Sierra Designs challenges conventional tent wisdom, introduces true shelter innovation for 2014

New thinking creates light, livable backpacking shelters with features to enhance any backpacking experience

BOULDER, COLO. (For Immediate Release) – Sierra Designs, leaders in outdoor equipment innovation since 1964, is proud to introduce a brand new, completely rethought backpacking tent assortment for 2014. By challenging conventional tent design and performance, this new line offers truly innovative solutions to enhance backcountry comfort and convenience.

Consisting of the Flashlight, Lightning, and Flash, three names intended to commemorate past Sierra Designs tent achievements, the entire line shares several key design elements including gear closets and rain awnings instead of vestibules, oversized drop doors for convenient access and venting, lightning fast external pitch, integrated rain flys, and enhanced ventilation. All of these features combine to change the way backpackers will think about backcountry shelter.

“I don’t think we’ve seen any real innovation in tent design in many years. Current ubiquitous designs all descend from mountaineering, and most are fundamentally flawed for backpacking,” says Michael Glavin, VP and Brand Manager for Sierra Designs. “Traditional vestibules and doors have you crawling over gear to get in and out. And if you want to cook on a rainy day, you either get wet or risk carbon monoxide poisoning. Our tents are designed to eliminate these problems and more.”

All three new tents are offered in standard and ultralight build levels for different budgets, but are otherwise identical so the user experience is never compromised by tight finances. Depending on the model, they can accommodate anywhere from 1 to 3 people.

The latest version of the legendary Flashlight is the lightest tent in the line, offered in 1 and 2 person versions in standard or ultralight configurations. Proudly non-freestanding, this is the ultimate backpacking tent for those who believe comfort and light weight should go hand in hand. 8” of awning over each door provides dry entry/exit and sun protection while allowing the door to remain open during a storm. For additional weight savings, leave two poles at home and pitch this shelter with trekking poles. The Flashlight is available as the standard Flashlight 1 (2lbs, 9oz; $219), ultralight Flashlight 1 UL (2lbs, 2oz; $299), standard Flashlight 2 (3lbs, 6oz; $259), and ultralight Flashlight 2 UL (3lbs; $359).

A freestanding, fully-featured shelter offering maximum comfort with minimum weight, the Lightning 2 is the largest, most livable shelter in its weight class. With a single, uncommonly wide drop door, the Lightning simultaneously saves weight while allowing two backpackers to sit side-by-side to cook, watch the sunset, or wait out a rain shower without having to close the door. A massive, covered foot vent creates a venting tunnel between the back of the tent and the door for unprecedented ventilation and condensation management. The Lightning is available as the standard Lightning 2 (3lbs, 14oz; $259) and the ultralight Lightning 2 UL (3lbs, 7oz; $359).

Offering luxury and lightweight blended in perfect harmony, the Flash tents defy all previous beliefs about how light a full-size, fully-featured shelter can be. With a symmetrical dome shape, the Flash allows campers to sleep head-to-head or head-to-toe. A high ceiling gives a roomy feeling while the immense interior space provides enough room for occupants to sit at either end with room for cards or chess in between. The Flash is available in a total of four styles, including the standard Flash 2 (4lbs, 11oz; $299), the ultralight Flash 2 UL (4lbs, 1oz; $399), the standard Flash 3 (5lbs, 9oz; $399), and the ultralight Flash 3 UL (4lbs, 13oz; $499).

These new tents will debut at the Outdoor Retailer Trade Show in Salt Lake City, July 31st to August 3rd in the Sierra Designs booth #28017. For more information, please email scott.kaier@americanrec.com.

About Sierra Designs:
Founded in 1965 at the beginning of the golden age of backpacking and climbing, Sierra Designs draws on an extensive heritage to create innovative, technologically-advanced outdoor equipment to compliment any active, outdoor lifestyle. With years of experience designing best in class tents, sleeping bags, and apparel, Sierra Designs has been to every corner of the world, from the highest peaks in the Himalaya to the campground down the road. Whether you’re an ultralight hiker, world-class mountaineer, or recreational camper, Sierra Designs has you covered. (www.SierraDesigns.com).

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