don’t be upset by the weight that it has been given.

You must understand that this weight is the whole of the footprint pitch weight, though. Overall, it is safe to presume that it isn’t all that weighty.

For instance, you might notice that the REI Half Dome 4 weighs about 10 ounces more than the MSR Hubba Hubba NX and Nemo Dagger 2P combined. Sadly, though, you’re also raising your prices at the same time to lose such a modest amount of weight.

On the other hand, this product’s weight may be comparable to that of the Kelty Dirt Motel 2 and the Marmot Tungsten 2 with Footprint. But this REI product leads in terms of interior room and construction quality.

Now that you think about it, its packed size is very similar to its weight. They have a wider diameter of 94 x 86 inches as a result. Another factor contributing to its larger diameter is the weight-intensive single-pole hub design. We can see that this product is generously sized to provide adequate packing even though it only offers a few inches in length and width.

Build Integrity and Robustness

Backpacking tents are popular because they are much lighter than other types of tents. But it should go without saying that the REI Half Dome 4 Tent is made to last a long time because it has a 70-denier taffeta nylon floor fabric and a 40-denier nylon rainfly. Such a valuable rainfly is essential for extending the tent’s lifespan, which is fantastic.

They are also well-built when compared to the other tents in the set. The 20-denier nylon mesh canopy fabric is also much better because it has zippers that work very smoothly and is very snag-free. Additionally, REI made sure to provide a better-hub aluminum system, which is very worry-free.

Weather Defense

The construction of the REI Half Dome tent makes it appropriate for 3-season use. As a result, you’ll notice that the tent is incredibly strong and has a freestanding tent design with a fully functional rainfly. Additionally, it has top-notch seam taping and a raised bathtub floor, which is wonderful. 

We are giving these promises based on testing because all of these qualities are necessary to survive rain and sleet. However, since it only comes with eight of them, you can carry extra stakes just in case to add a layer of weather protection.

Ventilation

In addition to the rainfly and the tent body, the REI Half Dome 4 tent has enormous vents with a variety of mesh, so it has excellent ventilation. If you look closely at the tent, you’ll notice that the vents are expertly made with sturdy material so that air can flow through them with ease.

If you take into account the side entrance, you can see that you are receiving a lot of airflow from the tent comfortably. Additionally, the Velcro tabs provide excellent apertures. So, it is clear that there are no ventilation difficulties with this REI product.

Storage

Because the REI Half Dome 4 tent has a few different entrances and vestibule styles, you can stack your parts with simplicity. Even after piling everything, including your hiking shoes and other necessary items, there will still be plenty of areas to enter and exit the tent. It’s also nice that they have adequate room to divide evenly across their sides.

There is a protective opening provided by the fly’s zipper construction as well. The rainfly is simply adjustable to your needs, which is the icing on the cake. Therefore, you can roll it up as needed for nighttime stargazing. You may also lock the sides to keep your valuables safe or pull them up to improve airflow inside the tent.

Even while it might be enough for two individuals, you might run into some problems if you have enough things for four people. However, there are a few sizable pockets on the roof and one on the roof, so the storage problem may be resolved there. And last but certainly not least, there are plenty of loops along the ceiling that may be used to support the light at night.

Conclusion

The REI Half Dome 4 tent should be at the top of your list if you’re seeking a tent that fits your need for four people. They are appropriate for both car camping and backpacking.

However, this product can also be a fantastic option if you’re searching for a large and sturdy tent for you and your companion. Additionally, they are quite affordable in comparison to tents comparable to these, which is a great benefit!

FAQs

Can the REI Half Dome 4 tent be suitable for 2 adults?

Although the tent might look quite spacious, it can be, as we’ve mentioned earlier, suitable for 2 adults easily. However, if you’re planning to fit in 4 adults, it can get tight since it leaves no space to store your belongings after flooring four sleeping pads.

Does the REI Half Dome 4 come with a warranty?

All REI product offers a 365-day warranty given when you buy the brand-new product. Although they used to offer a lifetime guarantee, they now only offer a year-long warranty to their customers.

Is the REI Half Dome 4 Tent easy to set up?

Yes, the REI Half Dome 4 Tent is designed for easy setup. It features a color-coded pole system and hubbed poles that make assembly straightforward, even for beginners. Most users can pitch the tent within 10-15 minutes.

How does the REI Half Dome 4 Tent perform in different weather conditions?

The REI Half Dome 4 Tent is highly versatile and performs well in various weather conditions. It has a full-coverage rainfly for rainy days and mesh panels for ventilation on warmer days. The tent’s robust construction and sturdy poles also provide good stability in windy conditions.

Is the REI Half Dome 4 Tent spacious enough for four people?

The REI Half Dome 4 Tent offers ample space for four people, with a peak height of 48 inches and a floor area of 56.1 square feet. It also features two large vestibules for additional gear storage, ensuring that campers have plenty of room to move around.

What is the weight of the REI Half Dome 4 Tent?

The REI Half Dome 4 Tent weighs approximately 6 pounds 9 ounces, making it a relatively lightweight option for a four-person tent. It’s a great choice for car camping and short backpacking trips where weight is a consideration.

Does the REI Half Dome 4 Tent come with any additional features?

Yes, the REI Half Dome 4 Tent includes several thoughtful features like interior pockets for organizing gear, a gear loft, and reflective accents for nighttime visibility. It also comes with stakes, guy lines, and a convenient carry bag for easy transportation.