This review dives deep into the REI Trailmade 2 tent, a budget-friendly option for campers seeking a lightweight and easy-to-pitch shelter. We explore its setup, interior space, features like vestibules and storage, and most importantly, its performance in a rigorous 24-hour rain test. We'll examine the tent's construction materials, packed size and weight, and compare its overall value proposition against competitors in the budget tent market, including the Kelty Late Start, Alps Mountaineering Lynx, and the higher-end Teton Mountain Ultra. This in-depth analysis will help you decide if the Trailmade 2 is the right tent for your next camping adventure.This review covers everything from the ease of assembly and the quality of the zippers to the crucial aspects of weather resistance and interior space. We scrutinize the pros and cons, highlighting the tent's strengths – such as its surprisingly effective waterproofing and lightweight design – while also addressing its limitations, including limited storage and a shorter warranty period. Ultimately, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the REI Trailmade 2 to help you make an informed purchase decision based on your individual camping needs and budget.
Pros And Cons
- Comes with a pre-attached footprint.
- Good price for the features.
- Surprisingly good performance in heavy rain (24 hours).
- Perfect seam taping.
- Lightweight compared to other budget brands.
- Two vestibules, one at the front and one at the back.
- One-year warranty (not lifetime).
- Mesh runs appeared over time.
- Rainfly doesn't fit perfectly and is difficult to make taut.
- Limited storage (only two small pockets).
- No footprint-only setup option (due to lack of grommets on the footprint).
- Rainfly vents leak in heavy rain, though these vents can be closed from inside.
- Tub floor height is only 6 inches.
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Unboxing and Setup
The REI Trailmade 2 arrived in a standard carry bag, containing the tent body with a pre-attached footprint, rainfly, two poles, four guylines, a pole repair splint, and stakes. Setup was straightforward; the tent utilizes a simple criss-cross pole structure, making assembly quick and intuitive. The rainfly attached easily with clips and buckles, securing the whole tent quickly. The overall setup took around 5.5 minutes, while takedown took about 6 minutes.
The included footprint is a nice addition, offering extra protection for the tent floor. The lack of pole sleeves simplifies setup but could make the tent less stable in very windy conditions. The compact design makes packing away the tent easy and convenient, though the carry bag felt slightly oversized.
Size and Space Comparison
The Trailmade 2 offers a peak height of approximately 40 inches, providing ample headroom for someone of average height. However, the sidewalls slope significantly, limiting usable space. The base area measures roughly 29.3 square feet, smaller than many comparable budget tents.
While a double sleeping pad fits length-wise, the width is quite constricted, leaving minimal extra space. The two vestibules offer additional storage but are not spacious. Compared to other tents reviewed, the Trailmade 2 provides the least amount of interior space.
Vestibule and Door Features
The Trailmade 2 features two vestibules, each about 26.5 inches wide. These offer decent additional storage space. The vestibule configuration is limited; it can be half-open or fully closed. Adjusting tension is straightforward thanks to the webbing straps.
Both vestibules utilize high-quality YKK zippers, resulting in smooth and snag-free operation. The lack of additional toggles or loops for more configuration options is a minor drawback. The doors are generously sized (37x34 inches), improving ventilation. Again, YKK zippers are used on the doors, and toggles keep the doors open.
Storage and Waterproofing
Storage options are limited to two small pockets (14x5 inches) in opposite corners and one loop at the top. This is significantly less storage than many competing tents. The tub floor provides 6 inches of height for water protection.
Seams on the tub floor and rainfly are fully taped, providing good water resistance. The rainfly offers almost full ground coverage, but the lack of guylines at the sides impacts water shedding and overall stability in high winds. The vents, while offering ventilation, can leak in heavy rain due to their design.
Rain Test Results
A 24-hour rain test (12 hours moderate, 12 hours heavy) revealed minor leaks around the vents at the top. These are easily closed from inside if needed. Otherwise, the tub floor and seam taping held up well, preventing significant water penetration.
The rainfly showed some saturation after several hours, but the interior remained largely dry. Overall, the tent performed admirably in heavy rain considering its budget-friendly price point. Despite some minor issues, the waterproof features of the Trailmade 2 performed beyond expectations.
Materials and Portability
The Trailmade 2 uses 75D polyester taffeta for the floor and body, with a PU coating on the floor and rainfly. The poles are aluminum, and the mesh is 40D nylon no-see-um mesh. The guylines feature reflective strips for added visibility.
The packed size is 21 x 9 x 6.5 inches, weighing approximately 5 lbs (excluding the footprint). The relatively lightweight design and compact pack size make this a portable option for backpacking or car camping.
Pros, Cons, and Overall Verdict
Pros include a pre-attached footprint option, competitive pricing, surprisingly good rain performance, and a lightweight design. The YKK zippers across all zippers on the tent and vestibules are a significant quality point. The surprising waterproofing was another key highlight.
Cons include a limited one-year warranty (compared to lifetime warranties from competitors), minor mesh runs after extended use, a rainfly that didn't fully taut, and limited storage space. The tent’s overall small size and lack of vertical walls mean that its suitable for those who want something light and compact.
Comparison and Conclusion
Compared to other budget tents reviewed (Kelty Late Start, Alps Mountaineering Lynx), the REI Trailmade 2 offers a better balance of features and performance. However, the Teton Mountain Ultra surpasses it in several areas, including space, materials, and warranty. The Teton Mountain Ultra offers superior value due to its better design, construction, and lifetime warranty.
The REI Trailmade 2 is a decent budget tent, especially considering its price. However, if you prioritize extra space, durable materials, and a comprehensive warranty, the Teton Mountain Ultra provides a more compelling option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities.
