Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => The Knowledge => Camping It Up => Topic started by: Wowbagger on 21 April, 2017, 10:51:59 am

Title: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 21 April, 2017, 10:51:59 am
I am resigning myself to the fact that I no longer need my Hilleberg Nallo 3GT. Mrs. Wow doesn't want to do any more camping in a tent she can't stand up in, and, even though I have used it for solo camping, it's overkill, so in due course I shall be advertising it for sale. However, I want a replacement before I sell, and I am weighing up the pros & cons of the Nallo 2 (non GT version) and the Terra Nova Voyager. The Voyager appears to be a lovely 4-season tent and is half the price of the Nallo 2. I have seen, and camped in, a Nallo 2 (thanks Butterfly!) and it's lovely. Does anyone have any experience of the Voyager that would justify spending all that extra cash on a Nallo 2?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: clarion on 21 April, 2017, 11:41:31 am
We have a Nallo 2GT (and may be interested in the 3GT ;) ).  I love it.  The Nallo 2 was a bit tight for two people and bags, but would be excellent for one.

We also have a Blacks Octane 2, which is their version.  That's a great tent, too, and remarkably good value, but I suspect it fits just below the Vango Spirits in the Nallo-alike stakes.

We also have a Voyager XL. This has the extended porch (not quite as big as the Nallo, but still useful).  It is very stable, but heavier than the Hilleberg.  There is good internal space, and the interior height is maintained across a broader span, which certainly helps. 

Nallo is lighter, much quicker to erect (Voyager is inner-first, a personal dislike), but I think the Voyager wins for waterproofing.  Oh - except when the water ponds on the top, as it sometimes does. :-\

Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: bikepacker on 21 April, 2017, 11:47:34 am
My exploits with a Voyager lasted one tour, it was slow to pitch and very small compared to the Nallo. Saying that some do love them.

Have a look at the Force Ten Xenon 2+ UL it is lighter and cheaper than both the Voyager and Nallo and has lots of space. I am seriously thinking about one and you know I am a Hilleberg diehard. http://www.worldofcamping.co.uk/vango-xenon-ul-2-tent?gclid=CMn1ta-vtdMCFcm6GwodWf8Org#fo_c=273&fo_k=cd88fba65c04648a9004bb513f7b6860&fo_s=gplauk
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Polar Bear on 21 April, 2017, 12:01:20 pm
I'd go 2GT personally as the weight penalty over a 2 is minimal yet you get all of that practical storage and living space keeping damp things out of the sleeping area, and, it's a great space to be in if the weather is inclement and you're resigned to a lazy day.

If I was a hiker I'd probably pick the 2 simply because I love Hillebergs.

Sorry, that didn't help did it? 
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: clarion on 21 April, 2017, 12:11:17 pm
I think it's a valuable observation.  The extra space of the GT comes at very little cost of weight or space, and makes it into a tent of luxury for one.  I'd be very very happy to camp alone with ours.

Get a footprint, mind.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: davelodwig on 21 April, 2017, 12:43:01 pm
I have nothing to offer in terms of comparison but I'd be interested in your Hilleberg Nallo 3GT if you decide to sell it as our medium tent is starting to wear out.

D.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Paul H on 21 April, 2017, 12:59:15 pm
I think it’s more about the designs than the specific tents and  a bit chalk and cheese.  Tunnel Vs geo, both have pros and cons, tunnel offering better space for weight and geo being more stable.  How much you need the advantages of either depends on what you want to do with it. They’re both overkill for the sort of three season softy cycle camping I do.  If I were to choose between them it would be the Nallo, neither would be on my shortlist as  I much prefer to sleep across the door, it’s a  personal preferences and IMO one of the biggest difference in tent designs and always near  the top of my criteria.
I had a loan of a standard Voyager while my TN Solar 2.2 was in for repair, it was the most stable tent I’ve ever slept in, goes up easy and quick, and tight first time every time.  I like inner first pitching, the slight chance of it getting wet in the seconds it takes to cover it outweighed by not having a dry inner get wet from the fly while travelling.  But for the same weight as the Solar it was seriously cramped for two, less than half the door and porch space and less head room.  I have no Hillie experience to compare, though I have had a Nallo like Lightwave.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: trekker12 on 21 April, 2017, 01:23:01 pm
+1 for the Nallo 2GT solution.

The porch space doesn't add significant weight and being able to sit out a rain shower in the porch is a significant advantage, it's why Mrs trekker and I went for the 3GT.

Sorry I have no experience of the Voyager
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: fuaran on 21 April, 2017, 01:33:31 pm
Yes, they are quite different sorts of tents.
The Wild Country Hoolie 2 Etc is closer to the Nallo. http://www.terra-nova.co.uk/tents-and-spares/all-tents/hoolie-2-etc-tent/
Or the new Alpkit Viso 2. https://www.alpkit.com/products/viso-2
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 April, 2017, 01:43:08 pm
After having considered a Voyager, I went for a Hoolie. Going up all in one piece was one of the good points for me.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: mark on 21 April, 2017, 01:44:50 pm
Do you really need a 4 season tent like he Nallo or the Voyager? Or would you be better off with the reduced weight and better ventilation of a 3 season tent, like one of the yellow label Hillebergs?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Kim on 21 April, 2017, 02:52:29 pm
I like inner first pitching, the slight chance of it getting wet in the seconds it takes to cover it outweighed by not having a dry inner get wet from the fly while travelling.

Not sure I see the logic?  With inner first the inner is exposed to rain for a short period when you pitch and strike.  Agreed that's not usually a problem.

With outer first, the inner need never be exposed to rain.  You can put it up and take it down in the shelter of the fly and pack it separately so it stays dry.

In both cases, the inner only gets wet from the fly if you pack them together.  I reserve taking an outer-first tent down in a single go for bone-dry conditions and the last day of a tour.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 21 April, 2017, 03:09:20 pm
I like inner first pitching, the slight chance of it getting wet in the seconds it takes to cover it outweighed by not having a dry inner get wet from the fly while travelling.

Not sure I see the logic?  With inner first the inner is exposed to rain for a short period when you pitch and strike.  Agreed that's not usually a problem.


No, it's when you're striking camp the issues occur.

Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: clarion on 21 April, 2017, 03:30:12 pm
I still don't get it.

Our big tent (Equinox 450 IIRC) is a tunnel design, with vis-à-vis bedrooms.  We take down the small bedroom as a matter of course when packing, purely for ease of stowing.  Last weekend, with dry conditions for a pack, but boggy ground from three days of on and off rain, we dropped the large bedroom, and put in the sun for the groundsheet to dry.  If it had been raining, we would have packed that straight away.  Then the fly comes down last.  I have done a complete pack inside a tent, before emerging, putting the panniers on the bike, dropping the fly, and going.  If I had had an inner-first tent, it would have been exposed to whatever rain there was both in erection and strike, and, getting a wet fly off a pitched inner without brushing, spilling or otherwise wetting the inner is quite a skill.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Kim on 21 April, 2017, 03:42:35 pm
getting a wet fly off a pitched inner without brushing, spilling or otherwise wetting the inner is quite a skill.

Somewhat easier with smaller tents.  And no wind.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Paul H on 21 April, 2017, 04:11:14 pm
I like inner first pitching, the slight chance of it getting wet in the seconds it takes to cover it outweighed by not having a dry inner get wet from the fly while travelling.

Not sure I see the logic?  With inner first the inner is exposed to rain for a short period when you pitch and strike.  Agreed that's not usually a problem.

I was comparing to a pitch together design, such as the Nallo, where when packed together the inner ends up as wet as the outer. No doubt it's possible to remove the inner first, it'd probably involve a bit of crawling around on the floor, do people do that?  I don't tend to watch how others take their tents down, I'm pretty sure all those I camp with who have such tents pack them as one. IME that leads to a wet inner far more often than in the years I've used an inner pitch tent YMMV
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Polar Bear on 21 April, 2017, 04:26:41 pm
I generally pitch and strike as one.   Careful folding allows one to keep the inner dry, especially so as I also leave the footprint in place. 

I've never bothered even in extreme conditions to pack the tent up in separate pieces. 
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Kim on 21 April, 2017, 04:53:03 pm
As I say, I generally take the inner down separately, unless everything's dry.  Careful folding doesn't help much, because in the morning the outer is usually wet on the inside (if it's raining, it's wet on both sides).  With the Akto, for which I have a footprint, I tend to leave the footprint and outer together, which means the inner can be removed and reattached without getting myself muddy on wet ground.  (I'll sometimes leave it for half an hour to dry out properly before attaching the inner.)  Putting up and taking down the inner isn't any more difficult than doing anything else inside a tent - as always with tents, once you've got the hang of what goes where, it's pretty straightforward.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: andrewc on 21 April, 2017, 05:24:07 pm
I'm very happy with my MSR Hubba Hubba HP, which is inner first pitching.   It's quick to pitch & strike and has room for two, while being light enough to be used as a solo. 


If you can hang on till Long itch you can put it up for me & have a sit in it.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Kim on 21 April, 2017, 05:31:19 pm
I think that's the thing - outer-first obviously gives you more options, but inner first isn't a deal breaker if it's quick and easy.

I've got one of those now legendary Pro Action tents - which pitches inner-first - and not really had a problem with the inner getting wet, even when it's been chucking it down.  Where that one lets you down is lack of windproofing (which does at least mean minimal condensation) and limited space for Stuff.  It's a warm-weather tent.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 April, 2017, 05:56:54 pm
Whatever the decision, it's a fine agony Wowbagger has.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 21 April, 2017, 09:04:42 pm
If I have read the specs correctly, the Nallo 2GT is only 300g lighter than the 3GT. That is an awful lot of money to spend for that small weight saving.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Canardly on 21 April, 2017, 10:11:31 pm
That post from Bikepacker has me now wondering which to get..........
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 21 April, 2017, 10:26:03 pm
Bearing in mind that Go Outdoors claim they will beat any other on-line price by 10%...
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Butterfly on 21 April, 2017, 11:09:05 pm
You are welcome to borrow our voyager xl to try. I've pitched it in wet weather several times and had no problems with a wet inner. I'm not sure any weight savings are worth the cost of a new tent (although would be happy to swap our nallo 2gt or voyager if you really want ;) )
Anyway, don't you need a tent with room for grandchildren?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: RichForrest on 22 April, 2017, 01:36:27 am
Bearing in mind that Go Outdoors claim they will beat any other on-line price by 10%...

They do, whenever I go in for anything I google it while there and usually save money.
eg £70 fleece, with card price was £35, I googled it, showed them the phone showing cheaper elsewhere and got it for around £18.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Canardly on 22 April, 2017, 04:46:55 pm
I have filled in the appropriate form via Go outdoors vis the Xenon, will see what happens. Most annoyingly they were offering the Hubba Hubba at a very good price. The sale was supposed to be on until the 25th. The Hubba page disappeared for a day or two and has now reappeared with a price £60 more expensive.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 22 April, 2017, 08:34:56 pm
You are welcome to borrow our voyager xl to try. I've pitched it in wet weather several times and had no problems with a wet inner. I'm not sure any weight savings are worth the cost of a new tent (although would be happy to swap our nallo 2gt or voyager if you really want ;) )
Anyway, don't you need a tent with room for grandchildren?
Thank you for the offer! I may take you up on it, depending on developments.

So far as my emboldened bit is concerned, how could I possibly have been so thoughtless? Perhaps I will hang on to the 3GT after all.  :D
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: TPMB12 on 23 April, 2017, 09:49:43 pm
Don't buy a wild country hoolie. Pole breakage is a risk with them. I had a hoolie 3etc and whilst a great tent in many ways one pole failed at the connector. Between us we've had maybe 10+ tents and this one was the first to fall on the poles. It also fell apart at several other places where poor stitching failed releasing the sewn in webbing strap. Fortunately enough straps lasted to get us home and I'm never camping without a pole repair sleeve with the very necessary duct tape.

This might be our bad luck with the poles but the poor stitching wasn't. Great tent though if yours doesn't fall apart.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 24 April, 2017, 04:35:08 pm
I was considering bidding on an EBay auction for a 15 yo Nallo 2. I thought I might bid £300, but then decided against. In the final minute the top bid increased from £265 to £331. Sought-after items, clearly!
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: clarion on 24 April, 2017, 04:52:57 pm
Yes, but at 15yo, I would expect it to need thoroughly reproofing
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Canardly on 24 April, 2017, 04:55:28 pm
Go outdoors came good on the Xenon. I  have 7 days.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: bikepacker on 24 April, 2017, 07:27:47 pm
Go outdoors came good on the Xenon. I  have 7 days.

Are you bringing it to York? I would like to have a look at it.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Polar Bear on 24 April, 2017, 08:20:46 pm
Yes, but at 15yo, I would expect it to need thoroughly reproofing

Can you reproof siliconed fabric?  Possibly the seams I guess.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Canardly on 24 April, 2017, 08:37:07 pm
Go outdoors came good on the Xenon. I  have 7 days.

Are you bringing it to York? I would like to have a look at it.

Not seen one in the flesh myself as yet but does sound a good deal with Hubba as an alternative. I will need to make my mind up in the next day or two. If I do buy I will bring to York. I wll be selling an Octane 3 which is still in the bag unused, as I will not need both.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 24 April, 2017, 09:41:50 pm
I have a pretty wide choice from existing stock. The Terra Nova Space 2 is the lightest, and given that we are only intending to stay at one campsite, its faffy pitching won't be an issue. However, it the jolly old scirocco kicks off, it could be a bit unstable. The other choice is the good old Nallo 3 GT.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Jon P on 27 April, 2017, 10:22:20 am
I would only use a Tarptent (http://www.tarptent.com/) - expensive and you'll pay tax on the import, but fantastic size / weight ratio, the Stratospire will fit a bike in each porch!
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Polar Bear on 27 April, 2017, 10:54:58 am
Yes, but at 15yo, I would expect it to need thoroughly reproofing

Can you reproof siliconed fabric?  Possibly the seams I guess.

Appears that you can (http://gb.hilleberg.com/EN/faq/how-can-i-re-treat-my-tent-fabrics/).

Might just give that a go on our Nammatj.

Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Dave_C on 27 April, 2017, 11:16:24 am
Appears that you can (http://gb.hilleberg.com/EN/faq/how-can-i-re-treat-my-tent-fabrics/).

Might just give that a go on our Nammatj.

I have used Nikwave a few times on my aging series 1 Mountin Hardwear Trango2. It has never quite reproofed it enough. I was thinking of testing on the bag a diluted mixture of PVA and water. Is this what they put on the inside anyway?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: jsabine on 27 April, 2017, 11:35:03 am
I was thinking of testing on the bag a diluted mixture of PVA and water. Is this what they put on the inside anyway?

I strongly suspect you want something other than PVA.

(If you're thinking of PU nylon, then that's a polyurethane coating.)
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Dave_C on 27 April, 2017, 02:26:50 pm
I was thinking of testing on the bag a diluted mixture of PVA and water. Is this what they put on the inside anyway?

I strongly suspect you want something other than PVA.

(If you're thinking of PU nylon, then that's a polyurethane coating.)

https://dzjow.com/2012/06/18/how-to-re-coat-a-shelter/
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: jsabine on 27 April, 2017, 04:38:30 pm
I was thinking of testing on the bag a diluted mixture of PVA and water. Is this what they put on the inside anyway?

I strongly suspect you want something other than PVA.

(If you're thinking of PU nylon, then that's a polyurethane coating.)

https://dzjow.com/2012/06/18/how-to-re-coat-a-shelter/

That explains in depth about using some sort of silicone coating, and says that doing a PU coating should be similar, though he can't recommend specific products.

PVA is glue.

(http://s7g3.scene7.com/is/image//ae235?src=ae235/29912_P&$prodImageMedium$)
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Canardly on 27 April, 2017, 07:21:09 pm
Bought the Xenon, I couldn't justify the Hubba expense. At 2kg and incorporating a significant porch will do me just fine for the next several, hopefully.  :thumbsup: Just need to make sure the thing gets used often. As these things go a bit of a bargain at £242, I have seen it at £380. I should really be buying wall lights................................
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 27 April, 2017, 07:29:03 pm
My current experiments are with a wheeled suitcase and the Hilleberg. I may bring the Laser Space 2. It is lighter than the Hilleberg and has an enormous porch which would easily accommodate the suitcase and a Brompton. Floor space is pretty critical when you are spending all your in-tent time horizontal, but becomes less so when you can stand up.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Canardly on 27 April, 2017, 07:31:48 pm
I empathise wholeheartedly with the being able to stand up. He of the night time cramps...... hell is leg cramp and mummy sleeping bag in low level tent.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Butterfly on 27 April, 2017, 09:24:29 pm
Bought the Xenon, I couldn't justify the Hubba expense. At 2kg and incorporating a significant porch will do me just fine for the next several, hopefully.  :thumbsup: Just need to make sure the thing gets used often. As these things go a bit of a bargain at £242, I have seen it at £380. I should really be buying wall lights................................
You need to join the ALC to increase your opportunities to get your money's worth  ;)
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: JenM on 10 August, 2017, 02:54:33 pm
I think you need a Nallo 2 gt......which just happens to be for sale at the moment!!
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 08 February, 2018, 12:16:09 am
I am still contemplating this decision. This has been brought to the fore by the need for me to acquire a tent for a walking trip. I don't think I can spend a fortnight in a Wild Country Zephyros 1, even though it is lovely and light. I really need to look at a few tents in the flesh, as it were.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Goldcrank on 08 February, 2018, 09:12:09 pm
Z packs? (Zee packs)
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: bikepacker on 09 February, 2018, 08:59:57 am
The first backpacking walk I did I used a MSR Carbon Reflex 2. Nice lightweight tent I didn't get on with it, found it awkward to get in and out, also my preference is for tunnel tents. The second walk I used a Vaude Ferret 2 UL which suited me much better. Both of these have now been sold as I shall not be doing any more such walks.

The tent Canardly had at York Rally was very light and looked okay. They do a lighter version without the extended porch. This may be worth a look for you.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: loadsabikes on 12 February, 2018, 10:52:28 pm
Alpkit Ordos 2, a two person semi geodesic weighing in at 1.3kg
looks good in the flesh and their customer service is excellent.
I agree with Wow, I can"t sleep in these ultra lightweight coffins.
I shall be using my North Face Tadpole.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 18 February, 2018, 09:45:19 pm
Hmm... that's another very meshy inner-pitches-first job.

I am planning to visit Open Air in Cambridge in the coming week to have a look at tents and shoes. They have got quite a good stock and there is no rush...

I do like the look of the Xenon 2 that Bikepacker recommends.

This also tickles my fancy.

https://www.openair.co.uk/camping-c11/tents-shelter-c143/tents-c144/lightwave-t20-trail-tent-p4034
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: loadsabikes on 19 February, 2018, 08:58:46 pm
Hmmm... Too heavy for backpacking in my opinion
I consider a maximum pack weight of 12kg for a summer trip + water.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 20 February, 2018, 06:56:11 pm
Total pack weight is something I have yet to consider. It's ... 14 years since I last went on a walking trip with tents. I have no idea what my pack weight was.

Meanwhile, what is a "unisex" tent?  ???

https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/332534255082?chn=ps&adgroupid=53646903724&rlsatarget=pla-414252418228&abcId=1133956&adtype=pla&merchantid=9821874&googleloc=1007216&device=c&campaignid=1058615745&crdt=0&var=541618843761
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Kim on 20 February, 2018, 07:08:27 pm
One that isn't pink, obviously.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Butterfly on 21 February, 2018, 08:39:08 am
One that isn't pink, obviously.
Or camo
Camo is only for boys. Unless it's pink. Pink camo is the only camo that Girls can have, I understand.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Kim on 21 February, 2018, 12:17:26 pm
One that isn't pink, obviously.
Or camo
Camo is only for boys. Unless it's pink. Pink camo is the only camo that Girls can have, I understand.

Hang on, I thought pink camo was for the 1990s gay scene?

It's all so complicated...
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 21 February, 2018, 01:22:43 pm
Pink camol for the gay scene? Probably, but you have to discreet in Saudi:
Quote
Pink Camel About Us
It all started with a macaron...
It all started with a macaron in the leading macaron pastry shop in Paris (Laduree). The flavor was salted caramel, the texture was perfect, and after the first bite Pastry Chef Mayada Badr was hooked. She was attending Parsons School of Design in Paris, the city she refers to as the city of food and indulgence.

This is where Mayada's culinary education started at the renowned Cordon Bleu. After completing her Grand Diplome she interned at Laduree for three months where she met amazing chefs who taught her various techniques and inspired her taste buds. After, she moved to the south of France and interned at Bastide de Saint Antoine, a 2 Michelin starred restaurant in the small city of Grasse. Surrounded by olive trees and the fragrance of the south she learned another style of cooking.

Once returning to Saudi Mayada realized that the French pastry market was very under exposed and only few restaurants and outlets provided top quality products. While the "Cupcake" craze had taken over the dessert market, Mayada had decided she wanted to introduce her version of high end French Pastry to the Saudi market; and thus Pink Camel was born and opened its doors for the first time on July 21st 2012 in Jeddah. A name that now stands for pure indulgence.
http://pink-camel.com
(http://pink-camel.com/assets/images/img_banner.jpg)
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: andrew_s on 21 February, 2018, 10:27:43 pm
Meanwhile, what is a "unisex" tent?  ???

One that will only fit one person in, obviously.

(not that this actually applies to this tent, or any of the other unisex tents that appear under similar items)
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 22 February, 2018, 09:08:08 am
Meanwhile, what is a "unisex" tent?  ???

One that will only fit one person in, obviously.

(not that this actually applies to this tent, or any of the other unisex tents that appear under similar items)

Ah, but what if they are bisexual?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Kim on 22 February, 2018, 11:39:46 am
Meanwhile, what is a "unisex" tent?  ???

One that will only fit one person in, obviously.

(not that this actually applies to this tent, or any of the other unisex tents that appear under similar items)

Ah, but what if they are bisexual?

Then they can go to Bi Camp (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/812078873/bicamp-uk-2018).
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Butterfly on 22 February, 2018, 01:01:39 pm
Meanwhile, what is a "unisex" tent?  ???

One that will only fit one person in, obviously.

(not that this actually applies to this tent, or any of the other unisex tents that appear under similar items)

Ah, but what if they are bisexual?

Then they can go to Bi Camp (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/812078873/bicamp-uk-2018).

Crumbs, that's walking distance from us! Are you going?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Kim on 22 February, 2018, 01:52:46 pm
Then they can go to Bi Camp (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/812078873/bicamp-uk-2018).

Crumbs, that's walking distance from us! Are you going?

I'm probably FNRttCing.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 22 February, 2018, 02:56:22 pm
This guy is not impressed by Terra Nova:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSPdVkIIELM
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Paul H on 22 February, 2018, 03:50:39 pm
This guy is not impressed by Terra Nova:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSPdVkIIELM
I'm sure you could find disappointed customers of any tent manufacturer, I've read several of Hillieberg, usually about the zips.
I didn't watch the whole vid, the language ought to carry a NSFW warning.  His problem seems to be the poles are just snapping due to the change in temperature.  His complaint that TN wanted him to send it back to look at it.  Seems reasonable to me, these are probably DAC poles, so the just snapping would want investigation, did he think they were just going to send him a new tent?
My TN is almost ten years old, I've been very happy with it, the couple of issues I've had were easily sorted, it helps that they're just up the road from me and I can call in.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 23 February, 2018, 12:33:01 am
I have to say that I am finding this rather interesting at the moment.

http://gb.hilleberg.com/EN/tent/yellow-label-tents/niak/
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: tatanab on 23 February, 2018, 07:28:15 am
I have to say that I am finding this rather interesting at the moment.

http://gb.hilleberg.com/EN/tent/yellow-label-tents/niak/
I have been using one for 2 years now, and the four season version (Unna) for 10 years before that.  They are spacious one person or very tight 2 person tents, although I see Hilleberg now advertise the Niak as 2 person.  I like them because they are potentially freestanding and I can sit bolt upright inside.

Niak has a small vestibule, which is ok except it means that people can see you have stowed stuff there.  The Unna (fly walls go all the way down) has no vestibule but has increased space between inner and outer which makes fine storage for small bags, food etc.  With single occupancy, bags can be brought inside of course.   I find that when doing up the zip on the Niak, it is under tension which I do not think is optimum, not so much the case with the Unna.  I have had both tents in torrential rain with no problems and there is a good amount of space if you decide to stay in for the day.  The pack size and weight are I think very good with the Niak particularly, pack size is important to me.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Polar Bear on 23 February, 2018, 08:40:08 am
My friend Martin (who has now been to Long Itch twice) uses one.  Being tall he finds it far more practical for him than an Akto which he is now selling - the Alto that is. 

His is in green which is much darker than the usual Hilleberg green. 
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: andrew_s on 23 February, 2018, 11:57:26 am
Green Hillebergs have been so dark they are almost verging on black for a few years now. Similarly recent "sand" tents are a regular brown, rather than the pale buffish sand colour you may see in the catalog or Hilleberg website.
Google for recent user photos, rather than check colours from Hilleberg, or shops (which almost all use Hilleberg's photos, which I'd guess mostly come from the testing period, and may be quite old even for newly released tents)

eg a "green" Niak
http://www.tgomagazine.co.uk/gear-editors-column/hilleberg-niak-tent/
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: loadsabikes on 24 February, 2018, 08:32:50 am
That does look very nice Wow but it is a lot of money.  Have you been able to inspect one in the flesh?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: loadsabikes on 24 February, 2018, 08:46:35 am
Alpkit's Jaran II is a very similar weight, two porches and a third of the price!
That has to be a major plus and with Alpkit's legendary after sales service.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: loadsabikes on 24 February, 2018, 06:09:17 pm
Mrs Miggins and I will be visiting Alpkit at Hathersage tomorrow when I will endeavour to check out their tentage and report my findings.
I will also enquire about sleeping bags For the larger gent!
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: loadsabikes on 25 February, 2018, 05:31:09 pm
Ok, we attended Alpkit, purveyors of things tentage and titanium.
They had a Jaran II pitched in the showroom.
It makes a very fine one person tent with plenty of room. It pitches tight with the fly sheet reaching close to the ground.
The inner does employ a fair amount of mesh but as this is designed as a 3 season tent, i don't see it as a problem.
I do like the versatility of the two porches.
I would definitely use a footprint as the tub groundsheet is pretty thin and easily damaged on rough ground.
It is unlikely to have the longevity of a Hilleberg, but is only a third of the price.
All things considered, I would consider it well worth the money.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 26 February, 2018, 02:44:39 pm
Alpkit's Jaran II is a very similar weight, two porches and a third of the price!
That has to be a major plus and with Alpkit's legendary after sales service.

I must admit I have never bought anything from Alpkit. What is their legendary after-sales service?

I notice that the Jaran's footprint is a lot lighter than the Niak's. The Niak is a lighter tent, but the weight difference between the two of tent + footprint is not a lot.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: andrewc on 26 February, 2018, 06:47:57 pm
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MSR-Hubba-Hubba-NX-2-Person-Camping-3-Season-Backpacking-Tent-RRP-389/192465371049?hash=item2ccfd47fa9:g:Y9wAAOSwRuJakUvG


https://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2017/05/11/on-test-msr-hubba-hubba-nx-two-person-tent-reviewed


UKC Gear - MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Tent (https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=6&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj6-YKincTZAhVgGsAKHVxaCWgQFgiuATAF&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ukclimbing.com%2Fgear%2Freviews%2Fcamping-trekking_gear%2Fmsr_hubba_hubba_nx_2-person_tent-6451&usg=AOvVaw3vXr2CpuohCUyey4kmUrUY)


The newer version of my HP.   Looks a bit see through!   It can be pitched outer first, but you need the optional footprint to do this.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: mark on 26 February, 2018, 07:06:50 pm
I've pitched my Hubba NX (1 person version) outer first with the footprint, it's quite easy. Without the footprint would be very difficult at best.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 28 February, 2018, 02:56:05 pm
Well, I have taken the plunge with a Jaran 2. So now I can blame loadsabikes if it all goes wrong!  :P
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: loadsabikes on 02 March, 2018, 08:19:16 am
Oh that's alright then!

I don't think you will be disappointed. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 05 March, 2018, 04:11:56 pm
(https://scontent-lht6-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/28795973_1962788567373676_6367044640592792179_n.jpg?oh=afeb9712a53d563aad650649bf3c75e8&oe=5B117AAA)

I have a new tent!
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Little Jim on 05 March, 2018, 04:21:11 pm
Looks good!  :thumbsup:

Didn't the pegs make a mess of the carpet though?

If I'd done that at home I'd have to sleep in it that night, and quite possibly for several more as well.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: loadsabikes on 05 March, 2018, 04:24:19 pm
First impression ?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 05 March, 2018, 04:28:54 pm
It's certainly big enough! Slightly faffy to pitch, but I've got the hang of it.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 March, 2018, 04:30:30 pm
was it a bit hard getting the pegs in?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 05 March, 2018, 05:32:01 pm
No. our floors are rubbish.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: delthebike on 05 March, 2018, 05:52:20 pm
If you don't like it as a tent you could always use it as a go-cart pod.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 05 March, 2018, 08:58:28 pm
I see Chateau Bagger has that good old fashioned establishment, the room that pretends it's a garage.  :thumbsup: Enjoy the tent!
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Canardly on 05 March, 2018, 09:12:09 pm
Does WB sound agonised to you?
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 05 March, 2018, 11:57:46 pm
I see Chateau Bagger has that good old fashioned establishment, the room that pretends it's a garage.  :thumbsup: Enjoy the tent!

That TPC at the far end is entirely down to Mrs. Wow's sheep habit.
Title: Re: Agonising tent decision
Post by: Wowbagger on 05 March, 2018, 11:58:17 pm
Does WB sound agonised to you?

Oh, absolutely! I'm tearing my hair out...