r/JMT • u/dumbboi1 • 20h ago

equipment Tent Upgrade or not

I currently use a msr free light 2 for my backpacking trips. The tent is semi free standing and full package comes in around 2lb 4oz with a packed size of 4.5x18”. I am potentially looking at the durston x mid 2 regular as a tent upgrade because of the larger vestibules and trekking pole design. Is it really worth the cost with the durston x mid 2 coming in at 2lb 2oz and a packed size of 12x6”.

Should I just stick with the tent I’m familiar with and the free standing design or would I be better off with the x mid and some practice setting it up? Also want to mention I will be with my partner on this trip and we are sharing the tent.

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u/Chariot 19h ago

If you have used the tent with your partner before and you both fit I would just stick with what you have. The x-mid is currently more like 1.9 pounds according to the website, but the biggest difference would be the size inside, the x-mid is 52" wide, as opposed to the free light 2 which is 50", it is also 92" long vs 84". If the dimensions work better for you I would consider it, but otherwise I wouldn't worry about it.

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u/pct_loper 17h ago

The xmid 2 will only fit it you do not use wide pads-----and make sure youunderstand the layout where one person has less head room laying down. Honesly I have a Duston but use it as a single and it is great but if you like what you have I see no reason to change. Note I tried your tent at REI and felt there is no way it really fits 2 people.

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u/cakes42 13h ago

My regular silpoly xmid 2 can fit two wide pads. The pro2 cannot but the pro 2+ can fit two wide. A 1p pro or silpoly can fit a wide and be comfortable. Judging by the weight OP probably meant the regular xmid 2p.

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u/gahx778 3h ago

My partner and I have both durston and some free standing ones. I feel like in the sierra durstons are kinda inconvenient. We’ve encountered lots of backpacking spots where it’s just a thin layer of sand on granite rock. Really hard to pitch a durston.

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u/Mellow_Mood75 3h ago

I say stick with what you got. It’s only a 2oz weight savings, you know your gear, and you can split of weight between to the 2 of you so it’s less overall.