Without question, one of the most common issues to address with 4 man tents, or any tent in general is whether or not the tent is easy to set up.  Nothing is more frustrating than laying out a tent and having to work it like a puzzle.  The sooner the tent is up, the sooner the rest of the evening can be enjoyed.  A similar issue to be considered when selecting the right 4 man tent is the durability of the different parts of the tent, be it the poles, the stakes, the rainfly or the seams.  Look into whether a 4 man tent is offered with a store warranty or a manufacturer warranty.

Another factor to consider before buying is the actual dimensions of the tent.  A full-sized person taller than 6-foot will need a tent with some considerable length.  Even in this case, a 78-inch length or width will only provide 6 inches of clearance, and for some this can be a tight squeeze.  Also consider whether or not the tent will accommodate any camping gear.  A 4 man tent can quickly shrink to a 3 man tent with gear.  Other features to consider are whether the tent has one door or two, or whether or not the tent is a 3-season tent or 4-season.  These are also features that can influence the overall price of a 4 man tent.

While the average 4 man tent can weight in excess of 10 pounds, there are some models of 4 man tents that are considered ultra-light and weigh in around 6-7 pound a piece, making these tents more ideal to take backpacking.  Prices vary wildly on 4 person tents depending on brand, online or retail, and time of year.  Online vendors can occasionally provide a competitive edge by offering deals on free shipping; direct from the manufacturer ordering can sometimes provide a better deal by eliminating the retail markup; and the internet is full of user reviews on virtually any brand and model of 4 man tents common in the market.  Use all of these resources to find the right 4 man tent for you and your family, and happy camping.

When shopping around for winter tents, customer reviews can definitely provide insight into how these tents perform in real world conditions.  The more extreme tents are designed to handle base camp conditions or other unique considerations for mountain climbing.  Regardless, a good winter tent will be able to withstand high winds, strong rain, and should be framed and shaped to easily shed snow.  If it is a four-season tent rather than a winter tent there will be a greater number of built-in vents to vary temperature control.  If used improperly these can lead to problems with too much condensation on the inside of the tent, so some practice may be necessary to get it right.

Four season tents do serve as good winter tents but are sometimes thought to be too heavy for summer use.  Granted, they vent well but if a tent is used specifically for only three-season camping or hiking, the camper need not be burdened with the excess weight or price tag of these tents.  Where the winter tent truly exceeds expectations is in winds in excess of 50 mph, in altitudes above 10,000 feet, with wet and heavy snow fall accumulating over a foot in an eight hour period.  (Actual review: http://www.backcountry.com/store/review/101943/Awesome-Winter-Altitude-Tent.html)

There are some other things that make winter tents unique and often preferred.  Almost universally, these tents are easy to set up by either one or two persons, even with gloves on.  Especially at altitude, weather can move in quickly and shelter has to be established quickly.  Second, many of these winter tents can accommodate gear in their vestibules and (under extreme caution) can even accommodate cooking inside the tent if exiting the tent simply isn’t an option.  For all that a good winter tent can offer they really are worth their price; and the price of a winter tent certainly is a sound investment for the long lifespan that a well-maintained winter tent can provide.

The smallest bivy tents are little larger than the length of a sleeping bag and can weigh as little as two pounds.  Though the specifics can vary from brand to brand the basic gist of the idea is that the camper can slide themselves and their sleeping bag into the waterproofed bivy tent.  The fabric is typically suspended away from the body by a series of hoops.  This allows for greater airflow and also can help prevent a buildup of humidity if the camper or hiker is already wet when they scurry into their one-man bivy tent.

Though the one-man gunny sack may be enough for some people, it is nice to have a little extra.  The step up from the one-man instant shelter is the two-man bivy tent.  To be fair the two-man descriptor is up to interpretation.  Depending on reviews, the two-person bivy tent is suitable for one adult and one child, one hiker plus their gear, or two people that simply don’t mind a tight squeeze.  The ability to keep camping gear dry may be considered by some to be a serious upgrade.  For others that may have a vehicle to keep their gear stowed like on a father-son spending the weekend carp fishing, having a small, dry tent is enough.

There are some features that should be common no matter what type of bivy tent is looked into:
-The fabric should be breathable.
-The fabric should be waterproof.
-The fabric should be bug proof.

Fabric that doesn’t allow for good airflow can make it too humid inside the bivy tent, and a bivy that isn’t waterproof simply isn’t worth the money.  Many bivy sacks have a mesh hood that can be used both for airflow and bug proofing, and while virtually any camping gear is going to be waterproof, the real test of waterproof isn’t going to be in the walls or the floor but in the seams.  If the seams appear to be weak or of poor construction, think twice before testing it out on the trail.  Whether a one man sack or a two man hut, a bivy tent can be an inexpensive way to stay dry on the trail.

In many instances, shopping online will bring in better savings than shopping in a retail store, but this may not be the preferable option.  Before buying any climbing shoes online regardless of how inexpensive they may be, make note of the return policies offered.  Whether through computer error, human error, or a combination both, the wrong sized shoe can wind up on your doorstep.  Or perhaps it may be the right size but just a poor fit.  On the other hand a sales rep with some experience in climbing themselves might be able to make useful observations and helpful suggestions in finding the right pair of cheap climbing shoes.

Cheap climbing shoes may also be found in sales.  Like cars, snow machines, and major appliances, last year’s models or styles are often discounted at the end of the year, either just before or just after the newest version is ready to hit the shelves.  The only thing wrong with these inexpensive climbing shoes is that they aren’t the latest and greatest.  The novice rock climber should look for an inexpensive climbing shoe with the following considerations.  First, the shoe should fit skin-tight without being painful.  In most instances this will be about one size down from street shoe size.  Additionally, the beginning climber may look for a shoe with some ankle support or a slightly wider toe box.  And it’s important to remember that while some shoes will stretch in width, they generally do not stretch in length.

After a pair of climbing shoes is broken in up a couple of rock faces, the climber may have a better idea of what type of climbing shoe they may want to save up for.  As climbs become more specialized or technical, so too will the climbing shoe and this will lead to an increase in price.  Buying used climbing shoes also yields a better chance at getting climbing shoes for cheap.  Since climbing shoes still aren’t something for the average public, finding them secondhand in thrift stores is not likely.  Regardless of where they are bought or how much is paid for them, the most important aspect of buying cheap climbing shoes is buying a pair with a good fit that will foster the climbers’ love of rock.

The Grivel G12 Crampons can accommodate any shoe or boot size between Men’s US size 5-12, though there is question as to how well they accommodate the size 12.  Even among US shoe sizes, no two size 12 shoes will fit alike much less be cut the same.  It’s recommended with the larger shoe sizes to bring the boots into the store and test the fit of the Grivel G12 Crampon before committing to buy.  Likewise, see which of the three binding options works best with the boots.  If they are a bad fit then consider using a different pair of boots or perhaps look into buying a different type of crampon, since the Grivel G12 Crampons are only offered as a one size fits all option.

The Grivel G12 Crampons weigh-in at a hefty 950 grams, or just over two pounds.  Many climbers find the weight a little bit cumbersome.  Other don’t mind the weight simply for the gains in versatility and durability.  The Grivel G12 sports 12 spikes, four in the heel and eight around the ball of the foot and the toe.  The toe spikes are also effective in helping to climb rock and ice, according to consumer reviews.  The new feature that’s getting a lot of attention is something called antibott sheeting, a flexible latex sheeting that prevents snow from caking around the crampon and ultimately helping to keep the climber safer.

Though a pair of Grivel G12 Crampons will set a climber back by about $175, consumer reviews indicate that the Grivel G12 is the nearest thing there is to a universal crampon.  Though there are crampons better designed for rock climbing or better suited for ice climbing, the G12 Grivel Crampon performs well on several types of terrain conditions (not recommended for vertical ice climbing), and proves very effective on climbs where varied conditions exist one right after the other.  They might not have the specialty of their own Grivel Spider Crampons, but these general use tools are extremely popular with many climbers.

There are many styles of crampons, and it is important to understand a little bit about the strengths and limitations of the Grivel spider crampons before taking them out for a test run.  The spikes of the crampon are longer than some other models, and this can provide for better traction on a path or a trail that strays away from flat ground.  Be very clear on this next point, they are not intended for straight up climbing.  In addition to this it is important to remember that snow and ice will always pose a risk factor for falls, and that extra traction is not a guarantee.  Relying on traction devices like the Grivel Spider Crampons above common sense is a rapid way to invite problems.

The Grivel Spider Crampons are also suitable for simple around town use.  Even if roadways are made clear of snow and ice, parking lots and sidewalks are often still icy.  The crampons are small enough that they can be easily removed and stuffed in a purse or a coat pocket while shopping, and easy again to slip on for the adventurous trek back to the car with a cartful of groceries or gift bags in tow.  The Grivel Spider Crampons simply straps over the foot and around the back of the heel.  The steel spikes (ten in total) fill the instep. There have been some reports that the steel spikes are prone to rust, but any product defect such as rusting is covered under a lifetime warranty.

The best part about the Grivel Spider Crampons is that they have been on the market for long enough to receive some consumer feedback, both positive and negative.  Tracking down these consumer reviews on Grivel Spider Crampons can provide a real assessment of the strengths and limitations of the Grivel Spider Crampon.  Among the commonly reported drawbacks is that for some shoes or boots, fitting the crampon into place can be a bit of a hassle and that if not fit snug they will jar loose or force the unnatural heel walking technique, but as crampons go the Grivel Spider Crampons are inexpensive and provide adequate traction for walking around town or on familiar terrain.

The ice axe has many different functions to aid the climber in both the ascent and descent. A mountaineer may sometimes use the axe head as a handle in order to use the shaft and spike to aid in walking up or down snow-covered terrain. Another use is as an anchor, with the pick buried and a rope tied to the shaft. The adze is most often used to cut out foot holes (commonly referred to as pigeon holes) and seats in the snow or ice. If a mountaineer slips and begins to slide downhill, the ice axe is an invaluable tool in stopping their own fall. It is vital that the user has the correct length axe for their height, as an axe that is too long will make self-arrest extremely difficult.

An ice axe can cost anywhere from $60 to $360 depending on their manufacture and technical use. The cheapest ice axe will be basic and offer bare-minimum in its function, however, some terrain only requires this type of tool. A more expensive ice axe may have a shaft made from carbon fiber and have multiple features to aid a climber in more difficult terrain.

When choosing the right weight of an axe it is important to consider the intended use. Light-weight axes can be less durable, so an axe made of heavier metal may be more suitable, depending on what it is going to be used for. It is important to choose the correct size depending on your height and arm reach. A common way to find the correct size for you is to stand, holding the axe by its head. When doing this, the shaft spike should just barely touch the ground.

This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice.

Rock Jocks, Wall Rats, and Hang Dogs: Rock Climbing on the Edge of Reality by John Long (Fireside, 1994)
Long hung out with all sorts of dedicated climbers during the heyday of California climbing in the 1970s. Now, thanks to this quirky and often moving book, his friends become yours, too. A little on the “insider” level, including some arcane vocabulary — but more than worth the trip.

Girl on the Rocks: A Woman’s Guide to Climbing with Strength, Grace, and Courage by Katie Brown, with photography by Ben Moon (FalconGuides, 2008)
One of the world’s best female climbers takes time to explain her favorite methods for improving technique, strength and agility. She also interviews other climbers, from a young girl to a sixty-and-counting woman, and passes on their secrets. Once you realize that climbing involves balance and grace as much as brute strength, half the battle’s won.

Breaking Point: Challenge on Alaska’s Mt. Hunter by Glenn Randall (Chockstone Press, 1984)
Three young climbers, still a little green around the gills, decide to take on Mt. Hunter, the mountain that nearly killed famous climber John Waterman, and come close to disaster themselves. This book has the immediacy and vivid description of the journal of a climber who was there for all the near-slips, miscalculations and falls — because he was. An extra bonus: Peter Athans, one of the book’s protagonists, is now a well-respected speaker and expedition leader known for his seven ascents of Everest. Which brings us to…

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer (Anchor, 1997 hardcover, 1999 paperback)
How did eight people lose their lives in a spring storm on the world’s tallest mountain? Fingers point in every direction, including Krakauer himself. But the key to that May 1996 disaster seems largely to be rooted in the need to shuffle paid clients up the mountain — especially well-known or wealthy ones. (Read Anatoli Boukreev’s The Climb: Tragic Ambitions on Everest [St. Martin's Griffin, 1999] for an opposing view to Krakauer’s.) Riveting, and forces one to think: what’s the real motivation for getting up that route?

Climbing Self Rescue: Improvising Solutions for Serious Situations by Andy Tyson and Molly Loomis (Mountaineers Outdoor Expert series; Mountaineers, 2006)
And finally, the perfect how-to book for any trad climber in a sticky situation. This rescue encyclopedia won’t help you much for ice climbing, but it covers a variety of other scenarios in concise and clear fashion. Subjects include rescue knots, getting out of a belay, descending, ascending, raising, passing knots, and how to get outside help. Good for careful analysis, section by section. Of all the books mentioned, this one may just save your life.

Woman are sometimes worried about finding a boot that will be good in all types of weather and still have style. The Raichle hiking boots for woman offer many choices. There are many models of the boot that you can also wear walking on regular city grounds and look stylish too. Raichle hiking boots are heavy duty and durable for a long lasting piece of your wardrobe. You can purchase Raichle Hiking Boots at many different retailers and in online stores. It is very important to have a durable waterproof boot when going hiking or adventuring through different climates. The Raichle hiking books let you have that experience and more.

These boots are made with such high quality that you would think that they would cost a lot more money then they do. You can often times find them for discounted or wholesale prices online. They usually range anywhere between thirty dollars up to two hundred dollars. They are very worth the price and will last a long time through many different adventures and climates. Many people shop for heavy study strong boots and Raichle is a great place to find just that. There are many colors and styles to choose from for your personal preference.

The “floor” is waterproof and has a padded bottom for more comfort as you sleep. The cost ranges from $100.00 – $300.00 depending if you are adding any additional accessories, such as canteens, binoculars, etc. Or you can purchase the deluxe set with all accessories at a cost of $350.00. This will save having to purchase anything else, everything you require for a fantastic camping trip is already there.

Imagine taking along your family and friends on a camping trip with these tents! They will be amazed at the comfort that will be part of camping, even while roughing it. Any camper that has purchased one of these, always return to get another for friends or family. As well these are great for taking trips with a school scout cub group as they learn and earn their different badges. The kids will not want to come home and ask when the next camping trip will be!

When you being used for camping, these tents can be set up in a backyard for everyone to enjoy all summer. The neighborhood kids will all gather at your house for the best summer fun yet! Because they can be adjusted in size, you can set them up in a small bedroom for fun on a rainy day.

You can see how versatile these tents can be, not only for outside fun but inside as well. Check out a local sports retailer or go online for more information. Want more fun on a future camping trip? Get one (or even two) of these tents. Take pictures and relive the happy times again and again. Happy Camping!