The North Face StormBreak 2 tent is a budget-friendly two-person dome tent designed for three-season camping. This review delves into the pros and cons of this classic shelter, examining its performance, features, and overall value. We’ll assess its suitability for various camping conditions and compare its strengths and weaknesses against its price point. From its spacious interior and easy setup to its weather resistance and ventilation capabilities, we explore whether this tent truly lives up to its reputation.This in-depth analysis covers crucial aspects, including the tent's dimensions and usable space, material quality and weight, airflow and temperature regulation, and its overall durability. We'll also address concerns about the warranty and the impact of using polyester instead of lighter, more packable nylon. Ultimately, this review aims to help you determine if the North Face StormBreak 2 is the right choice for your camping adventures, considering your budget and priorities.
Pros And Cons
- Well-made for its price ($200)
- Excellent quality, no loose threads or issues with seam tape
- Durable; held up well over 6 months of use
- Waterproof; performed well even in thunderstorms
- Good airflow due to fly design
- Well-controlled condensation
- Good temperature control in moderate conditions
- Simple and easy setup and breakdown (12-15 minutes)
- Spacious for two average-sized adults (under 6'3)
- Nice awnings provide sun shade
- Affordable for a 2-person waterproof tent
- Non-adjustable stakeout points cause uneven pitch on uneven ground
- Heavy (5 lbs 14.2 oz) and bulky for a 2-person tent due to polyester material
- Limited lifetime warranty with unclear coverage, potentially leaving customer responsible for repair costs
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Shelter Overview and Features
The North Face StormBreak 2 is a two-person dome tent designed for three-season camping. It boasts two large doors, each creating a sizable awning for added weather protection. The fly completely covers the tent, extending about 3 inches from the ground before being staked out, ensuring excellent airflow. The tent’s design also incorporates a generous amount of mesh for ventilation, offsetting the inclusion of some solid fabric panels.
Inside, you'll find four mesh pockets and taped seams on the fly. The bathtub floor provides protection from moisture, while the spacious doors allow for easy entry and exit. The overall design is quite intuitive, offering practicality with its clever features.
While the mesh provides good airflow, the non-mesh fabric panels are a cost-cutting measure that compromise ventilation, especially in warmer temperatures. This is a common practice in budget-friendly tents but something to consider.
Dimensions and Materials
The advertised dimensions are often misleading, hence the importance of measuring the usable space. The StormBreak 2, while advertised as suitable for two people, provides approximately 6'3" of usable length, 3'9" of height, and 3'8" of width inside. This means it's best for individuals under 6'3".
Constructed primarily from polyester, the fly and floor utilize a 75D polyester taffeta with a 1200mm and 1500mm hydrostatic head rating respectively. Aluminum poles and stakes provide lightweight stability. The tent weighs in at approximately 5 lbs 14.2 oz, making it relatively heavy for its size.
The use of polyester taffeta keeps the cost down, which is reflected in the $200 price point, making it a budget-friendly option. However, it's important to note that this material is heavier and bulkier than nylon, impacting packability and portability.
Performance and Pros & Cons
Despite its budget-friendly price, the StormBreak 2 boasts excellent build quality, with no loose threads or noticeable flaws. In six months of use, including summer and fall camping, it has shown exceptional durability. It has successfully withstood various weather conditions including heavy thunderstorms, remaining completely waterproof.
Airflow is reasonably good thanks to the mesh panels. Condensation is well-controlled, likely due to the ample mesh. Temperature regulation, however, is adequate rather than excellent, with the solid fabric panels hindering complete ventilation in hot and humid climates. The quick and easy setup/teardown process is also a major advantage.
The main drawbacks are the non-adjustable stakeout points, which make pitching on uneven ground difficult. The tent's weight, a consequence of the polyester material, is also a significant con, affecting portability. Lastly, the vague limited lifetime warranty raises concerns about potential future repairs or replacements.
Value and Conclusion
The North Face StormBreak 2 offers impressive value at $200. This price makes it very competitive compared to similar tents from other brands, which can cost up to double. While the polyester material and weight are drawbacks, the overall performance in terms of waterproofing, durability, and ease of use make it a strong contender in the budget tent market.
The spacious interior easily accommodates two average-sized adults, and the large doors and vestibules provide ample space for gear. The included awnings offer additional protection from sun and light rain. However, this value proposition is slightly offset by the heavier weight and the vague warranty.
Ultimately, the StormBreak 2 is a good three-season tent, particularly for those on a budget. However, improvements in material and warranty would significantly enhance this already functional and affordable shelter. Considering its strengths and weaknesses, the North Face StormBreak 2 is a decent choice for budget-conscious campers.