Winter cube tent is one of the most popular components of modern equipment for winter fishing. Manufacturers of tents offer various shelter designs, but it is the cube tent design that has deservedly gained immense popularity among fishermen in the segment of winter fishing tents.
The popularity of winter cube tents is primarily explained by the high ergonomics of their internal space, since this design, with a comfortable 4-corner bottom shape and convex sides to the sides, provides optimal comfort during winter fishing. At the same time, the design of the cube tent is quick and easy to install, and this is one of the most important characteristics for a winter tent . Due to the symmetrically arranged convex side walls, each of which essentially has its own frame, cube tents are characterized by high wind resistance. But in addition to the advantages, the design of cube tents also has its disadvantages, the main of which are: large dimensions when folded, quite heavy weight, as well as relatively low rates of streamlining, heat saving and water resistance (when compared with cone-shaped umbrella structures).
The Lotos company offers technical solutions that make it possible to smooth out the identified disadvantages of the cube tent design. Let's consider these solutions using the example of the flagship model LOTOS Cube 4 Compact Thermo
, presented as a warm and fully waterproofed shelter.
Folded size of a cube winter tent
Model LOTUS Cube 4 Compact Thermo
has the shape of an elongated cube, which when opened forms a rectangular room with dimensions of 260 x 210 cm and a height of 188 cm that is rational for use.
A classic insulated cube tent with such external geometric dimensions, when assembled into a transport position, will have a length dimension of about 170 cm. The proposed patented solution from Lotus is the “compact system”, which has no analogues in the world and provides the size of the tent in question the length in transport form is only 115 cm! This compactness is achieved through the use of a “flexible fixed unit” installed on the long arches of the frame. The assembled tent is packed into a compression bag-backpack equipped with tightening straps that allow you to compress the tent up to 30 cm in diameter, which, together with the “compact system,” ensures the highest compactness in this category of insulated winter cube tents.
Features of tents for winter fishing
The main differences between winter tents and summer tents include their insulation. Most tents are made from materials that are waterproof. This will be enough in any season, but in winter, in addition to precipitation, fishermen are also worried about low temperatures. Therefore, preference is given to tents that are well insulated. Most often this is achieved through the presence of several layers of material or its density.
Some tents may be equipped with a floor that has holes through which it is convenient to drill holes. Of course, in other seasons this option is not needed.
To maintain a comfortable temperature for a long time, fishermen use various means of heating. Winter tents may have a special window through which the pipe of a portable stove can be brought out. Ventilation windows allow you to warm up with the help of other heating devices and not get burned.
Streamlining of the cube tent (aerodynamics)
Winter tent LOTUS Cube 4 Compact Thermo
designed with inclined side walls in its upper part, which improves the streamlining and aerodynamic characteristics of the shelter. The streamlining of the walls reduces the airflow of the material from which the tent is made, which has a positive effect on the heat-saving of the shelter, and improved aerodynamic characteristics can significantly increase its wind resistance.
The inclination of the side walls is achieved due to the design features of the tent frame. The frame of each wall is made in the shape of a trapezoid, tapering at its upper part. The walls connected to each other by a single awning form a slope, thereby increasing the stability of the structure as a whole.
Comparison of the best tents for ice fishing
The table below shows the characteristics of winter tents that were included in my TOP 8.
| Model | Inner tent | Places, persons | Water resistance of the awning, mm h.st. | Weight, kg | Price, rub |
| STEC Cube 2 three-layer | Yes | 2 | 2000 | 9,1 | 6250-12485 |
| STEC Cube 3 three-layer | Yes | 3 | 2000 | 9,1 | 7400-16566 |
| NORFIN Ide NF | No | 1 | 1500 | 3 | 5820-6900 |
| Premier Cube | No | 3 | 2000 | 6,3 | 7080-13325 |
| Mitek Nelma 3 Lux | No | 3 | 2000 | 5,5 | 10100-10650 |
| Bear Cube-4 | No | 4 | 1000 | 11,5 | 12200 |
| Mitek Nelma Cube-2 | No | 1 | 2000 | 8 | 12974-13950 |
| BUFFIN Winter Tent 3T | No | 3 | 2000 | 13,7 | 18490 |
Heat-saving winter cube tent
The classic design of a cube winter tent, the side walls of which are located vertically, has a significant loss of heat savings due to the huge and unused space in its upper part (under the dome). Design of the LOTUS Cube 4 Compact Thermo
, with a narrowed upper part, can significantly reduce heat loss due to the smaller space under the dome, while warm air is more distributed in the lower part of the room in which the users are located.
In addition to its effective heat-saving form, the winter tent LOTUS Cube 4 Compact Thermo
is equipped with a unique thermal insulation awning (patented), consisting of three layers with continuous air gaps over the entire surface area of the awning parts, which significantly exceeds the relative level of thermal insulation of traditional three-layer awnings with “thermal stitching”, in which the effective area of the air gap between the layers is significantly reduced due to for the numerous adhesions that hold the layers of the awning together and serve as effective “cold bridges”. The structural elements of the heat-insulating awning (door zippers, window and ventilation openings, bottom fastening system) are made with an increased level of tightness, due to which the winter cube tent becomes practically windproof.
For example, door zippers are equipped with protective insulated strips with Velcro. In this case, the slats are placed on both sides of the awning, outside and inside. The strips reliably cover the door zipper, protecting it from wind blowing and frostbite.
Rating of TOP 8 tents for fishing in winter
In the rating below you will find both budget tents in the price range up to 10 thousand rubles, as well as more expensive shelters. Tents differ in size, weight, number of people who can comfortably stay in them, and additional options. From the wide variety of products, I chose the following tents for winter fishing:
- STEC Cube 2 three-layer;
- STEC Cube 3 three-layer;
- NORFIN Ide NF;
- Premier Cube;
- Mitek Nelma 3 Lux;
- Bear Cube-4;
- Mitek Nelma Cube-2;
- BUFFIN Winter Tent 3T.
I will talk in more detail about each of them below.
STEC Cube 2 three-layer
The tent of the Ural manufacturer can comfortably accommodate two fishermen. The material of the product is dense and durable, so you will not be afraid of gusts of wind, and the heat will remain inside the tent. The breathable properties of the material guarantee a comfortable stay inside the shelter. A skirt at the bottom of the tent will help protect you from blowing wind and snow. The inside of the tent has additional protection at the joints, so they are durable. Since the design has a ventilation window, fishermen can use additional means of heating and not be afraid of getting burned. In the internal pockets you can put the equipment you will need when fishing. The tent comes with a cover, so it folds up compactly and is easy to carry.
| Inner tent | Yes |
| Places, persons | 2 |
| Water resistance of the awning, mm h.st. | 2000 |
| Weight, kg | 9,1 |
Price
from 6250 to 12485 rub.
- warm;
- windproof;
- spacious.
- The loops of the snow skirt may come off.
The tent performed well last season and is pleased with this year. Excellent quality fittings. I thought it would not withstand severe frosts, but the hubs did not crack. A large and spacious tent in which my friend and I can sit without discomfort.
A detailed video review of the tent can be viewed below.
STEC Cube 2 three-layer
STEC Cube 3 three-layer
If you are tall, then the Cube 3 tent is the ideal solution, because it has a height of 205 cm. You do not have to bend over and feel discomfort. The tent is designed for three people, so it is very spacious inside. Light-colored material is convenient both during the day, as it allows enough light to pass through, and at night, since the light from the tent is visible from the outside. And this makes it possible to see the shelter at night. The tent is very easy to set up: first unfold one side, then open the roof and put up the remaining walls. The tent also comes with a cover, so you can fold it compactly and transport it with ease.
| Inner tent | Yes |
| Places, persons | 3 |
| Water resistance of the awning, mm h.st. | 2000 |
| Weight, kg | 9,1 |
Price
from 7400 to 16566 rub.
- dimensions;
- holds heat well;
- easy to assemble.
- not detected.
Very spacious tent of good quality. The material does not allow cold air to pass through. Even without windows, the tent is quite light during the day.
Video review in which you will find additional information about the tent:
STEC Cube 3 three-layer
NORFIN Ide NF
A single tent from a Latvian manufacturer is designed for one fisherman. The automatic folding system of the shelter is very convenient, as it makes it possible to unfold the tent in a matter of seconds and without outside help. If you find yourself in harsh weather conditions, then additional stability of the structure is provided with the help of pegs and screws. The seams of the tent are stitched and taped. Assembly instructions are glued into the cover, in which the tent can be easily stored. When folded, it is easy and convenient to carry to any distance due to not only the presence of a cover, but also its light weight. The kit includes a bottom that can be installed in bad weather.
| Inner tent | No |
| Places, persons | 1 |
| Water resistance of the awning, mm h.st. | 1500 |
| Weight, kg | 3 |
Price
from 5820 to 6900 rub.
- light weight;
- compactness;
- installation speed.
- slight water resistance.
I really like this little tent. I fish alone, so I can also fit a table and chair in it. It is very comfortable in winter, I used it in summer and autumn - in heavy rain it still gets wet, but this can be solved. I liked that there is a window for ventilation - in the cold winter you can use the heater and not get burned.
Expert opinion
Evgenia Noskova
Expert in the field of automotive products, sports and outdoor activities.
To protect your tent from getting wet, you can use protective awnings with increased moisture protection.
A detailed review in which you can see the process of assembling and disassembling the tent:
NORFIN Ide NF
Premier Cube
A three-person winter tent that will reliably protect from wind and precipitation. The three-person tent is made with vertical walls, so it comfortably accommodates three fishermen. Holes can be drilled in different places, making the space inside the tent as comfortable as possible. Depending on the number of fishermen, you can position them diagonally or along the walls. The large space inside the shelter makes it possible to place the necessary things and boxes for fishing. The material is dense and colored, slightly distorting the perception of light inside the tent, but the transparent windows with Velcro make it possible to provide natural lighting. Two ventilation holes in the form of sleeves are very convenient for using heating devices. The tent cover is equipped with two straps, so it is convenient to carry it on your back. But the weight of the tent may not be suitable for long-distance treks.
| Inner tent | No |
| Places, persons | 3 |
| Water resistance of the awning, mm h.st. | 2000 |
| Weight, kg | 6,3 |
Price
from 7080 to 13325 rub.
- spacious tent;
- speed of assembly;
- stretchers and screws included.
- not detected.
A quality tent with good dimensions and spacious interior. We travel together with my husband, so it is quite enough for us. Excellent quality material.
An educational video review about the tent can be viewed below.
Premier Cube
Mitek Nelma 3 Lux
The ergonomic design of the tent makes it popular among fishermen; in addition, the manufacturer took into account all the wishes of the fishermen. Therefore, the tent is comfortable to accommodate three people, and even more than comfortable for one fisherman. The umbrella system is easy to use and makes it possible to set up the tent very quickly without assistance. There are no screws included, but they can be purchased additionally. The entrance is closed with a reliable and durable zipper, which does not cause any trouble during use. In cold weather, you can use additional heating devices in the tent, since it is equipped with a ventilation window. There is a special fastener for using the flashlight. To make the tent visible at night, there are reflective strips on the outside. Folds up quite compactly.
| Inner tent | No |
| Places, persons | 3 |
| Water resistance of the awning, mm h.st. | 2000 |
| Weight, kg | 5,5 |
Price
from 10100 to 10650 rub.
- quick assembly;
- light weight;
- equipment (valve, window, pockets).
- The spherical design is ideal for two; three may already be cramped.
An excellent tent for the money: made of high-quality material, with convenient additional elements, for example, a window, a carbon monoxide valve. Unfolds very quickly!
A detailed review of the tent and some tips from experienced people in the video below.
Mitek Nelma 3 Lux
Bear Cube-4
A spacious tent for 4 fishermen allows you to fish in great company. The design of three layers of material will reliably protect from bad weather. The vertical walls provide a large interior space that can accommodate 4 people, with room for personal belongings and fishing gear. The frame elements are made of composite, the corner parts are made of galvanized steel, which eliminates corrosion of the elements and increases the service life of the tent. It retains heat perfectly, moreover, it is equipped with a window for venting the stove pipe. Equipped with pockets, shelves, and a ring nut for hanging the lantern. The dimensions and weight of the tent do not make it compact, but when folded it can be moved without inconvenience. Due to its heavy weight, you can’t carry it far, but it will fit in a car.
| Inner tent | No |
| Places, persons | 4 |
| Water resistance of the awning, mm h.st. | 1000 |
| Weight, kg | 11,5 |
Price
12200 rub.
- size for a large company;
- quality of material and elements;
- functionality.
- not detected.
A great tent if your budget allows it. We can fit four of us in it comfortably. The material is good, we don’t freeze in winter, even in summer it’s comfortable in the tent. It is convenient to have a window under the stove; in the Siberian frosts it is a great help and allows you to warm up properly.
Yakut review of a tent in cold weather and with a stove:
Bear Cube-4
Mitek Nelma Cube-2
A compact tent for one person, characterized by a fairly large interior space. It has a hemispherical design and is equipped with one entrance. The bottom can be purchased additionally. The light fabric of the tent provides a high level of lighting inside during the daytime, and transparent windows made of frost-resistant material provide additional light. The dimensions of the ventilation valves can be adjusted. The spacious entrance allows the tent to be used by people of any size. Very convenient and practical bottom in the form of a floor. The frame made of duralumin material is easily installed by one person. The unusual shape of the tent makes it resistant to strong gusts of wind. Three windows for ventilation are equipped with protective visors.
| Inner tent | No |
| Places, persons | 1 |
| Water resistance of the awning, mm h.st. | 2000 |
| Weight, kg | 8 |
Price
from 12974 to 13950 rub.
- high-quality materials that do not allow water and wind to pass through;
- reliable fastening;
- equipped with pockets, flaps and hangers.
- not detected.
I recently purchased this tent, but already really appreciate it. Excellent quality materials and seams promise trouble-free use of the tent for a long time. Very easy to assemble. I bought a floor with three holes for it and am completely satisfied. I have all the necessary things in the inner pockets. At night I hang a lantern.
A day in the Nelma Cube 2 tent in the video:
Mitek Nelma Cube-2
BUFFIN Winter Tent 3T
The multi-faceted design of the tent provides comfortable fishing for three people. The height of the tent and its shape require additional reinforcement to protect against gusty winds. For this purpose, the tent is equipped with durable guy ropes. The carbon fiber frame can withstand significant loads and does not deform. Two doors allow people to move around without disturbing others. There are ventilation windows in the insulated ceilings, and shelves and pockets on the walls. It is equipped with a cover in which it is convenient not only to move the tent, but also to store it. The significant weight of the tent does not make it suitable for long hikes with it, but its folded dimensions make it possible to conveniently transport the tent in a car.
| Inner tent | No |
| Places, persons | 3 |
| Water resistance of the awning, mm h.st. | 2000 |
| Weight, kg | 13,7 |
Price
18490 rub.
- spacious and roomy;
- excellent level of insulation;
- high quality materials and fittings.
- not detected.
I’ve been fishing in this tent for the third season now and I still can’t get enough of it. A very comfortable tent, when I put a heat exchanger in it I can survive any frost. Very strong fastenings that can withstand strong winds. I bought a floor for it. Three of us fished - there was more than enough space. I recommend it with all my heart!
The first trip with the Bullfinch tent in the video below:
Bullfinch Winter tent 3T
Water resistance of winter cube tent
None of the known winter cube tents with an insulated multilayer awning is capable of providing the user and the tent awning material with complete protection from rain. The reason for this is the difficulty of sealing the multi-layer structure of the tent awning. The seams of such an awning, as well as exhaust, door and window openings, even in light rain, immediately absorb moisture, which accumulates between its layers and penetrates into the living space of the tent.
To solve this problem, all winter tents are Lotus Cube Thermo
are equipped with an additional accessory – a waterproof awning (optional). The awning can be easily and quickly installed by one person on a pre-opened tent. The awning is equipped with a system of fastening to the tent dome and the ground, providing the tent shelter with reliable protection from rain, while maintaining high wind resistance of the structure as a whole.
Disadvantages of a cubic tent shape
Before you make such a responsible purchase that will serve you for many years, let's look at some of its disadvantages:
Entrance to the cube tent
– the weak link of the entire design in terms of comfort. It narrows at the bottom, so squeezing through it will be difficult in full gear.
Windage
Yes, such a sin has been noticed behind this model. This problem is directly related to the size of the tent and its height. But if you use reliable fasteners correctly, it will protect from the wind and remain in place.
Weight and compactness
The tent does weigh more than its shelf neighbors of other models and is more suitable for fishermen who plan to stay in one place without moving around on the ice.
High price
The cost of a convenient cube is really quite high compared to other types of tents for winter fishing. The model is clearly not located on budget store shelves. But if ice fishing is a beloved hobby for you and you don’t go fishing alone, and you also value comfort and convenience, then a one-time purchase of a reliable item will only please you.
If, after analyzing and carefully studying cubic tents, you are still in doubt, then there is another great tent option for you for comfortable winter fishing.
And again, the name speaks for itself - the model really works on the principle of a rain umbrella - a central pin to which the spokes are attached, and the inclination of the walls relative to the ground is 45 degrees. The design is very simple and will be understandable even to a person who has never held a tent in his hands.
The umbrella type of winter tent, like the cube, has its pros and cons. Let's start with the pleasant and consider all the advantages of the model.
3-person umbrella tent NORD-3 Extreme with breathable top Helios 7,600 for 1 piece. Umbrella tent 1-person NORD-1 four-beam with breathable top Helios 4,995 for 1 piece. 2-person winter insulated umbrella tent NORD-2 with breathable top Helios 7,670 for 1 pc. Umbrella tent 3-person NORD-3 with breathable top Helios 7 020 for 1 pc. 1-person winter insulated umbrella tent NORD-1 four-beam with breathable top Helios 6,025 for 1 pc. 3-person winter insulated umbrella tent NORD-3 with breathable top Helios 8,990 for 1 piece. Winter fishing tent 3-person ELITE with breathable top Stack 4,770 for 1 piece. Tent Penguin 1 four-ray Penguin 4,600 for 1 piece. Tent Penguin 2 “Thermolight” with breathable top Penguin 9,250 for 1 piece.
All umbrella tents in the catalog
Hydro- and thermal insulation of the bottom of a winter cube tent
Winter tent LOTUS Cube 4 Compact Thermo
is equipped with a unique patented waterproofing system for the bottom and lower perimeter of the walls, which allows you to insulate both the tent floor itself and the lower walls of the insulated awning from getting wet. The tent is installed inside a waterproofing bottom (optional), made in the form of a trough with protective sides 20 cm high. The bottom is attached to the outside of the tent with hinges and is reliably protected from external precipitation by the outer skirt.
Thermal insulation of the bottom of a winter tent is ensured by an insulated floor inserted inside the waterproofing bottom, while the edges of the insulated floor are located on top of the inner skirt of the tent, which eliminates possible blowing along the lower perimeter of the shelter.
When using a winter cube tent for ice fishing, special patented flanges are installed in the waterproofing bottom to form holes for holes. The flanges are equipped with a cast ring rim 5 cm high, which creates a reliable barrier against water flowing out of the hole, which ensures a high level of comfort for users and reliable protection against getting wet for things and equipment placed on the surface of the insulated floor.
Equipment for a winter cube tent
Winter tent LOTUS Cube 4 Compact Thermo
has a professional set of equipment for ice fishing, while the shelter is able to provide reliable protection in extreme weather conditions for a long time. The tent is equipped with an effective ventilation system with supply and exhaust valves, reinforced fastenings for screws and guy ropes, external reflective elements, as well as various organizers for internal use. A universal system for fastening external removable elements in the window openings of the tent (optional) allows you to install in them: a transparent window, a valve for a heat exchanger, a mosquito net, as well as a fireproof valve for installing a wood heating stove.
A professional installation system for a wood heating stove allows you to organize a warm living space with a fairly high level of comfort in a cube insulated winter tent and live in it throughout the winter.
