The Crua Duo Dome Tent is a versatile 2-person freestanding tent with a huge waterproof rating, suitable for all seasons on its own or in combination with Crua Cocoon and Crua Clan tents. I use this tent for car camping and for my bicycle tours.
Key features & benefits
- Two-person tent.
- Freestanding.
- Can be used on its own or in the Crua Clan configuration.
- Designed to accommodate Crua Cocoon insulated tent.
- Aluminum poles.
- Huge waterproof rating.
- Reasonable price.
What this is about
This Crua Duo Dome is what its name says, a really great 2-person dome-shaped freestanding tent. This is a single-layer structure so the setup is easy and simple.
This tent is designed to be attached to the Crua Core tent, and this configuration is shown in the picture. It has a front zipper so attaching it is easy. Three Duo tents can be attached from three sides, and this structure is what they call the Crua Clan.
But this tent is also built so that you can put the insulated Crua Cocoon tent inside. Note that the Cocoon has the R-value 9, so in such a combination you can use it in any weather conditions. See how it looks, the picture shows the Duo as transparent and the Cocoon inside:
Who is the Crua Duo Dome Tent for
Space-wise, with its dimensions of 9.8 x 4.9 ft (299 x 149 cm), those include the front porch as well, this tent offers lots of space for two users. Not many tents on the market offer such a comfort, they are usually very narrow.
The front porch is large enough to put your boots and packs. But this is the only entrance, and this is for two people, so the stuff will be on your way. Nevertheless, I have included it in my list of 2-person tents for camping.
Note also that this is a very tall tent for such a type, with a peak height of 4.1 ft (125 cm). It is taller than most of its competitors.
I myself use this tent for my solo tours.
Weight-wise, they describe it as lightweight, but with its 5 lb (2.2 kg) of weight, this Crua Duo tent is a bit heavy for summer hiking and backpacking.
So I see it better used as a camping tent at places where you would not carry it yourself. This can be car camping, cycling, motorbike tours, kayaking, etc.
I have used it for car camping, and also on my bicycle tours. The picture below shows the tent in my camp in February:
But the weight and features are indeed in the range of cold-weather backpacking and hiking tents, and I have included it in my list of 4-season backpacking tents. If you need something lighter check this Klymit Maxfield 2 Tent.
The packed size is such that I was transporting in on bicycle very easily, the picture below shows the tent in its carry bag:
Seasons-wise & climate-wise, I see it better suited for a cooler than for a warmer climate. So it is perfect for early spring and late autumn, but you can use it in all seasons either on its own or together with the Cocoon.
It is very enclosed and with just a few mesh areas (that can be closed) and therefore good for a cold environment.
The number of stake points and guylines is such that I am convinced it can withstand lots of wind pressure. The structure is aerodynamic although tall as mentioned above.
But it is also properly designed for ventilation with floor and roof vents, and this makes it good enough even for a warmer environment.
Materials & other features
The poles & pegs
The main part is supported by two poles only which you pass through the sleeves on the upper part of the tent, and there are 4 clips in the lover sections. The third shorter pole is for the vestibule.
These are 8.5 mm aluminum poles. You also have 13 aluminum stakes in the package, 7 inches (18 cm) long.
The fabric
I find the description by the manufacturer quite confusing because of the statement that the tent is a “breathable polyester material with a water-resistant outer layer HH 5000 mm“.
With such a rating I would call it a highly waterproof material, and cannot imagine how it can be breathable if it is coated as it seems to be, there is no waterproof membrane here.
But the tent is really well made and with all seams sealed, there is not much one could object to the craftsmanship of this tent. I have tested it myself in a continuous rain of 7-hours plus, and did not have any leak inside. You can see more in my video:
The inner door is a dual-layer structure with a mesh and a waterproof panel, so even if you do not use the vestibule, the tent is fully protected.
The vestibule door is with dual parallel zippers so you can roll it up and fix above the door. Note it is designed with the pole that makes the loop, and this is to attach it to the Core 6 tent in the Clan configuration.
Ventilation
This tent is properly designed, there are no less than 5 vents here, so ventilation should never be an issue. There is a small mesh back vent above the floor and two double-layer vents on the sides (visible in the top picture above). In addition, you have two roof vents as well.
The large entry door is deep under the vestibule and it is double-layer with zippered mesh and panels, so you can keep it with mesh all the time if needed, and you will have an excellent air crossflow.
But this is a single-layer tent, condensation can never be avoided in any case, and you will surely have it here, dependent on weather conditions, the drafts in the tent, and the number of occupants.
There is one detail regarding ventilation that I dislike, you can see it in this video:
Other features
- There are 2 dual pockets on the opposite sides, in the middle of the tent.
- One hook for the lantern is under the ceiling.
- The zippers are inverted T-shape and well made.
- Several large Velcro tabs are on the front, do not get confused, those are in use only when you combine this Duo in the Clan configuration. As mentioned above, the same holds for the oval zipper that runs along the perimeter of the porch.
Specifications
- Capacity: 2 people.
- Weight: 5 lb (2.2 kg).
- Total dimensions: 9.8 x 4.9 ft (299 x 149 cm).
- Inner dimensions: 86.6 x 58.7 in (220 x 149 cm).
- Inner area: 35.5 ft² (3.3 m²).
- Total area: 48 ft² (4.45 m²).
- Total area per person: 24 ft² (2.2 m²).
- Peak height: 4.1 ft (125 cm).
- Packed size (L x D): 21 x 6 in (53 x 15 cm).
Final thoughts, rating, pros & cons
In conclusion, the Crua Duo Dome Tent is a versatile and unique 4-season tent that offers a plethora of features suitable for a variety of outdoor activities.
Its freestanding design, robust aluminum poles, and impressive waterproof rating make it a reliable shelter for all seasons.
The tent’s adaptability shines through its compatibility with the Crua Clan configuration and the option to incorporate the insulated Crua Cocoon tent for added warmth in colder conditions.
While its weight may make it less ideal for lightweight summer hiking, the Crua Duo excels in car camping, cycling, motorbike tours, and other scenarios where the weight can be easily managed.
The spacious interior, tall peak height, and well-designed ventilation system contribute to a comfortable camping experience, making it a valuable addition for those seeking a reliable and adaptable shelter in various weather conditions.
Furthermore, the craftsmanship of the Crua Duo Dome Tent is commendable, with its sturdy poles, well-sealed seams, and thoughtful details like dual-layer doors and multiple vents.
The tent’s ability to withstand wind pressure, combined with its ventilation features, highlights its suitability for both cold and warmer environments.
Despite minor concerns about condensation, the overall performance and durability of the Crua Duo Dome Tent make it a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a versatile and well-built shelter that can cater to their camping needs across different seasons and climates.
Note that they also have the Crua Duo Cocoon Maxx Combo Tent for 3 people.
Please see how I rate it:
Crua Duo Dome Tent
Pros
- Freestanding design.
- Very good area/weight ratio.
- Very easy to use.
- 4-Season tent.
- Very tall.
- Compact when packed.
Cons
- One floor vent not closable.
BEST PLACEs TO BUY
If you have missed them, check their Crua Tri and Crua Loj tents, those are currently the only insulated tents on the market, apart from the Cocoon which is not waterproof and is supposed to be used inside this Crua Duo Dome tent.
Thank you for reading. If you need to see more 2-person or other tents, please visit my page with tents, you have them in great numbers, all models from the top brands.
Please use the comment box below in the case of questions or comments. I wish you a nice day.
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