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Main Boards => Gear => Topic started by: Little Foot on 09:58:17, 31/01/20

Title: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 09:58:17, 31/01/20
Hi all.


I've recently discovered a love for walking and want to try doing LDWs. As I'm starting out I need to get a bit of kit. I have a few things to buy and I am not lucky enough to be able to buy the best of everything so have to cut costs. I have some of the basics but I'd like to camp, so I'm looking for a tent for myself (a short and tubby woman) and my 12 year old son (short and skinny). I reckon a 2 man tent will be ok, and maybe switch to bigger if he grows a lot and wants to continue. I can then use this as a 1 man tent on solo trips.


I want the tent to be light as I will be carrying most of the load at the moment (lad weighs less than 5st) and I'd want to have enough room to sit up in. I also want it to be easy to put up. I've been looking at the Naturehike Cloud Up 2 (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000232879071.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.3525578e0Oybbh&s=p&algo_pvid=6997f9d9-2867-4f44-b525-dbb9474cb550&algo_expid=6997f9d9-2867-4f44-b525-dbb9474cb550-0&btsid=1b527288-1ad0-4090-8407-cef0d550988c&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_5,searchweb201603_53). AliExpress have it for £85. I've also been looking at the Wild Country Zephyros 2 (https://www.winfieldsoutdoors.co.uk/wild-country-zephyros-2-compact-tent/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAvc_xBRCYARIsAC5QT9kSgB35dShsX8OAGjmCsjUD5tqProDd3dELmv-3l4rCAKXC9ORTokwaAuCiEALw_wcB) which is £109 at Winfields.


Anyone have any opinions on these please, or others?
The Naturehike weighs 1.7, the Wild Country is 1.9. I wouldn't want to go above those weights really.


Thanks for looking.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: beefy on 12:24:28, 31/01/20
As always light weight means expensive,
The zephyros tents are ok, we've had 3 of them, although they don't have much head room. Only in the apex.
If you check April's older trip reports you will see we do a lot of wild camping :)
We moved on to msr elixir, and hubba hubba now, they are great for headroom,  weight and we like them a lot,
However more expensive of course.
The nature hike version of the msr is cheap, some people on here have them,
I don't know how storm worthy they are though,
We ve had the msr in some bad lake district storms and it's been good,
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Slowcoach on 12:52:07, 31/01/20
Have a look at the Vango range of 2 person tents. They are generally affordable for decent enough wuality and not too heavy.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Patrick1 on 13:35:11, 31/01/20
Pyramid designs can be good for giving a high space to weight ratio. Particularly if you use walking poles, as these can double as the tent pole at night. Just a quick search on Aliexpress brought up, for example, this one from Asta (https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32989349878.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.0.0.71d013e0bey8tr&algo_pvid=bdfea81f-e832-47e1-bd2e-ace7bb54d6e5&algo_expid=bdfea81f-e832-47e1-bd2e-ace7bb54d6e5-20&btsid=b47a3b23-616b-4db9-981d-8479d49178b8&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_7,searchweb201603_53) - I don't have any particular experience of this model, but I have found this general style of design good. This particular one seems to come in at 1.4kg for two people (if you don't use walking poles you'd need to add, say, 300g to that for a collapsible aluminium pole) and looks very reasonably priced (note the outer and the inner are ordered separately for the particular one I've linked to, but taking the cheapest two person options seems to end up under £90 for both).
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 14:43:39, 31/01/20
Appreciate the suggestions all. I've just been to Winfields and looked at the Zephyros 2 and it actually seemed ok. I liked the side entrance because I could just drop into the tent, whereas the front porch entrance, you are more having to crawl into it, which isn't good when it is muddy, but maybe that's just my awful technique lol. Having a lack of porch does mean less space for kit/shelter for cooking so that is something for me to consider. Being a short sod though, I could sit up fine and felt there would be enough room for my son too.

I've looked at Vango, and they were a bit too heavy, mainly. If my son could carry half then I'd definitely consider it.

The Alpkit Ordos 2 looks a nice tent, but it is sold out, and is slightly over my budget, but maybe I should wait those few months to get what is right rather than what is cheap. Hmmm
 
Patrick, I did see a nice pyramid tent on AliExpress but can't remember the name now to show you. Think I saw it mentioned on another forum. Will try find it.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: alan de enfield on 14:48:35, 31/01/20
Hi all.


Anyone have any opinions on these please, or others?
The Naturehike weighs 1.7, the Wild Country is 1.9. I wouldn't want to go above those weights really.


Thanks for looking.

My NatureHike Cloud 2 actually weighs in at 1.643Kgs and is a 'good' quality tent, It is not really a tent you can sit up in and really is just a large 1-man tent. I found it awkward to wriggle into having to kneel onto wet ground to be able to slither in (I don't really do slithering). It is now a JIC (Just in case spare)

I have now gone over to the Chinese copy of the MSR Hubba-Hubba tent which I managed to find for £75 (MSR price £300). This is a 2-man tent and 2 people can sit up in it. Prices now around the £100 mark.
Several 'trade names' offer the same tent (I think Mongar is one of them) and they can be found on Ebay and Ali-Express.
Excellent quality with taped seams and quality zips.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/233343986493?chn=ps&var=532886397904&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=710-134428-41853-0&mkcid=2&itemid=532886397904_233343986493&targetid=856210368159&device=c&mktype=pla&googleloc=9046218&campaignid=7643169336&mkgroupid=89224635500&rlsatarget=aud-629407026465:pla-856210368159&abcId=1139576&merchantid=113579048&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvc_xBRCYARIsAC5QT9n6fs5_E3NRI8ClsqCNBmQqSoaxR8LdgWAAL27iepJaEmtO1_xEhN4aApObEALw_wcB

https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/p/msr-hubba-hubba-nx-2-tent-D1312362.html?channable=e65395.NzgxNDhfOTg&colour=98&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvc_xBRCYARIsAC5QT9nQrGrEgZZDyXCk0J9qOG_qNYnN44kAVb5k-I21_EnaCiPwU2e6HAMaAs7nEALw_wcB

My Hubba Hubba copy weighs in (complete) at 2.20 kgs (inc bigger pegs, spare guy lines, repair kit for material and poles, peg pusher, footprint, and extra toggles)
It is well worth the extra 700 gram (just over 1lb)  for the extra height and space and 2-porches. ease of access both sides (each side has its own door - no scrambling over each other during the night)

Edit to add :

What you will find with many tent manufacturers is that they are economical with truth when it comes to "weights", many will exclude things like pegs, or guy lines. Look for the all-inclusive weights.

Secondly the tent pegs are often quite short at 150mm (to keep the weight down) but these can be a problem in softer ground so the 1st thing I do is upgrade to 180mm or 200mm (or a mix) so the tent will stand up a bit better in less than ideal conditions.

Thirdly - It is a good idea to get a 'footprint' whish is like a sort of groundsheet to go under the groundsheet, lightweight tents have now become quite fragile and a small stick, even a thistle, can penetrate the tent groundsheet, adding another ground sheet under the groundsheet adds weight but will do more to stop leaks and wetting your bedding. The NatureHikes generally come with a 'footprint' (or what they call a 'mat'), other manufacturers can charge £20-£50 extra for the footprint.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: gunwharfman on 15:30:45, 31/01/20
I have a Zephyros One, as Beefy says, not much headroom, just at the apex but nevertheless I think its a 'good enough' tent. I use it in the colder months, the inner tent is a kind of cloth I think and it works well. Oh yes, for me always a side entrance tent!

I also have a Marmot Pulsar One, loads of headroom and width as well, I can slide back and forth for about a foot and still stay upright. I've never found a tent to better it yet. Its a mesh inner to better for the warmer months. On a couple of rainy mornings, I've even been able to pack my rucksack whilst inside the tent, I don't think I could do that in my Zephros One.

Naturehike seems to be making a copy of it now but it's in White only. I would seriously consider one if it was a different colour.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: fernman on 16:39:05, 31/01/20
I liked the side entrance because I could just drop into the tent, whereas the front porch entrance, you are more having to crawl into it, which isn't good when it is muddy, but maybe that's just my awful technique lol. Having a lack of porch does mean less space for kit/shelter for cooking so that is something for me to consider.

You take your muddy boots off before you get in an end-entrance tent! In practice, you sit in the entrance with your feet out of the inner tent, and you only actually get down into the inner when you go to kip.
Sometimes at the end of a day I get my side-entrance Zephyros pitched in plenty of time, and I'm so cream crackered that I then lay down in it and catnap for 30 or 45 minutes - but I keep my feet in boots outside of the inner tent!

Having had an end-entrance tent for many years and now a side-entrance one, I much prefer the current one. It is far more versatile: you can get at things in the inner tent with ease, and if it is symetrical like mine you can sleep with your head at either end. I've modified it so I can prop the open flysheet up on a walking pole, which gives me a bigger window on the world than the end-entrance one did. To date I have remained dry with it open like this, even in heavy rain, but it must be pitched correctly with the back to the wind, unlike an end-entrance tent which you pitch tail end to the wind.

A porch is useful for somewhere to put all your bits and bobs such as cooking equipment and food at night, you don't want to be rolling around in your sleeping bag on things in your inner tent. My wet boots stay in the porch too, and with care my empty backpack just fits at one end of it.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 18:09:30, 31/01/20
Annoyed with myself! Decided to check prices and googled for the Zephyros 2 Compact. Spotted a price for it of £100 on Wiggle. They did a new customer offer of £10 off, so £90, bargain. Ordered then realised it wasn't the compact version.


It's nearly 60cm long! It's 57 x 14, so twice as long packed compared to the compact which is 30 x 18. I realised my error right away, and I mean within two minutes. Went to cancel, but it is saying it has already been picked and is on its way, despite the status of the order saying 'not been processed'. I've contacted them but no idea if they will agree to refund.


I could kick myself!
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: WILDWALKINGUK on 18:44:01, 31/01/20
I like the Terra Nova Laser Competition 1 and 2 for value for money and how well they handle condensation. I've reviewed a number of tents here: https://wildwalkinguk.com/2020/01/06/tent-review-nordisk-telemark-1-and-2-terra-nova-competition-1-photon-and-laser-pulse/ (https://wildwalkinguk.com/2020/01/06/tent-review-nordisk-telemark-1-and-2-terra-nova-competition-1-photon-and-laser-pulse/)
In addition to those tents I'm currently testing the new Lightwave S10 Sigma tent to review shortly. possibly a little expensive but you may find the 'old' Lightwave S10 Sigma cheaper as they've recently renamed it the S15 and it's probably suitable for 2 people as it's larger than the new one. They still make it, now calling it the S15, possibly a good choice if you're looking for a 4 season tent.
I find the smaller and lighter weight tents you go for, the bigger the condensation problems I have. Not an issue on single nights out but becomes an issue after multi night trips.
Hope that helps and best of luck with sorting your order.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 19:28:18, 31/01/20
Looks a good website Wildwalkinguk. Will look it over now as it seems very informative. Hopefully I won't be lumbered with this large-pack tent so will be open for choice again soon.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: vghikers on 19:45:44, 31/01/20
Quote
What you will find with many tent manufacturers is that they are economical with truth when it comes to "weights", many will exclude things like pegs, or guy lines. Look for the all-inclusive weights.

I used to think the same many years ago, but I switched over to favouring the trail-weight without bags and pegs, the reason being that experienced backpackers will rarely use the supplied pegs anyway and will always take their own selection. Actually many manufacturers now quote both the trail-weight and fully packed weight with supplied pegs etc.



Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: alan de enfield on 20:25:34, 31/01/20
I used to think the same many years ago, but I switched over to favouring the trail-weight without bags and pegs, the reason being that experienced backpackers will rarely use the supplied pegs anyway and will always take their own selection. Actually many manufacturers now quote both the trail-weight and fully packed weight with supplied pegs etc.

I could never understand the term 'trail weight' as if you would take the tent 'on the trail' without pegs, poles, guy-lines etc.

I have noticed that the Chinese copies tend to be quite detailed and give you the weight of each item so you can add up whatever you plan to use.

Example for the Naturehike Mongar Ultralight 2 Person Tent.

Used as a freestanding tent it is very simple at the same time. Light weight material and rationale structure lead to suitable Pack Weight.

Balance the stability, comfort and weight. More space, enough for 2 people. It can resist the wind in all directions. Good ventilation, 2 air vents on the both side of the outer tent Those Elevated weight in return for stability, comfort and confidence. Use It can work in most cases.

Car Camping, Hiking and Mountaineering.

Product Dimensions Tent Size: Full (70 + 135 + 70) x210 cm. Height at the highest point 105 cm.

 Inner Size (Height x Width x Depth): 210 * 135 cm

Tent Weight list Outer tent: 624g Tent Interior: 539g Pins: 594g Plug and rope: 84 g Mat: 249g

(https://i.postimg.cc/SXxtnbwL/s-l1600.png) (https://postimg.cc/SXxtnbwL)

Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 20:31:54, 31/01/20
Yes, I was a bit confused over the weights, wondering what the difference was with 'trail weight', or why they'd put a weight without accessories like pegs and ropes. Guess it is in case you want to change them for your own perhaps?
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: richardh1905 on 21:13:23, 31/01/20
Hi Littlefoot. Wiggle are pretty good on returns, I believe, so I wouldn't worry too much about ordering the wrong tent.

In your position I would be tempted to go for a tent with a bit of headroom and decent porches - for example, the Chinese copies that Alan has mentioned should do the job just fine - although I would prefer something a bit more robust if camping high or in winter.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 21:47:44, 31/01/20
Hi Richard. That's reassuring to know Wiggle are good with returns. I'm just worried I'll be charged a fortune to send it back. I have been thinking though, that it is the same weight as the compact version, but very slightly bigger, so maybe I could repack it, in a way that wouldn't be as awkward as something 57cm long. It's something I could consider I guess.


I shall be camping spring and summer mainly, for now, so one of those Chinese copies should be ok for my needs. Thanks for your suggestions.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: fernman on 22:00:39, 31/01/20
Annoyed with myself! Decided to check prices and googled for the Zephyros 2 Compact. Spotted a price for it of £100 on Wiggle. They did a new customer offer of £10 off, so £90, bargain. Ordered then realised it wasn't the compact version.

It's nearly 60cm long! It's 57 x 14, so twice as long packed compared to the compact which is 30 x 18. I realised my error right away, and I mean within two minutes. Went to cancel, but it is saying it has already been picked and is on its way, despite the status of the order saying 'not been processed'. I've contacted them but no idea if they will agree to refund.

I could kick myself!

Don't despair! I know nothing about the compact version but I'm going to take an educated guess, without even looking it up.

A Zephyros tent has a short pole at either end to hold the flysheet up. You can probably see them in YouTube videos. I am guessing that in the compact version these are hinged or in two parts that make them shorter, so the tent can be a smaller packed size; I think there is another video where someone shows his diy job.

But unless the design has changed drastically since I bought mine, on the standard models you can simply remove the poles, they just go into a little pocket at top and bottom. It's a wee bit of a faff putting them back in when you pitch the tent, expecially if it's wet and you're cold and tired, but it does mean that without them there you can fold the tent smaller to fit across your backpack.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Bhod on 22:15:57, 31/01/20
Just throwing this in the mix -  I looked at the Zephyros Compact as well as several similar Chinese lightweight tents before deciding on purchasing the Vango Cairngorm 200 (for slightly less than £110) ,a slight increase in weight and packsize than the Z2 compact but still within the acceptable parameters I'd set for myself.  I know past performance is no indication of present or future performance but I've had Vango tents throughout my life and have never found a reason to distrust them, something that had a major bearing on my decision to purchase

https://www.vango.co.uk/gb/camping/1104-cairngorm-200.html

Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 22:53:22, 31/01/20
Don't despair! I know nothing about the compact version but I'm going to take an educated guess, without even looking it up.

A Zephyros tent has a short pole at either end to hold the flysheet up. You can probably see them in YouTube videos. I am guessing that in the compact version these are hinged or in two parts that make them shorter, so the tent can be a smaller packed size; I think there is another video where someone shows his diy job.

But unless the design has changed drastically since I bought mine, on the standard models you can simply remove the poles, they just go into a little pocket at top and bottom. It's a wee bit of a faff putting them back in when you pitch the tent, expecially if it's wet and you're cold and tired, but it does mean that without them there you can fold the tent smaller to fit across your backpack.


Thank you Fernman, that's certainly reassuring to know. I shall try hunt down video that you mention, or at least comparable ones and consider things a bit more if it won't be worth while returning the item.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: richardh1905 on 22:55:56, 31/01/20
Hi Richard. That's reassuring to know Wiggle are good with returns. I'm just worried I'll be charged a fortune to send it back. I have been thinking though, that it is the same weight as the compact version, but very slightly bigger, so maybe I could repack it, in a way that wouldn't be as awkward as something 57cm long. It's something I could consider I guess.


I shall be camping spring and summer mainly, for now, so one of those Chinese copies should be ok for my needs. Thanks for your suggestions.

Unlikely, as the poles will be the longest item - and you can't fold them!

One thing that would make me hesitate about some of the Chinese tents is the excessive use of mesh on the inner. I don't like a draughty tent, and I especially don't like drips of condensation, or rainwater that leaks through the seams of the outer, falling through the mesh onto me! Although a new tent should not leak, of course. Each to their own on this I suppose
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 22:56:49, 31/01/20
Just throwing this in the mix -  I looked at the Zephyros Compact as well as several similar Chinese lightweight tents before deciding on purchasing the Vango Cairngorm 200 (for slightly less than £110) ,a slight increase in weight and packsize than the Z2 compact but still within the acceptable parameters I'd set for myself.  I know past performance is no indication of present or future performance but I've had Vango tents throughout my life and have never found a reason to distrust them, something that had a major bearing on my decision to purchase

https://www.vango.co.uk/gb/camping/1104-cairngorm-200.html (https://www.vango.co.uk/gb/camping/1104-cairngorm-200.html)


That looks a decent tent, and one I'd consider, definitely, especially since I'd be buying local, so to speak.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 22:58:44, 31/01/20
Unlikely, as the poles will be the longest item - and you can't fold them!

One thing that would make me hesitate about some of the Chinese tents is the excessive use of mesh on the inner. I don't like a draughty tent, and I especially don't like drips of condensation, or rainwater that leaks through the seams of the outer, falling through the mesh onto me! Although a new tent should not leak, of course. Each to their own on this I suppose


Yes, I figured I could have the poles separate of course, so they go from the bottom to the top of my sack, whereas the actual tent material sits at the bottom or the top.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Butchersboy on 09:28:24, 01/02/20

Yes, I figured I could have the poles separate of course, so they go from the bottom to the top of my sack, whereas the actual tent material sits at the bottom or the top.


£90 is an absolute steal for that tent!
Its a proper tent. No need for a groundsheet.
And will last you alot longer than a shabby Chinese knockoff.


Before returning it just check the poles fit inside your rucksack. They should do easily unless you are using a sub 35L bag.
 O0



Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: gunwharfman on 11:15:47, 01/02/20
The Vango looks a good tent but I don't think a tent made in China can just be dismissed as a 'shabby Chinese knockoff.' Lots of people have bought them and I even know of two people personally that have them. I haven't heard any more complaints from these owners than I've heard from any other owners who have bought other makes of tents. I'd buy a tent made in China if it was right for me, but for me, its the colour (white) that's the drawback.

The other question I would ask myself is, can Naturhike tents just be dismissed as 'copies?' The tent designs may look similar to other tents, but 'similar' is not the same as 'the same'. The tent material is different from the 'copied' design, the internal mesh is different and when I look at the fittings they too are different from the 'copied' design.

As regards my Marmot Pulsar 1P, there seems to be a Naturehike model similarity to my tent design, but when I look at the materials used, etc, they are definitely not the same. When I look inside my tent and then look inside the Naturehike tent, there are differences again, in my tent on the non-opening side I have a foot-long horizontal zip (for leaving item outside the tent but still under the outer covering) this is, as far as I can tell, is not built into the Naturehike tent.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 12:04:24, 01/02/20

£90 is an absolute steal for that tent!
Its a proper tent. No need for a groundsheet.
And will last you alot longer than a shabby Chinese knockoff.


Before returning it just check the poles fit inside your rucksack. They should do easily unless you are using a sub 35L bag.
 O0


I did think I'd got a bargain, but unsure how it differs between the compact version, apart from larger on pack size and weight. The version I have bought does have 2 doors, which is a bonus. I was wondering about the ground sheet. I realised last night that it didn't come with one. This is the one I bought. Click. (https://www.wiggle.co.uk/wild-country-zephyros-2-2-door-tent/)


I thought unpacking and testing it out in my rucksack might be a good idea before I return, the tent is not forced to stay in the carry bag it comes with, but if I do get it all out, I'm not sure how easily I'd get it all back in the bag if I did want to return it as I'm not one for being able to pack large things up easily lol. I'll have a 58L bag with me, so can't see it being a problem fitting the poles in.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 12:11:53, 01/02/20
The Vango looks a good tent but I don't think a tent made in China can just be dismissed as a 'shabby Chinese knockoff.' Lots of people have bought them and I even know of two people personally that have them. I haven't heard any more complaints from these owners than I've heard from any other owners who have bought other makes of tents. I'd buy a tent made in China if it was right for me, but for me, its the colour (white) that's the drawback.

The other question I would ask myself is, can Naturhike tents just be dismissed as 'copies?' The tent designs may look similar to other tents, but 'similar' is not the same as 'the same'. The tent material is different from the 'copied' design, the internal mesh is different and when I look at the fittings they too are different from the 'copied' design.

As regards my Marmot Pulsar 1P, there seems to be a Naturehike model similarity to my tent design, but when I look at the materials used, etc, they are definitely not the same. When I look inside my tent and then look inside the Naturehike tent, there are differences again, in my tent on the non-opening side I have a foot-long horizontal zip (for leaving item outside the tent but still under the outer covering) this is, as far as I can tell, is not built into the Naturehike tent.


Sorry, I don't know how to multi quote on my iPad, so have to respond in separate posts.

The Naturehike Cloud Up 2 comes in various colours, inc green, and was the main tent I was considering. I've been looking at YouTube reviews and they seem very favourable, especially of the materials used. My only concern with buying from China on a site like AliExpress is the returns policy if it arrived faulty, or if it developed a fault.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: gunwharfman on 12:15:57, 01/02/20
Sorry can't help you with an opinion of Ali Express, I've never used them. I read a couple of times on the Forum that those people were happy with them.

As an aside, I bought 2 hiking shirts from Columbia last week, I only realised that their journey originated in France when I started the tracking process.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Slowcoach on 12:36:53, 01/02/20
Little Foot, my wife buys quite a lot of small items for her hobby via AliExpress. She says there is usually a clear returns policy shown with each item.
They generally do not like to replace lost or damaged goods but prefer to refund. She has never had a problem in that area.


Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Warbler on 12:42:29, 01/02/20

I did think I'd got a bargain, but unsure how it differs between the compact version, apart from larger on pack size and weight. The version I have bought does have 2 doors, which is a bonus. I was wondering about the ground sheet. I realised last night that it didn't come with one. This is the one I bought. Click. (https://www.wiggle.co.uk/wild-country-zephyros-2-2-door-tent/)


I thought unpacking and testing it out in my rucksack might be a good idea before I return, the tent is not forced to stay in the carry bag it comes with, but if I do get it all out, I'm not sure how easily I'd get it all back in the bag if I did want to return it as I'm not one for being able to pack large things up easily lol. I'll have a 58L bag with me, so can't see it being a problem fitting the poles in.

I bought this 2-door version a year ago, also from Wiggle, for £100. I've been very happy with it so far, although I've only used it in Spring/Summer time.

It was mentioned earlier in this thread that it's a 'bit of a faff' to locate the 2 end poles into the 2 small pockets. They have made a design change for this version, whereby these 2 poles are attached outside the fly sheet which makes for a far easier pitch.

I thought I had a bargain at £100, so even more so for you, IMO  O0
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: alan de enfield on 13:34:05, 01/02/20

 My only concern with buying from China on a site like AliExpress is the returns policy if it arrived faulty, or if it developed a fault.

I have mentioned this in previous posts, but I guess you may not have seen it.

The tent I purchased arrived exactly when promised (next day) Although listed on Ali-Express they had UK stock.
I opened up the package and assembled the tent, but couldn't work out how to fit the end of ONE pole thru the eyelet in the tab, all others fitted, but this one didn't, I tried moving the poles around to see if it was 'handed' and this 'nipple' fitted into a specific tab, but NO! it would not fit anywhere.
Emailed the company and explained the problem (sending them a photo of the 'wrong' nipple alongside a 'correct nipple'). The company said they would send me a replacement by 'Over night express'.

Next day, parcel arrives and I think that's a bit big just for a 'nipple'.
It turned out to be a COMPLETE replacement, poles / tent / flysheet / Guys / Footprint / pegs - the whole caboodle.
Emailed the company and asked them how they would like me to return the original tent to be told "very sorry for the inconvenience, please keep it free of charge with our thanks".

I sourced a bag (5 pieces) of nipples froma seller on Ebay at a cost of " a couple of pounds", 2 minute job to replace the nipple and then 2-spares in each of the 'peg-bags' (Just in case I ever need one) and I ended up with 2 complete tents for £75 + £2.

I have no hesitation in recommending Chinese companies for their service levels.

The difference between the nipples.

(https://i.postimg.cc/G4rxGymR/D4.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/G4rxGymR)
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Bhod on 13:42:21, 01/02/20
The Vango looks a good tent but I don't think a tent made in China can just be dismissed as a 'shabby Chinese knockoff.' Lots of people have bought them and I even know of two people personally that have them. I haven't heard any more complaints from these owners than I've heard from any other owners who have bought other makes of tents. I'd buy a tent made in China if it was right for me, but for me, its the colour (white) that's the drawback.

Forgive me if I've got the wrong end of the stick, GWM, but i fail to see how

 "Just throwing this in the mix -  I looked at the Zephyros Compact as well as several similar Chinese lightweight tents before deciding on purchasing the Vango Cairngorm 200 (for slightly less than £110) ,a slight increase in weight and packsize than the Z2 compact but still within the acceptable parameters I'd set for myself.  I know past performance is no indication of present or future performance but I've had Vango tents throughout my life and have never found a reason to distrust them, something that had a major bearing on my decision to purchase."

 translates into "shabby Chinese knockoff" or anything disparaging against any other make of tent for that matter??
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: alan de enfield on 13:48:48, 01/02/20
Another benefit of these tents is the accessories you can get to improve the tent.

The Tents (as supplied) is actually better than the MSR Hubba Hubba in that whilst the MSR inner tent is almost 75% mesh (and cold and draughty in the UK weather) the Chinese copy is actually something over 50% 'solid' with only the top 45% (?) being mesh.

(https://i.postimg.cc/hhYSXLMJ/20190713-193420-Copy.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/hhYSXLMJ)





You can also order it with a 'solid' inner (a few £s more) or you can buy a 'solid' inner tent and have a 'Winter' version and keep the 'as supplied' inner for Spring / Summer / Autumn

Full '4-season' inner tent.

(https://i.postimg.cc/z3Kdh5Fn/4-Seasons-Inner-B.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/z3Kdh5Fn)


Should you find you need a bit more room (Sons gets bigger) or somewhere to keep the bike, or somewhere to cook, you can buy and 'extension'.


(https://i.postimg.cc/sGrbW2BN/B1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/sGrbW2BN)

(https://i.postimg.cc/JHMdndvw/B2.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/JHMdndvw)

(https://i.postimg.cc/hzypDPLm/B3.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/hzypDPLm)



Maybe you can tell - I am impressed by the quality and versatility of these tents.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: richardh1905 on 14:33:45, 01/02/20
Interesting that you can buy a more solid inner, Alan.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 14:42:47, 01/02/20
Sorry can't help you with an opinion of Ali Express, I've never used them. I read a couple of times on the Forum that those people were happy with them.As an aside, I bought 2 hiking shirts from Columbia last week, I only realised that their journey originated in France when I started the tracking process.

On some of the Naturehike tents I was looking at, you can select to have them sent from the U.K. I don't think they had the colour I wanted though.

Little Foot, my wife buys quite a lot of small items for her hobby via AliExpress. She says there is usually a clear returns policy shown with each item.
They generally do not like to replace lost or damaged goods but prefer to refund. She has never had a problem in that area.

I have bought a couple of things from Ali, no more than £7 for the two items together. My main worry was just with it being a large purchase, and the length of time it takes, if it arrived faulty, it might take a long while to rectify, if replacements needed sending out.
 I'm looking at getting other gear from there at the moment, like cheap light seats (can't afford the thermarest ones just yet).

I have mentioned this in previous posts, but I guess you may not have seen it.

The tent I purchased arrived exactly when promised (next day) Although listed on Ali-Express they had UK stock.
I opened up the package and assembled the tent, but couldn't work out how to fit the end of ONE pole thru the eyelet in the tab, all others fitted, but this one didn't, I tried moving the poles around to see if it was 'handed' and this 'nipple' fitted into a specific tab, but NO! it would not fit anywhere.
Emailed the company and explained the problem (sending them a photo of the 'wrong' nipple alongside a 'correct nipple'). The company said they would send me a replacement by 'Over night express'.

Next day, parcel arrives and I think that's a bit big just for a 'nipple'.
It turned out to be a COMPLETE replacement, poles / tent / flysheet / Guys / Footprint / pegs - the whole caboodle.
Emailed the company and asked them how they would like me to return the original tent to be told "very sorry for the inconvenience, please keep it free of charge with our thanks".

I sourced a bag (5 pieces) of nipples froma seller on Ebay at a cost of " a couple of pounds", 2 minute job to replace the nipple and then 2-spares in each of the 'peg-bags' (Just in case I ever need one) and I ended up with 2 complete tents for £75 + £2.

I have no hesitation in recommending Chinese companies for their service levels.

The difference between the nipples.

(https://i.postimg.cc/G4rxGymR/D4.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/G4rxGymR)


Wow! That is excellent service. Bet you was really please with that result! From what you say, they really do want to keep customers happy, especially with the way they seem to upgrade their tents after listening to what customers think of their products. I'll certainly consider one in future then.


Forgive me if I've got the wrong end of the stick, GWM, but i fail to see how

 "Just throwing this in the mix -  I looked at the Zephyros Compact as well as several similar Chinese lightweight tents before deciding on purchasing the Vango Cairngorm 200 (for slightly less than £110) ,a slight increase in weight and packsize than the Z2 compact but still within the acceptable parameters I'd set for myself.  I know past performance is no indication of present or future performance but I've had Vango tents throughout my life and have never found a reason to distrust them, something that had a major bearing on my decision to purchase."

 translates into "shabby Chinese knockoff" or anything disparaging against any other make of tent for that matter??

GWM wasn't referring to your post when he mentioned about the Chinese Knockoffs.  :)

Another benefit of these tents is the accessories you can get to improve the tent.

The Tents (as supplied) is actually better than the MSR Hubba Hubba in that whilst the MSR inner tent is almost 75% mesh (and cold and draughty in the UK weather) the Chinese copy is actually something over 50% 'solid' with only the top 45% (?) being mesh.

(https://i.postimg.cc/hhYSXLMJ/20190713-193420-Copy.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/hhYSXLMJ)

You can also order it with a 'solid' inner (a few £s more) or you can buy a 'solid' inner tent and have a 'Winter' version and keep the 'as supplied' inner for Spring / Summer / Autumn

Full '4-season' inner tent.

(https://i.postimg.cc/z3Kdh5Fn/4-Seasons-Inner-B.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/z3Kdh5Fn)


Should you find you need a bit more room (Sons gets bigger) or somewhere to keep the bike, or somewhere to cook, you can buy and 'extension'.


(https://i.postimg.cc/sGrbW2BN/B1.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/sGrbW2BN)

(https://i.postimg.cc/JHMdndvw/B2.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/JHMdndvw)

(https://i.postimg.cc/hzypDPLm/B3.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/hzypDPLm)


Maybe you can tell - I am impressed by the quality and versatility of these tents.

That looks a fab tent, especially with the extra porch piece (or whatever the correct name is). The review I watched from an English guy who reviews various tents (only seen the one review) was very impressed with the quality of the Chinese ones. I've got a few days til the other one arrives so it is definitely something I can be considering.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Butchersboy on 15:23:14, 01/02/20

I did think I'd got a bargain, but unsure how it differs between the compact version, apart from larger on pack size and weight. The version I have bought does have 2 doors, which is a bonus. I was wondering about the ground sheet. I realised last night that it didn't come with one. This is the one I bought. Click. (https://www.wiggle.co.uk/wild-country-zephyros-2-2-door-tent/)


I thought unpacking and testing it out in my rucksack might be a good idea before I return, the tent is not forced to stay in the carry bag it comes with, but if I do get it all out, I'm not sure how easily I'd get it all back in the bag if I did want to return it as I'm not one for being able to pack large things up easily lol. I'll have a 58L bag with me, so can't see it being a problem fitting the poles in.
I would suggest not using the bag it comes in but instead compressing it down into a waterproof type stuff sack. You'd be amazed how small you can compress them to save space.
The tent poles and pegs would simply fit down the inside of your rucksack.


Another good tip, slightly off topic is to use a down sleeping bag rather than a synthetic. The weight and space saving is incredible.
I did get my down sleeping bag from AliExpress.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 16:12:53, 01/02/20
I would suggest not using the bag it comes in but instead compressing it down into a waterproof type stuff sack. You'd be amazed how small you can compress them to save space.
The tent poles and pegs would simply fit down the inside of your rucksack.


Another good tip, slightly off topic is to use a down sleeping bag rather than a synthetic. The weight and space saving is incredible.
I did get my down sleeping bag from AliExpress.


Thanks for your advice. I watched a kit vid on YouTube earlier today where the guy was putting certain items in bags and I wondered what they were and called. I guess now that they were the stuff sacks. I shall look into them as well as the down sleeping bag, thanks again.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: alan de enfield on 16:18:02, 01/02/20

Thanks for your advice. I watched a kit vid on YouTube earlier today where the guy was putting certain items in bags and I wondered what they were and called. I guess now that they were the stuff sacks. I shall look into them as well as the down sleeping bag, thanks again.

I changed from a synthetic to a down sleeping bag and got the tent in the space saved.

Weight of the synthetic was 1500grams
Weight of the Down is 750 grams

Specification virtually identical

This is it (the price has dropped considerably from when I bought it)

https://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/15903110/oex-helios-ev-hydrodown-300-sleeping-bag-15903110
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: gunwharfman on 17:44:41, 01/02/20
Yes, me too, a down sleeping quilt, compresses so small and puffs up so big. Mind you I am extra careful about keeping it dry, I've read that down loses all of its heat-retaining qualities if wet. From time to time I look for a bathtub groundsheet that rolls up, or folds easily, but I have never found one. For me, this would be useful now that I bivi more and more.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: richardh1905 on 21:03:08, 01/02/20
3 downsides to down:

Expensive
Ethical considerations (sometimes 'live plucked')
Useless if it gets wet

Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: richardh1905 on 21:05:39, 01/02/20
I've read that down loses all of its heat-retaining qualities if wet.

I can confirm that! When I was 16 I went on a cadet force camp in Derbyshire. Torrential rain flooded our non groundsheet tents, and then the US Army Arctic Issue down sleeping bag that I had - might as well have tried to sleep in a sponge. We were evacuated to a barn loft, warm vapours from the cows below staving off hypothermia.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 21:47:18, 01/02/20
That's a big saving in the weight for the down sleeping bag, but can't really afford it when I've got a fair bit of kit to get. Also as Richard pointed out, the ethical side of it concerns me, if made in China.


Richard - Sounds like a night to remember!
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: richardh1905 on 21:52:00, 01/02/20
It was my first ever night under canvas - a wonder that I wasn't put off for life, but I love camping, the wilder the better.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 22:01:31, 01/02/20
Rather annoyed with Wiggle. They've got back to me in regards to the cancellation message that I sent yesterday, saying it was too late to cancel. The system would not let me cancel despite me trying two minutes after ordering, (their policy states it can be cancelled if done before the order is processed). I find it extremely hard to believe that their warehouse completely processed the order within two minutes, especially since I have a screenshot with the order saying 'in progress' as I tried to cancel.


The Consumer Contract Regulations state that when cancelling an order, it must not be made difficult and I should be able to do it at the point of sale. Their system automatically not allowing it, is against those regulations and is a deliberate ploy to circumvent those regs. I received the despatch email over 24 hours after I tried to cancel.


Luckily one of the options allows me to return the item free, all the other ways I have to pay for.


I still might keep it though.  ;D  I'm moaning because it's the principle of the thing lol.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 22:02:17, 01/02/20
It was my first ever night under canvas - a wonder that I wasn't put off for life, but I love camping, the wilder the better.


I'm hoping my son feels the same, and that I don't end up putting him off for life when things inevitably go wrong.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: richardh1905 on 22:32:35, 01/02/20
I doubt that the Zephyros will let you down, it is a well proved design from a reputable manufacturer.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: richardh1905 on 22:34:14, 01/02/20

I'm hoping my son feels the same, and that I don't end up putting him off for life when things inevitably go wrong.

The trick will be to time your first camp well - wait for a good forecast and go for a one night trip.

Where are you planning to do your camping/walking, by the way?
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 22:59:09, 01/02/20
The trick will be to time your first camp well - wait for a good forecast and go for a one night trip.

Where are you planning to do your camping/walking, by the way?

I am planning on continuing the YWW with him. We did the first leg the other week, and I'm planning on doing the next couple of legs in Feb when he is off school. I'm starting to think it will be too cold then though, and I should leave the camping part til later. I've just watched Abbie Barnes doing the YWW on YouTube. She went in April and it was snowing in parts, so Feb could be freezing. The first part we did early January was a lovely day so I've forgotten how harsh it can be .

I am trying to get him involved, and as he enjoys a bit of cooking, let him do some on the trip (well away from the tent tho lol). Unsure of how else I can get him to feel more in charge and less of a kid though. Competing with the Xbox is difficult!
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: richardh1905 on 18:15:13, 02/02/20
When I have semi wild camped with my 12 year old, I find that a pack of cards is a good addition to my kit.
Title: Re: Tent Choice
Post by: Little Foot on 22:46:25, 02/02/20
Good idea Richard, will make a note of that, thanks.