Vortex 2

 

Page Type Gear Review
Object Title Vortex 2
Manufacturer Kelty
Page By Martin Cash
Page Type Nov 8, 2002 / Nov 8, 2002
Object ID 209
Hits 14027
Vote
The Kelty Vortex 2 tent incorporates Kelty's proprietary WebForce technology. Webfoce consists of two parts. The first is 'trusses' at each pole sleeve intersection. These guide the poles through the intersection, easing set up, and eliminating any independent movement of the poles, strengthening the structure. The second part is the WebForce 'tendons' on the fly, which lock stakeout points to FlyBoys (Kelty's patented anchoring system) , preventing any stretch or movement under even the heaviest winds. The FLyBoy consists of a patch that is permanently affixed to the fly and a plastic clip that anchors the body, poles and fly, creating a the strength of four poles in a two pole tent.

1.9 oz. Nylon taffeta tent walls
2.3 oz. 1800mm PU coated taped nylon taffeta floor
2.3 oz. Taped 1800mm PU coated taped polyester fly
Lightweight high tenacity webbing throughout

Features

Vaulted PolePilot sleeves are extremely rigid for maximum strength, provide exceptional airflow between the tent and fly
Continuous pole sleeves for easy setup
Two large D-shaped doors and two large fly vestibules
ArcEdge floor keeps seams off ground and watertight
Two large no-see-um mesh ceiling panels for ventilation
Two vestibules
Eclipse photocromatic window
Fly vents
FlyBoy
Guyout points
Noiseless zipper pulls
Side release buckle tent/fly connection
Taped seams
WebForce
ArcEdge floor
Gear loft loops
Internal storage pockets
Organizer wall
Side wall vents
Taped floor seams
Vaulted pole sleeves

Images

Reviews


Viewing: 1-5 of 5

Martin Cash - Nov 8, 2002 10:23 am - Voted 5/5

Untitled Review
I did a lot of searching before I bought this tent about a year ago. It is extemely easy to setup, lightweight, durable, and virtually waterproof. I have used it for camping and climbing in all 4 seasons. It is a great all purpose 2 person tent. The vestibules are the perfect size for storing 2 big packs on 1 side, and cooking on the other.

This tent, despite its 3 season rating, can be used for mountaineering and winter camping too. I've had good luck with it on snowfields and in temperatures below zero. It vents very well, so ice doesn't build up, or condensation doesn't soak your clothes. The webforce fly material is very strong, and despite its two pole design, it has held up well in 40 mile an hour winds and driving snow. Obviously this kind of lightweight design has its limits. It would proabably fail in winds over 50-60 miles per hour.

When setting this tent up in the mountains, make sure to use your trekking poles and some lightweight stakes to properly anchor it down. The anchors that the tent comes with do not work in the snow. Also, I've attached some thin rope to the corners and vestibule points on mine to tie it down to some rocks if conditions are bad.

Of course, 4 season tents already come with this stuff, but they are much heavier and more expensive.

marcminish - Dec 17, 2002 4:47 am - Voted 4/5

Untitled Review
I have used one of these for years and still consider it a good one. It is the best value for your money and has the same features as more expensive tents.



I like the double vestibule so that your buddy can get in and out of the tent without stepping on your. The vestibules were more than large enough fit my pack inside. Plenty of headroom even if you are over 6 feet tall. Easy setup.



The only drawback is the tents weight. It is not really all that heavy, but lighter versions are out there.

Jgrant - Feb 8, 2003 9:44 am - Voted 4/5

Untitled Review
A good solid tent for a pretty low price. I've had mine for about 3 years, it's been on about 8 trips from local Socal stuff to some Sierra trips.

My biggest complaint is that it doesn't compress into a pack very well, but the weight isn't bad. In very wet conditions it ventilates well, and stays quite dry on the inside. Late last year (October '02) in the Inyo range my wife and I got a few inches of snow and some relatively nasty conditions - the tent held up better than I hoped for.

It has proven to be quite durable, setting up in a few locations down here for years it hasn't displayed any bottom or side tears yet. Overall, a great tent for not much cash.

Edit: the double vestibule is a godsend as well, amost forgot about that - it's terribly easy to get into and out of from both sides of the tent.

crirwin - Jun 19, 2003 12:59 pm - Voted 5/5

Untitled Review
I've had mine two years and have found it to be a great investment. I've used it in a variety of conditions including rain and on snow. I haven't had to deal with heavy winds yet.



It is easy and quick to set up. I like the way that the Webforce system works. I've purchased all new stakes for my tent including stakes to secure it in snow. It ventilates very well and I've haven't had a problem with condensation.



The two vestibules are a great feature. There is no problem storing a couple of packs and some other gear on one side while leaving the other open for cooking and getting in and out. The storage pockets and loft are convenient.



I haven't had a problem with the weight or packing it into my backpack. But, this is the first real serious tent I've purchased! I also did a lot of research before buying it.



Kelty has now come out with a convertible model called the Jetstream that comes with both a 3 season and a 4 season fly. After some research, I've found out that the Vortex 2 and the Jetstream are the same exact tent with one minor difference. I'm now working out the economics and giving some thought to buying the 4 season fly for my Vortex. The 4 season fly is more dome shaped and comes with two additional poles for added strength. You can buy it from Kelty for $178.

AltitudeSickness - Jan 4, 2008 9:55 pm - Voted 4/5

Good Tent
Kelty has made this easy to set up tent durable and tough enough to take to some 4 season conditions. I like it being roomy enough for two big guys. I like the two vestibules. The stakes are flimsy to put into the tough Oklahoma red clay soil, so you may need to increase your overall weight with some new stakes.

Viewing: 1-5 of 5