REI Co-op Half Dome 2
Specifications
| Capacity | Seasons | Pack Weight | Pack Size | Floor Area | Doors | Freestanding | Peak Height | Floor Dimensions | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 5 lbs 15.1 oz | 22.0 X 7.3 in | 31.8 sq ft | 2 | Yes | 40 in | 88 X 52 in | $329.00 |
Comfort
The Half Dome 2 is a spacious and thoughtfully designed two-person tent. It features a generous 88 × 52 inch interior footprint and approximately 40 inches of peak height that accommodates full-length sleeping pads. Its pre-bent hubbed pole structure and vertical sidewalls enhance headspace and overall livability, while dual D‑shape doors, large vestibules, mesh canopy ventilation, and convenient interior pockets allow for organized gear, easy access, and minimized condensation, delivering a comfortable and cozy camping experience even in fluctuating conditions.
Weight and Packability
This is a user-friendly freestanding tent that balances livability with manageable trail performance. It features a minimum trail weight of approximately 4 lb 13 oz, rising to about 5 lb 15 oz when packed with included accessories like the footprint and stakes. When stowed in its stuff sack, it measures 22 × 7.3 inches, making it significantly bulkier than ultralight options. While it’s heavier and takes up more space, the trade-off is generous interior room and gear storage, which REI emphasizes make it ideal for recreational backpacking, weekend trips, or car camping when comfort and space are important, and shaving ounces isn’t the top priority
Price
The Half Dome 2 tent with a footprint retails at $329, which is competitive for a freestanding, two-door tent that includes a footprint and premium features. Despite its affordable price, it offers generous interior space, durable materials, and reliability that reviewers consistently praise as outperforming more expensive models—and it’s often included in member sales and promotions for even greater value.
Quality and Materials
The Half Dome 2 utilizes durable 75D polyester taffeta on the floor and rainfly with 40D nylon mesh for breathable canopy ventilation. The tent’s robust structure, including DAC 7000-series aluminum poles and its HubCheck™ dual-hub system, ensures consistent pole seating and simplified setup, while fully taped seams, non-wicking welded construction at pole wraps, and a nonfluorinated DWR coating protect against moisture ingress. Load-bearing exterior guy line points and reinforced corners enhance weather resilience, and solution-dyed fabric minimizes UV degradation and energy in manufacturing.
Consumer Sentiment (Pros & Cons)
Pros:
- Spacious interior with ample headroom
- Easy and quick setup
- Includes footprint
- Durable materials
Cons:
- Heavier compared to other backpacking tents
- A little bulky when packed down
Comparison to Comparable Items
REI Co-Op Trailmade 2: Half Dome 2 is slightly lighter and provides more interior space and better livability features for higher comfort, but is a more expensive option.
MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2P: The Half Dome 2 offers more interior space and includes a footprint at a lower price, while the Hubba Hubba LT 2P is significantly lighter and more packable, making it better suited for weight-conscious backpackers.
NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P: The Half Dome 2 delivers solid comfort and durability at a budget-friendly price, whereas the Dagger OSMO 2P is lighter, uses higher-end sustainable materials, and provides more headroom and premium features for serious backcountry use.
Who is this For?
The REI Co-op Half Dome 2 is ideal for backpackers who prioritize comfort and space, as well as short trips where the weight can be split between two people. Its roomy interior also makes it a great choice for campers with pets or extra gear, and its straightforward setup appeals to those new to camping. However, it’s less suited for solo backpackers or long-distance trekkers where minimizing weight is essential.
