Ever felt like your tent was more of a liability than a shelter during a storm? Well, the SlingFin Cinder Cone Pyramid Tent might just change your mind. This isn’t your average tarp—it’s a rugged, versatile, and thoughtfully designed backcountry companion that stands up to the harshest conditions. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some swear by ultralight Dyneema shelters, the Cinder Cone’s blend of durability and features might make you question if lighter always means better. Let’s dive in.
A few years back, during the pandemic’s peak, I found myself tinkering with my old pyramid tarp, trying to add adjustable tensioners and mid-panel tie-outs to handle strong winds. Despite my amateur sewing skills, the result was functional—though it cost me a fair bit of sanity. Little did I know, SlingFin was about to release a tent that would make my DIY project obsolete. Enter the Cinder Cone: a shelter that not only met my modifications but exceeded them in every way.
I’ve put this tent through its paces—from basecamping in Patagonia to bikepacking on remote islands and packrafting above the Arctic Circle. Each time, its versatility and resilience left me impressed. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about surviving the elements; it’s about thriving in them. The Cinder Cone is generously sized, ventilates like a dream, and is built to withstand the kind of storms you’d find on the Kahiltna Glacier or the Southern Patagonian Icefield.
Key Features at a Glance:
- Weather Resistance: 8.0
- Living Space: 9.0
- Durability: 8.0
- Size & Weight: 9.0
Specs:
- Type: Basecamp and expeditions
- Weight: 2 lbs., 7.4 oz.
- Capacity: 4 people
- Floor Area: 81 sq. ft.
- Height: 72"
- Construction: Rugged nylon 66 and ALUULA Durlyte
What Sets It Apart:
- Versatile Setup: Pitch it in any terrain, with or without an inner floor.
- Superior Ventilation: Multiple ports and systems keep condensation at bay.
- Burly Materials: ALUULA Durlyte in the top cap adds unmatched durability.
- Packed Size: Surprisingly compact for its capabilities.
Room for Improvement:
- Seam Sealing: You’ll need to seal the seams yourself.
- Hang Loop: A missing feature that would make the mesh inner more versatile.
The Controversy: Is Lighter Always Better?
While ultralight enthusiasts might argue for Dyneema shelters like the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultamid 4, the Cinder Cone’s durability and feature set make a strong case for itself. At $435 (without the inner), it’s nearly half the price of the Ultamid and packs down just as small. So, here’s the question: Are you willing to trade a few ounces for a tent that’s built to last and perform in any condition?
Whether you’re a thru-hiker, bikepacker, or mountaineer, the Cinder Cone is a shelter that adapts to your needs. This winter, I’m excited to use it for ski traverses in the North Cascades, where its compact packed size and spacious interior will truly shine. It’s not a quiver-killer, but it’s replaced my old modified tarp entirely—no sewing required.
What do you think? Is the Cinder Cone worth the trade-off, or do you stick by ultralight options? Let’s debate in the comments!
