By Eric Hagerman

In mountaineering, getting from civilization to the base of the mountain often takes longer than from the base to the summit. Which means you’ll need a sturdy home away from home. Here’s how to find one.

Seasonality
A three- or four-season tent? Threes are the most common and most versatile: They have mesh windows that allow breezes to flow through in warmer temperatures but can be sealed off when the weather turns nasty. They also strike perhaps the best balance between weight and protection from the elements. Four-season tents typically have inferior venting and heavier-duty materials, so they can be saunalike in summer and harder to lug around, but they’ll also be sturdy enough to withstand heavy snow loads.

Style
Double-wall or single-wall? Double-wall tents consist of a dome and a rain fly that can be removed in good weather, whereas single-wall tents use one waterproof-breathable layer of fabric to protect their inhabitants. Double-wall tents are more versatile and less expensive; single-wall are often lighter, and thus the primary choice for mountaineers.

Interior Space
Look for steep sidewalls and a high roof peak, because all the floor space in the world won’t do you any good if you can’t sit up to play cards. Steep sidewalls obviously catch wind more easily, but a well-made, well-staked tent should withstand most any gale.

Vestibules
The more voluminous the better (again, look at the angle of the walls in addition to sheer floor space). And make sure that the zippers work easily when your porch is staked out.

Poles
The fewer there are, the lighter your tent. Easton 7075 T9 aluminum is the gold standard.

Fly
Polyester is more durable and resistant to ultraviolet rays than nylon taffeta, and it won’t stretch when wet. Some have "windows," which are nifty but heavy.

Design
Look for good circulation, which means vents on opposite sides, and hopefully another near the top of the dome. Mesh ceiling panels are great for watching the stars. Internal pockets ensure that you won't crush your eyeglasses. Be sure there are no flat-spots on the roof to collect water or snow. And lastly, pay attention to color. It makes a bigger difference than you might think: Do you really want to bask in a neon-pink glow if you’re tentbound for a day?

Eric Hagerman is senior editor at Outside magazine.