This review dives into the 3FUL Gear Shell 2 tent, a lightweight single-pole shelter designed for two. We explore its setup, spaciousness, and innovative features, including its surprising packing method and a clever accessory that significantly enhances stability in windy conditions using an additional trekking pole. The review also incorporates a look at complementary gear, including the OneTigris Eco Arc pump and Airdream pillow, alongside a personal favorite – the Tricology Loft Ultra pillow – providing a comprehensive assessment of the entire camping system.The Shell 2's ultralight design, weighing under 1.5 kilos excluding poles, makes it an attractive option for lightweight backpacking. We delve into the ease of setup, the ample headroom provided by its unique pole structure, and the functionality of its dual vestibules. Particular attention is paid to the optional double-pole stabilizer, a small but impactful accessory that transforms the tent's performance in challenging weather. Finally, we offer a concluding perspective on the overall value and practicality of the Shell 2 tent and its accompanying gear.
Pros And Cons
- Lightweight (just under 1.5 kilos)
- Upright design provides ample head and foot room
- 2.3m floor length offers considerable space
- Partially covered vestibule protects gear from the elements
- Double vestibules for gear storage
- Large internal dimensions (215cm length, 120cm width, 110cm height)
- Both doors face the same direction
- Inner tent can be baggy; requires additional pegs for optimal tension
- No side pockets
- Small inner door
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The Shell 2 tent from 3FUL arrived, not in its usual roll bag (which I find inconvenient), but in a stuff sack – a much more practical solution for packing in windy conditions. The tent itself, excluding poles, weighs just under 1.5 kilos, a remarkably lightweight option for a two-person shelter.
Initial impressions were positive. The design, similar to the NRAM, features an upright pole at each end, maximizing headroom and eliminating the guesswork of tapered floor space. The simple design and ease of setup are highly appealing.
I've always been curious about trekking-pole tents, and the Shell 2's minimal weight makes it an attractive proposition for lightweight backpacking. The upright design offers ample space for a taller individual like myself, a welcome feature not often seen in this style of tent.
Setup and Features
Setting up the Shell 2 is straightforward, although attaching the fly to the inner tent initially requires some adjustment. The time-lapse shows how quickly this process becomes after a couple of attempts.
The inner tent provides ample space for two people, though it might feel snug. Vertical end walls ensure maximum usable space. The dual vestibules are a significant advantage, offering ample storage for gear and protection from the elements.
A key feature is the partially covered vestibule, allowing for the storage of muddy boots while keeping the rest of the shelter clean. The downside, however, is that both doors face the same way, offering limited wind protection depending on wind direction.
The 3FUL Double-Pole Gadget
3FUL has introduced a clever gadget to enhance stability, particularly in windy conditions. This simple accessory allows you to use two trekking poles instead of one, significantly increasing the tent's structural integrity.
The gadget easily attaches to the existing tent pole clips. Adding a second pole (weighing only 245 grams) transforms the Shell 2 into a substantially stronger shelter, ideal for challenging weather conditions. This enhancement is adaptable to other tents with similar single-pole designs.
For under 250 grams additional weight, the considerable increase in stability makes this upgrade highly worthwhile, especially for those who already carry trekking poles. The simple design and ease of use make this a practical and effective solution.
Additional Gear Review: OneTigris Eco Arc Pump and Airdream Pillow
The review also includes a look at the OneTigris Eco Arc pump, which proved efficient for inflating the included sleeping mat within 46 seconds, and the Airdream pillow. The Eco Arc pump has a bright, square lantern, useful for nighttime illumination.
The Airdream pillow is comfortable but lacks a strap to secure it to a sleeping mat – a significant drawback for quilt sleepers. A forthcoming pillowcase to resolve this will be reviewed later. The pillow itself is quite large and has thick padding.
The OneTigris Eco Arc pump impressed with its efficiency, but the Airdream pillow would benefit from an added strap for better stability while sleeping. The large size of the Airdream pillow is comfortable for many sleepers but not ideal for users like myself who prefer a smaller, more secure option
Tricology Loft Ultra Pillow and Final Thoughts
The Tricology Loft Ultra pillow, a personal purchase, offers exceptional comfort. Its large size allows for ample space to add a down jacket for extra warmth, making it a more versatile solution for various weather conditions.
Compared to other pillows tested, the Tricology Loft Ultra provides superior comfort and a customisable warmth level thanks to the down jacket hack. Its slightly larger pack size is worth it for enhanced sleeping comfort.
The Shell 2 tent, with its innovative design and lightweight construction, provides a comfortable and practical shelter for two people. The optional double-pole gadget significantly improves stability in windy conditions, making it a versatile option for various camping situations. While some minor improvements could be made (door size and ease of access), it delivers excellent value for the price.