Lightwave Sigma S22 Review
Rating
Versatility: 9
Size/Weight: 9
Features: 7
Construction: 8
Sleep Quality: 7
OVERALL: 8.0
A durable and waterproof backpacking tent
When I was a kid, single-skin tents sucked. You got wet every time without exception. Enter the miraculous Lightwave Sigma 22, which has an amazing waterproof treatment on the fabric that will successfully keep you dry. It's an incredibly strong single layer between you and the elements, with all the benefits that a single-skin tent can provide (reduced weight, easier setup, more floorspace).
Pros: Waterproof, roomy and lightweight.
Cons: Have to thread the poles through the tent, and a little darker in the morning than we'd like.
Verdict: A lightweight, roomy, waterproof single-walled tent - who would have thought!
Skip ahead to First Impressions, Sleeping Experience, Features Analysis, Construction and Durability, or the Final Verdict, or check out how the Lightwave Sigma S22 compares to others in our list of the Top 5 Backpacking Tents.
Specs:
Open Size: 230 x 130 cm
Packed Size: 45 x 18 cm
Weight: 1.6 kg
Approx Price: £749.99
First Impressions
At first glance, the Lightwave Sigma S22 might not appeal to everyone—it’s a single-skin tent, after all, and threading poles through sleeves can feel old-school. But once you set it up, it’s clear that Lightwave has done an excellent job refining the design. With roomy dimensions, impressive moisture control and thoughtful updates like larger doors and siliconised pole sleeves, the S22 feels modern and practical. It’s built to handle the unpredictable UK weather, making it a solid option for serious hikers and campers.
Sleeping Experience
The Sigma S22 offers a surprisingly comfortable sleeping experience for a single-wall tent. With two doors and porches, it’s easy for two campers to move around and organize their gear without feeling cramped. The 230cm length and 130cm width provide plenty of space for taller campers or those who like a bit of extra elbow room. While the single-wall construction might raise concerns about condensation, the tent’s X-Tex coating does a remarkable job keeping things dry, giving you a good night’s sleep even in damp conditions.
Features Analysis
The S22 keeps things simple when it comes to features. Basic internal storage pockets and a loop for hanging a light are handy but not groundbreaking. The real highlight is its moisture management system. The X-Tex coating not only makes the fabric highly waterproof (with an impressive 20,000mm hydrostatic head) but also reduces condensation effectively, addressing a common issue with single-skin tents. The two porches are a nice touch, offering enough space for gear storage and cooking in bad weather.
Construction and Durability
The Sigma S22 is built to endure tough conditions. The X-Tex fabric is robust and waterproof, making it ideal for the rainy UK climate. The zippers run smoothly and the siliconised pole sleeves make setting up easier than expected. While the poles and pegs are reliable, the 50-denier groundsheet might feel a bit thin to some users, however, Lightwave argues you don’t really need it, and skipping the optional footprint saves weight. Overall, the tent feels well-crafted and up to the challenges of four-season camping.
Final Verdict
The Lightwave Sigma S22 is a tent that challenges preconceptions about single-wall designs, delivering comfort, durability and excellent moisture management in a lightweight package. It’s ideal for colder or wet climates where its waterproofing and insulation shine. While it might feel a bit dark inside and less ventilated in summer, these are minor trade-offs for its weatherproof performance. For hikers and campers seeking a spacious, lightweight and reliable four-season tent, the Sigma S22 is a standout choice.
Why not visit our list of the Top 5 Backpacking Tents 2025 to see how the Lightwave Sigma S22 compares?
Water & Outdoors reviews are written by our staff writers, who combined have over fifty years of experience on the water and outdoors. We may earn commissions if you choose to buy through a link you’ve clicked on our website, however this does not influence our reviews. For more information, please see our Editorial Policies.