They seem like a great compromise for those of us who don't typically wander out into the thick of the winter, but might get the hankerin' to do so one of these days. A comparison of specific models would be outstanding. They tend to have slightly heavier frames than three-season tents, and typically have interior panels of ripstop nylon that can be left in place in cool weather or zipped out and left home when it's warm.
Some makers even design tents with poles than can be left home in good weather.
Convertible tents are not as light and well ventilated as three-season tents, nor as large and rugged as winter tents. But if you want to buy only one tent for a wide range of conditions, they're fine. Sierra Designs led the charge into convertible tent design and still makes some of the best models available. Express yourself in our Gear Forum . The Gear Directory Contact information, including links, for leading manufacturers Outdoor Retailer The Gear Guy's sneak preview of next year's winter swag.