REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter Roofnest Sparrow EYE
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
REI Co-op
REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter
Best for: Perfect for vehicle-based tailgate camping.
Roofnest
Roofnest Sparrow EYE
Best for: Stargazing and simple, accessible year-round camping.
Our Take
Both are suv tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter is noticeably taller inside (6'3" peak height versus 3'8"), giving you more headroom to move around.
Floor space is also wider — 99 sq ft versus 28 sq ft for the Roofnest Sparrow EYE.
Both score 7.9 overall, though the Roofnest Sparrow EYE wins more individual scoring categories.
The main tradeoff: the REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter leads on value for money despite trailing overall.
The REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter also has a price edge — $2996 less at $199 versus $3195.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The Roofnest Sparrow EYE scores higher overall.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter
- Tall peak height for standing
- Generous hundred square foot coverage
- Simple intuitive hoop pole setup
- Sketchy instructions make setup difficult
- Unstable performance in high winds
Roofnest Sparrow EYE
- 30-second hydraulic setup
- Cushy memory foam mattress
- Stores bedding when closed
- Low 44-inch headroom
- Thin canopy fabric
Full Specs
| Spec | REI Co-op Trailgate Shelter | Roofnest Sparrow EYE |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | SUV | SUV, Rooftop |
| Capacity | — | 2 people |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $199 | $3,195 |
| Weight | 11 Lbs 11 Oz | 130 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 99.2 ft² | 28.2 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | None | — |
| Peak Height | 75 | 44 |
| Doors | 0 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 100.5 X 93 In | 83 X 49 |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | — |
| Floor Fabric | The REI Co Op Trailgate Shelter Does Not Have A Floor. | — |
| Rainfly Fabric | 75 Denier Polyester With PU Coating And Durable Water Repellent (DWR) | — |
| Setup Time | 5 Mins | 2 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited | 2 Year Limited Warranty |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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