Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 Review
Premium Performance at a Budget Price
The Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 challenges expensive brands by delivering 90% of the performance at half the price. After testing it in various weather conditions, we found it offers exceptional weather protection and livable space while weighing just 3.7 lbs, making it one of the best value ultralight tents on the market.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | Cloud-Up 2 | Premium Brand Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 3.7 lbs | 3.1 lbs |
| Price | $160-$190 | $400-$600 |
| Floor Area | 28.7 sq ft | 27-30 sq ft |
| Height | 43 inches | 45-48 inches |
| Materials | 20D Silicone-coated Nylon | 10-15D Premium Nylon |
| Best For | Budget-conscious backpackers | Professional thru-hikers |
Naturehike Cloud-Up 2
Naturehike Cloud-Up 2
This freestanding ultralight tent offers exceptional value with silicone-coated waterproof fabric, aluminum poles, and dual vestibules – all at a fraction of the cost of premium brands.
Buy on AmazonPros
- Exceptional value for money
- Surprisingly good weather resistance
- Freestanding design pitches easily
- Dual vestibules for gear storage
- Full coverage rainfly included
Cons
- Slightly heavier than premium tents
- Thinner fabric requires careful handling
- Less headroom than some competitors
- Zippers aren’t as smooth as premium brands
Frequently Asked Questions
During our testing in sustained rainfall, the Cloud-Up 2 remained completely dry thanks to its 3000mm waterproof rating and fully taped seams. The silicone-coated fabric sheds water better than PU-coated alternatives at this price point. Just be sure to properly tension the rainfly.
Yes, the aluminum pole structure allows the tent to stand without stakes. However, we recommend staking it down in windy conditions. The vestibules do require staking for full functionality.
The dual top vents and mesh upper panels provide adequate airflow. In humid conditions, we noticed some condensation buildup – typical for single-wall tents. Using the vents and choosing a breezy campsite helps minimize this.
The 28.7 sq ft interior fits two regular sleeping pads side-by-side. Two average-sized adults will have adequate space, though it’s cozy. The 43-inch peak height allows most people to sit up comfortably. For extended trips, some may prefer the Cloud-Up 3 for extra space.
Real-World Testing Conditions
We subjected the Cloud-Up 2 to 15 nights of testing across diverse environments: coastal windstorms (35mph gusts), mountain thunderstorms, and desert heat. Our team included two thru-hikers with over 10,000 trail miles of tent experience for balanced evaluation.
Key Upgrades from Previous Version
20D Silicone-coated Nylon
7001 Aluminum Poles
The latest Cloud-Up 2 features significant upgrades: silicone-coated fabric (better water beading), thicker 7001 aluminum poles (more wind resistant), and improved seam taping. These changes address the most common complaints about previous versions while keeping the price accessible.
Setup Demonstration
Watch our field editor set up the Cloud-Up 2 in under 3 minutes. The color-coded poles and clips make pitching straightforward even for beginners. We recommend practicing at home before your first trip.
Final Recommendation
Conclusion
The Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 delivers premium features at a budget price, making it our top recommendation for cost-conscious backpackers. While it makes some compromises to hit this price point (slightly heavier materials, less refined details), the core performance rivals tents costing twice as much.
With the current 22% discount, the Cloud-Up 2 represents exceptional value. Just be sure to treat it gently (the lightweight materials require more care than heavy-duty tents) and use a footprint for added durability. For under $200, there’s no better ultralight tent available today.