Black Diamond Skylight Review

"This is one of Black Diamond's "Superlight" tents, which are based on Bibler designs but constructed of EPIC by Nextec fabric instead of the proprietary ToddTex used on the Biblers. EPIC is water resistant but not completely waterproof (as Bibler duly warns its customers) but using it results in a significant weight saving. The Skylight weighs in at 5 lb 2 oz and this can be reduced by another pound through use of aftermarket carbon fiber poles and titantium stakes. The Skylight is a hybrid - single EPIC wall in the rear but no-see-um mesh in front. There's an EPIC canopy that rolls out over the mesh for protection against the elements. The tent only has a vestibule (and a small one at that) when the canopy is rolled out. It's really spacious inside for two large people and their gear, however. Three (it's sold as a three-man tent) will fit if gear can be stored outside. The mesh in front gives this tent a screened porch look and feel in good weather - great for views and ventilation. As with all BD tents the Skylight has interior poles and (once you learn how it's done) is really easy to pitch. I've only used this tent in low humidity but didn't have any condensation down to freezing even with two people inside and the canopy rolled out; vents at the front and rear give adequate cross-ventilation. Lightweight if used for two people and ultralight if for three. A real winner for three-season use especially in drier climes."