Review: REI Westward Shelter
The REI Co-op Westward Shelter is a screened canopy that keeps bugs out while letting you cook, eat, and relax at camp with an open view of your surroundings.
In early summer in the Pacific Northwest, mosquitoes can be a real nuisance. I don’t usually need a shelter like this, but when bugs are particularly active, it makes a noticeable difference. I typically set it up over a table or small seating area to create a comfortable, bug-free space while still enjoying the outdoors.
Specs
- weight: 18 lbs 5 oz
- floor area: 120 x 120 inches
- covered area: 100 sq ft
- peak height: 84 inches
- doors: 2
- price: $329
Features
Inside, the Westward Shelter feels roomy, with generous headroom and enough space for a small table and a few chairs. It also works well over a small to medium picnic table, though some campgrounds have larger tables that might not be a good fit. Once set up, the structure feels stable, even with some wind.
In use, it’s a comfortable space to spend time, whether you’re cooking, eating, or just taking a break from bugs. Being able to roll the doors back makes it feel more open when bugs aren’t active, and when they are, everything closes up well and keeps the space comfortable.
Some highlights that make it work well:
- Dual doors for easy access and ventilation
- Brow poles that add structure and improve door usability
- Overlapping skirt to help keep bugs out
- Included guylines for added stability in wind
Materials
The fabric and mesh feel durable and well made. The canopy has a water-repellent finish that sheds light moisture, though this is primarily a bug shelter rather than a full weather shelter. The mesh is solution-dyed, which uses less water and energy during manufacturing compared to traditional dyeing methods.
Setup
Setting up the Westward Shelter is a little more involved than I expected, mostly because of the way the top and side poles connect to form the structure, as well as the weight of the fiberglass poles. It’s definitely not a one-person job — two people make it much easier to handle. Decide where you want the shelter before setting it up – once it’s fully setup, it’s not easy to move.
If you’re placing it over a picnic table, start by draping the fabric over the table and staking the four corners. Then you can assemble the pole structure.
Start by inserting the two long cross poles into the sleeves on the top of the canopy.
Four side poles attach to the cross poles on each side. This is the trickiest part of setup, and having two people makes it much easier. Start by inserting a side pole into the top cross pole, then into the grommets at the shelter’s base. It helps if one person holds the opposite end of the cross pole while the other inserts the side pole.
Once all the side poles are in place, add the brow poles above each door. These help stabilize the structure and make the doors easier to zip.
For windy conditions, stake out the included guylines at the corners. The shelter comes with four guylines, line tensioners, and stakes. I set each guyline at about a 45-degree angle for the best stability.
Storage
Packing the shelter away is easier than most. The storage bag opens wide at the top and secures with a strap, making folding and storing much less of a hassle. Be sure the shelter is fully dry before storing to prevent mildew.
Conclusion
For times when biting insects are an annoyance, the Westward Shelter is a solid solution. It’s comfortable, well-built, and makes spending time outside much more pleasant. On trips without significant bugs, the setup can feel like extra work, but when protection is needed, this shelter really delivers.