Best tent stakes

The Needle Tent Stakes has been discontinued.

Searching for the best tent stakes available today? We researched over 25 various models before buying and side-by-side testing 10 of the most intriguing ones. We created a test plan that pushes the limits and capabilities of the competition to gain insight because, let's face it, the last thing you need are tent stakes that can't handle the duty. So, we took measurements, weighed each contender, and used them in real-world scenarios at campgrounds, beaches, and remote areas in the backcountry. We also sought out various terrain and soil conditions, like sandy, soft, firm, and rock sediment, to get a sense of their holding power. Throughout our testing, we evaluated several performance aspects: packability, versatility, ease of use, and durability.

Best tent stakes

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. To help ensure your tent stays up no matter the conditions, I put nineteen of the best tent stakes through a series of tests to find out which had the holding power and durability to withstand the elements. The first step in testing was to check both weight and length against the manufacturer-provided specifications out of the box. Generally, these matched what the manufacturer provided, although minor discrepancies were noted in the above table. Tent stakes were then tested in tandem at four separate test sites. The first one was on what could be considered ideal ground for pitching a tent—firm enough that a tool in this case, the MSR Stake Hammer was useful for pushing the tent stake into the ground, but not so firm as to be arduous. During this first stage of testing, I also checked the holding power of each stake by securing a guyline to it and pulling it in several different directions. It should be noted that while I tried to find similarly firm ground for each stake I looked at, there are inevitable differences—rocks, roots, soil density—that can and do occur during testing. The next test was conducted on soft ground, where the top layer of forest floor debris makes it especially difficult to secure stakes. Here I checked the holding power of each stake and looked at how much dirt or other debris the stakes were holding onto and how difficult they were to clean off afterward. After that, I switched to the more notorious hard ground, most commonly seen in heavily used camping areas, including those where cars or RVs may have run over the exact spot you want to stake your tent in. During this stage, I looked at how easy each tent stake was to use, and how easy it was to take out again, checking for durability issues either dents, chips, or bends.

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TheTentLab putting the super in superb since As a tent user, I've bent, broken and trashed much more than my share of tent stakes and I've anchored tents of all sizes in every condition. As a designer I've measured and analyzed quite a few and I've even designed some ultimate stakes for military use. And I was the designer and driver of the original tent super-cord: the Kelty Triptease Lightline. Yes, I am a stake and cord geek. I say this quite a few times on this website: anchoring your tent really well is super-important.

We may receive commissions when you buy through links on our site. Learn more. Often, camping gear like tents, hammocks, or tarps come with stakes. But, these are not always of the highest quality, even with a quality product. You can get rid of the worry or hassle of the cheap models and use quality ones instead. These affordable and straightforward aluminum hook stakes from REI Co-op help supplement your collection or replace worn-out stakes. They are made from a strong T6 heat-treated aluminum.

Best tent stakes

Thankfully, countless outdoors brands know the importance of good tent stakes. These 12 options are all dependable upgrades to the cheap, bent ones you might be using. Made from Easton aluminum, these stakes are lightweight 0. With three sides and a top threaded with a nylon pull cord, these are great little stakes for both backpacking and car camping. These are a favorite for backpacking, made from aluminum and coming in at only 10 grams per stake.

Goodyear ultragrip 9 215 55 17

When choosing tent stakes it is not enough to just know the material and design. As a tent user, I've bent, broken and trashed much more than my share of tent stakes and I've anchored tents of all sizes in every condition. You can check the weather for the entire length of your trip but knowing the soil type is a more difficult challenge. MSR Mini Groundhog. It's a reliable heavy-duty option that performs admirably in campsites that don't range far from your parking spot. Sign in here. Generally the larger the surface area of your tent the stronger and sturdier tent stakes you need. Then go tell me where you found them so I can get more too! The strong steel head of the Eurmax stake protects the plastic attachment piece from getting damaged from repeated hammering. But in general, the higher cost is mitigated by the weight saved in your gear bag.

Every recommendation we make has been used, tested, and expertly selected by us. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.

Tent Stakes. The Appalachian Trail, summer , will by my final trail of the Triple Crown. When choosing tent stakes it is not enough to just know the material and design. They boast a machined, t-shaped top that has a good groove for holding onto your guy lines and ensuring they won't slip off. I was hoping for the giant MSR sand hog? Shop All New Products. View at Amazon. Our Story. Using a boot and body weight to install the Vargo Ti in firm ground. As an added bonus, the biscuit glows in the dark, which can be helpful when you are trying to get back to your tent after a midnight bathroom break. The second thing you notice about the Big Agnes Dirt Dagger UL is its unusual design—if the top stakes in my test tended to be the V-shaped or Y-shaped stakes, this could be described as the serif T-shaped stake. With all stakes, but with these two piece types of stakes especially, it pays to first move the stake side to side to loosen before removal from difficult ground. REI Snow Stakes are our go-tos for winter camping. Made by Small Brands!