Featherstone UL Obsidian 1P Backpacking Tent Review: A Budget-Friendly Ultralight Haven
For solo backpackers seeking the sweet spot between weight savings and wallet preservation, the Featherstone UL Obsidian 1P Backpacking Tent emerges as an intriguing contender. After thorough testing and analysis, this tent proves to be a compelling option that manages to punch above its price point, though not without a few compromises.
Lightweight and Spacious Design
At just 2 pounds 12.5 ounces trail weight, the Obsidian 1P immediately catches attention in the ultralight category. The tent’s thoughtful design showcases a spacious 81 x 38.5-inch floor plan and a generous 45-inch peak height, offering surprisingly comfortable living space for solo adventures. The freestanding design, utilizing a single-hubbed pole system, makes setup a breeze – particularly with the helpful color-coding that eliminates guesswork during assembly.
Effective Weather Protection
What truly impresses is the attention to detail in weather protection. The 20-denier Sil-Nylon rainfly with a 2000mm waterproof rating, combined with a bathtub floor design, effectively keeps the elements at bay. The Noseeum mesh canopy provides excellent ventilation while keeping insects out, and the adjustable vestibule offers welcome storage space for gear.
Minor Drawbacks
However, it’s not all sunshine and dry camping. The tent requires 11 stakes for optimal setup – more than many competitors – which might be cumbersome for some users. While the materials are impressively lightweight, the thin fabric demands careful handling to ensure longevity. The primarily black and yellow color scheme, while functional, offers limited aesthetic options.
Extras That Add Value
Particularly praiseworthy is the inclusion of extras that often come at a premium with other brands. The included footprint and gear loft add significant value to an already competitive price point. The tent compresses well for backpacking, fitting into a compact 17.87 x 4.3-inch package that won’t dominate pack space.
User Feedback
User feedback consistently highlights the tent’s impressive space-to-weight ratio and easy setup process. While some concerns about zipper durability have surfaced, the overall construction quality appears to hold up well under normal use conditions.
The Verdict
The Featherstone UL Obsidian 1P Backpacking Tent represents an excellent value proposition for budget-conscious solo backpackers. While it may not match the premium materials of high-end ultralight tents, it delivers where it counts: lightweight design, weather protection, and livable space. Its few shortcomings are generally outweighed by its competitive price point and included accessories.
Recommended for:
- Solo backpackers on a budget
- Weekend warriors seeking a lightweight shelter
- Hikers who prioritize easy setup and good ventilation
Consider Alternatives If:
- You require absolute minimum weight
- You frequently camp in extreme conditions
- You prefer premium materials and construction
At its price point, the Featherstone UL Obsidian 1P makes an impressive case for itself as a capable ultralight shelter that won’t break the bank. While it may require some extra care in handling and setup, it delivers reliable performance where it matters most.
Further Reading:
You can also check out reviews and learn more about the Featherstone Obsidian Ultralight Tent.
Leave a Reply