MSR FreeLite 1 Tent REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
MSR
MSR FreeLite 1 Tent
Best for: Ultralight solo three-season backpacking adventures.
REI Co-op
REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent
Best for: Ultralight backpacking to minimize pack weight.
Our Take
Worth flagging before you compare: the MSR FreeLite 1 Tent is a backpacking and the REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent is a trekking pole, so these two sit in different shelter categories.
Both score 7.5 overall, though the REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent wins more individual scoring categories.
The biggest gap is intangibles, where the REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent holds a clear advantage.
The MSR FreeLite 1 Tent also has a price edge — $229 less at $199 versus $429.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
MSR FreeLite 1 Tent
- Ultralight weight saves your back
- Quick semi-freestanding setup saves time
- Spacious interior allows sitting upright
- Semi-freestanding design requires staking out
- Low 1200mm waterproof rating concerns
REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent
- Trekking pole pitch option
- Near-vertical interior walls
- Dual canopy-style doors
- Finicky foot-pole setup
- Tiny storage pockets
Full Specs
| Spec | MSR FreeLite 1 Tent | REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Ultralight | Trekking Pole, Backpacking, Ultralight, Non Freestanding |
| Capacity | 1 person | 1 person |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $200 | $429 |
| Weight | 1 Lb 15 Oz | 2 Lbs. 8 Oz. |
| Min Trail Weight | 1 Lb 10 Oz | 1 Lb. 15 Oz. |
| Floor Area | 20.0 ft² | 28.7 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 8 Sq. Ft. | 16.8 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 39 | 42 |
| Doors | 1 | 2 |
| Floor Dimensions | 87 X 33 In | 88 X 52/42 Inches |
| Pole Material | DAC NFL Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | 15D Ripstop Nylon | Ripstop Nylon |
| Rainfly Fabric | 15D Ripstop Nylon 1200mm Polyether Urethane And Silicone | |
| Packed Size | 4 X 18 In | — |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 5 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited | None |
| Made In | Imported | USA |
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