This product is well designed (and has even been improved over the years.) I've loaded and unloaded and used it many times, used it in sub-zero temperatures, and even transported on a public bus (long story). It is relatively compact, relatively light, easy to carry, durable, and easy to use.
Size: Excellent to pack on sled or carry on back. Relatively lightweight for what you get. I am over 6'2 and have no trouble standing up and using the shelter with 1-2 other people sitting on chairs, buckets, or sleds.
Warmth: Its easy to regulate both light and air-flow. Windows can be sealed-off, let light in, or peeled back partway or altogether. I usually keep them closed, orient the shelter so the single door is downwind, and leave the door ajar or velcroed back on the provided tab if I want air flow. End-to-End vents are available higher up if sealing yourself tight. I regularly use a single Mr Heater and am able to bring and keep the shelter warm and comfortable in both high winds and very low temperatures.
Easy of use: The provided stakes are excellent. Some other brands are way too small/weak to penetrate. These go nice and quick in all types of ice. In calm conditions, it is up in less than a minute. It can also be pre-staked in one corner and then, even in high winds, be set up in a couple of minutes. (I use only the windward two sides for guy lines if needed, but it holds its shape so well that it usually takes at least 15mph winds to even need that).
Durability: Fabric is tough, not insulated, but certainly not much penetration of wind occurs. No complaints there and I can't imagine needing more thickness. Which is actually nice, since if I know I am going a week or more between trips I will take and set it up to dry (condensation or snow or water is inevitable).
I liked it so much that when I knew I needed to expand my "fleet" I bought this model again. I already found the setup and staking and snow skirt much cleaner than other shelters of other brands. There is no lift or separation, it sits tight. And to my surprise, the newer one had a modified staking system that makes the grommet separate from the skit, providing an option to stake externally or internally, but still not so far removed that the tent could lift off the ground or skirting (or problem on some other models).
And the best part is, with the price (around $170, shipping included) I was able to get BOTH of my shelters for less than one of many "equivalent" 3-person on-the-market shelters.
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 52.76 x 9.06 x 8.66 inches |
|---|---|
| Package Weight | 13 Kilograms |
| Brand Name | THUNDERBAY |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Color | red |
| Material | 300 denier polyester, nylon, fiberglass, vinyl, plastic, alumimum |
| Manufacturer | ThunderBay Outdoor Products |
| Part Number | B1524 |
| Size | 3-4 Person Non-insulated Ice Cube |
