This comprehensive review dives deep into the world of Naturehike backpacking tents, highlighting five standout models: the Monga 2, Cloud Up 2, Nebula 2, Cloud Peak 2, and Star River 2. Based on extensive personal experience, this article provides a detailed comparison of each tent's features, performance, and suitability for various backpacking styles and weather conditions. We'll explore differences in weight, pack size, pitching style, vestibule size, and seasonality, offering a clear picture to help you choose the perfect Naturehike tent for your next adventure. Expect honest assessments, informed opinions, and practical advice to guide your purchasing decision.This review avoids single-wall tents and complex setups, focusing on practical, reliable options ideal for backpacking. We'll analyze the similarities and differences between these five popular choices, drawing parallels to well-known tent designs from other brands. From lightweight options for long-distance treks to more robust shelters for challenging weather, this guide ensures you'll find a Naturehike tent that perfectly matches your needs and budget. Key considerations like weather protection, ventilation, and interior space will be thoroughly examined, ultimately empowering you to make an informed choice.
Pros And Cons
- Lightest of the tents
- Good balance of solid fabric and see-through mesh
- Smallest pack size
- Easy to pitch
- Good value for money
- A bit of a squeeze for two people
- Similar to Big Agnes design
- Two doors, two vestibules
- All-in-one pole structure
- Good mixture of solid fabric and mesh
- Decent sized interior
- Designed from the Hillerberg ALAC 2 (but cheaper)
- Two doors, two vestibules
- Gyne out points on every pole
- More solid fabric, good for three-plus seasons
- Deep bathtub floor
- Reviewer's favorite tent
- Well-designed
- Two doors, two vestibules
- Pitches outer first
- Tried and tested in stormy weather
- Low fly, could be improved with more solid fabric
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Top 5 Naturehike Tents: An Overview
My backpacking adventures have led me to test numerous tents, and Naturehike consistently stands out for its quality and value. This review focuses on my top 5 favorite Naturehike backpacking tents, carefully selected from a broader range of options.
These five tents — the Monga 2, Cloud Up 2, Nebula 2, Cloud Peak 2, and Star River 2 — represent a diverse selection of designs and features, each suitable for different camping styles and preferences. I've excluded single-wall tents and those with complex setups from this list for their impracticality in my backpacking experience.
Across these models, common features include a 20D inner fly, bathtub floor, included groundsheet, and a 4000mm hydrostatic head rating. However, significant variations exist in design, weight, packed size, and suitability for different weather conditions.
Detailed Tent Comparisons: Design and Features
The Naturehike Monga 2 resembles the MSR Hubba Hubba NX2, featuring two doors, vestibules, and vents. It's spacious and aesthetically pleasing, making it ideal for comfortable camping.
The Cloud Up 2 is a lightweight tunnel tent, with a single door and a vent at the rear. Its compact design and light weight make it perfect for long-distance backpacking.
The Nebula 2, a less common but well-designed option, offers two doors, two vestibules, and pitches outer-first. Its robust construction has proven reliable in challenging weather conditions.
Cloud Peak 2 and Star River 2: Design Inspirations and Strengths
The Cloud Peak 2, arguably Naturehike's most popular tent, draws design inspiration from the Hilleberg Allac 2, providing a premium design at a budget price. This two-door, two-vestibule tent boasts excellent stability with its three individual poles.
The Star River 2 offers a unique design, reminiscent of the Big Agnes Copper Spur. With its all-in-one pole structure, two doors, and vestibules, it provides ample space and ventilation. I particularly appreciate its interior design.
Both these tents offer an excellent balance of solid fabric and mesh, suitable for a wider range of weather conditions compared to the Monga 2.
Weight, Pack Size, and Pitching Styles
The tents are ranked by pack size, from smallest to largest: Cloud Up 2, Nebula 2, Star River 2, Cloud Peak 2, and Monga 2. However, the difference in packed size between the middle three is minimal.
Pitching styles vary: Star River 2 and Cloud Up 2 are inner-first, while Cloud Peak 2 and Nebula 2 pitch inner and outer together. The Monga 2 also uses an inner-first pitching style.
Vestibule sizes also differ; the Cloud Peak 2 boasts the largest vestibules at 72cm, while the rest are around 60cm.
Seasonality, Fabric, and Interior Space
The tents' seasonality depends greatly on the balance between solid fabric and mesh. The Monga 2, with its high mesh content, is best suited for summer. The Cloud Up 2 and Nebula 2 offer a balance, making them suitable for three seasons.
The Cloud Peak 2 and Star River 2 have a significantly higher proportion of solid fabric, suitable for three-plus seasons. The Cloud Peak 2 provides superior weather protection due to a larger area of solid fabric.
Interior dimensions also vary. The Star River 2 is the most spacious, providing ample room for two people, while the Cloud Up 2 is more compact.
Pricing and Where to Buy
Prices vary depending on the retailer, but I've listed prices from Collins Outdoors, a reputable supplier. Always purchase from trusted sources to avoid counterfeits and potential import issues.
Avoid purchasing from sites like Temu, Alibaba, or AliExpress, as quality and authenticity are not guaranteed. Collins Outdoors provides excellent service and reliable shipping.
Pro Versions and Final Verdict
Pro versions of the Monga 2, Cloud Up 2, and Star River 2 are available, offering additional features, but don't appear to be significantly lighter. These seem better suited to three-season use.
My personal ranking places the Cloud Peak 2 at the top. Its superb design, durable construction, and three-plus season performance make it a favorite for various camping conditions. The Cloud Up 2 takes second place due to its low weight and pack size, ideal for long-distance backpacking. The Nebula 2, Star River 2, and Monga 2 follow, each with unique strengths and suitable for specific scenarios.
Ultimately, the best Naturehike tent for you depends on your personal preferences and camping style. Consider your priorities – weight, pack size, seasonality, and features – to choose the model that best suits your needs.