MSR Elixir 2 Review

Specs

Review

The MSR Elixir 2 is a bit different as it is created for specific adventurers. Its top-notch weather resistance is perfect for places where conditions change at a drop of a hat. The materials used are also sturdy and durable, making it a sturdy tent even in rough conditions.

Comfort

The MSR focused on creating a tent with great weather resistance and protection. As such, this is quite noticeable in its relatively limited comfort factor. While its core features are solid, many 2-person tents offer better functionalities.

First, the side doors on both sides face in opposite directions. That means you and your companion are supposed to sleep head to toe. The doors are not big, so coming in and out is a bit of a challenge. But, they are easy to open even with one hand.

The tent has storage pockets on each side as well as on the head area. There’s also a small overhead pocket which is great for a headlamp. However, there are no pockets on the door side which you have to reach over your head or the ceiling if you need something. This can be slightly annoying, especially if you are hunkered down inside while it is raining outside.

A total of 29 square feet of interior space is a tad tight for two people. However, it makes up on the width that’s around 50 inches. Combined with the peak height of 40 inches, sitting up is quite comfortable even with two people inside.

The 84 inches length is a slight concern, especially for tall people. While it may be enough, if you consider the slight lack of storage for the rest of your gear, you will end up sharing space with some of your camping stuff, such as your sleeping pad and backpack.

The substantial fabric paneling does a great job of providing privacy, especially if you are pitched in a crowded campsite. It also provides great weather protection if you are not keen on putting up the rain fly when it is drizzling. However, this also means that you do not have a view of the sky during summer nights.

Ease of Setup

While not the most intuitive on the first look, Elixir 2 is simple enough to set up once you figure out the configuration. Any average camper can get it up in about 10 minutes or less.

The poles come with two attached hubs that connect the rest of the pole structure. Once you get the shorter cross pole over the top, everything should be straightforward to pitch. Also, staking out the footprint and the tent is easy enough.

The color-coded main poles make it uncomplicated to match the webbing at the tent’s corners. The poles’ ends have arrows that will point you in the correct direction. Then, you can hook the fly and stake it out.

Weather Resistance

Weather resistance is where the MSR Elixir 2 shows its strengths. The overall structure features two poles crossing at two points instead of one like most tents. This provides great stability that allows the tent to hold up against the considerable wind.

The 12 stakes are welcome additions as well. You can use eight for the tent and the other four for the fly’s head and foot. They can be used with the pre-attached guyline as well.

Additionally, the vestibules can be staked out at two different points. This creates a trapezoidal shape which prevents them from flapping when it is windy. It also lends better structure and stability to the tent. Of course, they also provide extra storage space for your boots and other gear.

The Elixir 2 also includes two vents on the fly located at opposite ends. They come with kickstands so you can easily prop them open; this provides enough ventilation when airflow is limited. However, the non-mesh panels in the canopy hamper the vents’ effectiveness.

Durability

The MSR Elixir 2 comes with a footprint which is definitely a great plus. The tent is made of 70D, and the fly is made of 68D polyester. These fabrics have above-average durability on typical use.

What sets it apart from other tents is the pole structure. The hubs that connect the two main poles are made of metal which can take significant abuse. The grommets are metal as well, which are sturdy.

Weight and Packed Size

At about 6 pounds, the Elixir 2 is created for casual campers and not for ultralight backpackers. As it is made for two people, you can easily split the pack with your companion.

If you are looking to reduce significant weight, consider the fast-pitch option, which only includes the fly, poles, stakes, and footprint. Of course, it reduces the weather protection of the tent.

The pack itself is sizable at 7 inches by 20 inches. This is due to the durable materials used by MSR. Surprisingly, the poles easily pack down and slide easily inside the pack.