When most tents crumble under pressure, the SlingFin Cinder Cone stands tall—literally. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this pyramid tarp truly the ultimate backcountry shelter, or just another overhyped piece of gear? Let’s dive in.
A few years ago, during the pandemic-induced outdoor gear frenzy, I found myself tinkering with my pyramid tarp shelter, desperate to improve its performance in harsh conditions. I wanted adjustable tensioners, mid-panel tie-outs for stiff winds, and a more robust design. Despite my lack of sewing skills, I managed to upgrade it—though not without sacrificing my sanity and a few fingertips. Little did I know, SlingFin was about to release the Cinder Cone Pyramid Tent, a shelter that not only matched my DIY modifications but far exceeded them.
And this is the part most people miss: The Cinder Cone isn’t just another tent; it’s a versatile, battle-tested shelter that’s proven itself in Patagonia’s relentless winds, Alaska’s soaked tundra, and above the Arctic Circle on packrafting expeditions. Its generous size, exceptional ventilation, and storm-resistant build make it a standout in the pyramid tarp category.
Why the Cinder Cone Shines
The Cinder Cone’s design is a testament to SlingFin’s commitment to innovation. Crafted from 10D sil-nylon 66 and featuring ALUULA Durlyte in the top cap, this tent strikes a perfect balance between lightweight construction and durability. The ALUULA material, in particular, is a game-changer—it’s tougher than Dyneema Composite Fabric and Challenge Ultra materials, ensuring the tent’s structure remains intact even in the harshest conditions. This isn’t just marketing hype; it’s a material that’s pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in ultralight gear.
Setup is a breeze, even in rugged terrain. After an 18-hour trek in Alaska, I was able to quickly pitch the Cinder Cone on uneven tundra, thanks to its ingenious Quick Pitch Cord system. This feature maintains the perfect distance between opposite corners, eliminating awkward tension lines. Plus, SlingFin’s decision to exclude a pole makes sense—you can use trekking poles, a packraft paddle, or even a sturdy stick, adding to the tent’s versatility.
Ventilation That Defies Expectations
One of the Cinder Cone’s most impressive features is its ventilation. Pyramid shelters often turn into saunas on sun-baked glaciers, but this tent is an exception. Its trio of high-set portals can be fully opened or adjusted individually to let in cool breezes. During a 50 mph windstorm in Patagonia, these vents provided just enough pressure relief to keep the tent stable, even as the winds howled outside.
But here’s the kicker: The Cinder Cone’s ventilation system is so effective that it outperforms even the Black Diamond Mega Snow 4P Mid, a tent often used as a cook shelter on Denali. While moisture management is still necessary in a single-wall shelter, the Cinder Cone makes it simple and efficient.
Room for Improvement?
No gear is perfect, and the Cinder Cone is no exception. During a wet night in Alaska, I noticed some minor leaking from seams under tension. A quick application of Gear Aid Tent Seam Sealant solved the issue, but it’s something to keep in mind. Additionally, the materials, while durable, aren’t indestructible—I accidentally tore the floor during one trip. Thankfully, Tenacious Tape saved the day, but it’s a reminder to handle the tent with care.
One small gripe: the lack of a hang loop on the exterior. During a stay in a bush plane hangar, we struggled to set up the mesh inner without a pole or stakes. A simple hang loop would be a welcome addition—and I might just break out my sewing machine to add one myself.
The Verdict
In a market crowded with pyramid tarps like the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultamid 4 and Black Diamond Mega Snow, the SlingFin Cinder Cone stands out. It’s more affordable, packs down smaller, and offers superior ventilation and features. At $435 (without the inner), it’s a steal compared to the Ultamid, which costs nearly double. While it may not be a quiver-killer, it’s replaced my old modified tarp entirely—no sewing required.
Here’s the thought-provoking question: In a world obsessed with ultralight gear, does the Cinder Cone’s slightly heavier build justify its unmatched durability and versatility? I say yes. But what do you think? Let’s debate it in the comments.
