Review of Tent Footprints on the Market

tent footprint is an essential piece of gear for outdoor enthusiasts who want to protect their tent floor and prolong its lifespan. Made from durable, weather-resistant material, tent footprints are designed to act as a protective layer between the ground and your tent. They help prevent wear and tear caused by abrasions, moisture, and rough terrain, ensuring that your tent stays in good condition for longer. Below is a comprehensive review of some of the best tent footprints currently available in the market, with a focus on material quality, functionality, and brand reputation.


1. MSR (Mountain Safety Research) Footprints

Best for: Durability & Protection

  • Materials: MSR footprints are typically made from durable nylon with a PU (polyurethane) coating, offering superior protection against punctures, abrasions, and moisture. The material is designed to withstand rough conditions while maintaining a compact form when packed.
  • Features: Many MSR footprints are designed to match the specific shape of MSR tents, offering full coverage underneath your tent’s floor. The MSR footprints feature waterproof coatings and are usually equipped with grommets that secure the footprint underneath the tent poles for added stability.
  • Performance: MSR’s footprints are particularly popular among those who do a lot of backcountry or off-trail camping, thanks to their ability to provide excellent moisture resistance and abrasion protection. They excel at shielding the tent floor from rough, rocky surfaces and can help prevent water from seeping in during heavy rain.
  • Price: MSR footprints are on the higher end of the spectrum but are generally seen as worth the investment due to their high durability and tailored fit.

Pros:

  • Excellent water resistance
  • Superior abrasion protection
  • Durable, long-lasting materials

Cons:

  • Higher price point
  • Might not fit well with tents from different brands

2. REI Co-op Footprints

Best for: Budget-Friendly Option

  • Materials: REI footprints are made from ripstop polyester with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. While not as tough as some high-end options, they still offer solid protection against moisture and rough terrain.
  • Features: REI offers footprints designed to fit their specific tent models, with additional grommets for easy setup. These footprints are relatively lightweight and packable, making them a good choice for backpackers and campers looking to save space in their gear bags.
  • Performance: The footprints do a good job of protecting the bottom of your tent from dirt, debris, and water. However, while they perform adequately in standard camping conditions, they may not provide the same level of durability or puncture resistance as higher-end models like those from MSR or Big Agnes.
  • Price: At a budget-friendly price point, REI footprints provide great value, particularly for casual campers who don’t need the ruggedness of premium options.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight and packable
  • Good fit for REI tents

Cons:

  • Less durable than higher-end options
  • Not as waterproof as some competitors

3. Big Agnes Footprints

Best for: Lightweight Backpacking

  • Materials: Big Agnes footprints are generally made from nylon or polyester, treated with a water-resistant polyurethane coating. These footprints are designed with lightweight and compactness in mind, making them ideal for backpackers and hikers who need to minimize pack weight.
  • Features: Many of Big Agnes’ footprints are custom-fit for their respective tents, offering excellent coverage and helping to keep the tent’s underside dry. They typically include reinforced areas to handle wear in high-stress zones.
  • Performance: Big Agnes footprints perform well in various environments, providing solid protection against moisture, abrasions, and dirt. They’re a great option for lightweight campers, especially on trips where reducing the gear weight is crucial.
  • Price: Big Agnes footprints are moderately priced, generally falling in the mid-range category. While not as inexpensive as REI’s offerings, they represent a good balance between cost, quality, and performance.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Excellent fit for Big Agnes tents
  • Durable and water-resistant

Cons:

  • Can be pricey for those on a tight budget
  • May not fit tents from other brands as well

4. Coleman Tent Footprints

Best for: Budget and Family Camping

  • Materials: Coleman footprints are made from polyethylene or polyester, which are durable enough for casual campers but less robust than other high-end materials. They typically have a waterproof coating but are heavier compared to more premium footprints.
  • Features: These footprints are more generic in design, meant to fit a wide range of Coleman tents. While they don’t have the same level of tailoring as MSR or Big Agnes footprints, they offer reliable protection for family campers.
  • Performance: While Coleman footprints provide decent moisture protection and shield the tent floor from dirt and rocks, they are often criticized for being a bit bulky and less durable than other options. They are most suitable for car camping or light use rather than backcountry trips.
  • Price: These footprints are very affordable, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious campers or families who don’t want to invest heavily in gear.

Pros:

  • Extremely affordable
  • Good for family and car camping
  • Easy to set up

Cons:

  • Bulkier and heavier than premium options
  • Less durable over time

5. Nemo Equipment Footprints

Best for: Ultralight and Waterproofing

  • Materials: Nemo Equipment footprints are constructed from ripstop nylon or polyester with silicone or polyurethane coatings for waterproofing. The materials are designed for high performance, with an emphasis on ultralight weight and maximum water resistance.
  • Features: Nemo’s footprints often feature a more streamlined design, reducing the overall weight while still providing ample protection. The materials used in these footprints help prevent moisture from seeping into the tent and can withstand a variety of surfaces, including rocky and wet ground.
  • Performance: These footprints are excellent for backpackers and long-distance hikers who need both lightweight gear and reliable waterproofing. The footprints are well-regarded for their durability, especially in high-use scenarios.
  • Price: Nemo Equipment footprints are on the pricier side but are considered a great investment for serious campers who prioritize weight and durability.

Pros:

  • Ultralight design
  • Superior water resistance
  • Excellent for multi-day hikes and backcountry camping

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Limited compatibility with non-Nemo tents

6. Therm-a-Rest Footprints

Best for: Versatility and Comfort

  • Materials: Therm-a-Rest footprints are often made from polyester with a PU coating, offering solid durability and water resistance. Some models incorporate thermal reflective materials, which can help increase comfort in colder conditions by reflecting heat.
  • Features: These footprints are designed for outdoor comfort, as they provide an additional layer of insulation beneath the tent. Some models include a custom fit to match Therm-a-Rest’s specific tents.
  • Performance: These footprints excel in cold-weather conditions or in areas where ground temperatures are low. They also work well in wetter environments, preventing moisture from coming into contact with the tent floor.
  • Price: Therm-a-Rest footprints are typically moderately priced, making them an appealing choice for those who value both comfort and protection.

Pros:

  • Provides added insulation
  • Custom fit for specific tents
  • Good moisture and weather resistance

Cons:

  • May be heavier than some ultralight alternatives
  • Expensive compared to budget options

Conclusion:

Choosing the right tent footprint depends largely on your camping stylebudget, and gear requirements. If you’re looking for something lightweight and designed for long backpacking trips, Big Agnes or Nemo Equipment offer excellent options. For those on a budget or using their tents for casual, family camping trips, Coleman or REI Co-opprovide solid, cost-effective alternatives. MSR offers some of the most durable and protective footprints, perfect for rugged backcountry conditions, while Therm-a-Rest is ideal for adding comfort and extra insulation in cooler environments. Each brand brings a unique set of strengths to the table, so your choice should be guided by what you prioritize most—weight, durability, or budget.