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Huge protected space for very little weight
MSR says:
Featherweight, all-season shelter for parties of 4 on giant missions.
So compact and light, it’s hardly noticeable in your pack, the Front Range tarp shelter lets parties of four move faster on giant alpine missions and ski traverses, with all-season protection from the elements. Supremely versatile—it makes a featherweight dining hall too—this ultra-simple shelter is boosted with our Xtreme Shield™ coating for long-term durability. Whether you’re taking advantage of spring’s longer days or building a winter basecamp, the ultralight Front Range makes these sufferfests a little more Type 1 fun.
Our Verdict
At just 861g, the MSR Front Range 4P gives you remarkable sheltered space for the weight. The 274 × 274cm footprint and 162cm peak height make it feel huge with two or three people, with plenty of room for winter kit and cooking.
Four people will fit, but the central support pole and sloping walls make three much more comfortable, especially with wider sleeping mats.
Pitching is simple once you square the corners, using two trekking or ski poles strapped together as the central support. The pyramid shape sheds wind and snow well and, with solid anchors and the extra guy points used, the structure inspires confidence in poor weather.
The trade-off is that this is still a minimalist floorless shelter. There is no vestibule or insect protection as standard, and the open perimeter can feel draughty in winter.
For me, the real appeal is just how much usable sheltered space you get from something that weighs well under a kilogram.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- Featherweight: Hyper-efficient tarp shelter sleeps four but is ultralight even for two, with a 5’ 4” peak height for gearing up easily.
- Quick Setup: Frameless, floorless design pitches with ski/trekking poles or 5-foot accessory pole (sold separately); ski straps included for easy assembly.
- Easy Access: Zippered door rolls back completely on both sides for sweeping views and easy entry.
- Versatile: Light enough to carry as a solo shelter, dining hall, or emergency shelter. Optional Bug/Floor Insert available for wet & buggy terrain.
- Durable: Steep canopy sheds snow and water and features Xtreme Shield waterproof coating for long-lasting durability.
- Includes: Front Range tarp shelter, (2) straps for ski/trekking pole assembly, 6 Groundhog™ stakes, guy lines, stuff sack, setup instructions.
Specifications
Weights:
- Total Weight: 861g
- Flysheet weighs: 729g
- Pegs x6 weighs: 14g (per peg)
- Buckle weighs: 48g
Dimensions:
- Floor Dimensions: 108 x 108 in (274 x 274 cm)
- Floor Area: 81 sq. ft (7.52 sq. m)
- Tent Volume: 144 cu. ft (4078 liters)
- Interior Peak Height: 64 in (162 cm)
- Packed Size: 12 x 5 in (30 x 13 cm)
Material & Construction
- Rainfly Fabric: 20D ripstop nylon 1200 mm Xtreme Shield™ polyurethane & silicone
