I’m looking to take advantage of some end of season sales, and am torn between these. I do a lot of weekend backpacking around the Great Lakes, so heavy wind and rain (and sometimes snow) are the biggest factors for me after weight, and I’m willing to not stay ultralight to get that coverage but 6 lbs still feels like a lot.
I think the Marmot Catalyst is my first choice right now, especially because of the poles. My only hesitation is that I’m concerned about how little mesh there is and have seen some things about the condensation.
I can’t find as much about the Suma, but know Eurika as a whole is always pretty reliable.
I also am wavering on the Big Agnes black tail to cover all the bases, but it would be a lot more expensive and the idea of getting one of these two for a steal and getting some more gear also on sale is attractive.
I just was wondering if anyone had any input, or knew of any other options in the $60-$160 range. (I know that’s usually low, but again, local sales are looking good right now.)
For the price, the weight, the functionality, and the price to weight ratio, the Suma is an incredible tent. I absolutely love mine.
Downside is, of course, that the Eureka brand is being discontinued and this may affect warranty etc claims in the future. Honestly, if you see the Suma for a low clearance price, grab two. It would still cost less and weigh less than a Blacktail and you’d have a lifetime worth of spare parts even if you need need something replaced.
I can’t comment on the Catalyst but I’ve been using the Suma 2p for several years and I’m very happy with it. If you didn’t know, Eureka will be closing down operations soon, that’s why there are some great clearance sales happening. I recently bought two more Eureka tents while they’re still available.
I like that the Suma has one door and one vestibule. It makes it easier to pitch in tight places and provides a sense of ‘space’ in the tent (eg. having a front and a back). The combination of quality, weight, and price, is pretty amazing.
I haven’t used it in snow, but it has held up to some pretty strong winds and heavy rainfall over the years. No leaks or issues whatsoever.
I like sleeping with the rain fly on but the fly door left open, so I can see out of the tent while lying down. It doesn’t seem like that would be possible with the Catalyst since the lower half isn’t see-through mesh. I’m also not a fan of the door style on the Catalyst; I haven’t used that exact tent but my MEC Ohm 4 has the same door, and it pools water at the top.
If you’re ok with one door one vestibule, my vote goes to the Suma.
Literally sleeping in a Suma 3P on the Appalachian Trail right now in New York State while responding to this.
Cannot recommend these tents enough. Had it out for 15 nights this fall so far after a dozen over the summer. Hiked 7 miles to tonight’s campsite with my down bag, inflatable pad, 4L of water, change of clothes, and it’s so nice to have this much space in a tent and having it be lighter than the water I’m carrying.