The Shangri-La 3 (SL3) was the first pyramid tent I used, the one described as resisting the big storm in the opening paragraph. Since then I’ve used it for winter camping in the Highlands and Arctic Lapland and it has always performed well. It’s a hexagonal pyramid with adjustable vents at the apex. It comes with a stout pole, which could be replaced with trekking poles with a pole extender, and six pegs. For maximum stability I add five more pegs and fix short guy lines to the attachment loops in the middle of each side. The SL3 is designed for three people and you can lay out three mats inside. I think it’s better for two though or even one, which is how I’ve mostly used it. I can almost stand up inside. The walls are steep so when lying down there isn’t fabric just above your head.
The SL3 used to be available on its own, with the inner Nest as an optional extra. Now it comes as a complete unit. I think this is a shame as the inner is quite heavy and fi ts the whole of the tent so there is no porch area for cooking or storing wet gear. An inner this size is only needed if using the tent with three people. For one or two a smaller inner would be better (OookWorks makes one) or even just a groundsheet (which is how I use it). However the price is quite high if the inner is discarded and a replacement purchased.
There’s another reason I dislike the inner and that is that it has to be pitched fi rst and this takes enough time that it would be soaked in rain. A half-size inner could be erected inside the SL3. Once up the SL3 is very wind and rain resistant. The latest version has taped seams. The one I have doesn’t but the seams have never leaked. The door opens wide for good views, access and ventilation. Rain can come in the open door of course, a problem if using the full inner.
Despite coming as a complete unit the SL3 is still worth considering as it is such a good design and should last well. I really wish GoLite would go back to selling the components separately though.
