This is a strong tent but it is heavy and not livable. If strength is not a high priority the REI Half Dome 2 (our Best Buy winner) is a superior alternative to the Tadpole. This larger shelter has two doors, two vestibules, and six large pockets. Better poles and fabrics give the Half Dome the same weight as the Tadpole. Most importantly, it’s $20 cheaper. You can’t go wrong with the Half Dome 2. If weight and price are not an issue, our we recommend our Editor's Choice winner, the Black Diamond Mesa.
The North Face Tadpole 23 is the strongest three-season backpacking tent we’ve reviewed. Its strength comes from a time-tested three pole design that has a low profile and three pole intersections. Point the smaller end into the wind and you’ll be trouble free in most conditions. While strength is the Tadpole’s best attribute, its attractive price is also a strong selling point.
Regrettably, the Tadpole is not livable. A sloping peak limits sitting room and one door makes extended base camping less than ideal. The interior is also the smallest of any tent in its class. At nearly 5.5lbs, the Tadpole is heavy for its size. For this reason, we recommend the tent for those who seek a cheap and strong tent for exposed and/or above treeline camping.
How did this compare to other backpacking tents? Check out our complete Best Backpacking Tent Review.
Hands-on Gear Review |
Street Price:
Varies from $175 - $219 | Compare prices at 3 resellers
Pros: Simple and strong. Cons: Heavy and small for its weight. Best Uses: Budget backpacking.
Overview
OutdoorGearLab Editors' Hands-on Review
Likes
The North Face Tadpole 23 is a strong and durable budget three-season backpacking tent. It employs a time-tested three pole design: two cross corner to corner lengthwise while a third arcs over the door. The two longer poles run through a combination of sleeve and clips, making the tent very easy and quick to set up. Three pole intersections and a low profile give the tent a strong and stable base; the Tadpole is the most storm proof tent in its class. The Tadpole is moderately livable. It has a well-designed and spacious vestibule and two pockets on each side of the mesh interior. The peak height is comparable to most other tents in its class. Unfortunately, its highest point is not in the center, but above the door. You can sit up, but only in this small area. The Tadpole is attractively priced at $199. Dislikes With strength comes weight. The Tadpole is heavy (5.44lbs) for its size (26sq ft). It has the least interior space and consequently the lowest space to weight ratio of any tent in its class. Low quality DAC Pres-Fit poles are a partial cause for this. The only other tent (reviewed here) with the same poles is the Marmot Limelight 2. We like the design and strength of the Tadpole, but wish it was two pounds lighter. Better poles and a lighter fly would help with this. On the whole, the Tadpole is a good budget backpacking tent. Others have more space and are cheaper, so get this only if your adventures require the added strength and stability. Best Application Budget backpacking in exposed windy environments. Value A good value for its strength, but less so for comfort. Other versions and accessories The Tadpole footprint retails for $45. — Max Neale
OutdoorGearLab Member Reviews of North Face Tadpole 23Most recent review: February 25, 2011
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 North Face Tadpole 23 Credit: North Face
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