Big Sky Evolution 2P

1. BackpackingLight.com

This enthusiastic, detailed single-product review by a publication devoted to ultralight backpacking calls the Big Sky Evolution 2P "the lightest, best designed, most user-friendly three-season two-person double-wall freestanding tent available." Despite excellent design and ventilation, the fly can sometimes touch the inner wall, causing condensation, so it's better to add extra stakes and lines to hold the fly taut. (The 2009 version comes with these.)

Review: Big Sky Evolution 2P Tent Review, Will Rietveld, April 2006

2. BackpackingLight.com

The Big Sky Evolution 2P earns top ranking based on comparison tests of 18 double-wall backpacking tents, the type less apt to have condensation problems compared with single-wall tents. Each tent earns specific ratings for ventilation, wind stability, insect protection, durability and several other relevant factors.

Review: Double Wall Tents Review Summary and Gear Guide Overview, Doug Johnson, April 2006

3. Outside Magazine

Based on extensive field tests, editors call the Big Sky Evolution 2P tent a "killer value," praising it for keeping hikers dry even in a snowstorm. The overall design and weight earn kudos, with the minor drawback that the vestibule door needs to be kept closed in a rainstorm.

Review: Gear Guide 2006: Big Sky Evolution 2P, Christopher Solomon, May 2006

4. BackpackGearTest.org

The smaller solo version, the Big Sky Evolution 1P, gets very detailed single-product reviews here from three experienced hikers, all of whom provide reports based on long-term use and one of whom reviews both the 2006 and improved 2009 version. A few minor drawbacks are noted (sand can blow in under fly, zippers can snag), but these hikers find the 1P big enough for solo hiking, praising the tent's design, durability and resistance to storms.

Review: Tents, Contributors to BackpackGearTest.org

5. The Gear Junkie

Comparing three ultralight tents, editors find the Big Sky Evolution 2P by far the most comfortable, with excellent ventilation and internal organization. The only drawback is the setup, judged cumbersome.

Review: Minimalist tents -- Nemo, Mandatory Gear, Big Sky Intl., Editors of GearJunkie.com, July 12, 2006

6. FiftySense.net

This brief review reports that the Big Sky Evolution 2P is comfortable for two campers, even when one is over 6 feet 4 inches tall. Contrary to some other reviews, this couple finds the setup quick and easy, with the fly held well away from the tent body to avoid any condensation at all.

Review: Review: Big Sky International Evolution 2P, Sue and John Williams