Winter and high-elevation adventures demand a tent that holds up to snow and high winds. Look for designs featuring more poles for added strength. Two doors, a convinience feature on any tent, are an extra plus in winter. A vestibule, either integral or available as an add-on option, is a must, since vestibules give you sheltered space for storing gear or cooking out of the elements. Every design shape has its tradeoffs.
Domes offer lots of usable floor space and head room, but can only be heavy for the available space.
They are usually freestanding, so they can be easily moved before staking down. Tunnel or hoop shapes also offer lots of usable floor space, are lighter than domes, but are usually not freestanding. Freestanding tents are convinient to set up, but still ned to be staked so they don't become free-flying in those high mountain breezes. Care and Upkeep Practice setting up and taking down your new tent in your living room or backyard, before you have to do it in the rain at night by headlamp. Seam-seal your new tent right after you get it, during one of the practice setups.