June 23rd, 2026
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Humans have been walking on two feet for millions of years, while shoes with semi-rigid soles are a far more recent invention. The crux of the barefoot shoe movement is to allow your feet to move the way they evolved to carry you, while adding the protections and comfort of modern technology. 

While there’s a range of how “barefoot shoes” fit and function, in general, barefoot shoes have more flexible soles and wider toe boxes than their “standard” shoe cousins. Added flexibility helps improve your foot’s ability to grip and builds foot strength over time. Wider toe boxes allow your toes to splay with each step, improving balance and increasing your lateral stability. 

We spent months testing 10 barefoot shoes spanning the full range of possible uses, from casual, stylish kicks to waterproof trail runners to “barely there” sneakers. For several months, we wore them everywhere—>walking 30K steps a day around Manhattan for a whole week, moving 72 truckloads of rental equipment, and running hundreds of miles on sloppy trails. We tested them in snow, on slick concrete, across glossy tiles, and through puddles. 

Every pair in our lineup varied in their width, flexibility, and grip, but they all share the barefoot movement philosophy of zero-drop offset (where your heels and toes ride the same height off the ground) and no (or nearly no) arch support. 

During our testing, we checked all the components that make a good shoe feel like one. We investigated their flexibility, ground feel, grip, and traction. We considered their comfort on different feet, including fit, width, cushioning, and breathability. We examined their design and durability, wearing these shoes day in and day out, and evaluated how easy it was to transition into wearing each particular pair.

The Lems Primal 3 is a really great all-arounder, pretty easy to hop into, has a good versatile fit, and good performance for most everyday activities and light exercise.

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Comparison table

Men’s

Women’s

The winners

Best Overall Barefoot Shoes: Lems Primal 3

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $125
Stack height: 9.5 mm
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 1.2 oz
Upper: Super-soft microfiber + open-weave mesh (100% vegan)
Outsole: Injection Blown Rubber (IBR)
Flexibility: Medium
Grip: Medium-high
Groundfeel: Medium-low
What we liked: Great fit, versatile use, comfortable, don't have to wear socks
What could be better: Soles are still a bit thick for good groundfeel

The Lems Primal 3 combines a little bit of everything we love about barefoot shoes in an approachable way that makes them easy for just about any barefooter or barefoot-curious person to enjoy. Each version has gotten just a little bit better than the last, with a fit that works for most feet, enough traction for everyday wear, and the right amount of foot protection for those looking to try barefoot shoes for the first time.

Lems Primal 3

Close-up of the feet of a person wearing Lems Primal 3 barefoot shoes while walking on pavement

Outsole of Lems Primal 3 barefoot shoe shown during outdoor testing

Lems Primal 3 barefoot shoe secured in rowing machine foot strap

Pair of Lems Primal 3 barefoot shoes against a brick wall

Person wearing Lems Primal 3 barefoot shoes on a pickleball court

Flexible Lems Primal 3 barefoot shoe bent to show sole flexibility

The Primal’s cork insole feels excellent against sockless feet, even while sweaty!—but you can wear socks if you prefer. The wide toe box starts farther back on the foot than most, making it better at accommodating wider feet and letting your toes splay. The soles are flexible and let your feet move naturally, the way a true barefoot shoe should. 

We felt connected to the ground through the soles, but still appreciate the 9.5 mm of underfoot protection and cushioning that make these shoes comfortable to wear all day and easy to get used to. We especially loved wearing them to the gym, where they proved their prowess maintaining good traction on shined floors and being flexible enough to handle a rowing machine. 

Of all the barefoot shoes we tested, these are the ones we would recommend most to newbies, sockless fans, avid walkers, and people looking for a comfortable all-day option.

Best Running Barefoot Shoes: Altra Lone Peak GTX 9+

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $180
Stack height: 25 mm
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 6 oz (men’s), 1 lb 4 oz women’s
Upper: GORE-TEX Invisible Fit (85% RPET)
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
Flexibility: Medium
Grip: Exceptionally high
Groundfeel: Moderate
What we liked: Superb traction, excellent protection, great fit
What could be better: Vibram sole is stiffer, not all versions have a wide option

Though it’s not the “most barefoot” of barefoot shoes, the Lone Peak 9/9+ has all the hallmarks of a barefoot shoe we appreciate, with elevated underfoot cushioning and exceptional traction. Check out our in-depth reviews of both the Altra Lone Peak 9+ and Altra Lone Peak 9+ GTX to learn more.

Altra Lone Peak 9+ trail running shoe on rocky terrain showing outsole traction

Side view of Altra Lone Peak 9+ trail running shoe in grassy field

Altra Lone Peak 9 GORE-TEX trail running shoes with gaiters attached

From left to right: mOutsoles of Altra Lone Peak 9 and Altra Lone Peak 9+ and Altra Lone Peak 7 trail running shoes (with over 400 miles of wear) shown side by side for comparison

It’s an outstanding zero-drop trail running shoe, even for runners just looking to switch or folks who crave a little more joint protection without sacrificing natural foot movement. And for those hitting wet or sloppy trails, the 9+ version has better wet traction than the 9, and both soles can be purchased with a GTX upper for ultimate protection in mud or snow. 

With 25 mm of underfoot cushioning, diehard barefoot enthusiasts might not be stoked with the groundfeel of the Lone Peak line, but runners converting from standard trail running shoes will be amazed at all the undulations the Altras can feel and respond to. 

With Altra’s signature wide toe box, your toes have tons of room to spread out, while the midfoot lacing system allows optimal security to prevent slipping even on the sketchiest of slopes. The Vibram outsole of the 9+ version is stiffer than the regular Lone Peak’s MaxTrac outsole, but breaks in over the first few dozen miles. With excellent breathability and gaiter attachment points built in, these are the trail running shoes our barefoot runners reach for every time.

Best Barefoot Shoes for Style: Lems Kourt

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $140
Stack height: 10 mm
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 
Upper: Full grain leather
Outsole: Injection Blown Rubber (IBR)
Flexibility: Very low
Grip: Low
Groundfeel: Very low
What we liked: Look really cool and stylish and are comfortable for everyday
What could be better: Hard to keep clean (light colors) and don’t really feel like a barefoot shoe

It’s hard to argue with the undeniable style of the leather Lems Kourt. Even for our main testers with decidedly “outdoorsy” styles, these classic shoes proved easy to dress up or down, matching an impressively wide range of situations.

Lems Kourt

Pair of Lems Kourt barefoot shoes on a stone ledge outdoors

Person wearing Lems Kourt barefoot shoes with jeans on pavement

Outsole of Lems Kourt barefoot shoe showing tread pattern

In the world of performance-focused barefoot shoes, finding a pair that still looks at home in a business-casual office is a serious challenge. With the Lems Kourt, that challenge is met in monochrome leather. And with Lems’ proprietary cork insole, you don’t have to worry about what socks to wear—you can simply go without!

Lems maintains a wide toe box, but in a more approachable shape that doesn’t have the same “clown shoe” appearance as many other wide barefoot shoes—further adding to their elevated appearance. While the white can, of course, collect dirt more quickly and visibly than other colors, the leather upper and rubber outsole are easy to clean to maintain a fresh look. 

A 10 mm sole offers acceptable flexibility without requiring the intensive break-in period that thinner, ultra-flexible shoes demand. Barefooters who prefer high groundfeel will be disappointed with what can be detected underfoot in the Kourt, though the added cushioning here makes them more approachable as transitioning-to-barefoot shoes and for wearing all day long. 

They aren’t designed with the traction we would like in a pair of gym or trail shoes, but for everyday wear, they do a solid job. And we’re willing to forgive a little bit of technical performance for the added style of these cool Kourts. 

Best Barefoot Shoes for the Gym: Merrell Trail Glove 7 

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $130
Stack height: 14 mm
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 2.4 oz (men’s), 14.2 oz (women’s)
Upper: 100% recycled mesh
Outsole: Vibram Ecostep with 30% recycled rubber
Flexibility: Medium-high
Grip: Medium-high
Groundfeel: Medium-high
What we liked: Great flexibility and breathability, cool style
What could be better: A bit narrow, sole can pick up small rocks

When searching for a great gym shoe, we want great traction on polished floors, flexibility that can keep up with stair climbers and rowing machines, breathability during sweaty moments, and a fit that we don’t have to think twice about. All those things describe the Merrell Trail Glove 7, and we’re hooked.

Merrell Trail Glove 7 

Close-up of Merrell Trail Glove 7 barefoot shoe showing mesh upper and lacing system

Merrell Trail Glove 7 barefoot shoes on footrests of gym equipment during workout

Outsole of Merrell Trail Glove 7 barefoot shoe showing tread pattern

Heel of Merrell Trail Glove 7 barefoot shoe showing outsole wrap

Merrell Trail Glove 7 barefoot shoes secured in rowing machine foot straps

Though they have a narrower fit, their flexible uppers allow most standard-width feet to comfortably flex without feeling constricted. The heel cup fits securely, and the midfoot can be locked down to prevent slipping around during plyometric exercises. They’re also highly breathable, even in humid gyms and on hot summer days. 

The outsole wraps around the top of the toes and the back of the heel, adding extra grip we crave for big bending motions like lunges and box jumps. The tight geometric pattern of the outsole maintains impressive grip on ultra-smooth floors like tile and polished concrete— though the soles can collect small rocks when crossing gravel. 

The Vibram rubber maintains impressive flexibility, despite the 14 mm thickness, and each shoe is impressively lightweight—around 8.5 ounces. This gives them a more true “barefoot feel” than some even thinner shoes, including all of the Lems models we tested. That added flexibility does require a longer and more thoughtful break-in period, but for those seeking an athletic gym shoe that can keep up with every workout, we think the Trail Glove 7 is worth it. 

Best Hiking Barefoot Shoes: Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $120
Stack height: 9 mm (3.5 mm TrailFoam, 3.5 mm lugs, and a removable 2 mm sock liner)
Weight (per pair): 15.6 oz (men’s), 13.4 oz (women’s)
Upper: Synthetic mesh
Outsole: FeelTrue rubber
Flexibility: High
Grip: High
Groundfeel: High
What we liked: Great trail traction, really wide toe box, super flexible
What could be better: Midfoot is a bit narrow for some

Arguably, any trail running shoe you like can easily double as a hiking shoe, like our favorite barefoot running shoe, the Altra Lone Peak 9. But in search of the best truly barefoot hiking shoe, it’s hard to beat the fit, feel, and performance of the Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II.

Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II 

Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II barefoot shoe on dirt trail

Close-up of Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II showing lacing system and upper

Outsole of Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II showing tread pattern

Flexible toe box of Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II shown during testing

Designed to follow the fit of huarache footwear, the Mesa Trail II has a spacious interior to liberate your feet, with key welded components that replicate the security of the straps found on outdoor sandals. Like all Xero shoes, the Mesa Trail IIs have exceptionally thin soles with very high groundfeel and extremely high flexibility. These soles and the extra space within the shoes make these feel the closest to walking barefoot without switching to sandals or removing footwear entirely. 

What makes the Mesa Trail II better on the trails than other barefoot shoes—or other models from Xero—is their midfoot fit and impressive traction. The midfoot of these shoes fits more snugly than other Xero models, without compromising the lateral freedom of your toes. They’re easy to cinch down tight to tackle gravelly slopes, while your forefeet can still properly spread out to balance and support you in response to the trail. 

Though the soles are thin, they boast 3.5 mm lugs (on par with a lot of standard-fit trail running shoes). Shaped as carets (^) and with some pointing forward and some pointing backward, these lugs provide impressive grip on both uphill and downhill slogs. 

Though these traits all demand a longer and more thoughtful break-in period for your feet, they’re great running shoes for minimalist enthusiasts, and surprisingly comfortable hiking shoes for barefoot trail lovers.

Best Everyday Barefoot Shoes: Xero Shoes Prio Neo

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $110
Stack height: 5.5 mm
Weight (per pair): 17.4 oz (men’s), 14.6 oz (women’s)
Upper: Synthetic mesh
Outsole: FeelTrue rubber
Flexibility: Very high
Grip: Medium-high
Groundfeel: Very high
What we liked: Feels like being barefoot, seriously flexible
What could be better: Not great traction on slick surfaces

If you’re after a pair of minimalist barefoot shoes to wear every day that feel truly barefoot, that is the Xero Shoes Prio Neo. With the classic Xero design of extreme flexibility, ultra-thin, durable soles, and plenty of space for your feet to spread out, the Prio Neo is all that and more. These shoes were also featured in our Best Walking Shoes guide.

Xero Shoes Prio Neo

Person wearing Xero Shoes Prio Neo barefoot shoes with jeans on pavement

Close-up of Xero Shoes Prio Neo showing adjustable midfoot strap

Xero Shoes Prio Neo worn while balancing on a rope obstacle

Xero Shoes Prio Neo next to a dog outdoors

Outsole of Xero Shoes Prio Neo showing tread pattern

Wearing these shoes is the closest our testers felt to actually being barefoot. They have solid everyday traction that isn’t quite enough to push weight sleds across polished concrete without slipping, but is plenty for trekking 30K steps, exploring a new city or on a long commute. 

While most barefoot shoes tend to look overly techy, the Prio Neo still offers great athleisure style, with bold color combinations, striking monochromes, and sleek ombre. It might not quite hit the level of business casual, but it’s stylish enough to feel “cool” while still strongly committed to the barefoot experience. 

If this is your first foray into the world of barefoot shoes, the Prio Neo, like all Xero Shoes models, requires a longer and more structured break-in period to build up the appropriate muscles in your feet and legs. Even for folks who have enjoyed other barefoot shoes, these are yet another step toward true barefoot movement compared to every other non-Xero shoe we’ve tested. But if this is your goal: to replicate the feeling of walking barefoot all day, every day—we solidly recommend the fit, feel, performance, and look of the Xero Prio Neo.

Other barefoot shoes we tested

Lems Chillum

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $130
Stack height: 10 mm
Weight (per pair): 1 lb
Upper: Suede, polyester/cotton canvas and wool (Blackjack colorway uses vegan microfiber instead of suede)
Outsole: Injection Blown Rubber (IBR)
Flexibility: Low
Grip: Low
Groundfeel: Low

This is a casual, everyday canvas shoe that doesn't even feel like a barefoot shoe. They are easy to love thanks to great style and comfort, though they aren't very flexible, and the light colors can be challenging to keep clean. 

Lems Chillum

Person wearing Lems Chillum barefoot shoes on mulch-covered ground

Close-up of Lems Chillum barefoot shoes on stone pavers

Person wearing Lems Chillum barefoot shoes with wide-leg pants

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $150
Stack height: 2 mm
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 2.9 oz
Upper: rPET mesh
Outsole: Rubber
Flexibility: Medium-high
Grip: Medium
Groundfeel: High

Though they have excellent flexibility and great groundfeel, these shoes run both long and exceptionally narrow. They won't be the right fit for many people, but if you have particularly slender feet, you may enjoy their flexibility.

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5

Outsole of Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5 showing tread pattern

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5 showing where the end of my toe is, despite getting a half-size smaller than my usual size.

Close-up of Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5 upper and mesh material. Here, the author is pointing to the end of a stiffening rod that runs down the in-step, preventing feet from being able to expand in the toe box (adding to the very narrow feeling).

Xero Shoes 360

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $130
Stack height: Not stated
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 2 oz (men’s), 15.6 oz (women’s)
Upper: Engineered mesh
Outsole: Not stated
Flexibility: High
Grip: Medium
Groundfeel: Medium-high

The Xero Shoes 360 shoes are a good pair of gym-worthy shoes with solid lateral grip. These maintain groundfeel and foot flexibility during gym workouts, though their traction for everyday use is lower than other Xero models we tested.

Xero Shoes 360

Side view of Xero Shoes 360 barefoot shoe in a gym setting

Xero Shoes 360 showing sole flexibility during gym testing

Outsole of Xero Shoes 360 showing tread pattern

Xero Shoes HFS II

Men's and Women's

MSRP: $130
Stack height: 8.5 mm
Weight (per pair): 14.8 oz (men’s), 13.4 oz (women’s)
Upper: Polyester textile/TPU
Outsole: FeelTrue rubber
Flexibility: High
Grip: Medium-high
Groundfeel: High

With great dry-pavement traction, the Xero Shoes HFS II are a great pair for runners committed to finding a road shoe that feels like you're barely wearing a shoe. This isn't an approachable model for new barefoot shoe runners, but seasoned barefoot runners can appreciate their exceptional flexibility and groundfeel.

Xero Shoes HFS II 

Close-up of Xero Shoes HFS II showing tear in the mesh on the toe box flexibility

Close-up of Xero Shoes HFS II showing lacing system and upper

Pair of Xero Shoes HFS II barefoot running shoes on pavement

Pulling a tack out of the sole of Xero Shoes HFS II

What to look for in barefoot shoes

Drop and flexibility

Any barefoot shoe that doesn’t have zero drop underfoot from the heel to the toe isn’t really a barefoot shoe at all! All barefoot shoes should have the same stack height at the heel as they do at the toe.

There’s a huge range in sole flexibility among barefoot shoes, which is not entirely uncorrelated with sole thickness (sole material also plays a big factor). Higher flexibility underfoot offers a truer “barefoot experience” but also requires a more thoughtful transition period to allow your feet time to adjust to a new style of movement.

Fit and toe box

Most, but not all, barefoot shoes have wider toe boxes than conventional shoes. The wider a toe box is, the closer to a natural foot movement you’ll be able to achieve while wearing them because your toes can splay more naturally. If you’re coming from more confined, conventional shoes, it can take some time for your feet to build the small muscles needed to better support you while wearing wider barefoot shoes.

Groundfeel vs. protection

How much detail you can feel of the ground underfoot, or “groundfeel,” is a personal preference. The more you can feel, the more your feet can grip, pivot, balance, and stabilize you as you move. Higher groundfeel also requires a longer and more careful break-in period for unaccustomed feet, as they develop the required musculature, and often feels like “tired feet” as you transition. 

This added groundfeel is typically achieved by thinner, more flexible soles, which also lowers underfoot protection from sharp rocks and sticks. Shoes with exceptionally high groundfeel and low underfoot protection  require some of the longest training periods for your feet.

Outsole grip

For outdoor endeavors like trail running and hiking, outsole grip and traction is particularly important. Looking at the size, shape, and depth of lugs is a useful starting point to gauge traction. If the shoes have very thin soles, larger lugs can sometimes be felt underfoot—another new sensation to get used to (or avoid, depending on your personal preference). 

On wet ground, the material of the outsole can also make a big difference for grip, with harder materials like Vibram soles offering better grip in mud, rain, and even snow.

Traction and grip are also important for gym-goers and court sports. Check the edges of the outsoles for a starting point to determine whether the shoes are meant for lateral stability (think abrupt sideways dashes during a basketball game or certain plyometric exercises). The Xero Shoes 360 are a good example of court-ready barefoot shoes.

Upper materials

The material and weave density of shoe uppers make a large difference to their overall breathability. Leather or synthetic leather uppers can be stylish, but have low breathability in hot environments, during workouts, or for people who run hot. Loosely woven fabrics or those with obvious vents can help to keep feet cool, but often come with lower overall durability and foot protection.

Transition comfort

The more different a pair of barefoot shoes is from what you’re currently wearing, the longer your transition to them should be. Compare your new barefoot shoes’ toe box width, sole flexibility, heel-toe drop, arch support, and sole thickness (or stack height and cushion) to the shoes you’ve been wearing for the same activities, to get a better idea of how similar or different they are, and therefore how long or short to expect your transition period to be.

When you transition to your new shoes, we recommend starting the new shoes off on shorter walks/hikes/runs and swapping to your older shoes every other time until you feel comfortable in the new barefoot shoes.

Durability and maintenance

As with conventional shoes, barefoot shoes follow similar trends regarding their durability and how many miles they’re designed to last. Additionally, many barefoot shoes can also be worn without socks. If you plan to do so, looking into their washability is an important factor for your long-term happiness with your new shoes.

Waterproofing and quick-dry

Barefoot shoes follow the same trendlines as conventional shoes when it comes to how quickly they dry if you step in a puddle or go out in the rain. Depending on their upper materials, some may be waterproof, or some can be treated with a waterproofing treatment like Nikwax. Always refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Sustainability

As with any shoes, some manufacturers may utilize recycled materials or prioritize sustainable manufacturing pathways. The specific materials and strategies used by brands are often evolving, sometimes becoming more sustainable, sometimes less. 

If this is an important aspect of choosing shoes for you, look to manufacturers who offer transparent information about their methods. Certain manufacturers, like Xero Shoes, strive to create shoes with soles designed to cover thousands of miles, in an effort to cut down the number of shoes you’ll go through in your own lifetime.

Benefits of barefoot shoes

The benefits you might gain from converting to barefoot shoes can be significant, but many will depend on your feet, activities, and preferences. 

For many people, your foot shape has already been impacted by what sorts of shoes you wore as your feet were growing, and the types and fit of shoes you wear most often as an adult. Barring potential foot maladies, getting used to wearing barefoot shoes encourages your feet to develop their muscles and better support you. 

Rather than relying on your shoes to improve your posture, increase your stability, or better your balance, (most) barefoot shoes are designed to let your feet do that for you. As you gradually shift from relying on your shoes to your feet, you may notice your gait changes and your posture improves. Over time, with regular practice, your feet can build the muscles that give you better balance on uneven surfaces and help you go farther in comfort. 

It’s not uncommon for people transitioning to wearing barefoot shoes to notice their shoe size increase, both in length and in width, as their feet adjust from being confined to having room to spread out. 

As an added bonus, many barefoot shoes are thinner, lighter weight, and easier to pack, making them great travel shoes and less fatiguing to wear on a daily basis (after the initial break-in period).

Barefoot shoes aren’t right for everyone, though. If you have or previously had a foot injury, the minimalist cushioning of most barefoot shoes may not be for you. Unlike most conventional shoes, transitioning suddenly and completely to barefoot shoes is not recommended and can actually lead to foot injuries. Barefoot shoes are not a “cure-all,” so we recommend discussing barefoot or minimalist shoes with a doctor if you have a history of foot injuries.

Even for those already wearing certain types of barefoot shoes (like those with thicker soles, stiffer soles, narrower toe boxes, or any combination of these factors), moving to a different style of barefoot shoe still requires a break-in period. Any increase in shoe width, sole flexibility, or decrease in heel-toe drop should be accompanied by a purposeful transition period to avoid injury.  

Barefoot vs. minimalist vs. conventional shoes

Barefoot: While there is no single set of “rules” that makes a shoe a barefoot shoe, they almost always have a few things in common, including zero heel-toe drop and minimal or no arch support. Additionally, most (but not all) have thinner, more flexible soles and wider toe boxes. All the shoes we tested for this review qualify as barefoot shoes. 

→ With such a broad range of possible shoe designs, just about everyone can find a barefoot shoe that would work for their comfort and activities. 

Minimalist: This descriptor means different things depending on your starting point. The most widely used definition of a minimalist shoe is a barefoot shoe with little or no cushioning and a wide toe box to avoid constricting your toes, creating the closest feeling to walking barefoot while still wearing a shoe. Some examples of minimalist barefoot shoes are any of the Xero Shoes models. 

→ This type of minimalist shoe is best for those already used to other barefoot shoes, and looking to take the next step toward walking barefoot while still wearing shoes.

Less commonly, some shoes are labeled as “minimalist” while still holding many of the same traits as conventional shoes. This definition of “minimalist shoes” falls in the middle ground between conventional and barefoot shoes, with a low heel-toe drop (1-4 mm) and lighter cushioning. Some of the shoes made by Altra—like the Experience Flow 3—are good examples of this kind of shoe. 

→ This type of minimalist shoe is a good option for those trying to gradually transition from conventional shoes to barefoot shoes. 

Be sure you understand which definition of “minimalist shoes” a manufacturer is using, before making your final purchasing decision.

Conventional: These are your “regular” sneakers. They typically have a higher heel-toe drop (5-13 mm) and a good amount of underfoot cushioning. These sorts of shoes rely on their structure to support the wearer’s balance, stability, and comfort. 

→ This sort of shoe is a good option for people who need extra support from their footwear, whether for injuries or certain types of activities.

How to transition safely into barefoot shoes

Before transitioning into any barefoot shoe, be certain that the ones you’re considering are a good match for your feet and intended activities. If you have foot or leg pain or other foot, ankle, or  leg injuries, consult with your doctor before trying barefoot shoes. 

For anyone making the transition, it’s best to choose a pair that’s more similar to your current shoes. If you want even more minimalist footwear, you can then continue your transition to them over time. Make small changes to your shoes, rather than going from big clunky cushioned trainers to ultra-flexible, thin-soled minimalist shoes. 

Once you’ve chosen your barefoot shoes, don’t immediately start wearing them all day long. Instead, start gradually, wearing them for short periods of your normal activities. For example, if you’re replacing gym shoes that you typically wear for an hour each day, still bring those shoes with you, and change into them after partway through your workout. If you’re changing up your running shoes or walking shoes, don’t go for your full run or walk—instead, take a shorter run or walk that’s less than half of what you normally do. Especially at the beginning, take days off between wearing your new barefoot shoes to give your foot muscles a chance to repair and grow. 

As you ramp up your use of barefoot shoes, pay special attention to foot, ankle, and calf pain, as well as any noticeable fatigue. Just as you shouldn’t go from not lifting weights to benchpressing 100+ pounds, your feet, ankles, legs, knees, and hips need time to adjust to the changes underfoot. Rather than setting a rigid transition plan, you’re better off listening to your body's feedback and adjusting your wear more or less as it demands. Any new sensations from the hips and downward can be attributed to your shoes.

If things are feeling good, or if you want to strengthen your supporting muscles before transitioning to barefoot shoes, you can work on exercises that help to strengthen your feet and calves ahead of time. Joint support exercises for your ankles, knees, and hips are also very useful as you transition to less-cushioned shoes. As always, be ready to scale your exercises and stretching based on what your doctor and your body tell you they need. 

It’s also worth noting that barefoot shoes aren’t going to work for everyone, and that’s OK! It could be that your body and your needs don’t match the shoes you’ve chosen. The great thing is that there are so many barefoot shoe options available on the market today that you may still be able to find a pair with the cushioning, fit, and support you need for whatever stage of life you’re in. 

Care and maintenance

• Rinse off mud and sand, and air-dry away from heat (not in direct sun). Set in a shaded, protected area outside, if the temperature is right for drying (~50-90 degrees F).

• Hand-wash or gentle machine cycle (depending on manufacturer recommendations).

• Check the outsole and upper stitching regularly for signs of wear that indicate a need for replacement.

• Remove insoles and loosen or remove laces for faster drying.

FAQ 

• Are barefoot shoes good for everyday wear?

  Absolutely! Just like with any shoes, not all pairs will work for all wearers or all situations. However, there are a ton of barefoot shoes with different amounts of support and cushioning, so just about everyone can find a pair that will work for their everyday activities.

• Can you hike in barefoot shoes?

  Definitely, you can hike in barefoot shoes. There are plenty of options for minimalist or barefoot shoes with high traction that work well on loose trails, dirt, or over wet surfaces. Once properly transitioned to wearing barefoot shoes, many hikers appreciate the added groundfeel and grip they provide.

• Do barefoot shoes help with foot pain or flat feet?

  They definitely can, though not in every case. For most people with flat feet or minor foot pain, transitioning to barefoot shoes helps build the foot, ankle, and calf muscles that better support them. However, foot pain can be a sign of a more serious issue, and flat feet can be caused by an underlying condition. It’s best to speak with your doctor prior to trying barefoot shoes if you have either of these conditions.

• How long does it take to adjust to barefoot shoes?

  That depends entirely on what sort of shoe you’re transitioning from and to, as well as your overall health conditions, but most people can adjust to barefoot shoes in a few weeks to a couple months. If you’re making a big leap from a thick-soled conventional shoe with high heel-toe drop to a thin-soled barefoot shoe with no cushioning, the transition could take months. On the other hand, if you’re moving from a low-drop shoe with low cushioning to a zero-drop barefoot shoe with thin underfoot cushioning, you might make the transition safely in a few weeks.

• Are barefoot shoes bad for your joints?

  There is not currently enough scientific evidence to weigh in on this conclusively. What studies have shown is that transitioning too quickly from conventional shoes to barefoot shoes can have negative effects on your joints, particularly those between each foot’s 26 individual bones. Other studies support that being barefoot can change gait from heel striking, which is better for all the joints in your legs, particularly your knees. 

• Can I wear socks with barefoot shoes?

  Of course! Many barefoot shoes are designed for you to wear socks, just like conventional shoes. Some barefoot shoes are made to be worn without socks—this is usually specified by the manufacturer. Ultimately, you should wear what’s comfortable to you.

• Are barefoot shoes waterproof?

  Just as with conventional shoes, some barefoot shoes can be waterproof. They are often made of the same materials as conventional shoes, including waterproof options like GORE-TEX.

• Do barefoot shoes have arch support?

  Almost never. This is one of the few things that define a barefoot shoe (the other is zero heel-toe drop). However, as you develop foot strength, most people find they don’t need arch support. Rather, your foot’s arch is there to support you by acting as an anatomical spring, adding strength, balance, and flexibility to each step.

• Can you wear insoles/orthotics with barefoot shoes?

  You can put insoles/orthotics into any shoe with a removable insole. If you’re currently using an orthotic insole, putting it in your new barefoot shoe can help with the transition to this type of footwear. The long-term goal of most barefoot shoes is to help build up your foot and lower leg muscles so that you don’t have to wear orthotics anymore — but if your doctor has recommended orthotics to you, it’s best to come up with a plan to make the transition to barefoot shoes with your doctor.

• What’s the difference between trail and road barefoot shoes?

  The difference between trail and road barefoot shoes is the traction. Trail shoes tend to have larger, more pronounced lugs that bite better over large uneven surfaces—think climbing a gravelly hill or crossing a rocky field. Road or everyday barefoot shoes tend to have smaller, closer-together traction patterns that better grip smoother, tighter surfaces. 

• Are barefoot shoes good for wide feet?

  Yes! While not all barefoot shoes have wide toe boxes, many prioritize more space for the forefoot. This allows your feet to spread out and move more naturally, even if you don’t have wide feet. However, if you have extra-wide feet, this may not be enough; you should still seek barefoot shoes in wide sizes.

How we researched and tested

We tested these shoes over several months and hundreds of miles of wear. From snowy winter mornings to hot desert afternoons, we wore these shoes a lot. We walked the dog through the neighborhood and on gravelly and muddy trails, went to the gym to row and lift weights, and wore them to move heavy furniture around on pallet racking and sealed concrete floors. 

Our main tester wore them every day for all her activities for months, undertaking 30K+ walking days around Manhattan and 14-hour days working events. She evaluated them on runs and through plantar fasciitis flare-ups, carefully considering their comfort, flexibility, durability, and protection while slogging backpacks through airports and toting boxes up and down stairs.

We pulled in friends and family to test these shoes in both women’s and men’s versions, getting opinions and experiences from people with different foot shapes, different gait patterns, and different preferences. While our main testers were committed barefoot enthusiasts, we also solicited feedback from wearers with little to no familiarity with wearing barefoot shoes. 

Why you should trust us / About the author

Maggie is an avid trail runner based in Reno, Nevada, hitting her neighborhood trails at least four days a week and taking hikes in her backyard Sierra Nevada Mountains and through the deserts of northern Nevada as often as possible. She likes to compete in both trail and road races and is no stranger to the podium. She worked as a professional backcountry guide for over 15 years, backpacking, hiking, and kayaking, from places like Texas and Utah to the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Galapagos Islands, mostly in a pair of Chaco sandals.

Maggie started her barefoot journey running in some of the early Vibram Fivefinger shoes back in 2009. Though she added some cushion to her runs after a few years pounding cement, she is still adamant about running in only zero-drop shoes. She has logged thousands of miles in nine pairs and iterations of the Altra Lone Peak trail shoe line over the past decade. 

Not only is Maggie a passionate advocate for wearing barefoot shoes, she also studied hand and foot evolution and morphology at university and completed a Master’s thesis on chimpanzee hand and foot manipulation of tools. She spent 7 years teaching anatomy and osteology labs at the university level, giving her a high level of familiarity with the more than 100 bones that make up human hands and feet.

When not running, Maggie loves to be as barefoot as possible, feeling the ground and honing her foot stability and strength. She explores her natural backyard with her dog, Isla, and travels the world with a pair of barefoot shoes on her feet and Altra Lone Peaks in her bag.

June 27th, 2026 updated with the Big Agnes String VST, updated NEMO Dragonfly, Mountain Hardwear Nimbus, and Six Moon Designs Orbiter
Home > Gear Reviews > Backpacking

Your tent is the piece of gear you're most dependent on when things go wrong. A sleeping bag can be supplemented with extra layers, a pad with a jacket stuffed underneath, but a tent that leaks in a rainstorm or collapses in wind at 11,000 feet has no substitute. Getting the right one for how you actually backpack matters more than most gear decisions.

We've been testing backpacking tents for five years across desert, rainforest, coastal, and alpine mountain conditions, including thru-hikes of the Pacific Crest Trail and thousands of miles of overnight and multi-day backpacking trips. Our testers cover a range of body sizes, trip styles, and shelter preferences, from ultralight single-wall setups to freestanding double-wall tents, which gave us a clear picture of where the tradeoffs actually land.

What separates a genuinely good backpacking tent from one that frustrates you comes down to how well the waterproofing and seam sealing hold in sustained rain, how the interior dimensions work for your body and sleep style rather than just on paper, how quickly and reliably you can pitch it in the dark or in deteriorating conditions, and how the weight distributes between two people sharing a load versus a solo carry.

Top Pick: The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 with Hyperbead Fabric earns our Best Overall award for two-person backpacking tents. It stood out as the lightest freestanding two-person tent we tested at 2 lbs 11 oz minimum weight, with two doors and two vestibules that make it genuinely livable for two people, a 40-inch peak height that allows sitting upright, and a new Hyperbead fabric that shaved nearly three-quarters of a pound off the previous model while improving zipper performance that was a known weak point.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Comparison Table

Note: some tents taper toward the foot; the maximum width at the head is shown here.

See our most popular Backpacking Gear guides:

• Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads

• Best Backpacking Stoves

• Best Backpacking Backpacks

Best Tents for Backpacking

Best Two-Person Backpacking Tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Packed Weight: 3 lbs 2 oz
Minimum Weight: 2 lbs 10 oz
Length/Width: 88 / 52" (head) 42" (foot)
Floor Space: 29 SF
Height: 40”
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Yes
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2
Other options available: 1-person, 2-person XL, 3-person, 3-person XL, 4-person, 5-person
What we liked: Great, light-ish weight, all-around freestanding backpacking tent 
What we didn't like: Sharp taper from head to foot, zippers can be touchy

​​For all-around considerations of space, weight, and ease of use, the updated Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 with Hyperbead is our best backpacking tent for two people. Treeline Review writers and staff have tested the Copper Spur for thousands of miles on thru-hikes, overnight backpacking trips, and bikepacking trips. Over years of testing it, the Copper Spur still holds up as the best overall two-person backpacking tent with the newest Hyperbead model being the best (and lightest) yet. 

The reason the Copper Spur wins our best backpacking tent award is its spaciousness and weight. The Copper Spur HV UL2 is the lightest freestanding tent we considered, and it’s among the most spacious of the 2-person backpacking tents we reviewed, with a length of 88" and a head height of 40". Remarkably, Big Agnes also decided to expand on the Copper Spur 2-person this year with a new 2XL model (since the 2P is so popular)— the 2 XL is the same tent as the Copper Spur UL2, but with an extra 8" in length, 2" in width, and a couple more inches in headroom. Both 2P models use the new Hyperbead fabric.

Two people fit comfortably: the two doors provide easy access for both sleepers, and the two vestibules provide ample storage space for gear. You can even use a trekking pole or two to make the vestibules even bigger as an awning. Backpackers can pitch the Copper Spur as a freestanding tent or stake it out to get the most room out of their pitch. And with a fully-packed weight of 2.6 pounds, the HV UL2 is a fantastic choice for two people sharing the load. For more, read our review of the Big Agnes Copper Spur.

The new Big Agnes Copper Spur Hyperbead (shown without rain fly) on an early-season backpacking trip in Colorado. Photo by Mary Murphy.

Our view from inside the tent looking out the single-door at the vestibule during a Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike. Photo by John Carr.

Waterproofing on the rainfly of the new Big Agnes Copper Spur Hyperbead. Photo by Mary Murphy.

Waterproofing on the rainfly of the new Big Agnes Copper Spur Hyperbead. The new cross bar system is also visible in this photo showing a taut pitch. Photo by Mary Murphy.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur Hyperbead tent can be set up with trekking poles to create a sunshade awning for extra vestibule and hangout space. Photo by Mary Murphy.

The previous model of the Big Agnes tent in a desert stealth camp on the Pacific Crest Trail. Photo by John Carr

• Updates on the newest version

  The new HyperBead fabric on the Copper Spur is overall 6% lighter. As a result, the entire weight of the tent is down by almost ¾ of a pound, bringing the trail weight to 2lb 10 oz from 3.5 pounds. 

  Big Agnes has also addressed the zipper sticking, which addresses a problem we ran into with the previous model. So far, we've had no issues with zipper slides in the field!

  In addition to the rain fly fabric changing to HyperBead, Big Agnes changed how the rain fly attaches to the cross pole.

  While we think the Hyperbead version is a big advancement in tech on this tent, you can still find the older version at many retailers. If you want the Hyperbead version (and we there is good reason to get it!), be sure to check your retailer that you aren't getting sold last year's model. 

• Hyperbead Waterproofness

  For 2025, Big Agnes updated the waterproofing on the rain fly to the new Hyperbead fabric. It is 6% lighter, 50-100% stronger, and 25% more waterproof without relying on PFAS or PFCs or DWR treatments or coatings. Big Agnes says it is "inherently waterproof at a molecular level." We were curious so we ran our own waterproofing tests.

  In addition to testing in the field, we ran several simulated rain tests on the new Big Agnes Copper Spur Hyperbead to get more controlled data on waterproofing. This included a: 

  • Steady, direct rain shower for 15 minute duration (to simulate medium/heavy direct rain)

  • Light mist/moisture treatment (to simulate moisture/light rain)

  • Dry tests (to test beading out and drying)

  We ran this test side-by-side with other tents to test beading and waterproofness, taking photos at the 30-minute, 1-hour, and 2-hour marks. We also checked the inside and outside of the tent to test for moisture and condensation. 

• Spaciousness

  We loved the HV UL2 as a lightweight backpacking tent with plenty of vestibule space perfect for a solo hiker or a couple. If you’re tall, get stoked: tall folks, in particular, praised this tent.

• New Cross-pole system

  The new Big Agnes Copper Spur has completely updated their crosspole system. The first time we set it up, we didn't find it intuitive. However, it definitely does a good job of staying taut and the rain fly does not move under this new system. The tension on the new tent is great and keeps the fly perpendicular to the tent ends that are staked out. This also could be due to the new Hyperbead material being more stretch resistant. 

• Options

  In addition to the most popular 2-person model that we recommend, the Copper Spur HV UL 2 is available in many different sizes and two lengths. It comes in 1-person, 2-person XL, 3-person, 3-person XL, 4-person, 5-person.

  The Copper Spur HV UL 2 is available in both the backpacking style reviewed here as well as a bikepacking style. The roomy bikepacking version comes with a short stick pole that ties to handlebars and a daisy chain compression sack that ties to bike-frame attachments. It’s also a winner in our guide to Best Bikepacking Tents.

  Big Agnes has also recently released their first trekking pole tent, which has the same Hyperbead material as the Copper Spur, but doesn’t come with poles. Instead, you use your trekking poles to set up the tent. See more in our review of the Big Agnes String VST 1.5 tent.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  We had to get really picky to find issues with the Copper Spur HV UL2. For example, the tent’s taper to 42 inches width at the foot likely won’t fit two rectangular sleeping pads side by side without overlap (most backpackers are carrying mummy-shaped pads, so this isn't a common issue). 

  It is worth noting that the lightweight fabric of the Copper Spur HV UL2 is not particularly durable or abrasion-resistant. 

  However, since all lightweight and ultralight tents have somewhat delicate fabrics, we feel confident recommending the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 to backpacking duos who want a roomy backpacking tent that will serve them well in spring, summer, or fall.

• Tiger Wall vs. Copper Spur

  Trying to decide between the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 and the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2? Now that both are available in Hyperbead, you have more options.
  
  After comparing the two popular tents, we ultimately side with Reddit users and agree that the Copper Spur is the best tent because it is more durable and has better ventilation, while also offering more usable room.

Best 1-Person Backpacking Tent: Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo

Packed Weight: 1 lb 10 oz
Length/Width: 90 / 48"
Floor Space: 26.3 SF
Height: 49”
Double/Single Walled: Single
Freestanding?: No
Doors/Vestibules: 1 / 1
Options available: 2-person (Lunar Duo), Lunar Duo Outfitter
What we liked: Light weight, low price, roomy, space-saving
What we didn't like: Non-freestanding pitch takes some getting used to; enough ventilation to reduce condensation also makes the tent sleep colder; stakes not included

The Six Moon Designs (SMD) Lunar Solo checks all the boxes — excellent storm protection, easy to pitch, roomy, durable, well ventilated, lightweight, and affordable. We love this tent, and we think you will too.

We know you might be a little suspicious, given that the Lunar Solo is billed as a one-person shelter. So often, one-person tents aren’t really big enough for one person, unless you plan to store all of your gear outside. But the usable space in the Lunar Solo is 7.5’ long, 4’ wide, and over 4’ tall - meaning there’s plenty of room for a large adult to sit up, dress, and stretch out without touching the shelter. 

Treeline Review writer Mike Unger has used the Lunar Solo as his primary solo shelter since 2018. One of his favorite features is the interior “notch” in the floor space of the back of the shelter. While he loves the large, usable vestibule, the notch is the perfect place to stow your pack and other gear, especially when it’s wet or snowy outside. The Lunar Solo is also a winner in our Best Ultralight Tents guide.

You can read our in-depth long-term review of the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo for even more information.

• Weatherproofness

  The Lunar Solo can withstand the elements. The shelter effectively sheds wind, but how you pitch is important - just try to keep the head or foot pointed into the wind. The 6” bathtub floor keeps rain splashback at bay, and while the vestibule doesn’t quite reach to the ground - and shouldn’t, for ventilation - anything stored close to the mesh door should stay dry. On nice nights, the vestibule can be completely opened to maximize ventilation, though there is a balance to be found between ventilation and sleeping warm enough.

• Ventilation

  Still, this is a single-wall tent, meaning in all but the most ideal of circumstances, condensation will likely be an issue. This is also the case for our Best for Tall People, Best Value, and  Best Ultralight winners. As there is a vent in the peak of the tent, most people have the most trouble at the head and foot of the tent, where the walls slope in. Online reviewers recommend carrying a small piece of microfiber towel with you to wipe condensation down before packing the tent away. If you’re worried about pack weight, others recommended giving your head extra room and covering your sleeping bag footbox with your rain gear.

• Ease of set-up

  The Lunar Solo isn’t freestanding, but can be set up in under two minutes with a single trekking pole and six stakes (neither included - so your loadout will be a bit heavier than the listed packed weight). It also takes up more room than 1-person freestanding tents, so we do recommend setting it up before you head out. (If you’ve never set up a non-freestanding tent, Six Moon Designs has a helpful video to show you the ropes.) Six Moon Designs also sells folding aluminum poles or carbon fiber tent poles that can be used in lieu of a trekking pole, making the Lunar Solo a great bikepacking tent as well. Over at Bikepacker.com, they rave about the Lunar Solo’s packed size and durability squashed into panniers after a year of use.

• Advantages of the silpoly material

  The Lunar Solo’s silicone-coated polyester fabric is less likely to delaminate or trap moisture than the silnylon other lightweight tents are made from. Silpoly also sags less and packs down smaller than silnylon, and while it’s heavier than the Dyneema fabric found in our Best Ultralight winner, it’s also more durable. SMD also recently reconfigured the top vent to improve ventilation and added reflective guylines - a small but nice improvement for those of us that walk around camp after dark. That said, the tent does not come seam sealed. While you can order seam sealing through SMD’s website, reviewers report you’re better off doing it on your own. SMD does provide a handy video tutorial if you decide to go that route.

• How we tested

  Treeline Review writer Mike Unger has used the Lunar Solo as his primary solo shelter since 2018. He used it on most of his PCT southbound thru-hike, a large section of the Continental Divide Trail, and most recently on several bikepacking trips.

Best Lightweight Tent: Nemo Hornet Elite Osmo 2P

Packed Weight: 1 lb 13 oz
Minimum Weight: 1 lb 7 oz
Length/Width: 80 / 50" (head) 42" (foot)
Floor Space: 27.3 SF
Height: 37”
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Semi
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2
Other versions: NEMO Hornet OSMO
What we liked: Just over 2 pounds packed weight for a semi-freestanding tent; two doors make for easy access, storm coverage 
What we didn't like: Pricey for a one-person-plus-gear tent rather than an actual 2-person tent

The Hornet Elite Osmo 2P is one of those tents that is legendary among Treeline Review writers. We love this tent. If you’re looking for a semi-freestanding tent that’ll shave ounces off your baseweight, the NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO two-person tent is a fantastic buy. 

NEMO says that everything about the Hornet Elite OSMO has been considered for weight savings, and we believe them. At just over two pounds packed weight, this is the lightest semi-freestanding tent we looked at with two doors, two vestibules, and two inside pockets (plus a headlamp diffuser overhead pocket!) and its own dedicated pole.

It’s easy to set up, even in rocky or otherwise unforgiving terrain where you can’t get stakes in (though staking it out will give you more room on the inside).

The Hornet Elite OSMO is also a winner in our Best Ultralight Tents guide and a favorite of Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas, who wrote an in-depth review of this tent.

• Ease of set up

  Our Editor-in-Chief Liz Thomas first set up the Hornet Elite OSMO in her backyard at night in just a few minutes without reading the directions - just by using the color coding on the poles and the “satisfying” snap-in system. She also noted how easy it was to get a taut pitch to maximize the interior space inside. (Reviewers at REI had some trouble with this, so best to practice before heading out on your adventures.)

• Weatherproofness

  When camped on a ridge during a rain and wind storm on the California Riding and Hiking Trail and during 6-days of high-altitude monsoon weather at altitude on the High Sierra Trail, she felt she had great protection with the rain fly’s “really generous coverage.” While she normally uses single-wall tents, “the lack of condensation really blew [her] mind.” And once the rain is done, she said that this tent is almost as quick to dry as more expensive DCF fabric, making packing and storage a breeze. 

• Sustainable material

  Other things we like about the Hornet Elite Osmo include the 100% recycled, PFAS-free OSMO poly-nylon fabric that’s 4x better at repelling water and 3x less stretchy when wet compared to the fabric on their now-discontinued Hornet 2. PFAS is a common waterproofing in outdoor gear that is considered a "forever chemical" that many states are banning. You can read more in our All About PFAS in outdoor gear guide.

• Sustainability

  And if your tent ever breaks or you’re looking to upgrade down the line, NEMO has a lifetime warranty on their products and offers a trade-in program to make sure their tents never see a landfill. We’re also into NEMO as a company for their commitment to sustainability as a Climate Neutral Certified company, their bluesign system sourcing, and their advocacy work.

• Sizing

  The main drawback? While this is technically a two-person tent, most reviewers on REI are using the Hornet Elite OSMO as a one person tent or only bringing their dog along with them. Liz also went solo in this tent and felt it would be a tight squeeze for two, even on shorter trips. And speaking of short, at 80 inches in length, this is also the shortest tent we looked at - so tall folks might want to test the length out for themselves at a retailer or by measuring out floor space, especially since the walls of this tent lean inward.

• Value

  This small-but-mighty package also comes at a price: the Hornet Elite OSMO is expensive. Among our winners, the only more expensive tent is our Best Ultralight Tent, the ZPacks Duplex, which is the lightest tent we considered. The similarly-named NEMO Hornet OSMO is less expensive, but at 2 lbs 8 ozs, it's heavier. Still, if you’re a solo backpacker looking to save on weight on a two-wall shelter or who wants the flexibility of a semi-freestanding tent, the NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO is a great choice.

Best Ultralight Tent: Zpacks Duplex

Packed Weight: 1 lb 2.5 oz
Minimum Weight: 1 lb 1.6 oz
Length/Width: 90 / 45"
Floor Space: 28.13 SF
Height: 48”
Double/single walled: Single
Freestanding?: No
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2
Other options: Duplex Lite, Duplex Zip, Duplex Freestanding
What we liked: Featherlight two-person shelter that actually fits two people and their gear
What we didn't like: Non-freestanding pitch takes some getting used to; pretty narrow for two people; stakes not included

If you’re looking for the most reliable ultralight tent money can buy, we recommend the Zpacks Duplex for thru-hikers, backpackers, and bikepackers. There's a reason this is one of the most popular tents among thru-hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail and Continental Divide Trail.

The Duplex is a true two-person tent that’s a solid three-season shelter. Made of Dyneema Composite Fabric - some of the lightest, strongest, and most weatherproof tent fabric on the market - this time-tested single-wall shelter offers protection from weather and bugs at nearly a pound lighter than our lightweight pick, the NEMO Hornet Elite Osmo (which, admittedly, is two-wall). The extensive mesh on the body provides excellent ventilation. 

It has two doors that fold down for easy in-and outs at night and two vestibules for extra gear storage. (There are also two small pockets inside for maps and other sundries.) It’s pitched with two trekking poles (or made-for-purpose carbon fiber poles; not included) and eight stakes (also not included), so it’s not freestanding, but we think the weight savings is worth the necessary stakeout. It also comes seam taped, so it’s fully waterproof out of the box.

The Zpacks is the overall winner in our Best Ultralight Tents and also a favorite of Treeline Review editor Liz Thomas, who wrote an in-depth review on the Zpacks Duplex tent.

The Zpacks Duplex tent on a week-long backpacking trip in the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana. For reference, backpacker in photo is 6 feet tall. Photo by Liz Thomas.

The Zpacks Duplex is one of the most popular backpacking tents for thru-hikers. In this photo, Continental Divide Trail thru-hiker “Cheezy” warms up in her tent after a cold day hiking in the San Juan mountains of Colorado. Photo by Liz Thomas.

The Zpacks Duplex set up on snow in Colorado. Photo by Johnny Carr.

Zpacks freestanding kit holding up the tent without poles on a windy desert night.

• Material

  ZPacks was one of the first manufacturers to start using Dyneema Composite Fabric - or Dyneema, or DCF - as tent fabric rather than tarp fabric. DCF is incredibly lightweight, completely waterproof (except at the seams–which Z-packs includes fully seam taped), doesn’t stretch or sag under weight or water, doesn’t absorb water at all, and dries super quickly. All of these qualities make it ideal as a tent fabric - and ZPacks’ fully-enclosed, bathtub floor design has since been replicated by numerous tent makers (e.g. the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2), so you know they’re on to something. 

• Ease of set-up

  Our Editor in Chief Liz Thomas loves how easy this tent is to set-up. As with any non-freestanding tent, there’s a bit of a learning curve to make sure you’re getting a tight pitch, but once you have it down it’s simple, even for one person alone. (And you need a tight pitch: Dyneema fabric is loud in the wind, a tight pitch eliminates rustling.)

• Spaciousness

  Once set up, reviewers noted that this tent felt luxurious for one and spacious enough for two. (The reviewer at Bikepacking.com even mentioned fitting four people inside for a short meeting and our editors have fit 3 people to play games while sitting out an afternoon thunderstorm on the Sierra High Route.)

• Weatherproofness

  Treeline Review co-founder Naomi Hudetz used the Z-Packs Duplex for thru-hikes of the Appalachian Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, Low 2 High Route, Idaho Centennial Trail (most of), and Pacific Northwest Trail.

  In our experience, the Duplex performed wonderfully in rain and light snow, but it’s a drafty shelter in windy conditions. This is likely due to the extensive ventilation to prevent condensation issues in this single-wall tent. Impressively, condensation wasn’t really an issue for reviewers - it isn’t mentioned in any of the reviews we saw.

  Our editors carried this tent on the 800-mile Great Divide Trail in the Canadian Rockies during record-breaking rainfall during a record-breaking late summer of rain and condensation was not an issue. Reviewers instead noted that the bathtub floor’s mesh is well-placed to let condensation drip out of the tent rather than into the sleeping area.

• Freestanding

  Reviewers at all sites are also really happy with the optional Duplex Freestanding Flex Kit, which consists of two carbon fiber tent poles that make the Duplex freestanding. ZPacks even suggests that you can pitch this way without trekking or other support poles at the peaks. Folks at Bikepacker.com tried this, however, and don’t generally recommend this if you’re expecting any kind of weather. If you want that no-stake luxury, plan to add another half pound (10.5 oz) to the Duplex’s weight and another $150 to the already steep price of the Duplex. While Switchback Travel calls the Freestanding Flex Kit worth it, Outdoor Gear Lab noted that most of their reviewers preferred to use the Duplex without the Freestanding Flex Kit. While it’s not a necessary purchase, it might be worth it if you commonly find yourself backpacking in rocky or sandy environments.

• Value

  So what’s the catch? Even without the flex kit, the ZPacks Duplex is the most expensive tent on our list. All reviewers also said some version of “you get what you pay for” - and we agree. 

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  If we had to get picky, the single-wall Dyneema fabric is a little see-through - while you can’t see everything, you can absolutely see shapes - so you’ll have to consider whether weight or privacy matter more to you, especially if you find yourself in crowded backcountry or car camping sites. And speaking of fabric, the Duplex’s ultralight materials do require a little extra care, especially around sharp things that poke and prod. In our experience, it'll last 180 nights before you may consider replacing it (that sounds like a lot, but is still less than tents made of other materials). We recommend carrying some DCF repair tape for any necessary patching. 

  Lastly, the Duplex is also relatively narrow for a two-person tent. It’s only 45 inches wide - for context, most of the two-person tents we considered narrow from around 50 inches at the head to around 43 inches at the foot. Still, most reviewers say the tent feels spacious with the 48 inches of head room. The length has been a common complaint for years, but Z-packs came up with a solution. If you need more space - or are taller than 5’ 11” - ZPacks released an Offset Duo that provides an extra 4 inches of length and 8 more inches in width.

• The bottom line

  The ZPacks Duplex keeps winning awards for a reason. If you can afford it - and you take care with the ultralight materials - our Best Ultralight Tent will take care of you for years to come.

Best Backpacking Tent For Tall People: Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker

Packed Weight: 1 lb 10 oz
Length/Width: 103 / 48"
Floor Space: 23 SF
Height: 45”
Double/Single Walled: Hybrid
Freestanding? No
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2
Other versions: Skyscape Scout
What we liked: The generous length and two-door design in a 1-person tent
What we didn't like: Lack of a vent in the peak means extra condensation on clammy nights

If you’re over 5’11” and looking for an ultralight backpacking tent that won’t break your budget, the Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker is a fantastic choice. 

This one-person, hybrid wall, non-freestanding tent is a bit of an anomaly among backpacking tents. Not only does it weigh only 1.75 pounds - minus the two trekking poles and 5-6 stakes that keep it aloft - but the Skyscape Trekker is a whopping 103 inches in length. This ultralight shelter also remarkably features two doors and two vestibules, providing plenty of space for a single person’s gear storage.

Also unlike most backpacking tents - which are either rectangular or just tapered at the foot - the Skyscape Trekker is shaped more like a kite, pointed at the head, wider in the middle, and rectangular at the foot. This provides more usable room where you need it, although people who sprawl when they sleep might find it a tight squeeze. We also love that the peak is slightly offset from the center of the tent - it makes it easier to sit up without scooting around first.

The Skyscape Trekker is a favorite of Treeline Review writer Mike Unger, who wrote an in-depth review on this tent.

• Versatility

  The hybrid wall design - single wall over the head and foot, double wall over the vestibules - means you can roll up and stow one or both of the vestibules for added ventilation. This can be useful on humid or colder nights, particularly as this tent doesn’t have a vent at its peak like most single-wall tents. Many reviewers reported carrying a small sponge or towel to make cleanup easier in the morning.

  The Skyscape Trekker, like all Six Moon Design tents, does not come seam sealed. Six Moon Designs will seal it for you for a price if you order directly from their site (as opposed to a retailer), or they offer great video instructions if you’d rather save some cash and do it yourself. 

• Sized for tall people

  Reviewers at Six Moon Designs rave about the Skyscape Trekker - especially folks with bigger bodies. At the time of writing, this tent currently has an average of 4.65/5 stars over 54 reviews. One reviewer who’s 6’6” and 250 pounds loves this tent; another who’s 6’9” says they have space to both lay down and sit up. It does require practice to get the perfect pitch, but most report it gets easier the more you pitch it. One reviewer notes that taller folks or folks who are going into heavier weather should carry 6 stakes rather than 5 to stake out the foot and prevent unnecessary sagging.  

  Normally, tall folks have to pay a premium for outdoors gear that fits - but not so with the Skyscape Trekker. This tent is barely more expensive than our Best 1-Person Backpacking Tent, the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo. So if you’re a taller backpacker that’s tired of waking up with your tent wall leaning over your face, the Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker is an excellent choice.

Best 3-Person Backpacking Tent: REI Half Dome SL 3+

Packed Weight: 5 lbs 11.7 oz
Minimum Weight: 4 lbs 13 oz
Length/Width: 90 / 78"
Floor Space: 48.8 SF
Height: 44”
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Yes
Doors/Vestibules: 2
What we liked: A ton of floor space keeps things roomy enough for three people and gear
What we didn't like: Heavy if you’re looking for a spacious 2-person tent

When we first got the idea of making the Half Dome SL 3+ the best 3-person backpacking tent, we did a double take. 

It's heavy. But when we started diving into the numbers, we realized that almost every 3-person tent we considered is within 8 oz the weight of this tent. And when it comes to roominess, the REI Half Dome SL 3+ has more floor space, more vestibule space, features, durability, and more headspace. 

The real clincher is that the Half Dome SL 3+ is $100 less expensive than comparable 3-person tents while still coming with a footprint ($40 value). Plus, REI Members can often snag it for even less during sales throughout the year. 

Plus, if you’re looking for a three-person backpacking tent that can double as a comfortable car-camping tent, it is hard to beat the REI Half Dome SL 3+.

• What's included

  The larger cousin of the much-beloved Half Dome SL 2+, the Half Dome SL 3+ is a freestanding tent that comes with a footprint (usually a $40 upcharge) to protect your tent floor and stakes. After a year of use, we aren’t concerned about durability.

• Spaciousness

  Where the Half Dome SL 3+ really shines is roominess. The vestibules are large enough to hold “a couple of 60L packs, boots, and a small stove.” The tent itself is long enough “for a 6’ adult using a long size sleeping pad and bag.” 

  This is notable because we strongly considered the MSR Hubba LT 3 for best 3-person tent, but it is almost $200 more and actually has less floor space and 2" less headroom. 

  We also considered the widely popular Big Agnes Tiger Wall as the best 3-person tent, but it only has 38 SF of floor space compared to the REI tent's 48.8 SF. While that tent is significantly lighter, the Big Agnes Tiger Wall feels more like a 2-person tent than a true 3-person tent.

• Easy to set up Design

  The design will feel familiar to most car campers: two D-shaped doors mean two large, porch-like vestibules for storage, with additional storage inside and overhead pockets. Setup is clipping in a single, hubbed pole that’s color coded for ease of use, with four more clips for the rain fly. Each vestibule has two stakeout points, making them more stable in the wind. Two vents in the rain fly help decrease condensation.

• Weatherproofness

  This tent has been an REI staple for a long time and they've had a while to perfect it. When it’s staked out properly, it’s great in both wind and rain.

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  Reviewers had to get pretty picky to find issues with the Half Dome SL 3+. The most common concern was how to pack the one-piece pole system, which at its smallest stays 24 inches long. (Most people ended up storing theirs in a side pocket of their pack.) Some folks feel like the rain fly doesn’t come low enough to prevent dust and rain splashback from entering the tent. Others wouldn’t spend too long on trail with three people in the tent (though they do say it’s more than roomy enough for two). Other, more minor concerns include frequent snags in the tent’s mesh and the size, with one reviewer noting it’s “great when you have space to pitch it but can feel like a full-size SUV among subcompacts at a cramped group site.”

• Our Verdict

  Still, if you’re headed out backpacking with three people (or two people and a dog or two), the REI Half Dome SL 3+ is a comfy option for a solid price. And if it turns out you don’t like it - or something goes awry - REI’s generous return policy will allow you to get a refund or swap it out within the first year for something that suits you better.

Best Freestanding: Marmot Tungsten 2P

Packed Weight: 5 lbs 14.2 oz
Minimum Weight: 4 lbs 15.7 oz
Length/Width: 88 / 54" (head) 46" (foot)
Floor Space: 30.1 SF
Height: 42"
Double/Single walled: Double
Freestanding?: Yes
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2
Other versions: 3-person
What we liked: Near-vertical bathtub walls, color-coded setup, sheer reliability, affordability
What we didn't like: Heavy compared to other two-person tents on our list; the stakes aren’t as nice as they could be

The Marmot Tungsten 2P is the best freestanding backpacking tent if you’re looking to get out for your first backpacking trips with a minimal hit to your wallet. 

As a fully freestanding tent, the Tungsten 2p is a fantastic choice if you’re looking to make the switch from car camping to backpacking (and want something that will work well for car camping, too). For hundreds less than our Best 2-Person winner, Big Agnes’s Copper Spur HV UL2 (which is also freestanding), you get a tent with an extra square foot of living space, an extra inch of peak height, some wiggle room to either side, and a footprint to help keep your tent floor intact. 

The Tungsten 2p tent is freestanding and double-walled - and ultimately heavier than our Best Value winner, Six Moon Designs’ not-freestanding, single-wall Lunar Duo Outfitter. But the folks using the Tungsten are satisfied: this tent has some of the highest reviews on REI and Backcountry out of all the tents we considered.

We think the Marmot Tungsten 2-Person Tent is the way to go for a fully-freestanding first backpacking tent.

• Ease of set up

  We loved that the setup for the Tungsten is simple–and that is something echoed by everyday reviewers, too. The tent is freestanding, including the rain fly that clips into the pole tabs (though it’s best to stake out the tent and fly if you’re expecting weather). Those tabs are color-coded, so there’s no confusion about which of the poles go where or how the fly clips in.

• Weatherproofness

  Reviewers at REI reported that after setup, this tent is weatherproof: while condensation is still a consideration, multiple people experienced days of rain and high winds with no leaks or issues with the taped seams.

• Weight and roominess

  All these great features come with a price: namely, this tent is the heaviest two-person tent out of all our winners, at 5.9 pounds fully packed. (That’s about 2.5 pounds heavier than the Copper Spur.) That’s a little much for one person to carry into the backcountry, but the good news is that it’s a truly two-person tent. With 30.1 square feet of floor space, it’s roomier than comparable REI brand tents. You’ll have room for two people and all your gear, and with pre-bent poles that make the bathtub walls nearly vertical, it even feels roomy lying down. 

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  Some folks also had comments about the Tungsten’s stakes, saying they’re more prone to bending than aftermarket stakes. The Tungsten’s delightful price, however, leaves plenty of room in the budget to get nicer stakes if you want them. 

• Other freestanding tents

  We chose the Marmot Tungsten 2P as the best freestanding backpacking tent for its ease of use and unbeatable bang-for-the-buck. But if you've got a little more experience in the backcountry or have a little more to spend, there are other freestanding tents that are lighter. Most notably, the Big Agnes Copper Spur, our overall winner, is also fully freestanding. Other great options include the Nemo Dragonfly Osmo and the Mountain Hardwear Mineral King.

• Our verdict

  All in all, if you’re looking for an affordable freestanding tent and you’re not looking to go alone, The Marmot Tungsten 2-Person tent is a great choice.

Best Affordable Backpacking Tent: Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo Outfitter

Packed Weight: 3 lbs 9 oz
Length/Width: 90 / 54"
Floor Space: 33.75 SF
Height: 45"
Double/Single Walled: Single
Freestanding? No
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2
Other options: Lunar Duo
What we liked: Least expensive of any of the tents we tested; most square footage of all our 2-person winners
What we didn't like: The tent’s fabric is heavy - and there’s no way to split the weight

If you’re looking to try out a trekking pole-supported tent and want a lot of features for a low price, the Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo Outfitter is a great gateway tent. 

The Lunar Duo Outfitter is a two-person, single-wall, non-freestanding tent with two doors and two vestibules. And it’s a true two-person tent: it’s tied for both the longest and widest two-person tent among our winners. All in all, it offers a whopping 33.75 square feet of living space, plus 45 inches of peak height, making for a luxurious escape if you run into wild weather. (The next biggest is the Tarptent Double Rainbow DW, at 30.5 square feet of living space - though it only has 40 inches of peak height.)

• Material

  The boon and the bane of the Lunar Duo Outfitter is the fabric. The 190T polyester fabric makes this tent incredibly durable - which can be especially useful if you’re bringing a four-legged friend along. This fabric is also less expensive than other tent fabrics, so Six Moon Designs passes the savings along to you. The issue? The weight, which at 3.56 pounds is the second-heaviest of our 2-person winners. (The Lunar Duo Outfitter is two pounds lighter than the Marmot Tungsten 2p, which we feel is better for folks who want a budget-friendly freestanding shelter.) And since it’s a single-wall tent, you can’t usefully distribute the Lunar Duo’s weight between both hikers.

• What's included

  The packed weight of the Lunar Duo Outfitter also doesn’t include stakes, the trekking poles that hold the shelter up, or - as this is a Six Moon Designs shelter - seam sealing. Notably, for the Lunar Duo Outfitter, SMD does not provide seam sealing. The 190T polyester requires Gear Aid’s Seam Grip Plus FC to really stick.

• Similar models

  If you really wanted to, you could shave ¾ of a pound off the weight by buying the Lunar Duo Explorer. It has all of the same features as the Outfitter, but is made of silnylon instead - for a price. If paying hundreds more is worth it to you, you might want to give the Explorer model a look.

• Who else likes it?

  People really trust this tent. One reviewer mentioned using theirs for more than seven years without any failures. Multiple reviewers use the word “luxurious” with regard to its size, and a 6’1” and a 6’2” reviewer mention this tent’s roominess. Though some reviewers mentioned the fabric can stretch overnight - and, as with any non-freestanding shelter, learning the quirks of how to pitch this shelter is key - with rare exception, those who purchase this tent are happy they did.

• Our verdict

  Take it from one reviewer: “I have ultralight options when the grams count, but if comfort and protection from the elements for me and my partner is a priority, this is coming along.” So if you’re looking to see if a non-freestanding tent is right for you on a budget, look no further than the Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo Outfitter.

Best Affordable Lightweight Tent: Tarptent Double Rainbow DW

Packed Weight: 2 lbs 9.1 oz
Minimum Weight: 2 lbs 6.7 oz
Length/Width: 88 / 50"
Floor Space: 30.5 SF
Height: 40"
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Semi
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2
What we liked: The new double-wall construction makes this tent much more versatile
What we didn't like: Heavy for a lightweight tent

Our new Best Affordable Lightweight tent is unequivocally the Tarptent Double Rainbow DW. The Double Rainbow DW is a two-person, semi-freestanding tent that uses just one, non-branching tent pole to stand. This is the only backpacking tent among our winners to have a tent pole sleeve instead of clips. It can be staked out, or you can use trekking poles to anchor the head and foot to make it freestanding. (See the manual for more details on how this system works.) At 88 inches in length, it’s a solid pick for tall folks, and with a squared-off construction and a 50-inch width, it’s wide enough for two. It also features the two-door, two vestibule construction vital for any true two-person tent.

• Most recent updates

  • Updated for 2025, the Tarptent Double Rainbow DW now has shorter tent poles—only 16"--making it much easier to pack along the side of your pack. 

  • The interior volume has increased

  • There are additional side tie outs to help in wind.

  • The inner now uses polyester "solid" fabric for faster drying and lower water retention.

• Material

  The fly is made of a 20D Polyester nano ripstop that doesn't sag when wetted out. Similar to other high-end tent fabrics, it also retains less water than silnylon. 

• Set-up

  Our testers have used the Double Rainbow for thousands of miles of hiking. They loved the quick setup, reasonable footprint, and the ability to attach the rainfly to the inner for setup in the rain. This also helps to keep the fly from sliding around in relation to the tent

  The fly-to-arch connections have added a connection points to make it easier to set up your fly before your inner when it's raining. It also leads to a more stable pitch.

  It's small but mighty, but the Tarptent Rainbow DW now has a magnetic fly door, similar to what we see on much more expensive tents like the ZPacks Duplex Lite.

• Waterproofing

  The Double Rainbow DW uses a silpoly rainfly pressure rated to over 3,000 mm. Design-wise, it has a lower fly edge to prevent backsplash from rain and also keep out more draft. The floor fabric is a silnylon pressure rated to over 5,000 mm. 

  At Reddit, people are stoked about how sturdy and weatherproof this tent is. There is some mention of not being able to line up the seam of the rain fly with the interior arch pole, but we think that ultimately reduces pressure on the seam. At both sites, and at Backpacking Light, reviewers praise the customer service - so if you have any trouble, you can always reach out.

• Room

  Both of our co-founders have thru-hiked entire Triple Crown trails with the single-wall version of this tent that shares the same dimensions. From those experiences, we think that two thru-hikers may feel a little too cramped in the Double Rainbow DW (although we’ve done it). 

  After months together, you develop a need for personal space. We think the Double Rainbow will better serve two backpackers sharing space for days or weeks rather than months.

• Seam-sealing

  Word of caution: the Double Rainbow isn’t seam sealed, meaning it isn’t waterproof out of the box—though you can ask Tarptent to seal your seams for a fee. Even with the seam-sealing service, the Double Rainbow still comes in at more than $200 less than the NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO or Zpacks Duplex. And from our experience, Tarptent tents tend to last years longer than other ultralight tents out there. That's why the Tarptent Rainbow is an excellent ultralight tent on a budget.

Other backpacking tents we tested

While testing, additional tents came to our attention that looked promising. However, after a lot of time in these tents, we decided to not do a full write-up on these models, instead keeping them on our shortlist. 

Why? The tent may have been great, but a similar model from another maker was just as good and costs less. Of the dozens of models of backpacking tents we tested, we still think these are towards the top.

Nemo Dragonfly Osmo

Packed Weight: 3.13 lbs
Minimum Weight: 2 lbs 13 oz
Length/Width: 88” / 50”
Floor Space: 29.0 SF
Height: 40”
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Yes
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2

The NEMO Dragonfly OSMO, purely on statistics, is neck and neck with our Best 2-Person tent, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. They’re both freestanding with the same packed weight, they have the same length, and the same number of doors and vestibules. The Dragonfly OSMO even wins in a couple of categories: it has larger vestibules, an inch on the Copper Spur’s peak height, environmentally friendly fabric, and a lower price point. 

We tested the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO in the 2P size, as well as the 1-person.

We found the pole attachments on the ends—where the tent and fly attaches to the body corners—to be trickier to assemble than some other tents, but otherwise, we have almost no negative feedback—this is a lightweight and comfortable 2P tent with lots of great upgrades. 

The NEMO Dragonfly OSMO backpacking tent is best suited for frequent backpackers who want to prioritize comfort, liveable space, and reliable waterproof protection. It’s best for backpackers who don’t mind a little extra weight (compared to say a Hexamid or Six Moons tent) and an asymmetrical design.

See our in-depth review on the newest version of the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO tent here.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2

Packed Weight: 2 lbs 3 oz
Minimum Weight: 2 lbs 3 oz
Length/width: 88" / 52”
Height: 39"
Floor space: 28.0 SF
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Semi
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2

There's a lot to love about the Tiger Wall, but ultimately we think it sacrifices durability for weight.

For more, read our review of the Big Agnes Tiger Wall.

REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus

Packed Weight: 4.72 lbs
Minimum Weight: 5 lbs 0.8 oz
Length/Width: 92” / 56”
Floor Space: 33.7 SF
Height: 42”
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Yes
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2

The REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus with Footprint is a great bang-for-your buck tent. The Half Dome has been in REI's line-up for decades and has been perfected by user reviews of years of iterations. 

While marketed as a backpacking tent, we find the REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus works best as a camping tent. With a minimum trail weight of 5 lbs 0.8 oz, it's by far the heaviest two-person tent we considered. We recommend the 3-person version because it is so much bigger for minimal additional weight.

REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus

Big Agnes String VST 1.5

Packed Weight: 1 lb 7.1 oz
Minimum Weight: 1 lb 3.3 oz
Length/Width: 90” / 44”
Floor Space: 22 SF
Height: 47”
Double/Single Walled: Hybrid
Freestanding?: No
Doors/Vestibules: 1 / 1

The Big Agnes String Ridge VST is an ultralight tent for thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers who want to minimize weight by using their trekking poles instead of dedicated tent poles. With minimalist hardware and lightweight, extremely waterproof Hyperbead fabric, it maintains Big Agnes’ attention to detail, including a full bathtub floor and bug netting, all in a 19.3-oz package. 

The Big Agnes String Ridge VST is one of the first trekking pole-only ultralight tents that will be widely available at stores like REI, marking a big change in the mainstream-ing of ultralight shelters.

As a tent manufacturer who hasn’t made trekking pole tents before, Big Agnes did a great job on making an ultralight tent that thru-hikers would actually use. It’s expensive for a one-person tent, but if you’re a Big Agnes fan and have always wanted a shelter lighter than the Tiger Wall, the String Ridge VST 1.5 will feel like the perfect home. 

See more in our in-depth review of the Big Agnes String VST 1.5 backpacking tent.

Six Moon Designs Lunar Orbiter

Packed Weight: 2 lbs 12 oz
Minimum Weight: 2 lbs 12 oz
Length/Width: 90” / 34”
Floor Space: 21.5 SF
Height: 48”
Double/Single Walled: Hybrid
Freestanding?: Yes
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2

The Six Moon Designs Lunar Orbiter is a lightweight tent for backpacking or thru-hiking, and the first freestanding tent from this ultralight brand. It's cozy with excellent headroom and among the best dual-vestibule storage spaces of any tent in its class. Made with waterproof silicone-coated polyester that doesn't stretch as much as other nylon materials, its dome-like pole geometry makes it among the best performing lightweight tents in the wind and for shedding rain.

With steep walls, this is a tent that maximizes usable space. It has two doors, each with its own vestibule, so you have lots of sleeping space. Seriously, it has almost as much vestibule space as internal space. For organization, it has two internal pockets and a removable gear loft. This tent is very livable and very comfortable.

While heavier and more expensive than many other ultralight tents, including those by Six Moon Designs, this tent is great for a cozy night when the weather is windy, wet, and terrible. 

See our in-depth review of the Six Moon Designs Lunar Orbiter backpacking tent.

Mountain Hardwear Nimbus 1

Packed Weight: 1 lb 14.6 oz
Minimum Weight: 1 lb 0.5 oz
Length/Width: 86” / 52”
Floor Space: 28.1 SF
Height: 41”
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Semi
Doors/Vestibules: 1

The Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL is another great option for a semi-freestanding tent. We like this tent because it withstands high winds really well and is generally great in stormy conditions. The rainfly almost extends to the ground, preventing rain from blowing underneath. It is also extremely packable and lightweight. It also costs less than the Nemo Hornet Elite and the MSR Freelite, the other semi-freestanding tents we tested. 

We tested the Nimbus on the Hayduke Trail this spring, backpacking 700 miles across southern Utah and Arizona from Arches National Park to the Grand Canyon. Almost every night of that trip, we set up this tent. Sometimes we only used the inner net tent, so we could see the stars and be protected from buzzing insects. 

The only real drawback of the Nimbus is that the door and vestibule are on the head end of the tent. After crawling in and out of this tent every day, then twisting our bodies to get our feet to the other end, we’ve decided that we prefer the side entry door of the Nemo Hornet. But if you don’t mind the idea of crawling into the head-end entryway of a tent every night, the Nimbus is a great tent. 

For more, see our in-depth review of the Mountain Hardwear Nimbus tent.

Hilleberg Anjan 2 GT

Packed Weight: 4 lbs
Minimum Weight: 3 lbs 5 oz
Length / Width: 86” / 43"
Floor Space: 28.0 SF
Height: 39"
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Yes
Doors/Vestibules: 1 / 1

We've used our Hilleberg Anjan 2 GT tent on backpacking trips all throughout the Pacific Northwest for years.

Hilleberg tents are well-designed to minimize condensation and stay durable enough to last a decade or more. But at $200 more than our most expensive winner - and at 4 pounds, 10 oz of packed weight - the Hilleberg Anjan is a tent we love but can't say is suited for most backpackers.

MSR Hubba Hubba LT

Packed Weight: 4 lbs 13 oz (3-person)
Minimum Weight: 4 lbs 6 oz (3-person)
Length / Width: 90” / 75"
Floor Space: 47 SF (3-person)
Height: 42"
Double/Single Walled: Double
Freestanding?: Yes
Doors/Vestibules: 2 / 2

We are big fans of the new MSR Hubba Hubba LT 3, which is designed to be a more spacious and lighter weight version of their classic backpacking tent. After testing this tent camping and backpacking in Utah and Colorado, we think MSR has nailed their intention with this. The tent has a sturdy structure and full coverage rain fly to withstand bad weather, plus plenty of mesh and ventilation for when the clouds part. 

For this particular model, MSR shaved weight in the tent overall, traded a primarily ripstop nylon tent body for one that’s mostly micro mesh, and increased the floor area. So this model is both lighter and more spacious than previous Hubba Hubba models. 

This is a great tent for folks who want space, comfort, sturdiness, and weatherproofing in a tent that’s small and light enough to carry deep into the backcountry. However, it runs a lot more expensive than similarly spacious tents we considered. 

Read our in-depth review of the MSR Hubba Hubba LT Backpacking Tent Review.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultamid 2

Minimum Weight: 1 lb 3.1 oz (does not include bug net, which is included on all other tents we reviewed)
Length/ Width: 83” / 43"
Floor Space: 63.0 SF
Height: 39"
Double/Single walled: Single
Freestanding? No
Doors/Vestibules: 1 / 0

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2 Pyramid Tent is a winner in our Best 4-season tent guide. It's a single-wall shelter without a bug net and a pyramid shape tarp. It's 1.2 pounds for just the tarp, which is the second lightest tent we considered.

However, it does not include a bath tub floor or bug netting. Ultimately, even the most ultralight tents in this guide have those features and the UltaMid 2 does not. You can add in the optional UltaMid inner tent, but together, the cost $more than $1000 (or even more for the DCF bathtub floor). Like all inner tent add ons, it also adds weight--in this case, 1.2 lbs. As much as we like the UltaMid 2, we think that price and extra weight is steep for a tent with bug netting. Still, if you like the modularity and flexibility of having a tarp that only sometimes needs an inner, this is a much-loved and highly-rated tent that we like a lot for 4-season trips and will perform well during 3-season backpacking, too.

What to look for in a backpacking tent

Using the following criteria (aside from price), we narrowed that list down the most popular hiking tents that should fit the needs of most backpackers.  

Tent Sleeping Capacity

Most backpacking tents have an advertised sleeping capacity of one, two, three, or four people. The stated capacity, however, is not always appropriate for all sleepers. Always check the measurements on a potential tent to be sure it will fit your needs, particularly if you’re tall or traveling with a human or canine companion. Length and width are important, as is knowing whether or not a tent narrows at the feet to save on weight. If you’re going to be spending more time in your tent, for example on trips with poor weather where sitting out storms is an inevitability, find one with a height comfortable to sit up in.

The number of doors on a backpacking tent is generally suggestive of the tent’s capacity as well. One-door models are better suited for one person, where two-door models are less cumbersome for two people to use, especially at night for bathroom breaks. Even among, for example, models built for two people, some are roomier than others. For example, the NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO is a better choice for one person and their gear, though you can squeeze two people in if you need to.

Can My Tent Stand On Its Own (Aka Is It A Freestanding Tent)?

If you’re backpacking in places with significant rock or sand—where you might not be able to get a tent stake into the ground—a freestanding backpacking tent might be right for you. Freestanding tents can stand on their own, without the use of stakes or guylines. Of our winners, the Marmot Tungsten 2P, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 3+, and the REI Co-op Trail Hut 4 are all freestanding. Though these tents can be pitched without the use of stakes, a tent is always sturdiest when properly staked out, so we recommend staking and securing guylines in all but the best of weather.

Semi-freestanding tents can work with or without stakes and are usually lighter in weight than their freestanding counterparts. The drawback? They lose precious room and weatherproofing when not staked out. The NEMO Hornet Elite Osmo and the Tarptent Double Rainbow DW are both semi-freestanding. 

Non-freestanding tents must be staked out to stand. The Zpacks Duplex and the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo, Lunar Duo Outfitter, and Skyscape Trekker are all non-freestanding. (The Zpacks Duplex has the ability to become freestanding with the Duplex Freestanding Flex Kit, sold separately.) While we recommend learning to set up any tent before heading into the backcountry, non-freestanding tents especially require practice to get a tight pitch if you’re coming from a freestanding or semi-freestanding shelter.

Double Wall Vs. Single Wall

Double-wall backpacking tents provide two layers of protection between sleepers and the elements: a tent body, often primarily mesh, and a rain fly, made of weatherproof, protective material. Because of the extra material, double wall tents usually weigh more than single-wall tents. The Marmot Tungsten 2p, the NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 3+, the REI Co-op Trail Hut 4, and the Tarptent Double Rainbow DW are all double wall tents.

Single-wall backpacking tents only have one layer of protection, and often (but not always) cost less than double wall tents. Both single-wall and double-wall tents will keep rain out of the tent. However, double-wall tents are better at keeping interior condensation off of you and the gear inside your tent, since the condensation forms on the rain fly and runs down the sides. With single-wall tents, the interior condensation forms on the interior tent wall where it can drip onto your sleeping bag or other gear, especially when you touch the tent sides with your head when you sit up, or the foot of your sleeping bag as you shift during the night. The Zpacks Duplex and Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo, Lunar Duo Outfitter, and Skyscape Trekker are all ultralight tents and are all single-wall shelters.

Gear Storage

While no one quite brings the kitchen sink, everyone has different ideas about how much gear to bring on a backpacking trip. Some prefer as many comforts as possible, whereas others are looking to cut weight where they can. Storage options give you a place to stash a headlamp or glasses — things you want to keep handy.

But more storage options mean more fabric weight — something many of our ounce-conscious readers are looking to avoid. For our backpacking tent winners, we selected tents with a range of storage options.

Ease of Setup

Freestanding and semi-freestanding tents either use fabric sleeves or plastic clips to secure the body of the tent to each tent pole. While pushing the pole or poles through fabric sleeves was once more common, attaching clips to each pole instead generally provides a faster, easier setup that’s less prone to tearing the tent’s fabric or accidentally poking through it. The Tarptent Double Rainbow DW still features the older sleeve design, while the Marmot Tungsten 2p, NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO, Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, REI Co-op Half Dome SL 3+, and REI Co-op Trail Hut 4 all feature the newer clip design.

The Zpacks Duplex and Six Moon Designs’ Lunar Solo, Lunar Duo Outfitter, and Skyscape Trekker don’t have poles at all, and rely instead on trekking poles and guylines to loft the tent fabric.

Weight

While ultralight backpacking shelters are a subject for another review, weight is still a concern for those carrying their tents down a trail for miles at a time. More room and storage in a tent generally means more fabric, and more weight to carry. More doors and vestibules means more zippers and added weight as well.

Although we don’t recommend it, if you intend to pitch your semi-freestanding backpacking tent as a freestanding tent, you won’t need stakes, which means less weight to carry. If you expect to encounter any wind, though, you'll still want to carry stakes.

The Zpacks Duplex and Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo, Lunar Duo Outfitter, and Skyscape Trekker don’t come with tent poles and use a trekking pole set-up to further reduce tent-specific weight (obviously, you still have to carry hiking poles, but at least they are multi-use).  This design is common in ultralight shelters, which we will discuss in an upcoming story. With the Zpacks Duplex, you can purchase a freestanding kit if you prefer to have poles on hand; for the Six Moon Designs tents, you can purchase poles for that specific use (for example, if you are bikepacking and won’t have trekking poles).

All weights mentioned for our winning tents are fully packed weight, to indicate the combined weight of the tent and accessories. Many tent manufacturers will also list trail weight for each. These tend to be lighter and are a measurement of the tent body and fly without stakes, stuff sack, or extra cord.

Bug Proof

There are many ultralight shelters and tarps available these days that do not include bug netting. We did not include any of them in our guide to the best backpacking tents. Why? Because we think you’ll get the best night’s sleep if you have a way to keep bugs away from you. Nets don’t just keep away bugs, but they will also help keep out other creepy crawlies.

Packability

If you have limited room in your backpacking backpack or in your car, you may consider how small your backpacking tent packs down.

Quick drying

We recommend drying your tent every single day on your backpacking trip, even when it didn’t rain. This helps keep mildew from building on your tent and keeps you more comfortable night after night. Some fabrics, like silnylon, may take longer to dry than other fabrics that don’t absorb water, like DCF.

Slope of tent walls

Some tents, like the Zpacks Duplex, have sloped walls. So while technically, the length of the floor is the reported length, just a few inches above the floor, the story is much different. This means if you're over 6 feet in height, if you don't want your nose hitting the slope of the tent wall, a tent rated to 6 feet isn't going to cut it. 

Even if you aren't tall, if you use a Backpacking Pillow or use a stuff sack of clothes under your head as a pillow, you're going to want to care about the slope of your walls. This is true too if you have an inflatable sleeping pad that is over 3 inches in height. We note when sloped walls impact people's sleep (aka, the tent's ceiling is dangling in our face or hitting the toe box of our sleeping bag) and when a tent's length is functionally the length. 

FAQ

• What is the difference between a 3-season and a 4-season tent?

  3-season backpacking tents are made to be used in spring, summer, and fall and they are not ideal for cold and snowy environments. 4-season tents can be used all year, including winter, but they are most ideal for cold environments. 4-season tents often don’t have mesh paneling on the tent body like most 3-season tents. This makes them warmer in winter conditions, but can also make them unbearably hot in the summer because of the lack of extra airflow and ventilation. Because of the extra material, 4-season tents are often a bit heavier than similar 3-season tents (though that’s not always the case). If you backpack primarily in warm-weather conditions, a 3-season tent will be the best option. 

• How much should a backpacking tent weigh?

  Weights for backpacking tents vary depending on size, features, materials, and other factors, but they are all far lighter and more packable than their car camping counterparts. A good rule of thumb is that your tent weight should be about 2-3 pounds per person it sleeps. That means if it’s a single tent, it should ideally weigh less than 3 pounds and a 3-person tent should stay below 9 pounds. 

• How many people can fit in a backpacking tent?

  This depends on the size of the tent you choose. Backpacking tents can range from tiny single tarp shelters to spacious abodes that can host a family of five. A tent’s name and/or description should indicate the number of people it sleeps. 

• Can I use a backpacking tent for camping with my family?

  Backpacking tents are designed to be light enough to be carried along the trail into camp, and this weight savings often means that they’re not quite as beefy as car camping setups where weight isn’t really a concern. But like most outdoor gear, backpacking tents are versatile and can be used for regular camping in a pinch. But remember, they won’t offer the same spaciousness or durability as car camping tents. 

• What is the lifespan of a backpacking tent?

  The lifespan of a backpacking tent depends largely on how frequently you use it and how you take care of it. A good backpacking tent should last dozens if not hundreds of nights in the backcountry. If you’re thru-hiking a long trail, that means you may only get one summer out of your tent. But weekenders and casual backpackers should be able to get several seasons out of a tent. 

  If you want to extend the life of your tent, there are a few things you can do to maintain it. First, always let it dry completely before storing and shake any dirt and dust out.

  Cleaning the tent occasionally with a tech wash and applying a refresh of water repellent on the fly every once and a while can also help it function well. See our guide on How to Wash a Tent for detailed instructions.

  Use a ground tarp or tent footprint underneath your tent to protect the floor and be conscious of what your tent is sitting on top of. If you find a hole, patch it as soon as you can to avoid it getting larger, and keep your zippers in good shape by cleaning them as necessary. See our guide to How to Repair a Tent or How to Fix Zippers in Outdoor Gear for step-by-step instructions.

• Are backpacking tents animal-resistant?

  Backpacking tents are designed to protect against elements like wind and rain, not curious or hungry animals. Never store food or scented items in your tent in areas where wildlife is present. For food storage, follow local guidelines or use a bear canister if needed.

• Do you need a tarp under your tent backpacking?

  A ground tarp or tent footprint is not always necessary to have under your tent, but it can help to keep the tent floor from getting damaged. It does add more weight to your setup, but if you’re camping in a particularly rocky area or somewhere where your tent floor is more likely to get holes, it’s a good idea to have this.

• Can I pack my tent away wet?

  Sometimes packing a wet tent is inevitable when you’re out on the trail. If you have the opportunity and time for it to dry out before stuffing it in your pack, that’s ideal but it’s not always possible. What’s most important is that you let the tent dry completely before storing it once you’ve returned from a trip. 

Why you need a backpacking-specific tent

When I started backpacking, I made the classic mistake of borrowing a car camping tent. It was a perfectly good tent. It was also eight pounds. I know this because I felt every single one of those pounds on every uphill for three days straight. I donated it to a thrift store shortly after.

The weight difference between a car camping tent and a backpacking tent is not subtle. Car camping tents for two people often weigh eight to ten pounds or more. Our backpacking tent winners typically weigh between one and four pounds. That difference, spread across a full day of hiking, is the difference between arriving at camp feeling good and arriving at camp wondering why you do this to yourself.

The weight savings come from specialized fabrics like silnylon, silpoly, and Dyneema Composite Fabric, and from design choices that cut everything that isn't essential. Backpacking tents are smaller in floor area than car camping tents, which means less fabric and less weight. They use lighter poles. They compress down to roughly the size of a large water bottle rather than taking up a quarter of your pack.

Beyond weight, backpacking tents are designed for the specific conditions you encounter on trail. They pitch low to the ground to shed wind more effectively than the tall box designs of car camping tents. They ventilate strategically to reduce condensation in humid conditions. They set up quickly in rain, in fading light, and on uneven or rocky terrain where a larger tent simply wouldn't fit. Most freestanding models can be pitched on rock or packed snow where stakes won't go in at all.

They also dry faster in the morning, which matters more than you'd think when you're trying to pack up and get moving before the heat sets in or a storm rolls through.

If you're planning to carry your shelter more than a parking lot's distance, please get a backpacking-specific tent. Your back will thank you by day two.

Care and maintenance

Here are a few ideas we’ve found handy when choosing and using a backpacking tent for ourselves:

• If you’re not sure whether a tent's interior space will be wide or long enough for you, consider using masking tape to tape out the tent's floor dimensions on your floor at home. Layout your sleeping pads in that tape-tent to see if they fit comfortably. The walls of any tent will slant in at least a little, so make sure you have a few extra inches on all sides to allow for enough interior space for you and all your gear.

•  If you’re planning to spend an extended amount of time in your tent, or camp for many nights in a row, a good rule for choosing a lightweight tent — those at or around two pounds — is to purchase a tent designed for one more person than will be sleeping inside. For one person, a two-person tent will provide enough room for stuff and gear. For two people, a three-person tent might be best. If you’re going on the occasional backpack, a two-person tent for two people will work—but don’t expect to have a ton of room.

• Before you pack up for your trip, make sure your tent is seam-sealed to prevent potential water leakage at sewn seams. Many tents come from the factory seam-sealed, but others, like the Tarptent Double Rainbow, do not. We like the Gear Aid Seam Sealer. It also comes in a silicone silicone version for silicone-coated tents (silnylon and silpoly), so be sure to choose the right one for your tent. Find a dry place and budget a few hours. This is also a great time to attach guylines and add more if you need them.

• The best way to stay dry in a rainstorm? Location, location, and pitch. When you’re looking for a spot, you’re ideally looking for the ground to be at an ever-so-slight incline under a copse of trees with enough space for you to secure all your stakes and guylines. The incline will prevent water from pooling under your tent, and the trees will reduce your exposure to wind, rain, and condensation. None of these will save you if you don’t have a tight pitch, though, so make sure you get enough tension in your tent by staking it out before setting it up with the poles. And pitching the nose of the tent—the side with the least surface area—into the wind will lessen the risk of pole bending or snapping.

• And another thing on location: Leave No Trace by camping 200 feet from water and trails to protect the environment and others’ experiences.

•  If possible, avoid allowing your tent’s slanting tent walls from touching your sleeping bag. When condensation on the inside of the tent touches your sleeping bag, it can get it wet, which reduces its insulating properties and can make you sleep colder.

• If you’ve got to pack your tent up wet, try to pack the rain fly separate from the body. (Many backpackers put the fly in the outside mesh pocket of their backpack.) Make time to dry it during the day. Setting up and sleeping in a wet tent, even on a dry evening, is no fun.

•  Preserve the life of your tent by cleaning it. Make sure you empty the tent body before you put it away to prevent abrasion from rocks and other junk while in your pack. In between trips, apply zipper lube to make the zipper last longer (don’t make the mistake of thinking lip balm will achieve the same goal—we learned the hard way). Before storing your tent for extended periods of time, make sure the tent is clean by soaking it in a bathtub of cool water, and hang it out until it dries completely. This additional care will extend the life of your tent. Learn more in our How to Wash a Tent guide.

We get into how to repair tents in How to Repair a Tent | Rips, Leaks, Broken Poles. 

If the zipper goes, see How to Fix a Zipper on Outdoor Gear

How we researched and tested

Your backpacking tent is pretty much a superhero. It shields you and your gear from the bugs and the elements while you sleep. But hiking tents also need to be lightweight enough to carry with you up the trail, small enough to fit into less-than-ideal campsites, and easy to set up with practice. The rain fly should be well-ventilated to keep condensation to a minimum, and designed well enough to keep you warm and dry even in the windiest and wettest of conditions.

Over 7 years, the Treeline Review team and I have tested over 3 dozen backpacking tents on thru-hikes, overnighters, mountain summits, car camping, and walk-in campsites. We've used these backpacking tents on and off trail, on established paths and on first known takes on new routes, as well as set up next to our car at car camping sites on road trips. 

Here are some of the places we have tested:

Our testers used these backpacking tents on:

• Overnight camping trips in Joshua Tree and Anza Borrego Desert

• Alpine climbing trips in the Sierra and Trinity Alps

• Hot spring backpacking trips on the coast

• Backpacking trips on the High Sierra Trail and California Riding and Hiking Trail and Boy Scout Trail

• Thru-hikes of the 2,200 mile-long Appalachian Trail

• A thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail  

• Thru-hikes of the ~2,900 mile-long Continental Divide Trail

• Thru-hikes of the 1,200 mile-long Pacific Northwest Trail

• Thru-hikes of the Great Divide Trail

• Multiple thru-hikes of the Colorado Trail

• Multiple thru-hikes of the Grand Enchantment Trail

• Multiple thru-hikes of the Arizona Trail

Why you should trust us

I’m Amanda, trail name Zuul. I’m not particularly new around these Treeline Review parts; I’ve written on backpacking gear here, so you might have seen my pieces on Rain Jackets, Water Filters, and/or Trekking Poles before.

I’ve also written about going stoveless (and my Pacific Crest Trail thru-hike) for Backpacker Magazine, and about being outside for Griots Republic.

I’ve got right around 3500 miles under my feet, and I walked 3300 of those miles solo, beholden to nothing but the whims of nature and my on-again-off-again hiker hunger. Between those miles and a year as a Subaru/Leave No Trace Traveling Trainer, I’ve spent nearly a year of my life sleeping on sleeping pads - in deserts and lush valleys, on mountainsides and beachsides.

I’m still a Leave No Trace Master Educator, and am a former board member of the American Long Distance Hiking Association-West. I also run the blog Brown Girl on the National Scenic Trails, and consult on justice and equity in the outdoor and non-profit spaces. You can see all my Treeline Review articles on my author page.

Sources

• REI Expert Advice: Best Backpacking tents

• REI Expert Advice: How to Choose a Backpacking Tent

• Backcountry: How to Choose a Tent

June 26th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Mountain Biking

Our verdict

We’ve now spent more than a whole year testing the POC Cularis helmet through all types of terrain and weather, from drizzly days in the forest, to the high alpine and high desert. It impressed us through it all, making it one of our favorite helmets for all-around trail riding and our top overall pick in our Best MTB Helmets guide.

The POC Cularis is a comfortable helmet with good coverage and exceptional airflow. While it may not work for every head shape, our testers found this helmet to be very comfortable, even for very long days in the saddle riding over rough terrain. 

We think you get what you pay for with the Cularis: a high-end helmet with high-end features (like a magnetic buckle and adjustable visor). It doesn’t boast the highest top-of-the-line components for everything, but it also costs less than helmets that do. While far from being the most affordable, we think the POC Cularis is a good value overall and an excellent choice for trail riders looking for a solid brain bucket.

We write mission-driven gear reviews. To find the best gear, we combine expert reviews, everyday user opinions, and rigorous independent trail testing—never pop-up or display ads. We are reader-supported and may make a small commission from some qualifying affiliate links. Learn more.

POC Cularis MTB Helmet Specifications

• Price: $260

• Weight: 350g (size small, as tested)

• Helmet type: Trail

• Safety tech: Mips Air Node

• Construction: In-mold PC shell

• Number of vents: 15

• Visor: Adjustable

• Fit system: Dial fit system

• Sizes available: S-L

• Features: RECCO reflector, Fidlock magnetic buckle

• Certifications: CPSC 1203, CE EN 1078

Best for

• Trail riding

• Long rides

• Technical terrain

• Riders prioritizing a comfortable helmet with a good balance of coverage and venting

Comparison table

What we liked

• Comfortable fit

• Very effective ventilation

• Secure retention system

• Good coverage for all-around trail riding

• Relatively low-profile look and fit 

What could be better

• Fit may not suit all head shapes

• Visor adjustment can be sticky

How we tested

We have spent multiple seasons testing the Cularis helmet, with hundreds of miles of pedaling spent with this lid on our head. We’ve tested this on the rugged high alpine trails and flowy singletrack around Summit County, Colorado, in the southern Utah desert, and beyond. We rode in hot, dry, and sunny weather in Colorado and Utah, and in cool, drizzly weather in Colorado on trails around Arapahoe Basin. No matter the trail or weather, this helmet impressed us. We even used this helmet for a 50-mile mountain bike race in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. 

Most of our time testing was spent trail riding around Colorado and Southern Utah, from flowy singletrack to chunky high alpine trails. We climbed just as much as we descended to test for airflow, comfort, and overall performance. Our testing days ranged from hour long hot laps to all-day epics deep in the backcountry. On those longer rides, the comfort and ventilation in this helmet really stood out. 

We tested this helmet against multiple other helmets, including high-end, mid, and budget options in our Best MTB Helmets guide. Throughout testing, this helmet became the go-to pick for our lead tester and writer, which only helps to solidify our positive thoughts on this helmet. 

Performance in the field

Fit and comfort

The POC Cularis is among the most comfortable mountain bike helmets we’ve tested. The fit is likely to work well for most heads, though the shape seems to trend ever so slightly towards an oval, so if you have a very round head or are worried about pressure points on the sides of your head, we’d recommend trying before you buy. 

Additionally, we found this helmet to run slightly small compared to similar helmets from other brands, like Smith Optics, Giro, or Sweet Protection. Our primary tester wears a small and with Smiths and most other brands, she has to crank the dial all the way. But, with the Cularis the dial landed a little more in the middle of the fit range. So if you’re on the fence for sizing, you may want to consider sizing up.

This helmet ended up being our tester’s top choice for long trail rides deep in the backcountry on rocky high alpine trails and on flowy desert singletrack too, primarily because of its comfort and ventilation. In testing, we found no pressure points at all and could essentially set the helmet at the beginning of a ride and then completely forget about it. This helmet was also our choice for a grueling 50-mile mountain bike race in the San Juan Mountains, with 6,000 feet of climbing. On days like that, comfort matters more than just about anything, and this helmet proved its worth.

Ventilation

The POC Cularis may not boast the most amount of vents in sheer numbers, but it is one of the airiest we’ve tested. The vent channels are large and well placed, and we never felt like this helmet was causing us to overheat, even on hot days riding in the Southern Utah desert. There also is not an excessive amount of padding in the helmet, which does not downgrade comfort at all but helps to keep the helmet light and the air flowing freely.

Protection and coverage

We’d say that the POC Cularis has above average coverage on the whole, and good coverage overall for all sorts of trail riding. It’s not as high coverage as some enduro-oriented helmets, like the POC Kortal Race Mips or the Smith Optics Forefront 3, but it’s not far off, either. 

Plus, it’s in the top five for the highest-rated mountain bike helmets from Virginia Tech, which is the gold standard for safety ratings. (When the helmet first debuted, it held the number one spot on Virginia Tech for some time, but as of writing this it now holds the number four spot since newer helmets have been tested.)

The Mips Air Node liner used in this helmet for rotational impact protection is the same as what’s used in the Smith Optics Forefront 3. We think this is the most comfortable and least noticeable iteration of Mips technology so far, to the point where if it wasn’t called out in the helmet, you’d think it didn’t even have Mips at all.

Thankfully, we did not have to do any impact testing in the field—no major crashes or head injuries to report. But, when you have a helmet this comfortable that also scores a 5-star safety rating from an independent tester like Virginia Tech, it’s pretty easy to trust that this thing will do its job when it needs to.

Stability and retention

The Cularis uses a dial fit system that is smooth and functions well overall, though it’s not quite as slick or comfortable as the newer BOA systems on helmets like the Smith Optics Forefront 3, which is the most comfortable retention system we’ve tested. But still, the dial system on the POC Cularis doesn’t leave a whole lot to be desired. The helmet itself is very comfortable and the dial adjustment stays solidly put, even for very long rides on chunky terrain. 

We used this helmet on six-hour rides with very chunky and long descents and the helmet never needed to be adjusted, and stayed secure the whole time, never rattling or shaking against our MTB sunglasses. 

Weight and feel

While not the lightest trail helmet on the market, the Cularis is on the lighter side—and we noticed that on the trail. Or rather, we forgot about it because the comfort and light weight of the helmet makes it hardly noticeable that you’re wearing one. The Mips Air Node certainly helps with this, but it’s the combination of the overall design, from the weight to the Mips to the ventilation, that comes together to make such a comfortable and well-rounded trail helmet. This is POC’s lightest trail helmet, and it’s one of the top three lightest in our test. 

Usability

While not quite as slick as high-end BOA systems, the click dial system on the Cularis is simple, effective, and easy to use. We had no issues with it over hundreds of miles of testing and never had to worry about adjusting it mid ride.

This helmet also features a Fidlock magnetic buckle. We don’t think this is a high-priority feature, but it is definitely nice to have and makes taking the helmet on and off even easier, especially with bike gloves on. 

The visor on the Cularis is adjustable, but it takes some effort to get it to move, to the point when we first tried we were worried we might break it (we didn’t). While it’s not the easiest visor to adjust, it stays put very well once it’s in place.

Durability

After over 600 miles of testing across all types of trails, including plenty of rough and chunky ones, we’ve yet to encounter a single durability issue with the POC Cularis. Our testing also included multiple road trips and camping trips where the helmet was tossed in a duffel for transport. Still, not even a dent in the shell after all that.

Features

Rotational impact protection system 

The POC Cularis uses Mips Air Node technology for rotational impact protection. This is the most refined version of Mips to date, as of 2026.

Adjustable visor

The visor on the Cularis is adjustable to three different positions. The visor is also a breakaway visor that mitigates damage and injury in a crash.

Fit adjustment dial

The Cularis has a 360-degree fit system that is easily adjustable with a dial at the back of the helmet.

Ventilation channels

There are 15 large and well placed vents on the Cularis for maximum airflow when riding. 

Lightweight shell construction

The Cularis helmet is made with a PC shell and EPS liner for lightweight performance that doesn’t sacrifice impact protection.

Padding system

The padding system in the Cularis is light and minimal but effective, balancing both comfort and airflow. The Mips Air Node rotational impact protection system integrates with the interior lining and padding of the helmet. 

Sunglasses storage

The vents at the front of the helmet are spaced to hold sunglasses and have small rubber pieces to help hold MTB sunglasses arms in place. 

Lay-flat straps

The straps on the Cularis helmet are threaded so that they lay completely flat against the sides of your face without twisting or rubbing (a key comfort feature that less-expensive helmets often do not have).

Sustainability

POC assesses their supply chain and ensures the use of premium, durable materials that are sourced as sustainably as possible, and the packaging they use is often made of recycled materials. While we don’t think any of these sustainability initiatives are groundbreaking, we have noticed that POC products, including this helmet, are made with durable and long-lasting materials, which we think is great.

Should you buy the POC Cularis MTB helmet?

Buy if:

• You’re a trail rider looking for an excellent all-around helmet

• You prioritize comfort and ventilation without wanting to sacrificing safety

• You want a relatively lightweight helmet with both good coverage and ventilation

Skip if:

• You have a tight budget and need an affordable option

• You have a very round head shape that doesn’t match this fit

Where to buy

The POC Cularis MTB Helmet is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

Amazon

Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership

Backcountry

Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent

evo

Pros: 365 day returns, store locations in ski towns for easy last-minute pick-up, may offer rentals if you want to try before you buy, earn 10% back in Rewards

Advice on where to buy

In general for apparel and gear, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns. If your funds allow, many people find it is faster to order two sizes and return whichever one didn't fit as well. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down.

Similar MTB helmets

POC Cularis Pure

Price: $210
Weight: 380g (medium)
Impact Protection: Mips Air Node

The Cularis Pure is POC’s latest iteration of this helmet. It’s essentially identical to the original Cularis aside from the visor. With the Cularis Pure, you get a removable and interchangeable visor that allows you to block off the vents. While we think this is a pretty niche feature that most riders don’t need, if it’s something that appeals to you—whether for riding in cold and wet weather or having the option to have no visor at all—then this version could be a good choice. 

But perhaps the biggest bonus is that the Pure is $50 cheaper than the regular Cularis. So, if you don’t mind sacrificing your adjustable visor to save some money, definitely consider this.

Smith Optics Forefront 3

Price: $300
Weight: 410g (medium)
Impact Protection: Mips Air Node, Koroyd

The Smith Optics Forefront 3 is among the most popular helmets for trail riders, thanks to its good coverage, multiple forms of impact protection, comfortable fit, and stylish look. The Forefront 3 has more coverage and the addition of Koroyd for direct impact protection, and it’s also heavier. But the Cularis has significantly better airflow and is a little less expensive. 

We named this the best looking helmet in our Best MTB Helmets guide. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Smith Optics Forefront 3 MTB helmet.

Giro Manifest Spherical 

Price: $280
Weight: 340g (medium)
Impact Protection: Mips Spherical Technology

The Giro Manifest Spherical is another mountain bike helmet we’ve tested that landed itself in the top ranks for comfort. Like the Cularis, this is one of the most comfortable MTB helmets we’ve ever worn. Airflow and comfort are neck-and-neck between these two helmets, with the Giro edging out the POC just barely in these categories. But the Manifest Spherical is slightly more expensive.

Why you should trust us / About the author

A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held a WFR, AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and Avalanche Rescue Certifications and is working to become an avalanche education instructor. She’s now a full time writer and editor in the outdoor space and has been testing and writing about gear for over a decade.

Stasia learned to mountain bike as a kid in Utah, and rekindled her love for the sport after moving to Summit County, Colorado and getting a new (and very much improved from her very old hand-me-down) full suspension bike several years ago. She spends most of her summer days out on the singletrack. Stasia has been testing mountain bike helmets for several years and has learned what to look for in a great one. Thankfully, she has not had to do too much true impact testing—aside from the time she went OTB after just discovering she was pregnant with her first child. Whoops. (Everything was fine and now that kid rides his own tiny bike, also often recklessly.)

You can find more of Stasia’s work on her Treeline Review author page.

June 25th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Backpacking

Our verdict

The Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL is a double-walled, semi-freestanding tent that is one of the lightest options for an ultralight tent that pitches without trekking poles. It holds up well in adverse conditions such as heavy rain, snow, and strong winds, without weighing you and your pack down. 

We tested the single-person version of the Nimbus UL while hiking a large section of the Hayduke Trail, from Arches National Park in Utah to the Grand Canyon in Arizona. During that 700-mile hike, we saw temperatures ranging from 20°F to 100°. We set up this tent nearly every night, experiencing snow, rain, heavy winds, and tons of blowing sand. On one particularly rough night, we weathered half a foot of heavy, wet snow, and the Nimbus UL kept us and our gear dry. 

The Nimbus excels in its stormworthiness. The rainfly extends low, nearly to the ground, preventing rain from blowing underneath. It is also extremely packable and lightweight. And compared to other ultralight freestanding and semi-freestanding tents, the Nimbus is more affordable. 

The biggest downside to the Nimbus is that the door and vestibule are on the head end of the tent. While having one door and vestibule at the end saves weight, crawling headfirst into the tent's head end is more difficult. A side door would require a larger (or asymmetrical) rainfly and would likely reduce usable space in the vestibule, though, so both options have downsides. 

If you’re looking for an ultralight semi-freestanding tent that does well in adverse weather and is more affordable than comparable tents from other brands, you should check out the Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL. 

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Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL Specifications

• Price: $420

• Type: Double-wall semi-freestanding

• Capacity: 1-person

• Weight: 1 lb 11.2 oz

• Material: 20D Nylon Mesh 100% Nylon (body), 20D Sil/Sil Nylon Ripstop 1,200mm (fly), 20D Nylon Ripstop (canopy), 40D Nylon Ripstop Sil/PU 1500mm (tent floor)

• Floor space: 19.7 sq ft

• Interior length: 86”

• Peak height: 38”

• Vestibules: 1 (3.9 sqft)

• Doors: 1

• Stakes required: 5 (2 to pitch inner tent only)

• Trekking poles required: None

• Includes tent poles: Yes

• Variants available: 2P

• Made in: Vietnam

Best for

• Ultralight backpacking and thru-hiking in wet conditions

• Anyone who needs to pitch a tent on surfaces you can’t drive stakes into like rock or sand

• People looking for a lightweight double-walled tent that pitches without trekking poles

• Bikepackers and kayakers who want an easy-to-pitch shelter (and don't carry trekking poles)

• People hiking in humid or wet climates with a lot of condensation. 

Comparison table

What we liked

• Ultralight semi-freestanding design

• Easy to pitch at the end of a long day

• Sturdy in high winds

• Great weather protection

• Minimal condensation during cold nights near water

• Less expensive than comparable ultralight tents

What could be better

• The entryway is on the head end of the tent

How we tested

We tested the Nimbus UL tent while backpacking a 700-mile section of the Hayduke Trail from Arches National Park to Grand Canyon National Park. It took 40 days to hike this section during April and May, and we set up the tent every night along the way, except for the occasional night spent in town. 

We experienced daytime highs near 100°F and overnight lows ranging from 20°F to 80°F. We regularly dealt with intense wind and blowing sand, so we often pitched our tent with the rainfly on to keep sand out. We also saw a half foot of snow fall overnight during a spring storm. Also, more than once, we had to scramble to quickly put the tent rainfly up when a rainstorm blew in overnight. Fortunately, it’s quick and easy to pitch the fly. 

We also tested this tent alongside similar tents in our Best Ultralight Tents guide.

Performance in the field

Weather protection

The Nimbus UL is an excellent tent in terms of weather protection. We never got wet during rain or snow, even when the wind was blowing rain sideways. The rainfly never leaked, and the bathtub floor extends up the sides of the tent past where the fly covers, so there isn’t any exposed material that could leak. 

Even when we slept in a cold canyon near water, we never had any issues with condensation. The rainfly did occasionally get some condensation. But since this is a double-walled tent, that moisture build-up never caused any pooling inside the tent. Double-walled tents aren’t nearly as prone to condensation issues as single-walled tents. On multiple nights, we pitched the Nimbus right next to a single-walled tent. In the morning, that tent had puddles of water from condensation while the Nimbus UL’s rainfly was only a little bit damp. 

Setup and takedown

This tent is extremely easy to set up and take down. We regularly had to pitch this tent in high winds, and once you’ve secured the tent body with a few stakes, you can set it up as usual. 

The single Y-shaped tent pole is easy to manage and secure into the grommets at the tent’s base, and the bug net easily attaches to the pole after. The tent pole has hooks that are fixed in place, which attach to cord loops on the mesh tent body. At first, we were skeptical as to why the hooks weren’t attached to the tent body. But after scrambling to pitch this tent as a storm blew in, we understand that this ensures the hooks are always in the correct position.

The rainfly attaches to the same grommets that the tent pole attaches to on the head end. It also hooks onto the stakes that hold the foot end out. It also required three more stakes to hold in place—one on each side of the long end, and one more to pull the vestibule out.  In total, this tent requires 5 stakes, which is less than many other ultralight tents. 

Interior space and livability

With 38" interior peak height, you can sit up comfortably in this tent. And while it isn’t as roomy as larger backpacking tents that weigh more, it’s roomy enough to sit inside and cook breakfast every morning comfortably. 

The biggest drawback of this tent design is that the door enters through the head end of the tent. This means you have to crawl into the tent headfirst, then flip around so your feet face away from the opening. We got used to this, and it isn’t that hard to maneuver since there’s enough interior space, but it’s still slightly annoying. It does illustrate the fact that there is enough interior space for activities, albeit a little cramped. 

Ventilation and condensation

The Nimbus is not very prone to condensation. When we slept near water at the bottom of a canyon on a cold night, we still experienced some condensation on the rainfly. However, since this is a double-walled tent, the damp rainfly didn’t touch the tent body and therefore didn't get us wet inside. Compared to the single-walled tents we were camping next to, the Nimbus didn’t have nearly as much condensation. 

There is a minimum of a 1-inch gap between the rainfly and the tent body around the entire tent. At the head end, where the vestibule is, there is a much larger gap to allow air to flow through the tent. There is also a larger gap between the foot end and the rainfly. And the mesh extends farther down the tent at the foot end, which facilitates more airflow. 

Packability

The Nimbus is a very packable tent. We used it with a 50-liter ultralight backpack, and never struggled with the tent taking up too much space. It packs down to an approximately 5” wide by 12” long cylinder—only slightly larger than a Nalgene water bottle. This doesn’t include the tent poles, which measure 15" by 2.5" when packed. The tent poles are longer but slender when folded up, so you can slide them into small openings between other gear in your pack. 

We usually stored this tent with the tent poles in a side pocket on the pack that we used, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa, but only because that pack has a side pocket designed specifically for tents. When we did have to carry extra water, we would stuff the tent inside our pack to utilize the extra pocket to hold a water bladder. The Silnylon and Sil/PU materials used in this tent are highly compressible compared to other common ultralight tent fabrics like Dyneema Composite Fiber (DCF). No matter what packing limitations or configurations we dealt with, carrying this tent was never an issue. 

Durability

Over 700 miles of backpacking across a dusty desert, the Nimbus had no issues with durability whatsoever. The tent floor is durable enough to pitch on rocky terrain without a groundsheet, and after 40 nights of use, it has no holes or tears. The zippers on the rainfly and inner bug net tent are still working as they should, despite countless nights exposed to blowing sand and dust. 

Features

Semi-freestanding Double-Walled Design

The Nimbus is a double-walled, semi-freestanding tent. This means you can pitch the Nimbus’s inner mesh tent with only two stakes holding out the bathtub floor corners at the foot end. You need three more stakes to hold the rainfly in place. 

20D Silnylon Ripstop rainfly

The rainfly is made of 20-denier Silnylon ripstop fabric with a hydrostatic head of 1,200mm. 

40D Sil/PU Ripstop bathtub floor

The bathtub floor is made of thicker 40-denier Sil/PU Ripstop fabric with a 1,500mm hydrostatic head rating. 

Bug net inner tent

The inner net has a bug net made of 20D nylon mesh. 

Single door

The Nimbus has a single door that opens into the vestibule and the inner tent at the head end. 

Zippered entry in rainfly and bug net

The vestibule on the rainfly opens with a zipper that wraps up the side of the head end, arcing to the top of the vestibule. There is also a U-shaped zippered opening on the inner mesh tent. 

Single vestibule design

The Nimbus has a single vestibule at the head end of the tent to save weight. It’s large enough to fit your entire pack without bringing it inside the tent with you.

Guy out points

The Nimbus has guy-out points on the four corners of the rainfly and inner tent body. There are additional guy-out points halfway across the long sides of the rainfly and an additional point to hold out the vestibule.

Reflective guylines

The Nimbus has reflective guylines to see in the dark. The guylines are also yellow, making them fairly easy to see during the day as well. 

Included stuff sack

The Nimbus comes with a stuff sack for the tent and rainfly, as well as a separate stuff sack for the tent poles. The main stuff sack has elastic loops to hold the tent poles, too. 

Repair kit included

The Nimbus comes with a segment of tent pole to repair the DAC Featherlight NFL tent pole if it breaks. 

Sustainability 

On their sustainability page, Mountain Hardwear states: 

“We are committed to exploring innovative ways of doing business that will support a sustainable future. Our current focus is on putting in place industry leading systems and reporting mechanisms to enable efficient measurement of our social and environmental performance and to provide increased transparency into our practices.”

We look forward to seeing what those systems and reporting mechanisms look like. 

Should you buy the Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL?

Buy if:

• You’re an ultralight backpacker or thru-hiker looking for a more affordable semi-freestanding tent

• You’re looking for a lightweight tent for a bikepacking trip or paddling trip where you aren't carrying trekking poles

• You don’t use trekking poles when backpacking, and you need a good tent

• You want a double wall tent for wetter weather and high wind or areas with high humidity

Skip if:

• You don’t like the idea of crawling into the head end of a tent every night

• You want a tent that sets up with trekking poles

• You don’t mind packing a heavier tent for more room

• You want a lighter tent or tarp and are ok with something single-walled

• You want a DCF tent

Where to buy

The Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL Tent is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

Backcountry

Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent

Mountain hardwear

You can sometimes find more options when purchasing directly from Mountain Hardwear. Sometimes, purchasing directly from the retailer can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return, such as if there is a defect.

Advice on where to buy

In general for gear, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI.

Similar ultralight backpacking tents

Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL vs NEMO Hornet OSMO

Type: Double-wall, semi-freestanding
Weight: 29 oz
Sleeps: 1, 2 and 3 available
Material: 100% recycled OSMO (polyester, nylon)
Vestibules: 1
Stakes required: 4
Trekking poles required: 0

The NEMO Hornet OSMO is a semi-freestanding tent similar in design to the Nimbus. The Hornet weighs 1 lb 13 oz compared to the Nimbus UL, which weighs 1 lb 11 oz. The Hornet costs $460, and the Nimbus costs $420. 

Both of these tents are quite storm worthy, packable, and durable. The Hornet has a single door, which allows you to enter from the side of the tent. We think it’s easier to get in and out of the Hornet because of this side-entry door, compared to the head-end door on the Nimbus. The Nimbus costs less than the Hornet, but climbing in and out of the head end of that tent every morning is a downside for some people. 

The Hornet also has the Nimbus beat in terms of sustainability. The Hornet’s OSMO fabric is made from 100% recycled yarns free from PFAS. Both of these tents have a 1200 mm hydrostatic head on the rainfly, but the Nimbus has a 1500 mm hydrostatic head on the bathtub, compared to the Hornet’s bathtub which is also 1200 mm.

Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL vs NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO

Type: Double-wall, semi-freestanding
Weight: 23 oz
Sleeps: 1, 2 and 3 available
Material: 100% recycled OSMO (polyester, nylon)
Vestibules: 2
Stakes required: 4
Trekking poles required: 0

The NEMO Hornet Elite is the winner of the Best Semi-freestanding Tent award in our Ultralight tents guide. The Hornet Elite is the same size and shape as the Hornet OSMO, but the Hornet Elite uses the lightest materials possible. The Hornet Elite weighs 1 lb 7 oz, which is unusually light for a semi-freestanding tent. However, it costs $600, which is significantly more than the Nimbus. 

For the weight savings and side-entry door, we think the Hornet Elite is a great tent, but we can’t deny that not everyone wants to pay an extra $200 for a tent that’s 4 ounces lighter. 

The Hornet Elite also has the Nimbus beat in terms of sustainability. The Hornet Elite uses the same OSMO fabric as the Hornet OSMO, which is made from 100% recycled yarns and free from PFAS. The Hornet Elite and Nimbus have a 1200 mm hydrostatic head on the rainfly, but the Nimbus has a 1500 mm hydrostatic head on the bathtub, compared to the Hornet Elite’s bathtub, which is also 1200 mm. 

Learn more in our in-depth review of the NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO backpacking tent.

Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL vs MSR Freelite

Type: Double-wall, semi-freestanding
Weight: 26 oz (1P), 37 oz (2P)
Sleeps: 1, 2 and 3 available
Material: 15D ripstop nylon 1200mm Durashield polyurethane & DWR
Vestibules: 2
Stakes required: 7
Trekking poles required: 0

The MSR FreeLite is another great semi-freestanding tent that’s similar to the Nimbus. We almost picked the Freelite as the best semi-freestanding tent, but opted for the Hornet Elite instead. The main difference between the Freelite and the Nimbus is that the Freelite’s door is on the side of the tent. This makes getting in and out of the tent slightly easier than with the Nimbus. The Freelite (26 oz) and Nimbus (27 oz) weigh almost exactly the same. The Freelite costs $440, and the Nimbus costs $420.

Why you should trust us / About the author

Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, trail runner, bikepacking cyclist, and mountain athlete based in a campervan across the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, Arizona Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, Hayduke Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice. He has also bikepacked across the country and throughout the American Southwest, including the Colorado Trail and the Kokopelli Trail. On every one of those trips, he’s used an ultralight tent. 

You can read more about Sam on his author page, website, or on Instagram.

June 24th ,2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Sun Protection

Our Verdict

The REI Co-op Flash Shade Hoodie is a thin, extremely lightweight, quick-drying sun hoodie that is like the pro version of the beloved REI Co-op Sahara Shade.

The Flash Shade hoodie is a completely different fabric that feels thinner and has an impressively fast dry-time. The Sahara is great for everyday wear for sun protection and a softer next-to-skin layer, but the Flash Shade Hoodie is what you want if you're really getting after it and building up sweat.

I'm a Triple Crown thru-hiker who’s walked the entire distance of the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail and numerous other hundred- and thousand-mile length backpacking trails through hot, desert areas. I also live in sunny Southern California where a sun hoodie is my daily uniform. The Flash Shade Hoodie is what I'd choose for hot, sweaty, high-output days where I want minimal weight and fast dry-time.

We tested the REI Co-op Flash Shade hoodie in the Eastern Sierra, wearing the shirt nearly daily for hiking, camping, road-tripping, kayaking, and volunteering on ecological restoration projects. Another Treeline Review writer also thru-hiked and backpacked in the hoodie and found it extremely breathable, especially compared to the Sahara hoodie.

The Flash Shade Hoodie is especially notable because it has some really cool sustainability firsts for a hoodie. It's made partially of yarn from LanzaTech, which captures carbon emissions from industrial sites and converts them into ethanol, which can be used to manufacture new materials like polyester. It is also made of material that meets bluesign® criteria by The Climate Label company.

The Flash and Sahara both earned spots in our guide to the best sun shirts. While the two are different, they are both sun shirts worth considering to protect yourself while enjoying a summer outdoors. 

This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission. This allows us to create reader-supported, objective gear reviews, independently selected by our editors — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

REI Flash Shade Hoodie Specs

Price: $70
Fabric: Recycled polyester performance grid w/ LanzaTech carbon-capture yarn
Fabric Weight: 110 g/m2 (REI's lightest UPF hoodie)
UPF Rating: 50+
Hood: 3-panel scuba-style w/ rear vent/ponytail port
Fit: Athletic, runs short in torso
Thumbholes: Yes
Sustainability: Recycled polyester, LanzaTech yarn; REI’s Climate Label

Comparison table: Flash vs Sahara

Performance in the Field

Fabric and breathability

To get max sun protection, fabric has to be pretty tightly knit. Some other reviewers thought that meant this shirt isn't as breathable or as ventilated as other sun shirts. However, during testing, we didn't experience this sacrifice. One of our Treeline Review testers wore this shirt in Arizona and on a shorter thru-hike, and found the Flash Shade hoodie much more breathable than the Sahara hoodie. Our main tester also found the Shade hoodie more breathable than the Sahara due to its thinner fabric.

Fit and coverage

We found the 28" center-back length runs short with little to no droptail. This is a little annoying if you're the type of person who likes to tuck your shirt in or want pack-strap coverage at the lower back. Treeline Review’s women's testers flagged the short torso.

Sun Protection

REI says the material is "tested by an independent 3rd-party lab and found to provide UPF 50+ sun protection." We don't have a lab to test that claim, but we wore the Flash Shade hoodie in the alpine zone all day in full sun with UV Index ratings of 11-13 (Extreme) during mid day. We didn't wear sunscreen under the shirt, and didn't burn underneath. UPF 50 means Ultraviolet Protection Factor 50, where 1/50th  (2%) of the sun's UV rays pass through the fabric, blocking 98% of both UVA and UVB rays. 

Features

Ponytail port (both men's and women's)

One of my favorite features on the REI Co-op Flash Shade Hoodie is the ponytail port. Not enough sun hoodies have a ponytail hood, and for those of us with long hair, that can lead to a pointy-looking head and make it challenging to wear a hoodie with a hat. 

Ergonomic thumbholes

The thumb loop on the REI Flash Shade hoodie keeps fabric over the top of your wrists to protect them from UV exposure.

Bottom side of the thumb loop on the REI Flash Shade hoodie.

Example of where the sleeves fall naturally without the thumbholes.

The thumbholes on the Flash Shade hoodie protect the top of your hands from UV rays, which is useful since the skin on the top of your hands tends to be thinner than on many other parts of your body. 

Hood

Compared to the REI Co-op Sahara Shade hoodie, the hood opening is small, and the stitching around it doesn't stretch, so it can drag hats or headbands when pulling it on. However, the smaller hood makes it more secure in the wind. 

Sustainability

The Flash Shade Hoodie is especially notable for its really cool sustainability firsts for a hoodie. It's made partially of yarn from LanzaTech, which captures carbon emissions from industrial sites and converts them into ethanol, which can be used to manufacture new materials like polyester. It is also made from material that meets bluesign® criteria, as certified by The Climate Label company.

REI Flash Shade Hoodie vs. Sahara Shade Hoodie — what's the difference?

Fabric and feel

The fabric is the main difference between the REI Co-op Sahara Shade and the Flash Shade hoodie. The Sahara is the soft, highly stretchy ShadeFactor 50+ fabric that feels more like a cotton shirt. The sun shirt is made of recycled polyester and a yarn that uses LanzaTech carbon-capture technology (more on how awesome this technology is below). The Flash looks and feels like a technical fabric in the way that you put it on, and you look and feel like you're going to do something badass. The Flash hoodie also feels and looks a little like the material on the Outdoor Vitals Altitude sun hoodie, which is also a lightweight and thin microgrid material. With both materials, we would recommend staying clear of bushwhacking and not washing it with Velcro, as thinner material is susceptible to pilling in those conditions.

The Flash's fabric is a lighter grid weave than the Sahara, and we found that it wicks and dries faster. Treeline Review writer and tester Melissa Spencer, who backpacked in the shirt in the desert, found it more breathable than the Sahara, though that may be because it is so much thinner. 

Odor

Synthetic shirts typically hold onto odor more than wool sun shirts. For testing (and also because we are lazy), we wore the shirt three days straight before washing, multiple times. During those days, we hiked, road-tripped, kayaked, and camped. We conducted regular sniff tests throughout the testing period and after each laundry cycle. The Flash is not treated with anti-odor chemicals.

Fit, length, and style

Side-view showing the length of the REI Flash hoodie.

Back-view showing the length of the REI Flash hoodie.

Not gonna lie, I like the fit on the Sahara Shade better. The REI Flash Hoodie looks and fits as if you are a technical badass, and that isn't always how I want to look. In contrast, the Sahara is more relaxed, with a 27.5" back on size M. On the Sahara, the women's is longer in the front, and it has a drop tail in the back that is a bit exaggerated but looks cute. 

The Flash Shade's cut looks more like a traditional men's cut with a consistent length in the front and back. I found the back in particular to be shorter, which was an issue when bending over to tie a shoe. I'm on the cusp of S and M and wish I had sized up on the Flash Shade. It's definitely a more athletic cut, like a base layer instead of a flowy sun shirt.

Colors and sizing

The Sahara has tons of colors and sizes. The Flash has three colors. The Sahara has lots of options in sizes up to 3X, whereas the Flash seems more limited in plus sizing and big and tall sizing.

Price and value

The big question: is the ~$10 premium for the Flash Shade worth it?

Comparing the Sahara Shade hoodie and the Flash hoodie is like comparing oranges and apples to me. Yes, they are both REI long-sleeve shirts with sun protection. But the Flash hoodie is very technical-looking and feeling (plus it has that cutting-edge LanzaTech yarn). For many people, that isn't necessary when you just want everyday sun protection. If you're thru-hiking, summiting peaks, or climbing, that technical material is worth it. For half-day hikes that end at a brewery or brunch, I'd go with the Sahara.

Who should buy the REI Flash—and who should stick with the REI Sahara?

As mentioned above, I'd recommend the REI Flash hoodie to move fast and sweat hard, whether thru-hiking, climbing, or summiting peaks. I'd get the Sahara to stay comfortable in less sunny conditions and spend less.

Both shirts hit UPF 50+ and now sit side by side in REI's lineup, so this isn't about which is "better." As with most gear choices, it really comes down to how you'll actually use it. After wearing both, here's what I would recommend:

Buy the Flash if you run hot, work hard, or are some place hot. The Flash is the one I'd grab for on sweaty, high-output days or just plain hot days with little shade. That includes hot, fast, or steep trips. It is so much better than the Sahara at soaking up sweat and drying very quickly. 

At 110 g/m², it's the lightest UPF hoodie REI makes, noticeably thinner than the Sahara's 150 g/m² polyester. The performance grid fabric they use is quite impressive at wicking and drying quickly. The ponytail port is clutch, too. The Flash has a trimmer fit that is a more athletic cut. Frankly, the Flash is more of a technical piece rather than a lifestyle layer. The torso runs short (keeping the weight of this garment to a minimalist 5.3 oz for a women's M), so it suits shorter-waisted hikers and anyone who isn't tucking in. If that's you, it’s well worth it.

REI Co-op Flash Shade Hoodie

Buy the Sahara if you want comfort, value, and a do-everything layer. The Sahara is the softer, stretchier knit you forget you're wearing. Most hikers will find this to be a better choice for general hiking, travel, around-town wear, and layering. It's $10 cheaper at full price and routinely drops into the $35–42 range on sale, which makes it a really strong budget winner in our Best Sun Shirts story and the kind of shirt you'd be likely to buy in two colors.

REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie

Still aren't sure what to get?

• Long torso or you tuck your shirt in: Go with the Sahara. The Flash's short back is its biggest weakness.

• Maximum hot-weather where airflow is your priority: Neither is the airiest UPF 50 sun hoodie I've hiked in. A looser-knit or merino sun shirt breathes better.

• Sustainability-minded buyer: There is a slight edge to the Flash for the LanzaTech carbon-capture yarn, though both come with REI's Climate Label and bluesign approved fabric.

FAQ

• Is the REI Flash Shade Hoodie worth it?

  At $70, the Flash Shade is worth it if you want a lighter, faster-drying sun hoodie for hot, high-output days. It's a great option for hiking, big trail climbs, paddling, or anything that gets you sweating. It's a noticeable performance upgrade over the Sahara for active use. If you mostly want an everyday, comfortable sun layer, the more affordable Sahara is the better value.

• What's the difference between the Flash and Sahara Shade Hoodie?

  Both are UPF 50+ and now sold side by side, but they're built for different uses. The Sahara is a soft, stretchy, everyday-wear option, while the Flash uses a thin, cool, quick-drying performance fabric with a ponytail port. The Flash is lighter (110 g/m² versus the Sahara's 150 g/m²) but less breathable; the Sahara is softer, stretchier, and about $10 cheaper.

• Is the Flash Shade Hoodie breathable enough for hot weather?

  Some people think the Flash Shade isn't the best at being airy. I didn't notice this, but I mostly tested at high altitude in the Eastern Sierra with temps maxing out in the mid-80s. Usually there was some wind. Some people found the air doesn't pass through the fabric especially well because it's tightly knit to achieve the UPF 50 rating. That tradeoff isn't unique to the Flash, and we found it's true of nearly all UPF 50 fabrics. 

  For maximum airflow in extreme heat, a looser-knit or merino option will breathe better, but the Flash's thin fabric and fast dry-time still handle most hot, sweaty days well.

• Does the Flash Shade Hoodie run small or short?

  The fit runs more athletic, and the torso runs short. The center-back length is on the short side with little to no droptail. It may be an issue if you want full lower-back coverage under a pack. The sleeve and arm length tend to run generous by comparison. If you're between sizes or have a long torso, consider sizing up.

• What UPF rating does the Flash Shade Hoodie have?

  UPF 50+, the highest rating a fabric can earn, branded as REI's ShadeFactor 50+. The protection is knit into the material and won't wash out over time as quickly as chemical treatments. A UPF 50+ rating blocks roughly 98% of UV rays, so you're covered for long, fully exposed days.

Other ways to add sun protection

A sun hoodie should be one of your major sources of sun protection, but it can't cover everything. For the skin that a hood and sleeves leave exposed, reach for a good face sunscreen on your face and neck, and keep an SPF lip balm within easy reach. Your lips burn faster than you'd think and are easy to forget. On long, fully exposed days, back it all up with a reliable body sunscreen for your legs. And since squinting into alpine glare gets old fast, finish the kit with a sun hat or a good pair of running sunglasses that stay put when you're moving.

About the Author / Why You Should Trust Us

After thru-hiking nearly 15,000 miles with almost no sun protection, I interviewed a University of Arizona sun cancer expert for a story on sun hats that I wrote for the New York Times/Wirecutter. Although that story was about hats, what I learned about the sun scared some sense into me. I've been wearing sun protective clothing (and looking for the perfect one!) ever since.

I'm the Editor in Chief of Treeline Review. I also write the regular column "Ask a Thru-hiker" for Backpacker Magazine. I previously held the women's self-supported speed record on the Appalachian Trail and am also known for my innovative urban thru-hikes. See my Packing List for an NYC Urban Hike for an example.

I'm also the author of Long Trails: Mastering the Art of the Thru-hike, which won the National Outdoor Book Award for Best Instructional Book. In addition, I regularly give talks at universities, non-profit conventions, and outdoor organizations about thru-hiking and urban thru-hiking.

You can read more about Liz at her Wikipedia page here or on her website. You can see all of Liz’s articles at Treeline Review on her author page.

June 24th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Camping

Our verdict

The REI Co-op Westward Shelter is a pop-up sun and bug shelter for when you want to be outside but need the elements to be kinder to you. It’s a freestanding, floorless, screened canopy for hanging out outside. I would argue this bug-free camp shelter is as great for backyards as it is as an accessory tent while car camping or picnicking. 

It isn’t a substitute for a camping tent, but more like your own personal portable screened porch. The Westward is your personal bug-free bubble. For someone who tries to spend as much time outside as possible, the 360-degree mosquito-free, yellow jacket-free, wasp-free outside experience cannot be beat!

For buggy areas, the REI Westward Shelter screen house is fantastic for keeping out mosquitoes, gnats, flies, and wasps that could otherwise ruin your outdoor picnic, campsite dinner, or outdoor card game. For beaches, unforested campsites, deserts or semi-arid environments where there isn’t much sun, it's decent as a portable shade for hanging out during the day.

The REI Westward Shelter is best for evening use as a bug-free place to eat your outdoor dinner in peace. It’d be just as great at doing that in a campsite as it would in a backyard for eating al fresco. The REI Westward screened canopy tent is easy to set up and has spacious windows that allow for great views. It excels in buggy environments by creating a spacious and view-filled hangout space when you’d otherwise be trapped in the car or your camping tent or worse yet, opt to be inside.

Five people tested the REI Westward Shelter for weeks at a summer camp in the Eastern Sierra. We tested the Westward shelter in a hot, high altitude semi-arid area that doesn’t get a lot of shade. We also tested in a wet campsite along a creek full of aspens, mosquitoes, and deer flies. We tested in almost a week straight of thunderstorms and in winds up to 20 miles per hour. 

We tested it alongside the matching REI Westward 6-person tent, which uses a similar intuitive color-coded setup. Like many sun shelters, the mesh traps heat, and on a warm afternoon, the inside can feel warmer than outside the tent.

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REI Co-op Westward Shelter specifications

• Price: $329.00

• Covered area: 100 sq ft

• Floor dimensions: 120 x 120 in (10 x 10 ft)

• Peak height: 84 in (7 ft)

• Packaged weight: 18 lbs. 14.5 oz

• Packed size: 27.56 x 8.66 x 7.87 in

• Doors: 2 walk-through zippered doors (can be fully tied back)

• Number of poles: 8

• Design type: Freestanding

• Floor: Floorless (overlapping floor skirt to prevent bugs)

• Canopy fabric: 75-denier polyester with PU coating and PFAS-free DWR (top/sidewall panels); 150-denier polyester with PU coating and PFAS-free DWR (floor skirt)

• Mesh: 40-denier solution-dyed nylon with PU coating and PFAS-free DWR; 360-degree visibility

• Includes: Shelter body, poles, storage bag, stakes, 4 reflective guylines, pole repair sleeve, 2 organizer stuff sacks

• Storage bag: Wide mouth with duffel handles

• DWR: PFAS-free throughout

• Sustainability: Climate Label Certified brand; solution-dyed mesh

Best for

• Camping in buggy areas

• Campers who spend dinners and evenings outside and want to enjoy the outdoors without mosquitoes

• Base-camping or long-term camping where you want a separate hang out area from where you sleep

• Indoor-outdoor spaces like cabins where having some outdoor hangout space lets you enjoy the view and being outside better

• Backyard hangouts and dinners would otherwise keep you from being outside

Comparison table

What we liked

• 360-degree views from all four sides with almost all mesh to feel like you're outdoors (but with bug protection!)

• Ease of set up with color coded poles and sleeves

• Overlapping floor skirt kept bugs, rodents, and reptiles out at the ground level

• Sized to fit up and over a fixed picnic table in a campsite

• 84-inch peak height (7 feet!) for almost the entire tent means you can easily stand up and move around, even if you are over 6-feet tall

• Two zippered doors work better for group access

• DWR sheds rain on the roof panels, even though it doesn’t have a rain fly

• The storage bag has a wide mouth and is easy to pack and unpack

• Surprisingly windproof despite only 4-guyout points (at least in our experience)

What could be better

• Mesh doesn’t ventilate well so the inside of the tent can get warm midday if you leave everything closed up

• Fiberglass poles are heavier and less durable in the cold

• Only 4 guyout points (the fabric loops on the tent that guylines attach to) and ground-level stakeouts

• Walls will not stop rain blowing sideways (though I would argue, as a rainfly-free shelter, this is not its job at all)

How we tested

We tested the REI Westward Shelter screen house in the Eastern Sierra with five different people. It was our outdoor hangout where we took midday naps, had book discussions, played card games, and even wrote a few Treeline Review articles. When set up near a creek with tons of mosquitoes and biting deer flies and horseflies, it’s a treat to be bug-free while hanging out in this bug-free camp shelter.

We moved the tent to several different testing spots all at high altitudes and with more intense sun exposure to see how it performed across different ecosystems. We tested in buggy, swampy, aspen groves with mosquitoes, deer flies, and biting horse flies. We also tested in a drier, fuller sun exposure area in the sagebrush as well as in a more moderate-temperature Jeffrey pine forest.

We also tested the Westward Shelter alongside the REI Westward Tent to get an idea of how the two work together as a camping tent and hangout tent while camping.

Performance in the field

Bug protection

The 360-degree views through the mesh on all four sides are inspiring and don’t feel claustrophobic. It’s fantastic for the times when I want to be immersed in the view but just can’t handle the bugs.

Rain and weather protection

It seems unfair to judge a sunshade on how well it protects from the rain and weather. Afterall, it has no rainfly! However, the 75-denier polyester top panel (treated with PFAS-free DWR) seemed to do their job during nearly a week of light afternoon Sierra thunderstorms (note to my Pacific Northwest friends: this was more what you'd call "mist" than actual rain). 

Since this screened canopy tent is 7-feet tall with little fabric at lower points, it was hard to tell whether water beaded up and ran off. But it definitely did not saturate the fabric or get any moisture inside. The mesh walls were quite good (maybe too good) at keeping out moisture during these high wind + some precipitation events. Mesh walls are not waterproof but this mesh is quite thick, so it seemed to capture whatever drops got windswept and dry them out quickly in the arid, Eastern Sierra air. 

Wind stability

In my experience, the REI Co-op Westward Shelter is surprisingly stable in the wind. We set it up in the Eastern Sierra in a canyon where wind has notoriously blown away other much more seemingly stable tents. That being said, we would have preferred more than four ground-level stake points. It includes four reflective guylines as well, and we didn’t use them, yet somehow found the shelter surviving night after night of 10-20 mph winds. Site selection is a big factor in wind stability, and it’s possible that our sites were extra-protected.

Setup and takedown

We set up the tent with three people (along with two who had) who had never set up a sunshade before.

In particular, we liked that the clear instructions (with diagrams) are printed on a tag sewn into the bag. Not enough tent brands do this.

Additionally, the color coding of the tent poles that matched the same color fabric sleeves made the process easy. The eight-pole fiberglass pole architecture was color-coded and quite intuitive.

It took less than ten minutes on our first try. Takedown and repackaging were also quick, allowing us to pack up quickly. Since it doesn't have a floor, we also found it pretty easy to crab-crawl it as a group to different campsite testing spots.

It's worth noting that customer reviews state that this tent is not easy to set-up with one person. Try to get a buddy!

Interior livability

Interior liveability is where the REI Co-op Westward shelter excels! We found the 100 sq ft covered area and 84-inch peak height to create literally a room outdoors. We fit multiple camp chairs and a table inside comfortably, but found we enjoyed laying out a couple of camping blankets on the ground and sprawling out. The 360-degree mesh views were awesome. In fact, the views are so good, I’d argue it was more livable than most rooms indoors, at least for an outdoor lover like me.

I camp with several friends over 6 feet, including a 6’7” friend, and the 7-foot height is tall enough for people over 6 feet tall to stand in. 

Durability

We didn’t have any issues with durability. The fiberglass pole construction worked well for us in the summer, though it’s worth noting that the material can be more brittle in cold weather (it never got much below 40F in the weeks straight that we had it up). We also didn’t have any durability issues with the mesh attachment points or fabric quality. We also didn’t see any signs of wear at the pole-to-fabric junctions, which are a common failure point on screen houses. 

We read some customer reviews where people said the fabric can abrade if it rubs for days against a picnic table. When setting up, we recommend making sure that the shelter is placed at a distance from the benches or sides of the picnic table, especially if wind will move around the tent.

I expect this shelter to last up to five seasons of regular use. Based on my experience with similar shelters, I expect the fiberglass poles breaking in cold weather or high wind is where I would see durability issues.

Features

• Freestanding screened canopy: nearly 360-degree views give you a true outdoor experience without the bugs

• Floorless design: more stable for camp tables and camp chairs than having a floor, less fabric needed so lighter weight and less expensive, allows you to pick it up and put it over a grounded picnic table or up-and-over a sagebrush in the way

• 100 sq ft covered area (120 x 120 in floor footprint): large enough for four or more camp chairs, two or more sprawled out picnic blankets, or a camp table

• 84-inch (7 ft) peak height: high ceilings make this feel extremely roomy.

• 8-pole fiberglass frame with X-shaped architecture: easy for four people to set up in five minutes on their first try

• Front and rear brow poles for door structure and zipper function: slightly curved brow poles make it easier to open and close and keep walls vertical.

• 2 walk-through zippered doors: creates less of a jam when someone needs to leave the shelter

• 360-degree no-see-um mesh walls (40-denier solution-dyed nylon): the star of the show on the Westward shelter.

• 75-denier polyester top and sidewall panels with PU coating and PFAS-free DWR: there’s no rain fly but the water resistance was enough to handle a few very light Sierra thunderstorms and quickly dried after. I’d say it handled what Californians call rain, which is what Pacific Northwest people may call mist.

• 150-denier polyester floor skirt with PU coating and PFAS-free DWR: fabric towards the bottom is thicker and sturdier than the walls since it is more likely to get trampled on.

• Overlapping floor skirt design to prevent crawling insects: looks a little strange but seems to work to keep insects and more importantly, chipmunks and lizards, out.

• Ground-level stake-out points come with four reflective guylines with cleat-lock tighteners included.

• Corner guyout loops (the fabric that guylines attach to) with stakes included.

• Pole repair sleeve included.

• Wide-mouth storage bag with duffel handles is a non-traditional tent stuff sack that rolls more so it’s easier to pack in and out without any stuffing.

• Two organizer stuff sacks for poles, stakes, and guylines.

• Climate Label Certified brand.

• Solution-dyed mesh means reduced water and energy use.

Similar shelters

The REI Westward Shelter screen house is a quality, affordable option. Similar models include the Big Agnes Sage Shelter, which doesn't include mesh walls (they are sold separately for an extra $200). It uses aluminum poles instead of fiberglass poles. Aluminum poles do better in wind and cold but cost more. The NEMO Victory Screenhouse has a similar footprint and price but comes with NEMOs lifetime warranty vs. REI’s 1-year warranty. The NEMO also has more of a semi-rainfly (more weather protection) and a little less 360-degree mesh as a result. It's a little more stable in the wind, too. 

Big Agnes

Nemo Victory

Should I buy the REI Co-op Westward Shelter?

Buy if:

• You camp in buggy environments and want a dedicated bug-free outdoor space for eating, playing games, reading books, doing art, or relaxing in the evening

• You want a bug-free camp shelter that fits over a standard campground picnic table—the 10 x 10 ft footprint is designed exactly for exactly this

• You're already buying or own the REI Co-op Westward 6 Tent and want a matched campsite setup

• You value PFAS-free materials and REI's sustainability credentials and return policy

• You want a shelter with two real walk-through doors rather than a single flap entry

• You want a bug-free hangout place for camping with kids

Skip if:

• You don’t camp in buggy areas—this is not enough of a sunshade to really count on for sun protection and it gets pretty warm inside during midday

• You camp in consistently windy locations—the fiberglass poles and limited guyout points are rated for mild conditions only

• You need rain protection on all sides—the mesh walls will not stop wind-driven rain

• You're budget-conscious—at $329 this is toward the premium end of the screen house category, and other options exist for significantly less

Where to buy the REI Co-op Westward Shelter

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

FAQs

• Does the REI Co-op Westward Shelter fit over a picnic table?

  The shelter's 10 x 10 ft (120 x 120 in) floor footprint is sized to fit over most standard campground picnic tables.

• Will the REI Co-op Westward Shelter keep out rain?

  The 75-denier polyester roof and sidewall panels with DWR coating shed light rain from above. The mesh walls, however, are not waterproof. Wind-driven rain will come through.

• How well does the Westward Shelter hold up in wind?

  REI specifies the shelter for mild wind conditions. It has ground-level stake-out points and four corner guyout loops, but the fiberglass pole construction is less stout than aluminum alternatives. We found it surprisingly windproof during Sierra thunderstorms and in the evening when the wind picked up, but site selection and natural protection will always be the best way to ensure your tent is stable in the wind.

• Does the REI Co-op Westward Shelter pair with the Westward 6 Tent?

  Both products share the same Juniper Blue colorway and are designed as a matched campsite system. They are sold separately. When set-up next to each other, we found they use similar pole structures and instructions, so it made set-up easier.

Why you should trust us / About the author

To test the REI Westward Shelter, Liz Thomas quasi-lived in the shelter for weeks in the Eastern Sierra in everything from Sierra thunderstorms to hot summer days and nights and in extreme wind. In addition to Liz testing, four other people hung out in this tent for chatting, snacking, napping, doing art, and playing games. They also added their perspective on ease of set up, spaciousness, ventilation, and windproofness to this guide.

Liz is an award-winning Los Angeles-based writer and Editor-in-Chief of Treeline Review. A former Fastest Known Time (FKT) record holder on the Appalachian Trail, Liz came to Treeline Review from New York Times/Wirecutter, the New York Times’ product review site, where she was a staff writer on the outdoor team.

Liz has talked gear on Good Morning America (TV), in The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, Buzzfeed, Men’s Journal, Women’s Health, Gizmodo, and Outside Magazine.

You can read more about Liz at her wikipedia page here or on her website. See all her Treeline Review articles on her author page.

June 22nd, 2026, updated with 4 new winners and 2 others tested
Home > Gear Reviews > Footwear

Wet wading shoes are what separates a comfortable day of fishing in the water from a frustrating one. Unlike wading boots, they're lightweight and flexible enough to wear all day moving between water and bank, but unlike regular water shoes or sandals, they're designed specifically for the grip and stability demands of standing and moving through current on slippery river rock. Getting the right pair means understanding which tradeoffs actually matter for how you fish.

We researched and tested the most popular wet wading shoes across waters from Minnesota to Mississippi to Montana to New Mexico, with our primary tester Roberto Flores logging months of field time on the Rio Grande to assess how each shoe performs on long walk-and-wade days and technical river terrain.

What separates a genuinely good wet wading shoe from one that fails you mid-wade comes down to how the rubber sole grips both dry trail and submerged slippery rock, how the fit prevents small rocks and debris from working their way inside over a long day, how the shoe transitions between water and land without becoming uncomfortable, and how the weight compares to traditional wading boots over miles of river hiking.

Top Pick: The Simms Flyweight Wet Wading Shoe earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for a Vibram Idrogrip rubber sole that delivers most of the traction and foot protection of a full wading boot at a fraction of the weight, a sturdy construction that holds up to long days of repeated wet-dry cycles, compatibility with HardBite studs for anglers fishing particularly slippery rock, and a lifetime warranty that makes it a genuine long-term investment.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Wet Wading Shoes Comparison Tables

Men’s Wet Wading Shoes

* Prices reflect MSRP and are subject to change. We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.

Women’s Wet Wading Shoes

* Prices reflect MSRP and are subject to change. We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.

Interested in fishing? See our fishing guides:

• Best Beginner Fly Fishing Combos

• Best Inflatable Kayaks

• Best PFDs and Life Jackets

• How to Get Started Fly Fishing

• Accessible Fly Fishing Guide to the Uncompahgre River

The Best Wet Wading Shoes

Best overall Water Shoe: Simms Flyweight Wet Wading Shoe

Sole: Vibram Idrogrip rubber
Closure System: Laces
Warranty: Lifetime
Size Availability: Men’s 7-14
What We Liked: Lightweight, stud-compatible
What We Didn’t Like: Traction not great on submerged slippery rock, no women’s sizes

After years of testing on the Rio Grande in New Mexico, we think the Simms Flyweight Wet Wading Shoe is the best wet wading shoe. The Simms Flyweight Wet Wading shoe is the best wet wading shoe for a long walk to the river. It's the best shoe for wade days, and the best for covering the most river miles. It's a well-made endurance shoe with all the benefits of wading boots, but is far more lightweight and comfortable.

• Sturdiness

  The Simms Flyweight Wet Wading shoes are sturdy enough to protect one’s feet well, featuring a solid Vibram sticky rubber sole ready to help you balance on those river rocks. In testing, they felt like they offer almost all the benefits of wading boots, but are far more lightweight. In fact, Simms offers the Flyweight as a wading boot for those who want the extra ankle protection.

• Bulk and weight

  Wading boots, more often than not, feel heavy on the feet. In contrast, the Simms Flyweight Wet Wading Shoes are considerably less bulky than a wading boot, which adds comfort for long days on the river.

• Quality

  Immediately upon opening the Simms Flyweight Wet Wading Shoes, tester Roberto Flores thought to himself, "these are truly good quality shoes." The materials look and feel durable. Stepping into them, one can feel how securely they are built.

• Fit and sizing

  The fit itself is comfortable. We like how minimalist and direct the experience of using them is. 

  One thing to be aware of before purchasing these lightweight wading boots is to get the sizing right. Our tester Roberto has a very high arch and the ankle didn't fit correctly, so little rocks kept getting inside the shoe. If he were to do it again, he'd wear these shoes with wading socks or waterproof socks to help mitigate the problem. 

  An online reviewer on the Simms website said they successfully ordered a size and a half larger shoe to fit a neoprene wading sock with it. Many anglers find a neoprene sock helpful to add cushion and improve body temperature over extended use. Wearing a sock can also minimize how much your foot moves around in the shoe. Women’s sizes aren’t available, so if you wear women’s sizes, you will want to seek sizing advice from the brand or retailer directly. 

• Traction

  We found that the Flyweight's traction is reliable on the trail but we found it can be challenging when walking on submerged slippery rock. Depending on what conditions and areas you are fishing, you may want to consider looking into Simms compatible wading boot studs specifically for this purpose.

• Our verdict

  The Simms Flyweight wet wading shoe is an excellent option for anyone who plans to have long wet wading days or hike longer distances to access water while bringing just one shoe. With the Flyweight, you can stay lighter on their feet while staying well-protected. For those looking for many of the benefits of a wading boot without the weight, these will make a solid choice.

Best Upgrade Wet Wading shoe: Orvis PRO Approach Shoe 

Sole: Michelin Outdoor Extreme rubber
Closure System: Laces
Warranty: Lifetime
Size Availability: Men’s 7-14
What We Liked: Integrated Neoprene sock
What We Didn’t Like: Needed a break-in period

The Orvis PRO Approach Shoe is a rugged CrossFit-style sneaker-turned wading shoe. The design is simple yet functional. We appreciated the shoe's grip and protection. We also appreciated its lighter weight and style compared to traditional wading or fly-fishing boots. The Approach Shoe provides the right balance of internal security and exterior grip to help an angler quickly suit up for the water and spend the day tooling around with confidence.

For these reasons, the Orvis PRO Approach Shoe wins our award for best wet wading shoe for slippery rocks.

• Design

  Some of the Orvis Pro Approach Shoe's best features have to do with the design. We like the simple style, the ability to remove its 3D molded OrthoLite insoles, and the lace hood to keep laces out of the way.

  The Orvis Pro comes with an integrated Ariaprene perforated tongue that prevents debris from getting inside yet maintains a good level of breathability for its different possible uses. 

• Comfort

  Our tester, Ashley White, liked the integrated sock and didn’t feel the need for anything else. However, some reviews on the Orvis website mentioned that the integrated sock could rub certain people’s feet and blister their heels. With this in mind, we tried to wear another sock, but found it challenging to do in combination with the included sock. One reviewer found a solution: use an ultralight merino wool sock as a liner. Another alternative is to size up and wear a light wading sock.  

• Ease of use

  Several reviewers mentioned that the shoe itself was hard to get into; this difficulty is because the integrated sock is reinforced and lacks the stretch that allows for different foot shapes to get the shoes on comfortably. For people with high insteps, getting into these wading shoes could be tricky. Other folks found that it became easier to put them on after a few times. 

• Break-in

  Something that stood out for Ashley was the lengthy break-in period necessary for the toe box and heel to mold well to his feet. Like a high-end pair of hiking boots, they have a break-in period but will last for years. For that reason, he thinks of these shoes as a shoe for the long haul, but isn't the pair to get if you need some shoes for a single trip scheduled for next weekend. “I would treat the shoe like I do my hiking boots when first purchased,” says Ashley. 

• Dry time

  We tested these shoes in warm water urban river conditions in Mississippi. They dry fast in two phases. In phase 1, there was no visible water after a few minutes, and in phase 2, they were dry to the touch in about four hours if exposed to complete sunlight. They are only available in Men’s sizes, and they fit true to size.

Best lightweight wet wading shoe: Astral Loyak Ac Water Shoe

Sole: G.15 rubber with Flex-Grip
Lacing System: Laces
Warranty: 1-year limited
Size Availability: Men’s 8-14, Women’s 6-11
What We Liked: Kept the rocks out
What We Didn’t Like: On the narrow side

The Astral Loyak AC has a modern-yet-retro look that pairs well with casual wear as well as water wear. Many reviewers appreciate the ability to use them for various water-related activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, boating, and more. After several of our testers took the Astral Loyak AC from New Mexico to Minnesota, we think these are the best wading shoes for people who want function and fashion in their footwear.

The Astral Loyak AC shoe is versatile from performance to style. It performs well on different surfaces thanks to a grippy rubber sole and a lightweight feel. It looks good with or without socks and feels comfortable either way. While it is best fitted for narrow feet, people with wide feet can size up for comfort. And ultimately, it makes a great alternative to an open-toe water shoe, having minimal water drag and leaving us with significantly fewer rocks in our shoes.

For these reasons, at only 13.8 oz per pair (men's 9), the Astral Loyak wins our award for best lightweight wet wading shoe.

For more info, see our in-depth review of the Astral Loyak AC water shoe or the similar, more sneaker-like Astral Brewer water shoe.

• Lightweight

  At first sight, the Astral Loyak AC look as lightweight as they are. Once I tried one on, I could immediately feel how durable the material was. I was nervous it wouldn’t have enough grip when looking at the tread, but once out on the water, I was proved wrong. These shoes performed well on both the stream and while cross country hiking to a waterfall where rock scrambling also put them to the test. 

• Astral Loyak AC vs. Loyak

  The Astral Loyak AC differs from the original Astral Loyak (men’s and women’s) in a few ways. The Loyak AC is more technical with an ultrafine ripstop mesh and thermoplastic urethane reinforcements to guard against abrasion. The Loyak (not AC) is made of a waterproof canvas. The Loyak AC also has a sock-like entry better suited to keep out rocks. Both feature water drains in the front and back midsoles. You can read more in our review of the Astral Loyak water shoes.

• Comfort

  Because the Loyak AC so lightweight, you can feel the texture of the ground you are stepping on through these shoes. This feature may or may not be optimal for you, depending on your personal preference. We also tested these with and without a wading sock. While wearing a light wading sock, these continued to feel comfortable and allow for comfortable use in colder waters. 

• Our verdict

  If you want to wet wading shoe that you can also wear when you're not fishing, the Astral Loyak is the best-looking option for using on water to pavement.

Best Wading Sandals: Chaco Z/2 Classic Sandals

Men's and Women's

Sole: ChacoGrip rubber
Lacing System: Adjustable straps and buckle
Warranty: Lifetime
Size Availability: Men’s 7-15, Women’s 5-12 (wide available)
What We Liked: Versatile and durable
What We Didn’t Like: Vulnerable to toe injury

The Chaco Z/2 Classics are the best wet wading sandals. Their thick, sturdy rubber sole means they're good for reaching access points. The Chaco Z/2 Classics also scored high for all-day comfort. Overall, the versatility and reliability of a Chaco sandal are what make us keep a pair around specifically for wet wade fishing. I, for one, spent my entire first year of fishing wet wading in a Chaco sandal that is five years old and still as functional as it ever was. We can also easily get behind a vegan-built shoe, and for that, we give Chaco extra points.

The Chaco Z/2 wins for fit and comfort as a wading shoe. “They fit like they were made just for me” reads one of the 400+ five-star reviews of these sandals on the Chaco website. Well, we feel similar. The beauty of the all-around adjustable straps makes these an easy choice for different foot widths, and they also come in wide sizes. The toe loop makes one’s steps feel safe and foot better connected to the footbed. That's one reason the Chaco Z/2 is also a winner in our Best Plus Size Outdoor Gear — because it's that comfortable for every body. The Chaco X/2 Classic is also a winner in our Best Hiking Sandals guide and our Best Plus Size Outdoor Gear guide.

• Adjustable straps

  Not to completely romanticize the strap system, as it can take some tries to find the right adjustments for one’s foot. The strap system is a dream for people with wider feet. We noticed that the buckle strap's end will hang a bit too long for those with very slim feet. As someone with slim feet, I usually wrap it around one of the side straps to keep me from feeling like I will step on it; I also know people who choose to clip the ends shorter.

• Arch support and stability

  The footbed of the Z/2® Classic provides solid arch support. They have a good balance of sturdiness and flexibility. The rubber sole provides confidence for the trail and rock scrambles around river banks. Several of our wading shoe testers have worn precursor Chaco models at some point in their wading lives, and durability has not been an issue. 

• Versatility

  Depending on the temperature, one weakness of the shoe — as with any wading sandals — is that your toes and skin will be exposed to the elements. However, one workaround we appreciate for cooler days is that one can flatten and step on the toe loop to wear them as a combo with a wading socks for added temperature comfort. 

• Risks of sandals

  One thing to keep in mind about wading sandals is that exposure has a safety impact. Tester Serene Cusack says, “It is not a matter of if, but when, a toenail injury will strike when wet wading in Chacos.” If that toe loop isn’t there, it could compromise the bottom of the shoe staying well attached to the angler’s foot on rocky and feisty river bottoms. If using these from a boat, an angler can get their fly line tangled on the end of the buckle strap. But in this case, you take some risks in exchange for the added comfort of wading sandals. 

• Best uses

  But like with every shoe, we advise careful steps once in the water. As a category, wet wading sandals are best for casual trips or shorter, single-access fishing trips.

  One tip Serene shared, though, which I support, is to save your Chacos for the not-very-technical water areas and shorter wet wade fishing outings. This will reduce the risks of stubbing a toe and lower the total number of toenails lost. 

• Our verdict

  Throw a pair of Chacos in your car for when a creek looks too good to drive by, or a straightforward river would benefit from a few extra steps into the water to get your cast right into the honey hole.

Best Multi-Use: Salomon TechAmphibiaN 5

Men's and Women's

Sole: Water Contragrip
Closure System: Quicklace
Size Availability: 7-14 (men's) and 5-11 (women's)
What We Liked: fit, comfort, technical features, feels like a step up from the Amphib bold
What We Didn’t Like: We’re still testing!

The Salomon TECHAMPHIBIAN 5 is a winner in our best water shoes guide for its traction and comfort for longer approaches.

The Salomon TECHAMPHIBIAN 5 is designed for use in wet terrain. It's quick drying with breathable materials and has a reinforced toe cap useful for walking in rocky creeks.

This shoe is a no-brainer for folks who like to be ready for multiple types of adventure without needing to pack or own a different shoe for each possibility. Though it is in and around water where these shoes shine most, with some of the fastest drying times I've seen in any water shoe. 

Overall, the TECHAMPHIBIAN 5 shoes performed well in the contrasting weather conditions and terrains of the river, stream, estuary, high desert, alpine, and tropical forest–from New Mexico to Puerto Rico, from fishing and kayaking to hiking and backpacking.

Although it isn't the absolute least expensive wet-wading shoe, we think its multi-use makes the Salomon TECHAMPHIBIAN 5 a good value. It's also (aside from sandals) the least expensive wet wading shoe we tested. For that reason, we think the Salomon TECHAMPHIBIAN 5 is the best budget wet wading shoe.

Check out why we think this is the best multi-use wet wading shoe in our in-depth review of the Salomon TECHAMPHIBIAN 5

• Sturdiness for wet wading

  The TECHAMPHIBIAN 5 is sturdier where it’s most needed for wading: the sole and toe cap, remaining moderately flexible overall, and distinctively breathable on its mesh upper (great for everything). They dried fairly quickly after being rained on or submerged for extended periods. They are also comfortable to wear, with minor breaking-in necessary depending on the activity and your foot. 

• Versatility

  While we started testing the Salomon TECHAMPHIBIAN 5 as a wading shoe, it quickly became an all-around review due to its versatility as a water and trail shoe. We used them while wading/water, hiking, and backpacking. They also perform really nicely on cement, making it a go-to travel shoe that can come with you on all sorts of urban and outdoor adventures. 

  The longest hike I did in them was an 11-mile loop with 2,730ft gain passing through the summit of Truchas Peak, the highest point in Santa Fe, NM. While I originally did not intend to bring these shoes on such an adventure (oops!), I was not mad I did.

• Comfort

  I wore them without socks and had no significant concerns about them rubbing on my skin while in the water. Kayaking in these shoes was a delight. I didn’t lose the shoes to the muddy estuary bottom nor did I have to worry about slipping while stepping through the water in the dark.

  They're also not quite as supportive and plushy as a proper hiking shoe might feel, but they're also not as hard as you might think from its sole rigidity.

Best Neoprene Wet Wading Shoe: NRS Workboot Wetshoes

Sole: Rubber lug
Closure System: Laces and ankle strap
Size Availability: Men’s 6-15
What We Liked: Traction, comfort
What We Didn’t Like: Integrated sock is not for everyone

Depending on who you are, the NRS Workboot Wetshoes might just make you feel like a secret agent confidently pushing through waters, or like a competition jazz dancer leaping and sashaying through the river. These alternatives to ultralight wading boots were tested by Sarah Burtis at Button Rock Creek in Lyons, CO, in late fall. She wore a thin sock in addition to the integrated Neoprene sock, and it worked great for her hike to the creek, during which she described feeling “extremely comfortable.”

• Traction

  Many reviewers on the NRS website and Amazon praise how grippy these lightweight wading boots are around the water. Sarah says she had “no issues with traction on otherwise slippery rocks.” Several kayakers (from consumer reviews) swear by these boots as they fit well in their limited space while keeping them safe when loading/unloading their kayaks.

  Some reviews online mentioned that these wading boots have longer drying times, but Sarah found that they dried quickly in an arid environment when left in the sun.

• Comfort and sizing

  These wading boots are available in men’s sizes only and run very small. Sarah originally ordered them in her true size but exchanged them for the next size up. Several other online reviewers did the same, and some even had to go up 2 sizes to find their better fit. A few who only went up a half size shared that they fit snug but not uncomfortably; keep in mind that this probably wouldn’t work for folks wanting to add an extra sock to the equation. 

• Ease of use

  The integrated sock was a deal-breaker for some users because it increased difficulty getting them on and off. Other people didn’t think it was that difficult. We can understand this is an issue that depends, yet again, on the shape of one’s foot. Sarah points out that while having the integrated neoprene sock, the shoes didn’t keep her feet as warm as she expected. That’s the only reason her experience at the river wasn’t as comfortable as on the trail.

Other Wet Wading Shoes we Tested

Lem's Switchback Knit Sandals

Men's and Women's

Sole: Full rubber
Closure System: Adjustable straps and buckle
Size Availability: 5-15
What We Liked: Comfort, wide sizing, dries quickly, replaceable parts
What We Didn’t Like: More casual than technical

Some people find the Chaco Z/2 we recommend as the best wet wading shoe to be too heavy or find the straps to dig and chafe. The Switchback Knit is a wide-toebox sandal that has soft knit straps that don't dig, chafe, or blister. The knit material is secure and dries quickly. 

However, we found the outsole traction to be less robust than that of other wet wading sandals we tested. These are great sandals for walking and hiking, and they are even good water shoes for less slippery rocks. However, for fishing and traversing more slippery rocks, we think a more technical shoe will suit you better.

Read our in-depth review of the Lems Switchback Knit Sandals for more information.

Lem's Switchback Knit Sandals

Astral Loyak

Sole: Rubber lug
Closure System: Laces
Size Availability: 8-13
What We Liked: All arounder
What We Didn’t Like: Doesn't dry as quickly as other wet wading shoes

The Astral Loyak is similar to the Astral Loyak AC, which won our award for best lightweight wet wading shoe. 

The Astral Loyak took our top overall best water shoe award because it hits the best balance of features that actually matter in a water shoe: excellent grip, solid drainage, comfortable barefoot wear, and enough versatility that it doesn’t feel like a single-use piece of gear. 

It was great for paddleboarding, walking the dock, and the beach. However, it was slow to dry. And when it came to wet wading, fishing, and anything that took us to slippery river banks, we found the Astral Loyak AC was better.

For more, read our in-depth review of the Astral Loyak water shoe.

Astral Loyak

What is a wading shoe? 

Wet wading season runs from late, late spring to early fall (depending on personal temperature tolerance and local weather). Wet wading season is when anglers all around give their waders and wading boots a break to get out and catch fish in lighter gear. Enter the wading shoe!

What is wading?

Wading is the craft of navigating by foot through lakes, surf, streams, and rivers. Each place will have specific challenges and needs when choosing the proper footwear. Wading shoes are different from hiking or creek crossing shoes that occasionally get wet: wading shoes need to be something an angler can spend an entire day (or night) in, standing and moving around in the water. Having a good wading shoe can be the difference between a great, safe time fishing and an unnecessarily sore, injured, or broken [enter suffering body part here]. 

When it comes to choosing which shoe may be the best fit for you, this depends very much on the type of water you frequent most: are you spending time in small creeks, large raging rivers with strong currents, brackish tidal marshes, or still water shorelines? The ideal shoes for each location vary, with different demands for fit, traction, breathability, and so forth. To better help you decide, we’ve tested a variety of shoes in waters ranging from East to West.

What to look for in a wet wading shoe

Here’s what makes a good wet wading shoe, along with the criteria we used to judge dozens of models out there.

Price range: $50-$100

One of the advantages of choosing wading shoes over a fly fishing wading boot or waders is the price. While the best wading boot options can run up to $300, the highest-end wading shoe will be about half that price.

We think between $50 to $100 is a reasonable price for a wading shoe. In our testing, we found that a product's durability seems to decline significantly when spending less. This results in more purchases required over time, and ultimately is less sustainable. 

On the other hand, you can spend more than $100 on a wading shoe, but we think that you won’t be gaining any additional features aside from maybe better style.

Size availability and men’s and women’s options

We like to offer sizing options that are inclusive of outdoor folks of all body types. Not all of these have inclusive options, but we’ll call them out in each review.

Drainage or drying time

A fast-drying shoe is crucial because it minimizes the chances of mold around your belongings. With that said, the drying time will depend as much on the shoe's composition as on the climate.

Weight range

A good shoe weight range depends more on personal preference than anything else. A shoe made of heavier materials might indeed last longer. But if you are not comfortable wearing heavy shoes, you will not have a good time while fishing. Something to note is that wading shoes are the lightweight alternative to the classic, bulkier, and sturdier wading boots (review coming soon).

Lacing/Lacing systems

We found a range of traditional lacing systems, twist cinches, Velcro, and well-placed straps on the wet wading shoe and fishing boots market. 

Why is this important for different types of fishing? Depending on the type of fishing you most frequently partake in, different lacing systems may suit you better. Here are some examples to put this into perspective:  

• Having to re-tie traditional laces in strong river currents can be annoying.

• Cinch systems can sometimes clog with fine sediment in still water. This may be detrimental to the shoe's longevity.

• Insecure and less form-fitting straps may be unable to keep a shoe on your foot in fast water or on slippery rocks.

• Velcro (hook-and-loop) systems can inadvertently transport microorganisms to and from sensitive watersheds. You'll need to scrub them out of the Velcro to avoid introducing microorganisms to new watersheds. This can be an extra chore that you may not want to do every time you fish somewhere new.

With all of that in mind, different conditions will favor one system over another, making the cinch system an essential consideration for your purchase. 

Durability

If a wading shoe lasts me for 2 years, then I’m happy. But that’s for someone like me, who would wear this shoe every weekend for half of the year, which is a lot. For occasional anglers, you may find that a good shoe can last you a very long time. 

Environmental Sustainability

This consideration goes beyond the use of sustainable materials or the overall durability of a shoe product. 

Sustainability also recognizes the sensitive nature of recreating in aquatic environments and aims to minimize our environmental footprint with our movements in these natural spaces. Having the right shoe can make our interactions less stressful on the environment or, alternatively, leave a lasting impact well beyond our presence. 

The ability to clean shoes between uses in different locations is big; we gave bonus points for shoes that dry thoroughly to avoid growing bacteria or transporting organisms in the back of a car trunk. If you’re familiar with the wet waders funk of late summer in your car, expect similar odors if you don’t air out your wading shoes or rinse them between uses. Having shoes that hold up to rinse-and-repeat use over time is beneficial for your wallet and the ecosystems you wade into.

Traction

Part of wet wading is moving and keeping your balance on slippery rocks and in swift-moving water in creeks and rivers. Traction is essential to staying safe and upright so you can focus on fishing. Different wet wading shoes use different technologies to do this. Some brands use name-brand outsoles, such as Vibram. Others use their own proprietary soles.

Grip

The grip you find on a wet wading shoe is sometimes different from that on a hiking shoe or hiking boot. Wet wading shoe grip is designed for mud and slippery wet rocks, and not loose, dry steep trails. While most wet wading shoes will have decent grip for dry climates, as you likely will have to descend a dry bank to reach the water, the best wet wading shoes must have good grip for when you’re in the river.

Protection

When you’re standing in the river, your feet will be exposed to pointy rocks, sticks, and debris that may be floating in the water or at the bottom of the water. Wet-wading shoes not only keep you more stable while walking and standing in the river but also protect your feet and toes from cuts. Most of the wet wading shoes we recommend offer ample toe protection, except for the best wet wading sandals. If you choose wet wading sandals, just know the trade-offs. You’ll sacrifice some protection for comfort.

Support and stability

Related to protection, we find that support and stability are important in a wet wading shoe. Although less important than in a hiking sandal, we find that support is still important if you’ll be walking on rocks and uneven ground to reach the water. The best example is the Lem’s Switchback Knit hiking sandals, which feature an EVA midsole (similar to trail-running shoes) and dry quickly when wet.

Which lacing system should I get for my wet wading shoes?

Here are our recommendations for what will work best for your most frequently fished spots:

Laces

Laces are best for semi-aquatic fishing, such as perched on rocky riverbanks rather than actually standing in current for long periods. Also, laces work well in rivers, where minimal debris can get caught in them, while taking steps in the water or through underbrush. 

Velcro and Adjustable Straps

Velcro (also called hook-and-loop) and adjustable strap systems are best for anglers wading in fast currents and resilient ecosystems.

Cinch

A cinch lacing system is best for those who change footwear between access points, for quick, secure sizing, and for use in spaces without fine sediment.

Care and maintenance of wet wading shoes for fly fishing

Wet wading shoes lead a hard life. They get submerged, dragged across rocks, caked in sediment, and stuffed into the back of a car trunk still damp. Taking care of them properly is the difference between a shoe that lasts two seasons and one that lasts five.

Rinse after every use

This is the single most important habit. Freshwater rinses off sediment, algae, salt, and whatever else the river deposited into the seams and lacing systems. If you're fishing in saltwater, a thorough rinse is non-negotiable since salt accelerates material breakdown faster than anything else. A soft brush helps get into the lugs on the soles and around lace eyelets, where debris hides.

Dry them completely before storing

The wet waders funk that builds up over a summer of fishing is largely a storage problem. Shoes stuffed into a bag or trunk while still damp develop mold and odor that is very hard to reverse. Remove insoles and let them dry separately. Let the shoes air-dry at room temperature, away from direct heat sources, which can warp soles and degrade adhesives. If you're in a humid climate, a fan helps. If you're in the high desert like some of our testers, a few hours in the shade does the job.

Clean the lacing system

Different lacing systems need different attention. Traditional laces can be removed and hand washed. Cinch systems can clog with fine sediment over time, so flush them out with water and work the mechanism after fishing in silty conditions. Velcro closures require particular attention, as they trap debris and can inadvertently transport aquatic organisms between watersheds. Scrub Velcro thoroughly between trips to different bodies of water.

Mind the biosecurity

This matters more in fly fishing than in most outdoor activities. Felt soles are banned in many states because they harbor invasive species. Even rubber-soled shoes can transport whirling disease, didymo, and other aquatic invasives if not cleaned properly between uses. Rinse, scrub, and dry thoroughly before transferring shoes between watersheds. Some anglers keep a dedicated brush in their gear bag specifically for this.

Check for wear regularly

Inspect the soles for separation from the upper, check the stitching around the toe box, where abuse tends to concentrate, and check the lace attachment points for fraying. A small repair handled early is almost always easier and cheaper than replacing a shoe. Shoe adhesive handles most sole separations if caught before they progress.

Store them right

Once dry, store shoes in a breathable bag or on an open shelf rather than in a sealed plastic bag. Trapped moisture, even from residual dampness, can lead to odors and mildew. Keep them somewhere with airflow between uses.

FAQ

• What is the difference between wet wading shoes and regular fishing shoes?

  Wet wading shoes are designed for warm-weather fishing, especially when standing in rivers or shallow streams without full waders. Traditional fishing gear often includes chest-high waders and wading boots, which are bulky and better suited for cold water. They're also more expensive than wet wading shoes, meaning not everyone can get out on the water. Wet wading shoes are lighter, more breathable, more affordable, more versatile, and ideal for summer fly fishing or fishing from the shore.

• Do I need special socks or booties with wet wading shoes?

  Not always—it depends on the shoe design and the water temperature. Some anglers prefer wearing neoprene wading socks or waterproof socks for added comfort and warmth, especially in the spring and fall. If you plan to wear socks, consider sizing up, as many wet wading shoes are sized for barefoot use. Shoes like Astrals are often designed to be worn without socks.

• Can I wear wet wading shoes without waders?

  Yes. Wet wading shoes are made to be worn without waders. They’re ideal for warm-weather fishing when you want to stay cool in the water. In fact, most wet wading shoes won’t fit over waders and aren’t designed for cold weather or deep water.

• Can wet wading shoes be used for other water activities?

  Definitely. Many wet wading shoes work well for hiking, boating, kayaking, or even casual swimming spots—just make sure they offer enough grip and support for your activity. Some models even appear in our Best Hiking Sandals guide thanks to their versatility.

• Can I wear wet wading shoes in saltwater?

  Yes, wet wading shoes can be used in saltwater. Just be sure to rinse them thoroughly with fresh water and let them dry completely after each use to prevent corrosion, odors, or damage from salt buildup.

• How should wet wading shoes fit?

  Wet wading shoes should fit snugly but not tight. A secure fit helps prevent blisters and keeps debris out. If you plan to wear socks or neoprene booties, size up accordingly.

• How do I clean and care for wet wading shoes?

  Rinse your shoes with fresh water after every use—especially after saltwater exposure. Let them dry completely in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or using a heat source to dry them.

How we researched and tested

To test wet wading shoes, we asked anglers across the country to fish in them and adventure in varied conditions. 

We incorporated feedback from anglers with access points from New Mexico, Minnesota, Colorado, and Montana. These fishing spots varied in all the ways rivers manifest-fast and slow currents, freestone river bottoms, mucky sediment, slippery rocks, mixed vegetation, and so forth.

Walk-and-wade fishing is an accessible way to get a line in the water, though for some, it’s only an option in warm weather due to the high cost and limited sizing of waders. 

While this remains a barrier, our gear testers are particularly accustomed to walking and fishing in water without waders, have stubbed plenty of toes on rocks, slipped, lost their balance, and even sometimes successfully navigated a river in wading shoes. 

Given these experiences (and bruises), we have a good sense of what to look for in wading shoe durability, structure, toe protection, traction, and beyond.

Since most fly fishing gear reviews come from white male writers, our community approach for this piece aims to shift that perspective norm — something we’ll continue in future fishing-related reviews. 

We considered drying times for each shoe by averaging its drying times. Drying time varies with local climate, temperature, and humidity, but each review will specify what to expect for that shoe in the environment where we tested it. 

This criterion should help deduce how a particular shoe might perform elsewhere. For example, we tested some of the shoes in the high desert of New Mexico; we couldn’t compare drying times there with those for the shoes we tested in Michigan. Keep in mind — it’s all relative.

About the Author/Why The Reader Should Trust Us

This guide is shaped by the lived experiences of several anglers. We are all connected through a love of fly fishing, and collectively, we have caught many fish over four decades of practice. Some of our testers are fishing guides, and some do it recreationally (and obsessively, to be fair). We’ve tasked each person with the shoe we thought would be best for their fit and location. We also made sure not to overlap any pre-existing ambassadorships with our testers to give you the most unbiased review possible.

Gabaccia Moreno compiled the field testing results and collective experiences for this guide. Gabaccia is a first-generation Mexican-American outdoor equity advocate and multi-disciplinary storyteller #ExploringResponsibly wherever life takes her.

You can read more about Gabaccia on her website.

I am not sponsored, an ambassador, or an employee of any of the companies mentioned here. This review is unbiased, and we do this to help you find the best product for the price. Treeline Review doesn’t accept sponsored content, native advertising, or paid reviews.

You can read all of Gabaccia's stories on her author page.

Sources

What to wear wet wading: Colorado Trouts Unlimited

How to choose the right gear for Wet Wading

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June 18th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Backpacking

Our verdict

Overall, the updated NEMO Dragonfly OSMO backpacking tent offers the same fantastic weather and rain protection as other OSMO fabric tents, with an even better design for more headroom and livability, including a taller peak height inside thanks to a new pole design. 

We tested the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO in the 2-person size and the 1-person size a few months prior in beta testing.

We found the pole attachments at the ends—where the tent and fly attach to the body corners—trickier to assemble than on some other tents, but otherwise we have almost no negative feedback. This is a lightweight and comfortable 2P tent with lots of great upgrades. 

The NEMO Dragonfly OSMO backpacking tent is best suited for frequent backpackers who want to prioritize comfort, livable space, and reliable waterproof protection. It’s best for backpackers who don’t mind a little extra weight (compared to, say, a Hexamid or Six Moon tent) and an asymmetrical design.

Read on for our full review, and find more of our favorites in our Best Backpacking Tents guide.

NEMO Dragonfly OSMO 2P Tent Specifications

• Season: 3-season

• Design: Freestanding

• Weight: 2 lb 13 oz (trail weight), 3 lb 5 oz (total packed weight) 

• Packed size: 18" x 5"

• Floor area: 29 ft² (88” x 50”/45” head/foot, tapered end)

• Vestibule area: 8.6 ft² + 8.6 ft²

• Head height: 40-41”

• Poles: DIAPOLE recycled aluminum poles

• Rainfly/floor: PFAS-free 100% recycled OSMO fabric

• Taped seams? Y

Comparison table

Best for

• Frequent, experienced backpackers

• Those who want to maximize living space (and comfort) on trail

• Those who prefer a traditional pole tent to trekking pole setups or tarps

• Backpackers who want versatility and capability across 3-seasons

What we liked

• Overall performance in weather, precipitation, and all conditions 

• Roomy interior, and gear/pocket storage

• Guylines included 

• Complete redesign of poles and cross-pole for more space

• OSMO fabric is more stretch-resistant, seems more durable, and is not as thin/light as competitor fabrics. 

What could be better

• The ball-in-socket attachments were slightly difficult for me (someone with poppy joints), and would be very difficult for anyone with arthritis or people who find themselves always pitching their tent in the dark, and is nearly impossible to do one handed; as well as any adaptive users

• Questionable durability of the plastic in the tent corner clip component over time

• The rainfly attachment piece is not very intuitive

• Wish a footprint was included for the price ($550)

How we tested

We tested the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO tent overnight on a media trip (during beta testing), as well as on our own in the mountains, foothills, and dirt of Colorado. We tested from roughly February through May, in all sorts of weather, including wind and light and heavy rain. Even though most parts of Colorado are now in a stage 1 drought, we were very happy to have the chance to test the tent’s fabric in inclement weather. 

We tested on overnight group and solo backpacking trips, as well as one camping and climbing trip. I also tested solo on a few short overnights in late May (to take advantage of rainy days for testing). This tent saw rocky, gravely terrain; grounds covered with pine needles and dry debris; sandy, soft, dispersed sites; and everything in between.

We tested this tent alongside other previous-year NEMO tents to compare fabric and design in the new 2026 Dragonfly OSMO. We also directly compared performance and features to similar backpacking tents in our Best Backpacking Tents guide, like the Big Agnes Copper Spur, REI Half Dome 2, and NEMO Hornet. 

Performance in the field

Colorado is currently in a stage 1 drought in the area where I live, and a stage 2 drought in a nearby town, due to a dry winter and record-low snowpack. (The worst snowpack since 1981, to be specific.) 

And yet, I somehow got not one but three chances to test the NEMO OSMO Dragonfly 2p in the rain: once on a 2-night trip (mostly light but consistent rain), another time, briefly, during a sunny spring shower, and once more in late May, with rain off and on overnight. I also had ample chances to test in the dirt, out mountain canyons, and in the sunshine. 

The tent came with me on a 2-night camping and climbing trip where I wanted to pack light and minimally, and then on a hike-in overnight solo trip (again, the goal was to pack a light but durable tent). I even tested this tent alongside previous-year NEMO tents to compare the fabric and design of the new 2026 Dragonfly OSMO.

Setup

The setup is the one area that I think will be new for some tent users. This is a well-designed tent, for sure, but it is less simple than other symmetrical backpacking tents you’ll find. 

To set it up correctly, the poles need to be oriented both the right way up and oriented to the correct tent side. The pole ends are color-coded to help with this. The cross pole has a center clip that you’ll also need to attach to keep the tent's peak taut. They were durable and easy to clean. The poles are great in terms of durability. The stakes that this tent comes with definitely weren’t the lightest that I’ve used, but that’s OK. 

Finally, one of NEMO Dragonfly’s extra features, the gear landing zone (a sort of bucket clipped into the vestibule to stash shoes/gear), was easy to attach. 

Comfort

This 2-person tent is super comfortable in terms of interior space, vestibule space, livability, and headroom. I am 5’8”, not super tall, and I had at least 6 inches of headroom above my head sitting up and the peak of the tent. It’s comfortable with two people (or one plus a big pack) if you end up wanting to buy one tent that can work for 2-person or solo backcountry trips. 

Ventilation

This tent is spacious with two doors. Each door has two door tie-backs (one on the mesh door and one on the fly), if you prefer to leave the mesh doors open with the fly closed or for greater ventilation. The rainfly has ventilating slits with stays on both door sides and a third side. The two-way zippers on both the tent and the fly can be opened to your liking. 

In testing, I had the rainfly on most nights, but I had one day out in the open without needing to use it. In general, I found this tent to be plenty spacious and well-ventilated, especially compared to the Big Agnes Copper Spur (felt more spacious inside) and the REI Half Dome 2.

Weather protection

This tent performed incredibly well in wind, chillier weather (around low ~40s°F but above freezing) up to the high 60s and 70s in the mountains, and all kinds of rain.

The pole design keeps the tent fairly sturdy in wind, and the cross-pole specifically is very secure. On a clear night, the asymmetrical tent holds up well without the fly in light wind (if you want to stargaze). The tent corners (with the fly attached), like most backpacking tents, can be cinched down and secured tighter if needed, depending on the weather.

One thing I noticed was that there are a fair number of plastic parts in the tent fly corner attachment pieces. I didn’t have any issues with the pieces' durability or breaking, but this could be a durability concern in the future. I’m not sure how easily you could repair these parts in the field because of their unique shape and their attachment to the corners. The ball end of the poles is metal, while the socket receiver is a molded plastic.

Features

Asymmetrical shape

The asymmetrical shape was easy enough to figure out how to set up, and the poles are color-coded (see below). The asymmetrical shape also means the end with more headspace has more poles overhead (which I didn’t like as much when looking up at the night sky), but the opposite end with just the gear loft is fantastic for stargazing.

Overall, the asymmetrical shape is a bit different but doesn’t impact livability and has lots of pros (more room and livability where you need it). With two people, the tent still felt spacious for a lightweight two-person tent, and with one person, I could absolutely sprawl—comfortable while reading in my tent, side-sleeping, and repacking my pack before the day ahead.

NEMO OSMO fabric

NEMO’s unique OSMO fabric is a unique poly-nylon composite that is PFAS free. This composite fabric, aka OSMO fabric, delivers 4x longer-lasting water repellency than comparable woven tent fabrics and stretches 3x less when wet. It’s designed to offer all this with both high durability and a lower weight in mind. 

In comparison to Big Agnes’ newest Hyperbead fabric, I found the weave on the OSMO fabric, both on the tent floor and on the rainfly, seems more durable and tighter, and the fly fabric doesn’t feel as thin or translucent. Aside from other strengths of the two fabrics, the OSMO fabric’s 1,500mm waterproof rating may offer better performance in heavy rain. It seems to have the same amount of tightness and stretch when wet, and potentially better durability.

Dual vestibules and storage

What can I say: even in lightweight backpacking tents, having two doors and two vestibules is pretty nice and the way to go for my usual tent partner and me. Two vestibules give you so much extended livable space and storage too (~8.6 sq feet for each of the vestibule areas is great, and 29 sq. feet inside the tent)—nearly the same as the REI Half Dome 2 (short by 2 sq.ft inside) and at least as much as the Big Agnes Copper Spur. When hanging around at my dispersed campsites, I was able to stash dirty shoes, poles, or a sit pad/chair under the vestibule. 

Ventilation and condensation

I didn’t experience any condensation inside this tent, although I wasn't able to test it in a humid climate or near a body of water. The rain fly weave is very tight, but the tent body itself has great ventilation, as tested overnight in about 2-3 hours of light to medium rain. Here in Colorado, we weren’t able to test in larger storms or extended wet conditions beyond that, but we plan to in continued testing. 

I have previously experienced some condensation on the fly with the Big Agnes Tiger Wall, which I haven’t yet encountered with this tent. 

Extra highlights

The NEMO Dragonfly comes with a large gear loft inside the tent, two nightlight pockets, stakes and a separate stake sack, and one vestibule gear tub to attach to the fly and floor.

Sustainability

NEMO values both the people and the planet as part of its brand values. Its office space is 100% powered by renewable energy, and the brand prioritizes longevity in design and quality elements of its tents, such as investing in bluesign-certified fabrics and creating its 100% recycled OSMO tent fabric, which is PFAS- and FRC-free and designed to last longer and remain durable when wet. 

NEMO also has an Endless Promise Collection of gear that prioritizes recyclability and repairability to keep gear out of landfills.

Updates on Dragonfly Tent Over the Years

The NEMO Dragonfly OSMO has been fully redesigned for 2026. It is comparable to the previous iterations of the Dragonfly tent, but has so many design updates (covered above/below in our testing) that we thought we’d go over them in their own section here. 

• Pole layout and design (including cross-pole)—redesigned

• More interior liveable space—spaciousness improved

• Tent materials and layout/design—greatly improved

• More durable recycled aluminum poles—durability greatly improved

• Integrated rainfly clips and fly attachment points—a good design improvement, but finicky

NEMO Dragonfly vs. similar tents

The NEMO Dragonfly is similar to many other current NEMO tents on the market, including the NEMO Dagger OSMO and the Big Agnes Copper Spur. However, there are some key differences. 

In short, it all comes down to the pole design and tent shape, and whether you want to prioritize peak height, interior space, and livability, or prioritize a balance of livability and weight. You’ll also want to consider whether you want a truly freestanding tent (that would be the NEMO Dragonfly or Big Agnes Copper Spur, vs. semi-freestanding options like the NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO or Big Agnes Tiger Wall).

Should you buy the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO?

• Buy if you want a true 3-season tent that can handle all sorts of weather with more/maximum headspace, and a reliable, durable design.

• Skip if you want a tent that is more easy/intuitive to set up, or you want more living space at a lighter weight.

Where to buy the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO?

The NEMO Dragonfly OSMO backpacking tent is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

Amazon

Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership

Backcountry

Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent

Advice on where to buy

In general for gear, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI.

Similar backpacking tents

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2

Season: 3-season
Design: Freestanding
Weight: 2 lb 6 oz (total), 2 lb (trail), 1 lb 10 oz (fast fly)
Packed size: 19.5" x 4"
Floor area: 29 ft²
Vestibule area: 9 ft² x 2
Awning coverage: 9 ft²
Head height: 40”
Poles: DAC Featherlite NFL, NSL, and pressfit poles
Rainfly/floor material: Proprietary HyperBead 15D nylon solution-dyed ripstop and 20D solution-dyed ripstop (floor) and 1500mm waterproof coating (PFAS free)

The Big Agnes Copper Spur is a similar freestanding tent. The Copper Spur offers the same floor space as the NEMO (29 sq. ft.) and a symmetrical design with 2 vestibules. It has tons of pockets and internal gear storage, and a huge door. The door opens up into several configurations and into an awning setup (requires trekking poles or extra guylines to set up) for maximum livable space. 

If lightweight comfort is your jam and performance and sustainability are still front of mind, consider the Copper Spur, which won our Overall Best Backpacking Tent award. You can read more in my in-depth review of the Big Agnes Copper Spur.

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL Tent

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NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO

Season: 3-season
Design: Semi-Freestanding
Weight: 2 lb 1 oz (total), 1 lb 11 oz (trail weight)
Packed size: 19" x 4.0"
Floor area: 27.3 ft²
Vestibule area: 6.2 ft² + 6.2 ft²
Head height: 37"
Poles: DIAPOLE premium anodized aluminum poles pre-bent
Rainfly/floor: OSMO ripstop rain fly with 1200 mm hydrostatic rating (PFAS-free); floor of OSMO ripstop with 1500 mm hydrostatic rating (PFAS-free)

NEMO considers sustainability when it comes to building all their tents. You can’t really go wrong with either tent if you are choosing between the two—they are pretty similar, except for a few extra inches of height/headspace. The biggest difference is that the Dragonfly OSMO is a freestanding tent (and thus, a little heavier) with larger vestibules. The Hornet Elite OSMO is more tapered and lighter in weight. 

The NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO tent won best lightweight in our Best Backpacking Tents guide. Learn more in our in-depth review of the NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO backpacking tent.

NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO

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Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2

Season: 3-season
Design: Semi-Freestanding
Weight: 2 lb 8 oz (total), 2 lb 3 oz (trail), 1 lb 7 oz (fast fly setup)
Packed size: 18" x 5"
Floor area: 28 ft²
Vestibule area: 8 ft² + 8 ft²
Head height: 39"
Poles: DAC Featherlite NFL pole
Rainfly/floor: HyperBead recycled 15D nylon ripstop with 1500mm waterproof coating (PFAS-free), with waterproof and solvent-free taped seams

The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2, compared to the NEMO Dragonfly, has a similar waterproof head rating, but is much thinner and lighter in material. While it’s a tight weave, it feels less durable than the NEMO Dragonfly’s OSMO fly. The Tiger Wall is also only semi-freestanding and not a true, roomy 2-person—it feels like a tapered, slimmer backpacking 2-person. The vestibule areas are slightly smaller, and the poles are thinner.

The reflectivity of the guy lines on the Tiger Wall beats out the reflective elements on the Dragonfly. Pick the Tiger Wall 2 if you want a lower trail weight over roominess, and care more about weatherproofing in three-season than interior livability on trail. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Big Agnes Tiger Wall backpacking tent.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL Tent

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Why you should trust us / About the author

Our tester has a long career in the outdoors, with over 400 nights backpacking. Aside from backpacking trips and other adventures, she gets out as much as she can across all 4 seasons. For Mary, having a durable yet light tent that can flex to fit multiple scenarios—especially solo trips—is a must. This year, Colorado had an exceptionally dry and warm winter, so even at and above elevation, we have favorable weather for tent testing. This made testing a blast in warmer, spring temps from Feb—May. Mary was able to test this tent in the sun, in the clouds, in the wind, and in light rain. All her testing occurred in Colorado, at an altitude between 5,800 and 10,000 feet. 

Mary has section-hiked on the CDT, CT, and AT; completed the Wonderland Trail; done a self-supported, pack-paddleboard trip in remote British Columbia; and backpacked throughout the U.S., Canada, Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, and Nepal. Backpacking and traveling are some of her favorite ways to experience new places and the outdoors. You’ll likely find her somewhere along Colorado’s Front Range trail running, rock climbing, hiking, backpacking, SUPing, or scrambling up a 14er. She’s based in Golden, Colo and is a self-proclaimed gear nerd. 

Find more of Mary Murphy’s reviews on her Treeline Review author page.

June 19th, 2026, with more models tested
Home > Gear Reviews > Running

Running socks are one of those purchases most runners make without thinking too hard about it until they get a blister at mile eight and start reconsidering everything. The right sock manages moisture, stays put around the heel, and has enough cushion for the surface you're running on without overheating your foot. The wrong one causes the exact problems you were hoping your running shoes would solve.

We've tested running socks across 9,000 combined miles of running and hiking in Colorado, Arizona, and California, covering everything from packed dirt roads to technical alpine routes to dry winter snow, in temperatures ranging from 20 to 100-plus degrees. Testing at 7,000 feet in the high desert accelerates the kind of sock failures that might take longer to show up in more forgiving conditions.

What separates a genuinely good running sock from one that just gets the job done comes down to how securely the heel cup fits without slipping or rebounding over miles, how well the cushioning level matches the surface and temperature without adding too much volume inside a shoe, whether the toe seam creates friction points, and how the fabric manages moisture through the wet-to-dry cycle of a long run.

Top Pick: The Balega Silver No-Show earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for the most secure heel fit of any low-cut sock we tested, a medium cushion level that hits the right balance for most surfaces and temperatures, a seamless reinforced toe that never created a hot spot, and breathability that kept feet comfortable across a wider temperature range than any other sock in our test.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, allowing us to continue running the site without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Running Socks Comparison Table

Men’s

Women’s

We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.

Interested in running? Check out the Running Gear section:

• Best Trail Running Shoes (men’s and women’s)

• Best Running Hydration Vest

• Best Running Hats

• Best Recovery Shoes for Runners

• Best Running Sunglasses

The Winners

Best overall running socks: Balega Silver No-Show

Fabric: 75% Drynamix Polyester, 23% Nylon, 2% Elastane
Sizes: men's 4.5-14, women's 6 - 15.5
Sock height options: No-show only
Cushioning: Medium
Seamless toe: Seamless reinforced toe
What we liked: Excellent heel fit, no slip, perfect amount of cushion, not too hot or too cold, moderate volume, exceptional breathability
What we didn’t like: Only available in no show height

The Balega Silver running sock is the best overall running sock for most people. It balances all the features we want in a running sock: a heel fit that doesn't slip or rebound, a cushion that is neither too much padding nor too little, and a temperature rating that feels neither too hot nor too cold. The result is a favorite running sock and the best option we found for a no-show running sock.

One reason we chose these as the best sock for running is the construction around the heel and tab area is the most secure of low-cut socks. The tab area is excellent for keeping stuff out; it also creates a flush seal on the skin around the ankle instead of a more typical gap between the ankle and achilles found on many no-show socks.

• Features and cushion

  After testing the Balega Silver No-show sock on runs on packed dirt roads with some pavement mixed in, we found it to do the best job of offering all the features we want in a running sock.

  Compared to the Balega Blister Resist, the padding is a little lighter on the Silver. It’s a light to medium-level padding throughout the bottom of the sock, as opposed to the Blister Resist’s heavier padding at the heel and the forefoot.

  While some runners may prefer more padding, we think the Balega Silver is the best sock because it strikes a balance between the Blister Resist and one of the more minimal socks in our lineup, the Swiftwick Aspire Zero. The result is a moderate volume, lightweight sock with some padding and exceptional breathability.

• Temperature and warmth

  We tested in temps of 40°- 60°F. As with all no-show socks with a tab, it's best designed for mild to warm weather. If you're running in cooler temperatures, we recommend crew socks. Unfortunately, the Silver is only available as a No Show.

• Durability

  Reviewers find that these socks are long-lasting. This may have something to do with Balega socks bumping up the thread count to 30% more in the heel relative to the rest of the sock. This design ensures a heel fit that won’t slip down. It also rebounds well after wear.

• Who else likes it

  They also have 4.7 stars out of 5 stars on Balega's website and are top-rated at REI with a 4.8 out of 5 stars out of almost 300 reviews.

• Our verdict

  Our testing results confirm what everyday users say about the remarkable fit. We found that the Balega Silver lived up to the Balega marketing language of a run sock that “perfectly matches the contours of your foot without constricting it.”

Best running socks for hot weather: Swiftwick Aspire Zero

Fabric: 55% Nylon, 40% Olefin, 5% Spandex
Sizes: 3-15
Sock height options: No-Show
Cushioning: None 
What we liked: thin profile and cuff height ideal for warmer temps, enhanced venting, best socks for sweaty feet, durability
What we didn’t like: no cushion may not be comfortable for some runners

The Swiftwick Aspire Zero is the best running sock for warmer outings due to its thin profile, light to medium compression, form-fit, and cuff height. Other reviews only support this assessment. The no-padding might be a con for the runner who struggles with blister problem areas along the heel or forefoot. But we didn’t experience any blisters in these socks. The pro of the no-padding style and the general thin profile of the sock is that it enhances venting, which may suit runners with generally sweaty feet.

• Durability

  Despite the thin profile, long-term reviews state that the Swiftwick Aspire is built to last. We haven’t identified any durability concerns while testing these socks, either.

  The high durability of the sock may stem from the high nylon content (55% overall) with olefin, another synthetic fabric known for its abrasion resistance. Swiftwick manages to use all that nylon without producing an exceedingly slick sock.

• Features and design

  With an additional 5% of Spandex, this is a simple — but not simplistic — sock design. Though these socks don’t have a tab, the cuff runs a little higher than some of the other no-show style socks, allowing for higher-cut shoes without the blister concern.

• Our verdict

  If you’re running in warm to hot weather or have feet that run warm, you’ll want a thinner sock. The Swiftwick Aspire Zero are thin, lightweight socks with the durability of a thicker sock and the fit of an ideal running sock.

Best running socks to prevent blisters: Balega Blister Resist

Fabric: 32% Drynamix Polyester, 32% Mohair Wool, 34% Nylon, 2% Elastane
Sizes: 4.5-14
Sock height options: No-show, quarter sock, and crew socks
Cushioning: Medium/High
Seamless toe: Yes
What we liked: fit, added blister protection from padding
What we didn’t like: high volume sock not best for hot temps

The Balega Blister Resist is a running sock with excellent fit and some extra cushion that makes it the best running sock to prevent blisters. The Blister Resist has a lot in common with our overall best running sock, the Balega Silver (review above). Sporting a similar contoured fit to the Silver, The Blister Resist has even more padding at the heel, forefoot, and toe area. All this adds up to a superior running sock that is designed for runners who especially struggle with blisters, 

Despite being an overall higher volume sock with the added blister protection of medium/high padding between the foot and the shoe, the sock retains a lightweight feel and wicks well. Another difference is that the Balega Blister Resist is made of mohair — a natural fiber from Angora goats.

• Temperature

  The Blister Resist felt neither hot nor cold while running in mild conditions.

• Heights

  We tested this run sock in the no-show cuff height and mostly on manicured dirt roads; however, we’d still feel confident using this sock's quarter sock and crew running sock versions on technical trails. These lengths provide more lower-leg skin protection given their secure, supportive fit that doesn’t twist or bunch anywhere on the sock.

• Volume

  The only downside with the Balega Blister Resist is that all the benefits of having a high cushion sock mean it is also a high volume sock. Given the high padding, this is not the sock to reach for in particularly hot temperatures, like three-season desert races or a long run on hot, summer pavement. Despite the high cushion, we were impressed that it doesn't feel bulky. Still, keep those temperatures in mind when choosing these running socks.

• Preventing blisters

  Lastly, for those who struggle with blisters—we feel you. Although it's focused on hiking, this article we wrote on preventing blisters has helped countless people feel more at home on their feet. Know that solutions exist and that you don’t have to suffer to keep doing the running you love.

• Our verdict

  The Balega Blister Resist is a medium/high cushioned sock with padding at the heel, forefoot, and toe area to prevent rubbing and blisters. If you struggle with blisters or just want more padding for longer runs or runs on rocky or uneven terrain, the Blister Resist is a good choice.

Best Toe socks for running: Injinji Performance Trail Midweight

Men's and Women's

Fabric: 39% Coolmax, 58% Nylon, 3% Lycra 
Sizes: S-XL / 5-13.5+
Sock height options: Mini-crew and crew socks 
Cushioning: Midweight 
What we liked: prevents blisters between toes, pairs well with wide toebox shoes, vents well
What we didn’t like: not the best in hot temps

The Injinji Performance Trail Midweight are all-around comfortable socks for running, hiking, and casual wearing. Many runners prefer a toe sock to prevent toe blisters or to accommodate wider feet. If you're a runner interested in engaging all parts of the foot, a toe sock may also be a good choice. We also found the Injinji pair well with wide-toe-box shoes you might wear from Altra, Topo Athletic, Merrell, and others. 

Despite being a thicker sock, the Performance Trail Midweight vents well. We didn’t find the long cuff to be particularly hot despite its length. Injinji offers crew and mini-crew versions of this sock as well, and they're top-rated among customers at REI and other retailers. Injinji also has a lightweight version of this sock designed for runners in warmer climates.

• Temperatures

  In terms of temperature control, we’re comfortable reaching for these socks in varying conditions. The exception was running on warm pavement, where we found they can generate more heat than other running socks we tested. Next time, we'll try the lightweight version of the sock for running on warm pavement.

• Blister prevention

  The toe blister protection is a well-reviewed feature of the Injinji Performance Trails. While our reviewer doesn’t typically struggle with toe blisters (which form from rubbing between toes), he didn’t get any in the Injinji’s, either. Many reviewers, including other Treeline Review writers, find the Injinji toe sock to be the only way they have been able to prevent blisters.

• What to know about toe socks

  With all of the alluring features of these Injinjis, toe socks as a sock type take more time and effort to pull on and remove. Our reviewer had previously worn these socks and found that the toes wear holes first relative to the rest of the sock. Lastly, runners with shorter toes may find that these toe socks have excessive fabric around the toes.

• Our verdict

  Toe socks have a learning curve. But if you struggle with blisters or prefer wide-foot-box running shoes, the Injinji Performance Trail running socks are worth trying. The Injinji Performance Trail socks have the fit, design, durability, and temperature control to protect your feet.

Best winter running socks: Darn Tough Run Ultra- Lightweight 

Men's and Women's

Fabric: 56% Nylon, 39% Merino Wool, 5% Lycra Spandex
Sizes: 5.5-17
Sock height options: No show, Quarter Micro (with slight material variations)
Cushioning: None 
What we liked: No bunch, breathable, reduced odor, lots of options (men’s/women’s, height, cushioning), Darn Tough warranty
What we didn’t like: could last longer (but comes with great warranty)

We’ve been a long-time fan of Darn Tough socks for backpacking, and we’ve found the Darn Tough Run Ultra-Lightweight socks to be the best winter running sock. The combination of merino wool and the micro crew length make this the best running sock for cooler weather running.

Contrary to what many may think, we find that a thicker sock is not necessarily warmer for winter running. Most winter running doesn’t call for a thick sock, if you're sweating in it (and most runners will be). The Darn Tough Run Ultra-Light micro crew is what our reviewer wears on every run in the winter because merino stays warm even when wet and wicks sweat away from the skin.

Our reviewer regularly uses the quarter length version of the Run Ultra-Lightweight socks for mountain pursuits involving lots of scrambling from class 3-5 with exposure, where no bunching and no-slip is required. When paired with sticky rubber and a glove-like fitting shoe, the Ultra-Lightweight Running Sock makes for a nimble, sure-footed system.

If you’re interested in winter socks for pursuits beyond running, check out our Best Winter Socks guide. We also have an in-depth review of midweight version of these socks, the Darn Tough Hiker Midweight Hiking Socks.

Men's

Women's

• Features of merino socks

  Though the socks weren’t dry after the run (to be expected) but they wick away sweat well, which keeps toes feeling warm. We never felt even the slightest of hot spots, maybe also due to the seamless feeling we get in these socks.

  Two days after the long run in the rain, the socks were pretty stiff. But for the sake of science, we ran in them again, in dry conditions, to see if they held their shape, as the shaping around our feet is one of the highlights of these socks. They did hold their shape after breaking through the crust.

  Compared to our shoes from the wet run, the smell of the socks was acceptable, likely given the high merino wool content.

• Winter running sock tips

  It’s worth noting that there’s no silver bullet when it comes to winter running. The right socks are just part of a gear system and running strategy to stay warm and manage moisture. See our guide to How to Run in the Winter - 13 Tips to Running in the Cold for ways to stay warm, including layering gear, nutrition, and hydration.

  We also recommend our Cold Weather Running Gear List for other items to layer during a winter run.

• Durability

  With our long-term testing of the micro crew version, we’ve got a good idea of how long these socks last, and we’ve found that they start to show bare spotting at our heels and forefoot around 250 miles, which isn’t the best but is in the range of a no cushion sock.

  We don’t have any complaints, though, as Darn Tough means what they say regarding their lifetime warranty, and they have honored our requests for warranty credit to many Treeline Review writers and editors, this one included.

• Darn Tough Run Ultra-Light No Show Tab Vs. Micro-Crew Length

  We tested both the quarter-length version and the No Show Tab version, which is Darn Tough’s most popular running sock.

  We found the Darn Tough Run Ultralight No Show Tab socks hold their own road running and trail running on dirt roads and well-worn dirt trails. While we recommend the Darn Tough Run Ultra-Light line for winter running, the No Show Tabs are excellent in milder non-winter conditions, too.

  Like our other high-performing socks, the Darn Tough Run No Show Tab’s had a secure heel tab that we prefer on socks of this length to guard against rubbing and blistering on the heel, especially with higher-cut shoes. The seal between the tab and side of the ankle was secure; it kept most debris out of the shoe on dirt even during a 1 ½ hour run (when it had rained all but the last 10 minutes). 

  We tested a lot during the monsoon season in Colorado and these socks saw a fair amount of rain. The tab system on these socks worked great. So if you live in a milder climate, you may be able to get away with the No Show Tab length for winter running. Otherwise, we recommend the quarter  length for winter running or cold weather, high altitude runs.

Best Budget Running Sock: Thorlo Experia XCCU

Fabric: 66% Thor Wick Cool / 20% Nylon / 1% Elastic / 13% Polyester
Sizes: W’s 5-6.5, M’s 6-14
Sock height options: Low cut / No Show
Cushioning: Light 
What we liked: great value for the price, padding in the right places, form-fitting and supportive compression
What we didn’t like: not as technical as other socks

The Thorlo Experia XCCU are our Best Budget running socks, coming at about half the price of comparable performance socks. They have light padding in all the right places, with cushioning on the forefoot and heel, and wrap around the toes. The form-fitting socks provide light, supportive compression around the arch and a thin top that vents well on top of the foot.

While there are other budget running sock options out there, the Thorlos Experias XCCU have the best balance of fit, features, and comfort for an excellent value at about half the price of other performance socks.

• Value

  Despite the Experia not being as technical-feeling as the similarly styled Balega’s, we think this is an excellent running sock, especially given its lower price. They're also available in three-packs for even more savings.

• Fit

  Our one complaint is that the toe seam ended at the end of the toes. This seam placement might create fit issues if the seam manages to creep down below the toe.

• Who else likes it

  The Thorlo Experia XCCU works for many users, given the glowing reviews–averaging 5 stars from almost 2000 reviews on the Thorlos website.

Other running socks we tested

Swiftwick Aspire Four

Fabric: 67% Nylon / 28% Olefin / 5% Spandex
Sizes: 3-15
Sock height options: 4” Crew Socks
Cushioning: None to light 

We tested the Swiftwick Aspire Four on the local trail system and were delighted with their compressive fit throughout the sock, excellent wicking, and quick drying. They’re more minimal in padding underfoot than the Zeroes. But the higher cuff is on the dense side. The cuff has a double fabric construction, which felt too toasty on scorching runs. 

Oddly enough, these are Swiftwick’s most popular cycling socks (not running socks). Given this, we understand the reasoning for the double-layer cuff fabric to keep the sock from slipping down during rides. Cycling socks or not, the Aspire Fours might be a good choice for those into zero cushion, compression socks.

Wrightsock Coolmesh II Quarter  

Men's and Women's

Fabric: 70% Polyester / 27% Nylon / 3% Lycra Spandex
Sizes: M’s 5-14
Sock height options: Quarter and Crew Socks
Cushioning: None

We liked that the Wrightsock Coolmesh II quarter socks were highly comfortable out of the box. Reviews often highlight that these socks are a great safeguard against blisters–and it's true we didn’t experience any blisters wearing these socks.

However, we found the fit to be less contoured than other running socks, with a wider, looser design. We tested on a moderate to high volume mid-foot and experienced some slipping and sock bunching. It may be a better fit for someone with a narrow to moderate volume mid-foot.

Despite being thin, these socks ran surprisingly hot. The Coolmesh II’s might be a better fit for a runner who sticks to even surfaces or a hiker, where impacts are lower and movements less aggressive.

Feetures Merino 10

Fabric: 35% nylon/32% merino wool/30% TENCEL lyocell/3% spandex
Sizes: women’s 4-13, men’s 6-15.5
Sock height options: No Show/Tab, Quarter, Mini Crew
Cushioning: Light to Medium, Cushioned versions available 

The Feetures 10 sock comes with a left and right-foot sock for a dialed fit. We found that the fit in the mid and forefoot was spot on, but the heel was baggy and became increasingly so after runs.

The Feetures also emphasize a “warm when wet” technology, and though we didn’t find our feet especially cold when running through slush puddles, the socks were pretty soaked upon removing them after the run.

Durability reports from other reviewers are positive, and the fit also seems to suit many runners. But given our personal experience with the sock, we decided against a category win as other models we tested had a better overall fit.

Courier Socks HiFi

Fabric: 54% recycled nylon, 41% nylon, and 5% elastane
Sizes: M’s 6-14, Women’s 7-13
Sock height options: Crew Socks
Cushioning: Light targeted

The Courier Socks HiFi socks are designed for “riders who run and runners who ride,” which makes sense as the founder is an avid cyclist, mountain biker, and runner. Made with 54% recycled nylon, 41% nylon, and 5% elastane, the socks are breathable and moisture wicking.

The HiFi uses Courier’s proprietary courierPOD cushioning technology in high impact areas, like the forefoot, arch, and Achilles. The socks’ venting design also helps increase airflow and improve breathability during high output activities. The graduated compression helps with support, particularly around the ankles–the intent is to not feel too constrictive, but if you do not like compression socks they might feel a little tight (for what it’s worth, our tester found the level of compression comfortable, but recognizes others may not).

Courier Socks also have a LoFi sock, which is essentially a higher-cushioned version of the HiFi sock. We tested these as well and found them super comfortable, ideal for recovery runs or cooler weather.

These socks have a lot of potential, and we plan to continue testing alongside our favorites. We really appreciate that Courier Socks has kept a simple inventory with the HiFi and LoFi socks in three color options each. They let the quality speak, and don’t hide behind tons of color choices or subtle differences between models that don’t amount to much of a real difference.

Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show Socks

Men's AND Women's

Fabric: 63% nylon/35% COOLMAX EcoMade polyester/2% LYCRA spandex
Sizes: 5 to 13
Sock height options: No show, crew
Cushioning: Light
What we liked: Breathable, great for blister prevention
What we didn’t like: Toe socks aren’t for everyone

Like the Injinji Performance Trail Midweight socks, the Injinji Run Lightweight socks offer excellent blister prevention. What separates these from our Best Toe Socks winner, though, is that these are lightweight rather than midweight, making them ideal for hot temperatures. These lightweight toe socks are breathable and comfortable, with a mesh top and COOLMAX EcoMade fibers designed to help keep feet cool and dry. 

We tested them side-by-side with the Injinji Snow Over the Calf Socks and found a notable difference in foot temperature. Both socks are breathable, but the Run Lightweight socks kept the feet much cooler while the Snow socks kept feet warm.

Injinji Snow Over the Calf Socks

Fabric: 63% Nylon, 34% THERMOLITE® EcoMade, 3% Lycra®
Sizes: 5 to 13
Sock height options: Crew
Cushioning: Protective
What we liked: Warm, great for blister prevention
What we didn’t like: Can feel a little tight around the calves

If you’re looking for blister-preventing socks for the winter months, the Injinji Snow Over the Calf Socks are a good option. As toe socks, they help prevent blisters on your toes, and the THERMOLITE EcoMade fibers help generate heat by using the body's infrared energy and utilizing hollow fibers to create an insulating layer of warm air within the sock. It sounds like a lot of technology for socks, but we can safely say they kept our feet toasty on even sub-20-degree days.

In testing, we worried our toes wouldn’t get enough circulation to stay warm, but this was never an issue. One tester even wore them snowshoe running in about 20-degree weather. She finished her workout with icicles hanging from her legs, but her feet were never cold (she even has Raynaud’s!).

Our only complaint is that the over-the-calf sock height might be a deterrent if you have big calves, or simply don’t like the feel of socks coming up that high. Otherwise, this is a great sock for maintaining blister prevention while winter running.

FITS Light Cushion Run Easy Fit

Fabric: Merino Wool 71%, Nylon 23%, Polyester 4%, Lyrca 2%
Sizes: 3.5 to 15.5
Sock height options: No show, low
Cushioning: Light

FITS makes comfortable, quality socks designed to fit well during any activity. The Light Cushion Run Easy Fit socks fit the bill–they’re comfortable and fit well. While our tester has narrow feet, these socks are specifically designed with people with wider feet in mind.

The merino wool blend is soft and helps with temperature regulation and odor control, and is moisture wicking. These socks also focus on key areas of comfort for runners by allowing more room at the toe box, a deep heel pocket for blister prevention, and high cushion zones at the arch, heel, and toes.

In testing, we found the socks incredibly comfortable. We appreciate the attention to detail and that the socks are made in the USA. This is a quality running sock–we just wish it came in more than the no-show and low height options.

Gordini Vert Sock

Men's and Women's

Fabric: 51% Nylon / 33% Repreve recycled polyester / 6% Coolmax ecomade polyester / 5% merino wool / 5% LYCRA spandex
Sizes: S/M/L (4-12.5)
Sock height options: Crew 
Cushioning: Light 

The Gordini Vert Sock is a merino-blend sock designed for trail running. While cushioning is light compared to other Gordini socks, and other merino wool socks for that matter, it still offers plenty of cushion while also delivering other merino-blend benefits, like breathability and odor control.

The socks are made with Gordini’s OrbitFit, engineered yarn technology for increased comfort and durability, in anatomically mapped zones for a performance fit. Gordini’s Quilted AirForms cushion impact points, with light cushion at the heels, toes, and underfoot. While you may not notice the intricacies of this cushion mapping while running, the result is simply a comfortable sock.

Gordini also uses wicking channels to move moisture and keep your feet drier, and Zonal Climate Control for temperature regulation. In testing, we were surprised how well a wool-blend sock could keep our feet relatively dry and cool (well, not overheated), even on hot runs in Colorado.

As far as durability goes, one sock did snag and had pulled thread before we even had a chance to wear them. This was an immediate durability concern. However, we’ve had no issues since, even after months of frequent wear. It’s possible the initial snag was just unlucky. 

Overall, the Gordini Vert Socks have been go-to favorites for our tester this late winter and early spring, and we look forward to continued long-term testing.

What to look for in running socks

The short answer is blisters. Cotton socks absorb sweat and hold onto it, which means wet fabric rubbing against your foot for miles. That's a reliable recipe for hot spots and blisters, especially on longer runs. Running-specific socks are made from materials like nylon, polyester, and merino wool that move moisture away from your skin rather than soaking it up.

Beyond moisture management, the construction matters. Running socks are built with the specific friction points of running in mind: reinforced heels, targeted cushioning at the forefoot and ball of the foot where impact concentrates, and seams positioned or eliminated to avoid rubbing at the toes during your stride. A regular cotton sock has none of that.

Temperature regulation is the other factor worth understanding. A sock that traps heat is miserable on a hot summer road run. A sock with merino wool stays warm even when wet, which matters when you're running through slush or cold rain. The same sock won't work equally well in both conditions, which is part of why owning a few different pairs for different seasons and conditions makes sense for runners who run year-round.

The less attention your feet need during a run, the more attention you can give to everything else. Good socks are a genuine contribution to that.

How to Choose a Running Sock

What Surfaces Do You Run On? 

Are you primarily running on hard pavement or concrete free of debris? Mixed terrain on rolling trails? If primarily in mild to warm temps on roads, consider the lightest possible sock that you can get away with regarding padding. For trails, the same applies, but often having some sort of cuff (mini crew and up) is a safe choice for helping keep debris out of socks and grime off of your lower leg. 

What Weather Conditions Will You Be Running In?

Hot, cold, rain, sand? Consider the fabric type, cushion level, and cuff height here, too. A long sock with merino incorporated like the Injinji Trail might be a good choice for moisture management on trails, especially when it’s cold and wet out, but not the best for hot road running. A thin, low-padding ankle sock might sound suitable for hot road running, but maybe you want some padding in critical areas where you’re prone to blisters, too. Are things sandy? Maybe bring a clean, second pair just in case! 

Do You Want A Compression Sock?

We didn’t test any full compression socks and don't have a Best Compression Socks category. Some runners may find recovery benefits from wearing compression socks during or after runs. If you’re compression sock-curious but don’t want to dedicate the whole sock for the experiment, you might consider picking up some compression legs sleeves, which can go all the way from the ankle to the knee. 

Do You Like Socks With Cushion? 

Some shoes may not feel supportive through the midsole. While thicker socks will run hotter, they may increase the overall support of the footwear system. Some runners experience hot spots in high contact points as well. Getting at least a lightweight or midweight sock with padding in the heel and ball of the foot might alleviate the pressure from those contact points. 

What Sock Height Do You Like Best?

Super low-cut socks might leave skin exposed to shoe-rubbing, and full-length crew might be too hot for what you’re doing. A mini crew strikes an excellent middle ground for many runners until they dial in what works for them. 

What Shoes Are You Running In?

Are your shoes oversized with excess space, or do they allow just enough not to experience your toes cramming in the toe box? Some thick, high-volume socks might make the shoe feel too small, while other low-volume socks might have your foot swimming inside the shoe. 

Do You Have Specific Needs?

We all sweat a little differently, with some of us sweating a lot from our feet. A runner with sweaty feet might reach for a thinner run sock with a merino wool base to keep breathability high and manage perspiration into water vapor. Thinner socks can also allow more space in the shoe, increasing air circulation. Maybe you’ve had an ankle injury in the past or are prone to rolling your ankle. In that case, it might be worth checking out socks with compression around the ankle to maximize support.

What height running socks should I get?

Running socks come in no-show/tab socks, quarter crew/ankle socks, micro crew, and crew height socks. Depending on the season and climate you're running in, you may decide to own multiple heights of the same sock. Here are the pros and cons of different heights of running socks.

No show sock or tab socks

A tab sock is best reserved for road running on pavement, packed dirt roads, or other manicured surfaces like concrete or the track. We find that loose dirt, rocks, pokey desert things, and other debris get into the sock more easily with no-show socks. 

Depending on the overall cut of the ankle on the running shoe, no-show socks can leave vulnerable skin exposed to blistering on the ankle or achilles. If you’re trying them for the first time, it might be a good idea to bring along a couple of strips of Leukotape to cover your ankles in case some rubbing happens. Reaching for a sock-like Balega’s hidden comfort, with a tab on the heel, can provide some added cushioning to the heel in a no-show style.

Quarter Crew or ankle socks

Usually referred to as ankle socks, these are popular for most runners in benign trails conditions or daily road runs.

Micro Crew

A personal favorite of our tester, these are about ¾ of a crew sock, sitting around 2” above the ankle. The micro crew style can fit mixed conditions with a bit of skin coverage and pairs well with running tights to bridge any gap of skin exposure left by the tight. The micro crew style comes in various levels of padding, keeping them light and low profile, or heavy and warm(er).

Crew

These sit just below the calf and are a typical length for mid cushion and heavier socks, usually made with compression sock technology.

What cushion running socks should I get?

Running socks come in ultralight, light, medium, and heavily cushioned versions. You should choose the cushion depending on the season and temperatures you'll be running. You can also choose the amount of cushion based on whether you're running rocky or smooth trails or pavement. Runners who are prone to blisters may find one type of cushion prevents blisters better than another. 

Here are the four types of cushioning and the pros and cons of each.

Ultralight cushion

Ultralight cushion socks have no cushion and typically run thin throughout the sock no matter the length. They will breathe the best and dry the quickest, making them effective in hot, dry conditions. They are also the lowest volume sock if you’re pushing the sizing on your shoes. 

Light cushion

A light cushion sock is similar to an ultralight cushion style, often with a light cushion in targeted areas like the heel and ball of the foot, the heaviest contact points, and areas of friction between the sock and shoe. Lightweight cushion socks typically increase the sock's durability, retain an overall thin profile, and manage well in warm conditions.

Medium Cushion

Medium cushion socks add padding throughout the sock over ultra and lightweight socks and often are thicker with more padding in general. These run socks may be a comfortable pick for cooler running temperatures.

Heavy Cushion

Heavy cushion socks have padding throughout the sock. While a heavy cushion sock might seem appealing for the padding and durability, these types of socks are reserved for colder, wetter activities like skiing and mountaineering. Getting a proper fit can be more difficult in heavily cushioned socks, as the chance for bunching increases, and they take a long time to dry (for example, between creek crossings).

How to Fit a Running Sock

How Should Running Socks Fit?

Like a shoe, you’ll want them to fit like they aren’t there. A sock that’s too big might have some excess hanging off the toe, might bunch at the heel, or in the mid-foot. A sock that’s too small may encourage bunching at the toes and cause toe blisters, and prevent your toes from thoroughly engaging during your stride. If they’re tough to get on or require a lot of adjustment once they’re on, the fit is probably off.

Socks aren’t usually sold by exact shoe size but by sizing bracket. The sizing range for each isn’t universal, so it’s best to consult with each brand’s sizing chart. The writer’s size is a 13, for example, and that usually puts him at the top of the L or bottom of XL in men’s. For example, he’s at the top of the L size in Injinji and the bottom of the XL in Feetures and Swiftwick. 

What are the sizing differences between men’s and women’s running socks?

Men’s and women’s socks differ because they’re typically available in different sizes that match respective shoe sizes. Women tend to have smaller feet. But also the foot dimensions between men's and women's socks are different. Women’s socks have a more narrow profile, smaller heel, and maybe even smaller toe sections in toe socks like those made from Injinji.

The length between styles will usually also differ, with a men’s crew, for example, being longer than the equivalent version of the women’s specific crew sock because men’s legs are (generally) longer than women’s. The calve opening will usually be larger on the men’s sock, following the same idea of anatomical differences. Regardless of the sock’s marketing or how you identify, the sock fit is a priority, so go with what feels the most comfortable. 

Should running socks be thick or thin?

Running socks should typically not be of the thickest variety out there, but the decision otherwise comes down to the expected conditions. If you’re spending a lot of time on hot pavement, or hot, dusty desert trails, then a thinner, inherently more breathable sock will work more comfortably. For colder outings, reach for a sock with some more padding, one that still manages moisture and retains breathability. 

Should I wear compression socks during my run or for recovery?

The jury is still out on this one, but there’s research out there that points to improved recovery times when wearing compression post-run. If you feel like compression aids you in any way, we haven’t found any information that it negatively impacts the running experience and progression. 

Are you using special insoles with your trail runners?

Don’t forget that insoles may take up extra volume, so you may need to adjust your socks accordingly. Read about the benefits of using insoles with trail running shoes here.

Why do you need running-specific socks

Socks designed for running are made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials. They help regulate temperature — no overheating in the heat, no freezing in the cold — while keeping your feet as dry as possible. This also means a far lower likelihood of blisters caused by friction.

Moisture management

Moisture-wicking materials, like nylon, polyester, and merino wool, prevent sweat and water from collecting in the socks and at your feet. Non-moisture-wicking materials, like cotton, will absorb and collect moisture, which puts you at a greater risk for blisters and other issues.

Cushioning and support

Running-specific socks come in varying levels of cushion, depending on your comfort level. Extra cushion means extra support for your feet, and less harsh impact with each step.

Seamless construction

A good pair of running socks is designed with a runner’s stride in mind. Seamless construction means limiting blister-causing rubbing, especially at the toes where you’re more likely to rub against a seam while running.

Breathability

Running socks are also designed to be breathable, meaning they shouldn’t trap heat. This keeps your feet properly cooled and dry as your body heats up from exertion. 

Durability

The fabric of running socks should hold up to the wear and stress of running. Thinner materials may wear faster, resulting in holes at the toes or heel. Thicker socks will last longer, and materials like merino wool or polyester will hold up longer than materials like cotton.

Injury prevention

Good socks mean happy feet. Happy feet mean reduced likelihood of blisters or even injury. The better you can take care of your feet with good socks and appropriate footwear — feet are ground zero for where your body connects with the ground, after all — the more you’ll set yourself up for success in your running journey.

Care and maintenance

Wash them after every run. Unlike outerwear that benefits from less frequent washing, socks worn against skin collect sweat, bacteria, and trail debris that break down the materials and cause odor if left to sit. A mild sport detergent, like the ones we recommend in our Best Sport Detergent guide, are ideal for athletic wear like running socks. They work better than regular detergent at pulling sweat and smell out of synthetic fabrics.

Turn them inside out before washing. The inside of the sock is where most of the sweat and grime accumulates, and washing inside out lets the detergent reach it more directly.

Cold water only. Heat breaks down the elastic, the moisture-wicking treatments, and the structural integrity of the fabric faster than normal wear will. The same logic applies to drying: air dry when you can. Most running socks dry quickly enough that throwing them in the dryer isn't worth the wear it adds over time. If you do use a dryer, low heat only.

Skip the fabric softener entirely. It coats the fibers and degrades moisture-wicking performance, which defeats the main purpose of a technical running sock.

Rotating between two or three pairs extends the life of each one and means you're always running in socks that are fully dry and fully functional rather than slightly damp from yesterday's run.

Store them flat or loosely folded in a dry place. Once they're completely dry, of course. Folding damp socks and putting them in a drawer is how you end up with socks that smell strange before you've even put them on.

FAQ

• How often should I replace my running socks?

  You should replace your running socks when they start to develop holes, lose their elasticity, or no longer provide a snug fit. Worn-out socks can increase the risk of blisters and discomfort. Some runners repair socks by darning, but added seams may cause rubbing or irritation.

• What’s the difference between running socks and regular socks?

  Running socks are made from moisture-wicking, breathable materials like nylon, polyester, or merino wool, while regular socks are often made of cotton, which retains moisture. Running socks also typically have fewer seams, targeted cushioning, and arch support for better comfort and performance.

• Can I wear running socks for other activities?

  Yes, running socks are versatile and great for walking, cycling, gym workouts, and even warm-weather hiking. Just keep in mind that the more frequently you wear them, the faster they’ll wear out—so it’s best to reserve them for your runs when possible.

• Can running socks help prevent blisters?

  Yes. Running socks reduce friction between your foot and shoe, which helps prevent blisters. Look for a pair made from synthetic or merino wool fabrics, with seamless construction and strategic padding. Applying anti-chafe balm for runners (like Trail Toes) can further reduce the risk, especially in wet or dusty conditions.

• Should I choose cushioned or thin running socks?

  It depends on your personal preference and shoe fit. Cushioned running socks provide more comfort and impact protection, while thinner socks offer a lighter feel and better breathability—ideal for hot weather or snug-fitting shoes.

• Do I need different socks for trail running and road running?

  Trail running socks often offer more padding and durability to protect against debris, moisture, and uneven terrain. Road running socks may focus more on breathability and a close-to-skin fit. If you run both types of terrain, you may want a dedicated pair for each.

How we tested 

We've spent the past three years testing running socks. We first tested the best men’s running socks in the high desert around the Arkansas Valley of Colorado — on graded forest roads, rocky trails, dry winter snow on cold days, and the slush on more mild days. We also tested the lower-cut socks on flatter, harder packed, faster surfaces like roads and more consistently flat grades.

Since then, we've integrated testing notes from other Treeline Review runners. We've tested road running on Colorado's front range. We've tested these socks in the mountainous Eastern Sierra and Lake Tahoe area. We've also tested in sandy, desert areas of Arizona and on hot, paved roads and paved bike paths. 

• Rocky trails & forest roads in Colorado's Arkansas Valley
• Eastern Sierra & Lake Tahoe mountain terrain
• Sandy desert trails in Arizona
• Hot paved roads & paved bike paths
• Dry winter snow & spring slush conditions

• Heel cup security without slipping
• Cushion match to surface & temperature
• Toe seam friction over long runs
• Moisture management through wet-to-dry cycle
• Durability over months of repeated wear

About the author / Why you should trust us

Working with variable conditions is a constant in Trey’s outdoor life. He's run trail outings starting and ending on NYC trains, Colorado multi-sport front door-to-door outings that might start with cycling and find trail running somewhere in the middle, to long-distance thru-hikes on trails like the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Long Trail.

Trey gravitates towards accessible outdoor activities like hiking, running, and cycling, with an interest in human-powered, carless travel with the occasional assistance of public transportation or a friendly hitch.

Based out of Salida, CO at 7,000ft, Trey runs in all seasons — for mental health, fitness, and preparing a base for big mountain adventures come the spring melt. Trey has run the Salida Run Through Time trail marathon, the Grand Canyon double crossing (aka the “Rim to Rim to Rim”), and a long list of self-made alpine routes in Colorado.

He keeps his legs under him by shuffling from the Arkansas River up into the local foothills most days of the week and is kept honest by the local Wednesday group run up the town’s namesake mountain.

Around 9,000 miles of combined running and hiking miles inform his approach to gear testing.

Some shorter runs allow for some margin of error with socks, with the truck close by. But Trey informs his decisions on running socks by the needs of longer big mountain runs because the socks that perform on long runs typically perform pretty well when going short, too!

The less attention the feet need during an outing, the more time and attention he can give to the important stuff — like stepping over spring wildflowers, avoiding cryptobiotic soil, and landing between those roots rather than on one of them at a 20% downhill grade!

You can read more of Trey's work at his blog or on his author page.

June 18th, 2026, updated with a new shorty short winner, new specs, new products, and new info on reducing chafing while on a thru-hike
Home > Gear Reviews > Apparel

Even with thru-hiking becoming more popular, it's still hard to find quality advice on hiking clothes while preparing for your own trek. The best thru-hiking shorts are lightweight, breathable, don't impede mobility, and have a reliable way of staying up — because thru-hikers lose weight over the course of a trail, and a shorts enclosure that works at the start of the PCT may not cut it by the Sierra.

My name is Liam "Hot Take" Purtle and I thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in 2019, going through four different pairs of shorts along the way. To represent a variety of bodies and styles, I also reached out to my fellow community of thru-hikers and gathered first-hand testimonials from seven hikers who wore these shorts for hundreds or thousands of miles on the PCT, CDT, and AT.

When you're thru-hiking, you're wearing the same thing every day. That means durability, quick-dry performance, and a waistband that can accommodate the ever-changing thru-hiker body matter far more than they would for a day hike. A fun pattern that feels like yours rather than the standard hiker uniform doesn't hurt either.

Top Pick: The Patagonia Baggies (men's and women's) earn our Best Overall award. They are the most common shorts on America's long-distance trails for good reason: 100% recycled nylon that holds up for thousands of miles, an elasticized waistband with internal drawstring that accommodates weight loss on trail, multiple inseam lengths and colors, and a proven track record across every major thru-hike route.