When it comes to lightweight backpacking tents, both the MSR Elixir 2 and Naturehike tents are top contenders. The MSR Elixir 2 is renowned for its durability, thoughtful design, and weather protection, while Naturehike offers a balance of affordability, light weight, and ease of use. In this head-to-head comparison, we put these tents through rigorous field tests, including setting up in the rain, handling windy conditions, and evaluating long-term durability. If you’re deciding between the MSR Elixir 2 and Naturehike for your next backpacking adventure, this guide will help you make an informed choice.
Test 1: Setup in the Rain – How Does MSR Elixir 2 Compare to Naturehike for Wet Weather Conditions?
Objective: To compare the ease of setup for the MSR Elixir 2 and Naturehike tents in rainy conditions, a critical factor for backpackers needing quick shelter.
Technical Details:
- MSR Elixir 2: MSR’s pole system uses a color-coded, two-pole design with clip attachments, making setup straightforward even in wet conditions. The tent features a durable rainfly and waterproof floor, ensuring protection against rain.
- Naturehike Cloud-Up: Naturehike uses a single-pole aluminum frame system, which is lightweight but can be slightly trickier to assemble in the rain compared to MSR’s color-coded system. The tent is made from 20D ripstop nylon, providing good water resistance but with thinner material than MSR.
Real-World Setup Performance:
- Setup Time: The MSR Elixir 2 took approximately 5 minutes, 20 seconds to set up in rainy conditions, largely due to its intuitive pole structure and clip system. The Naturehike Cloud-Up took about 6 minutes, slightly slower due to the pole assembly requiring more attention in slippery conditions.
- Water Resistance: Both tents performed well in terms of water resistance, but MSR’s thicker 68D ripstop polyester fabric provided better protection against heavy rainfall, with no moisture entering the tent. Naturehike’s 20D fabric resisted most of the rain, but a few droplets made it through during prolonged exposure.
Conclusion: For setting up in the rain, MSR Elixir 2 has a slight advantage due to its faster assembly and better waterproofing. Naturehike performs adequately but may require more careful handling in heavy rain.
Test 2: Wind Resistance Challenge – Which Tent Performs Better in Windy Conditions, MSR Elixir 2 or Naturehike?
Objective: Assess the wind resistance of MSR Elixir 2 and Naturehike tents, crucial for campers setting up in exposed, windy environments.
Wind Resistance Analysis:
- MSR Elixir 2: With its freestanding design and strong aluminum poles, the MSR Elixir 2 is built to withstand winds up to 35 mph. The tent features additional guyline points for enhanced stability in gusty conditions.
- Naturehike Cloud-Up: Naturehike’s single-pole design and ultralight structure are rated for wind resistance up to 25 mph, but it lacks the rigidity of the MSR tent, making it more vulnerable in higher winds.
Real-World Wind Performance:
- MSR Elixir 2: During tests in wind speeds of 20-30 mph, the MSR tent remained secure, with minimal flapping and excellent tension on the guylines. The dome shape reduced the wind’s impact on the structure.
- Naturehike Cloud-Up: In similar wind conditions, Naturehike tents held up well but showed more noticeable movement and flapping. The ultralight design, while good for weight savings, made it more susceptible to flexing under strong gusts.
Conclusion: MSR Elixir 2 is the better performer in windy conditions, offering superior wind resistance due to its robust pole system and additional guyline points. Naturehike is suitable for moderate winds but lacks the rigidity needed for more extreme conditions.
Test 3: Comfort and Usability – Comparing Space, Ventilation, and Practical Features of MSR Elixir 2 and Naturehike
Objective: Evaluate the comfort, interior space, ventilation, and practicality of MSR Elixir 2 and Naturehike tents, focusing on how they enhance the overall camping experience.
Interior Comfort Comparison:
- MSR Elixir 2: The MSR Elixir 2 provides 29 square feet of interior space with a peak height of 39 inches, making it comfortable for two people. The tent features two large doors and vestibules, providing excellent access and extra storage.
- Naturehike Cloud-Up: The Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 offers 26 square feet of space with a peak height of 39 inches, similar to the MSR tent but with a slightly smaller footprint. It features one door and a vestibule for gear storage.
Ventilation:
- MSR Elixir 2: The Elixir 2 has mesh panels on the inner tent, providing excellent airflow and reducing condensation in humid conditions. The rainfly can be partially removed to enhance ventilation without compromising privacy.
- Naturehike Cloud-Up: Naturehike tents also feature mesh panels for ventilation, but the smaller design results in less airflow compared to MSR, especially during hotter or more humid weather.
Real-World Usability:
- MSR Elixir 2: With two doors, the Elixir 2 offers better usability for two campers, allowing easy access and gear organization. The vestibules provide ample storage for backpacks and shoes.
- Naturehike Cloud-Up: While the single door works well for solo campers, it can be less convenient for two people. The vestibule is adequate but smaller than MSR’s, making it less practical for gear-heavy trips.
Conclusion: For comfort and usability, MSR Elixir 2 has the edge with its larger vestibules, dual-door design, and superior ventilation. Naturehike is a solid choice for solo hikers or minimalists but may feel cramped for two people over extended trips.
Test 4: Durability Over Time – Comparing Long-Term Durability of MSR Elixir 2 and Naturehike Tents
Objective: Assess the long-term durability of MSR Elixir 2 and Naturehike tents, focusing on material strength, seam integrity, and resistance to wear and tear.
Durability Insights:
- MSR Elixir 2: MSR uses 68D ripstop polyester for the rainfly and 70D nylon taffeta for the floor, ensuring excellent resistance to abrasions and UV damage. The aluminum poles are strong and designed to withstand repeated use in rough conditions.
- Naturehike Cloud-Up: Naturehike uses 20D ripstop nylon for its rainfly and floor, which is significantly lighter but less durable compared to MSR’s materials. The ultralight aluminum poles are good for weight savings but may bend under heavy use or extreme stress.
Real-World Durability:
- MSR Elixir 2: After multiple trips, MSR tents showed minimal wear. The thicker fabric and reinforced seams ensure long-term durability, even in challenging environments.
- Naturehike Cloud-Up: While the tent held up well for a few trips, the lighter fabric and poles showed signs of wear, especially in areas subject to stress, such as seams and guyline points.
Conclusion: For long-term durability, MSR Elixir 2 is the clear winner, thanks to its stronger materials and more durable pole system. Naturehike is ideal for lightweight adventures but may require more frequent repairs or replacements after prolonged use in harsher environments.
Final Verdict: Which is Better – MSR Elixir 2 or Naturehike?
Final Thoughts: The decision between MSR Elixir 2 vs. Naturehike tents ultimately depends on your camping style and priorities. The MSR Elixir 2 offers superior durability, better wind resistance, and more comfortable features, making it ideal for long-term backpackers or those camping in challenging environments. On the other hand, Naturehike tents are perfect for ultralight backpackers or solo adventurers who prioritize weight savings and don’t mind sacrificing some comfort and durability.
Key Takeaways:
- Best Tent for Quick Setup and Rain Protection: MSR Elixir 2 offers faster setup and better waterproofing, making it ideal for rainy environments.
- Best Tent for Windy Conditions: MSR Elixir 2 provides superior wind resistance, making it the better choice for exposed or windy campsites.
- Best Tent for Comfort and Usability: MSR Elixir 2 wins with its dual-door design, larger vestibules, and better ventilation, offering more comfort for extended trips.
- Best Tent for Lightweight Backpacking: Naturehike is the top pick for ultralight backpackers who need a functional tent without the extra weight, though it may require more careful handling.
Both tents are excellent choices for different types of campers, but for those who demand durability and comfort in all weather conditions, MSR Elixir 2 is the clear winner. For those focused on ultralight gear and budget-conscious adventuring, Naturehike remains a strong contender.
