Wild camping washout. Why are these tents so expensive?

[@PaulMessner]

I have a Gopro Hero 11 & Insta360 action camera bundle up for grabs over on www.messner.co.uk/ Good luck to everyone who enters the competition 🤞🏻

[@Billcarsonstobaccobox]

Paul, have you tried a miltec recon tent yet? Their cheap and tough as nails. I bought one 5 years ago for £65. They stand up in ferocious winds that most £300+ tents would disappear over the horizon in

[@preacherman9018]

Nice, it even has mosquito netting in it! ☕🙂👍 That is Uber lightweight . The benefits that you can always carry it in case a storm rolls in on a day hike. Occasionally unforecasts storms do that in some mountain systems for some reason. Thanks for the special hacks like filling the inflatable pillow to keep the outer pocket usable. I'll keep that in mind. Did you know that the original Cuban Fiber was also used for satellite parachutes?

[@matthewardern5072]

You probably think the rain is rubbish weather to camp in, but as someone who doesn't get much of it in Australia, and who loves the sound of it on tin rooves and tents alike, it's awesome to hear.

[@peeeteh]

Camping in the rain is nice if it’s one night or if you’re leaving the tent up at a campsite, but if you’re packing it wet every morning for a week then it’s grim

[@juliejegstrup9352]

As long as you’re warm and safe the rain is very cosy. But the problem is it makes everything more dangerous and cold! As a cold person I am really dreading multiple days in a cold and humid tent with all the clothes wet from hiking in the rain. But living in skandinavia it is very likely.

[@clovermark39]

It would be nice to get a couple of nice days together in the UK.

[@arsenvokrug4198]

South-west England sounds ideal for you then! (Happy to house-sit for you til you’ve had enough of our miserable weather).

[@DougieL]

Don't much in Australia!? We just had 2 years of non-stop rain!!??? ;).

[@albertmills9365]

This looks so chill...a terrain of gently rolling, grassy hills. No tough terrain, bears, or cougars to worry about. The trail is super clear. Interesting how much camping and hiking vary across the world.

[@JS52ATS]

Peak District is very relaxed. Lovely area.

[@azclaimjumper]

and soil where you normally push a tent stake into the ground with a little foot pressures instead of having to pound 'em into the ground with a heavy rock. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada U.S.A.

[@jezlawrence720]

From my nice comfortable city home I deeply regret the absence of large predators in the UK. Then I remember: I know I like camping, whereas I am almost certain I don't like being eaten.

[@RogerWarszawa]

That tent packing tip, using your inflatable pillow, seems like a true stroke of genius 👏 I'll definitely keep it in mind, I'm sure it'll come in handy some day.

[@geoffreyfisher7434]

Excellent tip on packing the tent.

[@charlesbrecknell4656]

I bought this tent early last year & used it on the C2C- I sold my Nordisk tent to help pay for it, which had terrible condensation problems. I'm very happy with the tent, but I bought the alternative inner specifically designed for N European conditions (only part mesh). You can set up with the 4 pegs supplied but if one peg fails there is no redundancy in the design & it can go down. I've added extra guy ropes/ peg outs on the sides & ends for really rough weather & uneven ground, although the 6 peg set up you used is good for most conditions. There is quite a big gap between the fly & ground level, which gives excellent ventilation- I've had zero problems with condensation. However in windy + rainy conditions I reduce the gap by lowering the trekking pole height to reduce the risk of rain getting underneath the fly. I have also had no problems with the DCF floor- no need to bring along a groundsheet.

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

For structural redundancy I've had success with feeding a guy through the vent from top of the trekking pole to fore of vent. You can also have one inside the vestibule to just before touching the inner at the head end. At the maximum that's 4 extra pegs , 2 each side, 1 inside and 1 outside. As that outer fed guy has a lot of scope for peg placement you can help solve is the main intended happens to hit rock. I also (like Paul shows) some strong Ti pegs to wack through any rock.

[@FergusMooreVlogs]

What did you feed him?

[@lolabullet]

​@@FergusMooreVlogspickles and carrots?

[@phobos258]

I watched a lot of camping videos. This is the first time I've seen the pillow trick inside your bag to save room for your tent. brilliant!

[@PaulMessner]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TheGreatRaymondoOutdoors]

That tent looks excellent. The idea of the inflatable pillow to reserve room for packing it away is superb. Thanks for the upload and sharing your opinion Paul.

[@PaulMessner]

DCF tents are very expensive but they are becoming more popular in the UK. They are a specific tool for lightweight camping over multiple days and many miles. If you use it many times, day after day for thru hikes, it probably the best choice. But your everyday camper I think there are better options. What do you think?

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

I have the Notch and Protrail. The Protrail has masses of inner space width length headroom but only one entrance. I like the Notch for dual vestibule and dual wall for colder conditions. I'd say if you're going to do long multiple day hikes carrying your gear you need more space than that Notch as knackered and wanting to chill and cook in the tent. There are DCF bigger versions than the Notch from TT such as the SS1 Li. For now my tent is just to sleep between the pub and breakfast and I'm ok with the Notch size, you can unclip the inner and sit on it for more space on a wet day.

[@DrMoe.Lester]

Love the channel Paul, just found you. What do you think about the Northern Lite 2 as a UK do it all (except up a mountain in winter) tent for 2 people wild camping?

[@grahamriley8124]

Agreed, not needed for everyday campers and there are such cheaper options. When I have been in a regular campsite I have been so worried about accidental damage or even someone just walking off with it while I am not around.

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

@@grahamriley8124 I've already had a hole in my TT Protrail floor, I repaired it and made a new groundsheet. I'd have concerns with DCF groundsheets. I think TT is using just the same groundsheet as their non-Li? As for thefts at campsites, there's always that risk and TBH my £500 down sleeping bag, and my other lightweight camping kit adds to the worry. If you advertised you're a weight weeny to the campsite you'd probably be beckoning your tent and rest of your kit to be "investigated". As for damage, I've seen it multiple times. I've seen a dog run around and claws ripped a passing tent. I've found other ways to shave weight, for now. I'm probably in USA again in the autumn so may order something from TT to complement / replace my Protrail and Notch. Notch is a bit too narrow and a bit too short and some options opened up since I got the Notch 12 years ago.

[@ABCampingTony]

Loved this one Paul. These were the sort of vids I remember you for in the past that got me hooked on your channel. Cheers, Tony

[@TobyWilkinson69]

Great tip about the inflatable pillow I’ll steal that thank you! Happy camping

[@trooperwolfie]

I've got to say Paul....when I worked in the outdoor industry, a Chinese tent manufacturer told me that "cuben fiber" or dyneema composite fabric isn't that expensive to manufacture. The reason they bump the price up is because of the tear strength and water proofness along with the weight....or lack of it....the manufacturer's take the piss and make out like it's some sort of magical fabric.

[@IgnacioGlezCllo]

it does sound like a magical sort of fabric, just cheap to produce, and with a crazy mark up.

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

Not saying you're wrong but I also heard it's harder to work with, stitching, glueing is more difficult so still higher manufacturing cost to make the tent?

[@trooperwolfie]

@@GeekfromYorkshire most DCF tents are actually bonded rather than stitched, all Terra Nova dcf (cuben fiber) tents are bonded. It still doesn't explain why a dcf version of a Terra Nova tent is more than twice the price of it's sil nylon version....£1400 for a 1 man tent!?!?!?....

[@trooperwolfie]

@@GeekfromYorkshire I've just looked at the current TN voyager ultra....£2200 for a 1.5 man tent is ridiculous 😳.....

[@kid5Media]

Seems as if that were the case then we would see a boatload of $200 DCF tents coming out of China. Not the case.

[@daveramsay5692]

I have the Zpacks Altaplex which for a 1 man tent is huge, only used for bike packing , expensive but well worth the money, being made in the states means the cost is premium, but well worth it .

[@weekendbikingwarrior360]

Gosh.. the YT world has led me away from your channel Paul, just watched a load of your videos... respect... superb content. Respect.

[@happysporran]

Impressive waterproofing for such a light tent. I mainly bike pack and for me pack size is more important than weight.

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

I love my cuben fiber it is very important to remember it is Absolutely NOT cut or abrasion resistant. I never hear anyone mention this in most reviews so I thought I would once again bring it up. Thanks for the video.

[@azclaimjumper]

You're the 2nd person to make a similar comment about the material not being abrasion/puncture resistant. RIGHT ON! Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada U.S.A.

[@MrFlyingguy]

cracking video, big up the boys north of the river for their pilgrimage.

[@iwasapirateonce1639]

I am waiting to see how the new generation of Ultra TNT laminate tents perform. Cheaper and more durable than DCF but a little heavier, lighter and stronger than silnylon/silpoly. It's a shame no companies except trekkertent use more stealthy DCF colors, white/grey DCF really does stand out.

[@ThePro455]

Bonfus offers some tents in camo DCF. 👍

[@JeremyLawrence-imajez]

The Durston XMId Pro DCF tents are green. Far roomier too.

[@Tanko3691]

Ultra TNT laminate tents??? where would I find those?

[@Plumduff3303]

Nice little film cheers pal

[@robreynolds8759]

Great vid Paul! I have the notch li solid inner and the dipole…am 6’5. If you’re hiking and not spending any time anywhere, the small footprint of the notch is handy… however, spending any time in the tent, I much prefer the larger Dipole with its larger footprint… my rain experience isn’t like UK but no issues noted in Tstorms

[@SuperAnatolli]

Perfect weather for tenttesting. About the tent: Seems to work fine in that kind of terrain. Not so good in norwegian mountians (much more rocks and less grass around here). Some people hike inlow lands only, and then this tent would do fine.

[@petergilbert72]

I bought a silnylon Tarptent which is slightly more spacious than its DCF equivalent, is 50% longer lasting according to Tarptent, and only a few hundred grams heavier. And the colour slightly better camouflaged for wild camps in England !

[@brucewymond5138]

Hi Paul, I have a Zpack. Duplex and it’s fantastic, way more space and virtually the same weight as 1 person dynema tents. It’s excellent for hiking, funny I always put it up with trekking poles with tips down for better stability and to avoid risking a tear, the hand straps are great for hanging smelly clothes. Love your videos, thanks 👍

[@SethJayson]

we've got a triplex and love it. fits 2 of us well with our minimal gear inside or in the entryways, simple setup, so light, handles rain and wind really well. Tough to find spots to guy sometimes in rocky areas, but eventually you get it done. Always have condensation in a humid setting, but I've never had any tent that didn't. It's manageable. I mean, you breathe out a ton of moisture -- it's going to condense. This stuff doesn't stretch and sag with the wet, which is a big help.

[@ericb.4358]

I HIGHLY recommend buying Tarptent's optional trekking pole handle pockets. They then into the peak grommets and Velcro around your pole handle, thus KEEPING IT OUT OG THE DIRT. Since I always have rubber tips on my pole tips these keep the poles from sinking into the ground when used as a tent pole.

[@bobphillips2188]

It's not just the cost in dollars, it's the 20% VAT, AND Import Duty, AND shipping. I bought a Tarptent Moment a few years ago. Silnylon, not even $300 (it was about £200 basic converted price). But add the aforementioned costs and it was nearer £450 by the time it arrived on my doorstep! 1 kg, no trekking poles needed, so if you are not a pole user, it's almost the same tent, in principle, as the Notch. It's a great little tent, though not so roomy. Just for some additional info for those who might be interested: the polyester Durstons barely stretch at all when wet compared to silnylon (pitched mine in the garden, left it there for a week, rain, shine, more rain, dewy evenings, and I never had to re-tension it once. Two friends even slept in it for 2 nights!). Polyester is much more U/V resistant than nylon, even with silicon coating. It is only sil on the outside, and P/eU on the inside so it can take taped seam sealing, applied by them, so no mixing silicon and white spirit and making a mess in the back garden! The floor is also P/eU. P/eU is less hydrophilic than P/U (yes, P/U is not water resistant, it actually adsorbs moisture (that's why cheaper 'waterproof and breathable' fabrics are, well, cheaper!) hence great care is needed when storing. P/U adsorbs even atmospheric moisture, so the driest part of the house and a net storage bag are much advised. P/U will start to break down within ten years, regardless of how well you look after it; that 'old tent' smell evident with age rather than use necessarily. P/eU is better, though more expensive to produce, than P/U in the longer term, although it too will eventually fail due to water adsorption. But it is, depending on your viewpoint, the least worst option if you don't want to be sliding all over the place on a silnylon floor. Finally, silpolyester may not be as strong a its nylon equivalent - about 85% of the relative strength - but when did you last have a tent fail, even in the grimmest circs, through a great long rip in the main fabric. Exactly. Finally finally (?!) - DCF is barely lighter than the silpoly Durstons use, and for British use outwith the summer + spring/autumn extremes, wouldn't you prefer a 'solid' inner? Those draughts can be properly not nice when it's zero +/- a few degrees. Silpoly can indeed be 'stretched' into shape on awkward ground, and DCF can indeed be torn (which beside its other downside, its semi-transparent nature which is just weird (!), the cost is just ridiculous. But I will still be curious what you think after a proper stint of backpacking (-:)~

[@adib396]

Wild camped up there many a time in all weathers,, tarp, tent and just a bivi bag, including weathers like that. The run off from the top looked like a river of chocolate on the worst days! Best times to be up there is on a warm day, but not too hot or snow, then it gives the whole area an added dimension to its "otherworldly" appearance especially around the woolpacks. Don't think i'd like to be squeezed into one of those tents though, looks too small and claustrophobic for my size.

[@raymondwright8963]

I bought the x-mid pro 1 and I’m pleased with it - roomy, stable and easy to pitch, the only drawback is it can’t be compacted into a small stuff-sack like some sil-poly / nylon tents

[@kevinball4410]

Had mine for about 18 months and used when i did the Pennine way,Cumbria way and the dales Highway + quite a few over nighters and never had a issue . I ordered the solid inner .

[@jaywhite2759]

I have both the notch li and the stratosphere li. For UK conditions I would go with the solid inner rather than the full mesh as you tested. Yes they are very expensive but lighter than most of the single skin style tents. Had the notch out in some pretty serious winds and extended heavy rain.biggest issue is getting a good pitch as you mentioned. I doubt you would regret pulling the trigger on one.

[@milco8755]

Also have the Stratosphere LI. Had it close to the top of a Munro in winter this year with rain / hail mix and 35-40mph winds with the odd gust measured close to or above 50 (sticking the anemometer out the vent) It only lasted for 3 hours but it was solid. Wished the fly was 5cm longer to eliminate draughty/ should have dropped the poles a bit but didn’t want to go out and retighten everything. Only 2 issues I have is that DCF lets soooo much light bleed through the fly on a summer morning. My wife also hates how transparent it is if she is getting changed but the only thing around us when we camp are either sheep or deer. Also the pitch isn’t the most straightforward, for me, I imagine that I need to rotate the fly 60degrees to line up with the patch I’ve chosen to place the inner. It’s brilliant for one person (I’m 6’4”/194cm) and fine for 2. Would love to try the DCF lite way equipment tents from Ukraine though.

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

I keep coming full circle back to thinking the SS Li is my next tent. I like everything about my Notch but lack of inner width and possibly a bit more headroom but the larger footprint may negate need for higher. Do you recommend the SS Li for someone wanting to space upgrade from Notch?

[@jaywhite2759]

@@GeekfromYorkshire there is very little difference in weight between the two but a bit more bulk when packed. Compared to the notch it's a palace but getting on for twice the footprint. I use the SS when I'm out with my Mrs or out with the dog. Normally the notch is used on long distance solo stuff so it's really only a place to sleep rather than 'camp out' otherwise I always take the ss

[@milco8755]

@@GeekfromYorkshire the stratospire li stands out a lot due to size and colour. That may be a factor depending on where you camp. Scotland, no issues anywhere, but if you want to keep a lower profile the notch won’t stand out as much

[@witness4Him]

That was a great video!. As someone who used to camp as a child in a single skin tent by the beach, the condensation was an issue. But now, you can get over that problem with double skinned, sail material type of tent. The rain was loud though and would be a problem getting sleep but thanks for the honest review 😉

[@flumoxeduk2379]

Foam ear plugs ?

[@Gumbo_Calm]

I sleep every night with 'midnight rainshower' playing so it would be heaven for me 😂

[@richardsykes5575]

Very enjoyable watch. The caramel colour of the river is amazing!

[@davids9549]

I got the 'standard' (i.e. silnylon) Notch for use this season, and so far I'm very pleased with it. 200g more than this Li version, and with both inners - I usually prefer the mesh. Used correctly I'm satisfied with its suitability for UK conditions, but I'll still go to my Tarptent Scarp 1 (500g more) if I'm anticipating more challenging or colder weather.

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

I bought a used Scarp 1 but sold it after trying Notch side-by-side. I had more flexibility to pitch outer high+wide or nearer+lower and could peg more guys to trekking poles to make quite a rigid structure. But the Notch is still a bit of a coffin, narrow. I can mitigate it if trapped in for a day via unclipping the inner and sitting on it. But I then got the Protrail and I prefer it in the better situations as roomy and light and I sit against the pole to save an airbed chair kit. This year I had success with tuning small Ti pegs wide-high vs short-low to the conditions. I've had more success changing my cook kit. I shaved 200g so got a backpack weight saving for less cost than moving tent to DCF. Ever learning.

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

How do you like the mesh inner? I have the original solid inner which is solid to half way up and mesh roof. The newer solid inner has a solid roof. I'm curious if the Notch high side fly with the mesh inner gives your privacy issues? Can you see outside lying down?

[@davids9549]

@@GeekfromYorkshire You can generally get the fly wall lower by shortening your poles if need be. But I choose my Notch over my Scarp when I'm expecting easier weather, so I hope to be able to sleep with fly doors open so I can enjoy that priceless view lying down. As my preference is for wild sites in as remote a location as I can find, there are no privacy issues.

[@Mike-iv3hy]

3 man tent would be the smallest that I would want Paul, mostly for the head room and leg room. I like a bit of room for my gear also, just in case it rains, I don't want my gear getting wet. Mike. 🇨🇦

[@tooyoungtobeold8756]

Thanks for the video Paul .Not a very stealthy tent though.

[@trekfortruth2841]

I have had the sil-nylon version of the same tent for over 10 years. Served me very well on an 1,100 mile trek from the east coast back to Louisville, KY on the American Discovery Trail.

[@johngiesemann5293]

You might consider the TarpTent Rainbow Li. It is a single wall tent, but you can purchase an inner liner making it a double wall. It does not require trekking poles and has good room. The 1 person version is 36" (91 cm) wide and 88" (224 cm) long. It has a cross strut at the top yielding 18" (45 cm) of headroom. The interior height is 42" (107 cm). I have found this tent to be quite roomy. I have not used the interior liner.

[@jakejohnson2428]

I’ve read the rainbow is poor in the wind. That might be why he didn’t go for it.

[@peesua]

The lady from Homemade Wanderlust did the The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland using her Zpacks Duplex tent and came out unscathed, despite it being an environment most people would use a 4 season mountaineering tent in. So, Dyneema is pretty strong. Her post trip video reviewing the performance is titled 'Testing The Limits Of The Zpacks DupleXL - The Good and The Bad'

[@frstesiste7670]

Watched that video and the Zpacks Duplex isn't the tent I'd pick for Iceland. It still worked though, but there are lots of tents, including DCF ones that will be much more pleasant to use in high winds.

[@LeifurHakonarson]

@@frstesiste7670 As an Icelander I do most of my backpacking up in Hornstrandir where the weather is about the same as on the Laugavegur - what DCF tent would you recommend? I use Hilleberg Nallos (I have two - a Nallo 3 and a Nallo 4) but I wouldn't mind a lighter load 🙂

[@frstesiste7670]

Hilleberg make excellent tents (I've got one - discontinued) and they're made for the fairly harsh Nordic climate, but they're not light. I don't think you have to go to Dyneema to get a significantly lighter, but still a lot less flappy than a Duplex. But since you're used to Hilleberg prices - why not. IMO better handling of wind is a combination of design and the "pole to fabric ratio". I haven't tried a Durston myself, but the design seem to allow more/better tension on the fabric than a Duplex and I believe you'll get better handling of wind even if it also two trekking poles tent. You can also take a look at Samaya tents. I believe that tents with sleeves for the poles (or poles inside the fly) is inherently better in high wind as you get contact between poles and the fabric for the whole length of the poles instead of just two (or one for a pyramid) small points. Pyramids actually do fairly well too as they are completely symmetrical, and a lot of the fabric is close to the ground. I've spent quite a few nights in a pyramid tent in high winds, but you get fairly little internal volume for a certain footprint compared to other designs so there are disadvantages - particularly if you have to spend a lot of time in the tent. I certainly don't know all models and I'm sure there are lots of options I don't know about. Btw, it would be interesting to see what Hilleberg would do with Dyneema...

[@LeifurHakonarson]

@@frstesiste7670 Thanks a lot for your response. Dyneema doesn't seem to have hit the mainstream, at least not as a tent material (lots of Dyneema ropes out there - and even Dyneema gloves!). I did find a Big Agnes two-man tent with a Dyneema flysheet and groundsheet - but it appeared to have been discontinued (perhaps the $1,700 price for a 2-man tent had something to do with that). It was, however, incredibly light. I'll try exploring the brands you mention - but the problem with buying direct from manufacturers is that they tend not to ship globally. Still, thanks again. I agree that Hilleberg + Dyneema would be interesting ....

[@frstesiste7670]

Not always possible, but I like to see a tent (and a pack) before buying. KZbin can only do so much. Samaya is horribly expensive, but you might be able to find them on Iceland. There are stores both in Sweden and Norway that carry Samaya.

[@ericb.4358]

I have that same Dyneema fabric Tarptent Notch Li solo tent. I've dyed my "solid" interior green with RIT Dyemore synthetic fabric dye for more shade and privacy. A full netting inner tent is not good in the western US B/C it permits dust to be blown into the tent. Don't ask how I know this. A nice feature of the Notch Li is that it can withstand a mild (6") snow storm when all zipped up. . Also I added a stake-out loop ar 4 points around the fly hem to prevent flapping in high winds here in Nevada, USA. Further, i reinforced the attachment point with circles of Tenacious Tape wrapped around the fly hem. BTW, Tarptent FORMERLY made their Dyneema tents in the US but due to a skilled labor shortage they are now made in China - and are a bit better in build quality. All their silnylon tents are still made in the USA.

[@azclaimjumper]

Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada U.S.A.

[@rodoutdoors]

Looked like a nice outing. Tarptent has some nice designs. For my budget and style it's not worth it, but I'd definitely consider a DCF tent/tarp if I ever do a long distance thru-hike in the future.

[@snakeriverscotto]

That is a pretty looking area to hike in and sleep out. It’s so weird not seeing trees everywhere though, I’m still surprised by the treeless vistas in so many UK posts.

[@BillSikes.]

Wind and rain here wrecks everything, my beautiful garden has recently been more or less totally destroyed by the last bout of wind and rain, plus it summer over here but it feels more like February cos it's so cold, I've often said we have one of the world's worst climates, it really sucks to see our brief summers go down the drain, We have nine months of wind and rain followed by three months of wind and rain with the occasional break in the clouds 😬

[@lilacfiddler1]

This is the upland atea of the Peak District - he’s actually above the treeline here even though its not really high up - the wind and rain keep it clear ( and the deer and sheep)

[@Stampistuta]

I already have the tent I always wanted but the Notch has also been on my radar for a few years. I doubt I’d actually buy one because I’d have little use for it but they are a really nice design.

[@gavinscottmyadventure]

Paul, I had a notch for a while- great tent and I would consider another one. Cant really fault it, but yes perhaps just a little small for long winter evenings to be stuck inside. Then I got the Stratospire 1. It was like a Giant Notch- much more room. Slightly trickier to pitch, but well worth it for the extra room, so I think you have to try it out.

[@chrisweldon2817]

I've had the Zpacks plex solo for a while now, numerous overnighters as well as the C2C and an 8 day wander in the lakes. Ridiculously light at under 400g with guys. So easy to pitch and quite versatile as you can drop it around 7cm in height when the weather kicks in and it'll still perform. Definitely not a winter tent for the UK, but for multiday excursions it's been brilliant, I can fit me, all my kit inside and still have space. A niche market but you get what you pay for. I'm sure you've already looked and if you have the chance take a look at one or the Stratosphire Li.

[@tamirew9247]

That outer tent skin looked to me like a snake molt which further enhanced in my mind that it was indeed very water resistant. Super tough material if it was developed for sails. I could see where a lot of people would love this tent. Not for me though, I’m a glamper more than a camper. I loved your holiday videos with your bride and two friends! Especially the paddle boarding. God love her for trying. I would have peed my wet suit laughing if that was me.

[@WalkWithWallace]

You've got to pump it up. 🎶 I just can't get excited about DCF, a huge price tag for a circa 300g weight saving. They don't last as long as their traditional silnylon or silpoly counterparts either. Definitely suited to the UK climate with the amount of rain we get though.

[@michaelkennedy4346]

I have this tent and absolutely love it. I’m an older gent and have owed many tents over the years. This tent is tops. Crazy expensive though.

[@POTThaesslich]

great setup, though I'm always slightly amused when people shave off 10g of the sleeping pad and then add a pump to their bag. What I like about the tent is the room between the inner and outer which should help in rain.

[@azclaimjumper]

RIGHT ON! Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada U.S.A.

[@elpeltys]

I've always taken the approach of spending the money on good boots and jackets and going budget (ish) on the rest. Has served me well over the years. Most manufacturers promise the world to take your gold and then fail to deliver!

[@milcotto4153]

Try a thrift store raid and see if you can find tents there. I found a Helsport mountain tent for 5 bucks a couple of years ago. It is from the seventies, but it had never been used. It even has one opening in each end. You don't see that very often today. That is great for ventilation and for having luggage in one end and the other end to go in and out of. You sleep perpendicular to the openings.

[@ke9tv]

I own a Notch, and love it. I have the silnylon version with the half-solid walls. I wanted extra wind protection, and wasn't willing to spring for Dyneema. The silnylon one is only about 150 grams heavier. Mine has ties for the doors - Henry hadn't added the magnetic clips when I got it. I've used it for dozens of nights, including carrying it on some six-day-between-resupply trips. I've had it out in winter (temperatures in the negative 20s C)- it held up well. (You can make do with a three-season tent in winter if you know what you're doing.) The silnylon isn't ideal on wet nights, but splicing a bit of bungee cord into the tie-outs solves a lot of the problem. Those little aluminium tent stakes that Henry sells don't hold up all that well. I replaced mine with MSR Groundhogs. That trick with the pillow would be great if I used an inflatable pillow. I usually make do with whatever clothing I'm not wearing to bed,, in a stuff sack. I envy you, not worrying about keeping your food secure from bears. I hike in bear country. In winter, I get to leave the heavy canister at home.

[@philandminiphil]

Oh No! I'm starting the Pennine Way on 12th August! Love the view, just not the rain. I used a lightweight tent last year on coast to coast, thinking lighter was better, same with the sleeping bag. Bad idea, really cold at night. Still live and learn.

[@ScottLindemann]

Hey Paul, have you ever camped at Easedale Tarn in grasmere? It’s one of my favourite tarn camps. If not I think you should do a video there 😃

[@Thebluedocful]

Hi mate. Why not just get the Durston X-Mid Pro? You clearly love the standard version (and rightly so). I know the pro is single skin at points, but it seems to do quite well with condensation, especially with the space afforded. Keep up the good work ⛰️

[@jason4555]

Thanks Paul, a great video and stunning tent. I’ve used PC tents from Robens for years they look like a similar material and they are amazing too. Once you’ve used PC it’s difficult to go back. Just make sure you have a warmer bag as the single wall can get v chilly! The muddy mark should wash off easily with water and a sponge. Congratulations on 2 years since you packed in the day job, as the best wild camping you-tuber out there😅. I always trust your opinion. J

[@MattGriffiths81]

Thanks. I spent a long time pondering the notch-li for my thru-hiking. Decided against it in the end for very similar reasons to you.

[@juliedrakeArtist]

I have this exact same tent. I love it so much. I’ve done the West Highland Way in it and plenty of other multi day camps around Britain and it’s never let me down. It’s really tough, great in wet windy weather and I’ve had no problems with condensation. I always feel safe and secure in it and it’s so light. Some people say that the dyneema fabric doesn’t wear very well but I’ve not noticed any wear in mine and I must’ve slept at least 50 nights in it. It’s still going strong so for me it’s well worth the money.

[@danbevis5064]

Paul, when's the Oex Bobcat testing happening? I've had mine for ages but haven't used it yet, I want to see how it holds up on one of your camps 😁

[@trickofthetrail]

I've done a review of the Zpacks Duplex and if it's any good for UK conditions. I think there are better and cheaper alternatives for all round UK use. However they absolutely have their place. If you're doing lots of long distance multi day trails or hiking in hotter conditions, I think they are amazing. Mostly down to the weight savings. The Duplex is also the easiest tent to pitch that I own.

[@trickofthetrail]

@@PHope1111 Well, I think the Durston X-Mid 2 is a better option myself. You can get the solid inner version which is much more suited to UK conditions and whilst it's not as light as Duplex, it still comes in at only a little over 1kg, including the stuff sack and stakes.

[@ericb.4358]

Absolutely pull the floor out as much as possible because it is NARROW. But hey, all I'm doing in there is sleeping or sitting to cook a meal in one of the vestibules. Otherwise this tent is great.I love that my "solid"walls are actually lighter per square meter than the netting!

[@Martycycleman]

Cheer Paul and a good little tip. My is, undo you hip belt and chest strap before you attempt a river crossing. If you go in, you can get out of the shoulder straps quicker and possibly use the bag as a flote. Dinema is expensive at the moment, but the price will come down as the bigger companies take this up.

[@carforumwanker]

Always carry sac on one shoulder only .This way you can be free of it in seconds. Also in a hostile situation.... its easy to pull a large man to the floor if he is strapped into a sac

[@Martycycleman]

Yep doesn't take much water to have you of your feet. One shoulder strap a bit destabilising with a heavy pack, you assess the risk.

[@garymitchell5899]

​@@carforumwankerYeah this is England we tend not to get into hostile situations where we're fighting for our lives

[@garymitchell5899]

Just watched that bit. It was 12 inches wide and 3 inches deep. Think you'd be ok with both straps. Come on dude.

[@alangauld6079]

@@carforumwanker The snag with one strap is that it can swing and slip off your shoulder or worse, unbalance you thus actually pulling you off your feet. I always use 2 straps for that reason but I do unfasten the belts.

[@davidcressey]

i took the plunge and bought the Zpacks Duplex Zip for the Cape Wrath Trail. Its typically expensive being DCF but the tent (essentially a DCF Lanshan 2 pro) was brilliant. Tough, spacious and ridiculously light. It was an absolute winner and stood up to all the conditions the CWT threw at me. But... If i were an overnight camper only, i'd stick to the Lanshan or cloud peak as they're great tents and massively cheaper. BTW - i also had the Durston XMid Pro2 in DCF, that was a nightmare. Very flappy in the wind and the DCF actually tore. i would not recommend one of those. BTW2 - Altra Olympus.... brilliant aren't they? i love mine.

[@OB_1979]

Watching the vid right now and you’ve said that if you work it out at 60 nights out it works out £10 a night. I’ll go out on a wild limb and say your not getting 60 nights out of that it’s not strong enough for UK weather long term. Good luck proving me wrong. All the best 👍🏻

[@ericb.4358]

I added stake 4 loops midway on each fly edge for wind stability. To reinforce the loop attachment points I cut circles of Tenacious Tape and sandwiched them around the fly hem. Two layers is plenty. After sewing on very light nylon grosgrain webbing/tape loops I girth hitches heavy duty" women's elastic hair circles to the loops. This creates some flexibility for windy nights and keeps my MSR Ground Hog stakes in the ground.

[@EspenFrafalne]

I love Dyneema (light weight, waterproof, durable, and it can be fixed with DCF tape), and could never go back to a silnylon tent (except maybe if i wanted a winter tent or something). Its not more expensive than other good tents, and its just a one time expenditure, so as long as you have the passion, it is definitely worth it. Ive camped with my Zpacks Duplex in freezing temperatures, and although it is a bit drafty, it still works. In snowy conditions, one can just put some snow around the walls to limit the airflow a bit. Ive not used it extensively, but the times i have used it, i never had any issues with condensation, even when i set up camp just 65 meters from the river. I have also seen a video of people going out in really strong winds with maybe 5 different tents, and at the end the Duplex was the last man standing

[@markexpose6108]

Hi. LIKE. LIKE. LIKE. BEAUTIFUL. LANDSCAPE. SCENERIES. AWESOME. HIKING. CAMPING.

[@ronwilson9855]

I have spent many a night out on Dartmoore, with a poncho as a tent, you don't need expensive tents, wear the poncho in day if raining (Dartmoore so it's raining all the time) then poncho becomes your tent, no brained.

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

I have the very first version of the TT Notch - not DCF - from 2011, similar size and pitch. I'm surprised they sent you / you chose the mesh inner, you can get a solid inner which has solid roof and solid lower sides, it makes it less cold and less chance of splash-in given the outer is quite high. Fully agree with your final comments, I'd say the Notch is a coffin, it's really for just sleeping in. However, I've had it for 12 years now and I've learned a few tricks. It is seriously long, you do get enough headroom at the end if you place your feet at the foot end. The solid inner helps keep splash / condensation off foot of bag. I usually place something I don't need at the foot to barrier from splash. So your foot is in the apex. Then all your length space is focused on head end so sitting up/down you're usually not scraping the inner. Deflate your airbed for when spending time inside and place a foam mat under the airbed where your arse / knees will be, saves an inch of headroom. I always have a folding foam pad anyway so put it under the centre of the airbed. Unclip the inner and let the inner drop to ground and sit on foampad on the inner. That gives an extra inch or so of headroom. If trapped in the tent for any length of rain time, it's a lot roomier. As for DCF not sagging, while it may be true these trekking pole tents have the ability to simply raise the poles if you get sag, while inside the tent, to add tension, but yes SilNylon holds water. Henry Shires (TT) gives an alternative outer option also for those with wet conditions not wanting the cost of a DCF.

[@DailyChristianDiary-fx4df]

Great video, thanks. For me, I'd get the Lanshan 1 4 season - an extra 300g all in and a third of the price. But I understand that you're paying for quality.

[@ShazBookOwl]

Yep, after 8 or so other hiking tents, including a couple of Hilleberg tents. I finally bought a Z-Packs Duplex. I LOVE that tent. I've been in some pretty wild weather in it, and it's held it's own. I've also had some really weird pitches - and again, it did the job. I'm in Australia - so slightly different conditions to the UK. Be interested to see which you choose... You're right, it is very subjective, and depends upon what your intentions for use are. Cheers. 😁

[@TheLDunn1]

I have the Stratospire Li. I’ve not had many tents to compare it to, but I’m very impressed with mine. It’s just big enough for myself & my wife, plus a dog in one of the vestibules. You can get an inner for one of the vestibules when using it for a dog, or a baby/toddler. Note that the Stratospire Li is narrower than the Silnylon version of 2 person Stratospire. The inner tent on the “Li” (DCF) version is 45”, so I got a 25” wide sleeping pad and a 20” wide one for when my wife is with me. It’s pretty snug for two, but do-able. I’m over 6’3” & my wife is 6’….the tent is long enough for us on 3” pads. Also good head room….although due to the design it works best if you are sitting facing each other rather than side by side, no biggie though. You can chose between a mesh or solid inner (I went solid, for use in UK). You can set it with trekking poles or buy CF poles for it. It’s quite modular in terms of buying / customising it to what you want. I like that DCF doesn’t absorb water, it just shakes off. I like that it’s super light weight, I like that it’s a twin wall, many DCF’s are only single. I went for DCF because I wanted to minimise the weight for a 1-2 sleeper tent, I want to carry camera gear up into the hills and mountains, so I need to save weight as much as possible….I’m not doing long distance / multi night hikes (yet at least), it was all about weight saving, but wanting enough space too. Tarptent say that the design of the Stratospire makes it pretty good in strong winds. I’ve had it out in quite gusty conditions, but found somewhere to pitch that offered some protection, but we still got hit with gusts, and the tent was fine, biggest concern was a peg pulling out in soft ground, but I had a selection of pegs and one type worked pretty well, none pulled out. I’m also of the mindset of spending more once and getting something ‘right’ (for your needs/wants) than buying cheap, having buyer remorse, selling, and then upgrading later. Sometimes it works out cheaper in the long run spend more once and not needing to upgrade later. Paul, if you want to try out my Stratospire Li, get in touch.

[@ulperformance4087]

The reasons for the high cost of a Dyneema tent is that Dyneema is sold at retail in the USA for $19.25 for a half a yard -18 inches, (1.5 feet) X 4.5 feet wide after removing about 5/8 inch on both sides. Additionally, most Dyneema tents are of sewn construction necessitating waterproofing the seams which takes additional work = additional cost. The Dyneema tents I make are made with glue, stronger than sewn construction and adhesive tape. My 4.05 ounce floorless Dyneema tent is perhaps the worlds lightest tent. My previous floorless Dyneema tent weighs 4.4 ounces, 4.4 feet wide x 9.15 feet long and 3.5 feet high. A loop is at the ridge of both tents for hanging the tent from above by about 8 different hanging methods, also used with a pole.

[@raytaylor4199]

I like my tent to also look good and feel secure, fjallraven & hilleberg are my go to, feel great inside them, nice and secure and they look amazing, that thing looks like a Tesco bag for life, I just couldn’t bring my self round to paying that much for it.

[@neemancallender9092]

Please review the Snugpac Patrol Poncho My experience is: A very reasonably priced lightweight rain coat with extensive coverage even for a smaller rucksack Not breathable fabric but wide enough to have lots of airflow

[@andrewarthurmatthews6685]

First time I have watched your videos and enjoyed this one. I was unfamiliar with the tent fabric that had a recycled look about it so no bad thing but disliked the bright white/ off white colour. I prefer to blend in with landscape rather than stand out. Yes it looked a good choice but not at that ridiculous price.

[@johnratcliffe6438]

There's not much better than being snuggled inside your sleeping bag, while nature unleashes fury on your tent outer. I love it!

[@thecolofthewild]

I remember last year when the only water up on Kinder was a very small trickle at Kinder Downfall. Everything else was dry as a bone. How things change! As far as the tent goes I agree with you that the ends are low. I like the X-Mid, though, for the reason you mentioned. Personally, I think I'll stick with my sil nylon tents for the time being.

[@Longtack55]

I have a single skin Z Pack triplex Dyneema Fibre tent. Excellent performance and value for money. They have overcome the condensation issue with good design. 800 grams weight.

[@mkrhike]

Hi Paul, we have Big Agnes Tiger Wall 3 Carbon. It’s amazing. We bought it for the longer hikes because it’s lightweight. We’ve done a review of it if you want to have a look. It’s incredible in wind and rain 👌

[@azclaimjumper]

Paul doesn't read or reply to comments on any of his videos. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada U.S.A.

[@mkrhike]

@@azclaimjumper thanks for letting me know 👍

[@missogyny4921]

Sounds like the X-Mid Pro is what you need if your normal X-Mid is good room-wise. I have the 1 and 2 person versions and the 2 person one is only around 550g. You’re more than welcome to try/borrow either or both.

[@elaine8477]

LOVE rain on a tent (in videos). Great tip re dry bag for tent.

[@karl8049]

Great video. Enjoyed it very much. You are in touch with nature in all weathers. I shall look forward to watching other videos that you have made. Karl.

[@Justin-tb2qk]

great pitch and great video...what a spot...very nice tent. I just learned about this tent. now I am torn. zpack offset solo or this. or xmid pro 1.

[@YoureNowOnTV]

It’s an interesting material. I’m not convinced to convert from sil nylon though for a couple of reasons. The bright colours of the tents and the near transparent nature of the material. I know Zpacks had a black camo version but they stopped using it. Also the bulk of the tents in DCF look hard to adjust to. Great to see different materials being used though, just not always fit for purpose.

[@littlechris5656]

I love that fact that you put in 'top-tips' 🙂

[@xjessukx]

Tarptent are bringing out ultra fabric tents in September

[@bryanodriscoll2123]

Good show. That looks like a superb tent. You are obviously experienced and well organised.

[@INSOLESandLACES]

Hope more manufactures start using thid material which in turn will drop the price. However very transparent which put me off a little.

[@QuakerJones268]

Enjoyed that Paul. Our Dan has one of those tents and after he put it up on my lawn I thought it was a bit small. Excellent quality though.

[@_Chris390]

Scarp 1 Ultra looks interesting. Hope they send you one to review. Personally not interested in DCF. Can't remember why, but I think I read if the material does get damaged it's worse than with poly or nylon tents for some reason. Also I want double wall and most are single wall. And I do not think the weight saving justifies the price, when you can save weight for much less money on other items / not taking so much to begin with.

[@SunSin91]

I have used the HelSport RingsTind 1 for a decade now, something like more than a 100 nights out in Norwegian mountains. It is a killer tent for 1 person. 1kg yea, but it is 230cm long, which for me who is 190 long, it is absulutely a necessary to have a long tent. Also it stretches all the way down to grass so I can use it in a full windy storm. Also I have used it during winter. No problem at all as I can berry the outer tent in the snow to make my cave. In addition to the tent, I have a mountain tarp with aluminum on the inside which is also used as a poncho, and can be used as a roof right outside my tent. Ringstind 1 also has space for the bag and a small dog inside the outer part of the tent. My tip, look no further, just get that tent. It is a bit low, therefore a small tarp or mountain tarp is necessary to make a small outdoor space. I also keep some ropes on quick release hooks to my mountain tarp so I can mount it between trees to make a roof to make a small outdoor space next to my tent. Tent + mountain tarp is 1.8kg. well worth it for all it gives. Mountain tarp can also be used to sleep in or cover you when lunching or relaxing, or just windy conditions resting, The insulation gives you also the feel of 20 degrees inside, love it. I always bring it for small hikes too and using it while resting and/or eating. Some days I just walk up to the mountain with my mountain tarp and get inside it and spend the day inside there and eating reading a book in the windy or rainy conditions.

[@wishdarkstalkaz4050]

I love my Duplex & have used it in all sorts of conditions. People are happy to shell-out £200+ on an Osprey pack...300+ on a DCF pack...then want to complain about the cost of a comparable quality shelter.

[@morgs4mountains]

I own a Tarptent Notch Li. I've spent nearly 100 nights in it and walked several UK trails, the Swiss Alpine Pass Trail and the GR11 with it. I've lost confidence in the tent. The DCF is showing signs of real wear and tear. The material is becoming very thin where it has the most pressure when stretched. I have had water ingress in driving rain despite being set up correctly. I'm 6'4" and think it's perfect for someone of my height and the weight of the tent is superb. But, for the price paid with import fees, I'd like to think that it would have lasted more than 100 nights. My go to tent is currently the Terra Nova Laser Compact 2 and I'm happy with the extra weight when backpacking.

[@woodchip2782]

My main tent is the Tarp Tent Notch Sil lNylon. My main beef with it is with the sagging bug net. It sags more when it gets wet with dew, so much that during the night it settles on my face and mosquitos have a meal of me…😮 You can’t spend a lot of time in such a small tent. It’s meant for sleep and go

[@ModernNeandertal]

Paul, jealous that you get to camp in that beautiful landscape. Reminds of Easter Island. Haven't been there either.

[@RickoH_NZ]

Great video and reviews Paul. Great to have you back in my feed brother. Flextail pump is now an ESSENTIAL piece of lightweight kit. So versatile with lamp and battery bank backup features. Looking forward to more DCF tent reviews. How do you think this one would have been if you were 190 cm tall? Also… Flextail lamp+ midge repeller. Was it worth the weight? I think it’s excellent for your videos as an illumination source…and if it blitzes the midges then that would get rid of the downside of having a light on in the tent. Kia kaha e hoe (stand tall brother)

[@LMay64]

I’ve got 5 dcf tents including an older ZPacks Duplex, the Notch Li, a very old SMD XSkape, ZPacks Plex Solo and the Durston XMid Pro 1P. Obviously I love them and appreciate the weight savings and the fact they don’t absorb water. The Tarptent you should take for a spin is most definitely the Dipole Li. I believe you’d like the 2P for space but it also comes in a 1P. It uses minimal stakes and is a brilliant piece of kit. Just expensive. I do like my Durston, but long distance hikers are uncovering the weaknesses on the PCT. ZPacks 2023 Zippered Duplex offers many of the same benefits. I love using the flex pole system with my older duplex to create a somewhat freestanding tent without the use of trekking poles.

[@Joeb4iley]

Zippered fly's are the one thing zpacks fans have been asking for for years now. I can't wait to get my hands on a Plex solo zip.

[@JimmyDevere]

What are the weaknesses of the Xmid?

[@LMay64]

I've seen many post regarding pinholes in the dcf and some separation or rips in dcf from too much stress coming from the taut pull of the zippered fly. These are only showing up on the dcf versions. @@JimmyDevere

[@JimmyDevere]

Gotcha. Thanks!@@LMay64

[@nickchurchman6815]

Good question Paul - I decided that the extra $350 for the X Mid pro was not worth the 300ish grams weight saving (and am extremely happy with my choice 😊) Depends on where you want to spend your $$😂

[@alexmoisley1924]

Great vid Paul. This is one of my favourite camp spots in the Peak District - maybe see you out there next time!

[@Tanko3691]

A great looking tent for sure. I am searching for a Trekkingpole tent, I am impressed with Dyneema, Your tent really could do with the "4 season" inner, that 3 season has far too much mesh for me, good in summer I guess.

[@PaulMessner]

I have the solid inner with it too. I chose to use the mesh this time as the climate has been warm.

[@Tanko3691]

@@PaulMessner Thankyou very much for the reply, May I ask, I have been considering the snugpak poncho for ages, so, has it become your go-to rather than a gortex type rain jacket for wet weather?

[@davidmcewan84]

That inflated bag trick is 🔥💯🙌🏼