Testing the Nortent Vern 2 by wild camping in wind and rain on Dartmoor | Tent review

Taking my 2024 Nortent Vern 2 out for its first outing to see what it's like to use. Can it handle the wind and rain? Is it too heavy? Use the video chapters if you want to skip through to particular topics.
Link to my "first look" video on this tent: • Nortent Vern 2 first l...
Link to the Armytek Wizard C2 WR headtorch (discount code OUTDOORS15 for 15% off): www.armytek.com/flashlights/m...
Please find links to the items I mention in this video down below, and please do get in touch in the Comments section if you have any questions or comments about my kit or about the video in general.
Thanks for watching,
James.
My Instagram: / joinmeoutdoors
Link to my Buy Me A Coffee page:
www.buymeacoffee.com/joinmeou...
Get the Nortent Vern 2 from Valley and Peak if in the UK:
valleyandpeak.co.uk/products/...
Link to the Vern 2 on Nortent's own website:
nortent.com/products/nortent-...
Fire Maple Orange Gas Lantern - firemaplegear.com/products/or...
Don't forget to use my discount code OUTDOORS10 at checkout to get 10% off your order!
Fire Maple Star X2 cooking system - firemaplegear.com/products/fi...
Don't forget to use my discount code OUTDOORS10 at checkout to get 10% off your order!
Flextailgear Tiny Pump 2X: shrsl.com/49x0c
Flextailgear Mushroom lampshade: shrsl.com/49x0f
Flextailgear Zero pillow: shrsl.com/49x0g
Discount code: JOINMEOUTDOORS15 for 15% off
Stove: MSR Windburner - amzn.to/3nSBndI
Rab Argon Down Pants/Trousers: www.trekitt.co.uk/clothing/tr...
Thermarest Trekker Chair Kit for 20 inch-wide pads (make sure you buy the right size for your sleep pad): amzn.to/41gwryp
Sleep mat: Thermarest NeoAir XTherm - amzn.to/42IE3db
Bowl: Sea To Summit X Bowl (XL) - amzn.to/41seJGH
Rucksack: Osprey Atmos AG 65 - amzn.to/3nWH3mT
Cameras: GoPro Hero 9 Black - amzn.to/3Ml6hF4
GoPro Hero 11 Black - amzn.to/3t8OSbG
Chapters
0:00 Intro
6:07 Looking for a spot to camp
8:37 Pitching the Vern 2
16:45 Talking about the tent/observations
26:34 Time for food
29:59 Settling in for the night
31:32 First look at the Armytek Wizard C2 WR headtorch
32:29 Looking for leaks
39:27 Breakfast and tent thoughts
48:22 Striking camp and packing away
DISCLAIMER: My video description text contains affiliate links, which will earn me a small commission (at no cost to you) if you use them.
#camping #wildcamping #backpacking

[@diilain]

Love stumbling on these outdoor content creators, such a great explanation. Good to get an unbiased perspective. Just about to buy my first Vern II. Thanks, shame about the views but still stunning 😊

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thanks Lee! I normally aim to camp on sunny days, but getting out in the elements like this brings it own kind of rewards too 👌

[@MrCMHUDDY]

Another good video, James. Long NHS hours means clips like this are sometimes as close to camping as I can get, and it helps me unwind too.... So, sincerely, much appreciated effort. Thank you.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thank you so much for this comment. I'm sorry your work prevents you from getting out as much as you'd like to. I think every job should include two paid "tent days" per month so we can get out and attempt to settle our minds. All the best, and I hope you can get out soon. James.

[@unclepeteswildadventures]

Super review James. Shouldn’t worry about the length of the video. That’s your strength doing thorough and detailed reviews. Very well explained. 💪🏻. I was expecting Foo Fighters to arrive at any time for a gig in that massive dome 😂

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thank you, Pete. I suppose while I'm only releasing one video per month, it might as well be a long one! 😅 Haha maybe the Vern 2 has a future as a pop-up music venue?? Nortent also make a Vern 3, which you could probably host a small hilltop festival in 😄 Thanks for tuning in and I hope you're well! James.

[@TheWalkingKev]

Absolute beast of a tent! It is the sort of space you want if you're soaking wet when you get set up.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Good innit? For that reason alone (all the space when you're wet) I'd gladly take it on my next soggy camp, let alone all the other positives!

[@TheWalkingKev]

@@joinmeoutdoors it'd be a tent to rely on whatever the weather. Just perhaps not one for long day hikes!

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Yeah exactly. I'd feel safe and sound in this thing. Five poles in that formation, with those materials...it's strong as a bunker!

[@TheWalkingKev]

@@joinmeoutdoors plenty of room for two as well.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

I reckon I could get 6 people in it if I had to.

[@stuartmilne1819]

Fab Video James. I wonder if these odd spots of drips would present themselves again, or were they just happening because the moisture-expanding thread had not fully sealed the hole. Keep up the good work. 👏👏👏

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thanks Stuart. This is a good question, and I suspect there is only one way we can find out... Thank you for your support 🙏🏻

[@tommotomlinson3370]

What a palace of a tent !!! I was up on High Willhays the day before you, it was blowing a hoolie but drier....handy to see where you pitched for future ref 👍

[@joinmeoutdoors]

You almost stumbled upon my film set then! 😆 It does get extremely windy up there doesn't it? I wasn't sure what weather I'd be pitching in at any given time on that day, but it was good to expose the tent to a bit of classic Dartmoor weather! ✌️ Thanks for watching 😊 James.

[@mikefaulkner10]

Good objective review James, keep up the good work.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thanks a lot Mike 🙏🏻 ATB, James.

[@YONDERMOUNTAINADVENTURES]

It's a BOMB SHELTER!!! Jeezo mate I think that was worth lugging it up there just to enjoy the space!!! Looks soooo sturdy !!. Great u pointed out the design floor on the door.... that's a little let down in poor weather. Another top job mate you're the man !!!! ATB Simon

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Personally I rarely camp in heavy rain, but that missing gutter immediately makes itself known whenever you're near the open door way! Nice easy fix which hopefully Nortent can incorporate into a design update 👍 Lovely and sturdy and quiet though, unlike my Soulo tonight! 😬 Thanks for tuning in matey, good to hear from you. Take care. James.

[@seanstacey3223]

Great video as usual James. That tent is certainly a beast alright, all that space aswell! I can see why it would make a great base camp tent, way too heavy for just one person to carry I think, but split between two it wouldn't be too bad? A good test for it in wet conditions there and it certainly looks like it would take a battering by the wind in it's stride! Like your longer videos by the way, they're all interesting and entertaining throughout 👍

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thank you Sean. Comments like this are really encouraging, and I'm glad the longer videos haven't put you off. Sometimes I get home and can't believe how much yapping I've done, so it's difficult to reduce the video down even to 40 or 50 minutes! I'll bear in mind that the longer videos can be of use to some people though, so thank you for the feedback. Yep I've realised - through comments on my videos - that my pack weights are way above the norm. I honestly didn't mind carrying this tent, but I shouldn't make a habit of it 😂 I think we all typically compromise on the space and strength our tents provide so that we can prioritise weight, so it was fun to ditch that approach and take a big sturdy shelter out for a night! Thanks again for your comment, and I'm glad you enjoyed it 😊 James.

[@DaveDoesHiking]

Great review, that tent looks amazing! You picked a great spot to camp as well! 🙌🏻

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thanks Dave. Very impressed by the tent, as you can probably tell! This was probably the least windy day I've experienced at High Willhays, but it proved to be a nice spot to plonk a tent. Thanks for watching :) James.

[@ringperm]

Great video, thanks for sharing 👍

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thank you, glad you liked it! James.

[@AndrewParkOutdoors]

Great review James and thanks for the mentions. I should be out in mine as a base camp tomorrow in storm Katherine so it'll be a more thorough test for me too. Looking forward to it, it's such a comfortable place to be ! Happy camping . A

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Cheers Andrew. You were bang on the money with the observations you told me about. It's great that the guys at Nortent are so receptive of the feedback. It's already a very good tent but little touches like the rain gutters would be nice little refinements. Hold on tight during the storm! That should make for a really interesting video to see how the tent fairs in the wind. Have a good one! James.

[@Fellmandave1]

Stay safe Andrew!

[@garysgotatent]

Had a fjallraven tent with expanding yarn.plenty of wet weather and no leaks.they also provide seam seal for repairs.nortent range looks solid and as you said a great base camp tent for winter.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

A similar approach then. It seems like a good system to me. Lightweight, effective and doesn't require tape.

[@reluctantfellrunner]

Been a very wet start to the year. Still great to get out into the fresh air and clean out the soul. Best wishes on the next adventure.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

It's been a relentless washout hasn't it? You're dead right though - getting out is always better for us (and our brains) than staying in! Thanks 🙏🏻 James.

[@Fellmandave1]

Hi James, good job. That section with the panel touching could be sorted by angling the guys out more at 45 degrees, rather than parallel with the pole. I am pretty sure that's how Nortent (and me) show it. I will be seamsealing mine ultimately.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thanks Dave. I see what you're saying about angling the guylines out, but as the panel didn't appear loose and didn't show signs of needing to be pulled out to the side, I'm not so sure. Angling the guyline would certainly apply MORE tension to that panel, which would reduce bowing in the wind, so maybe that's the way forward? I'll try to remember to have a play with the setup next time I pitch it 👍 You'll have to set up a Vern seam sealing business to earn some more pocket money! 😁 Thanks for watching. James.

[@ericb.4358]

Looks like a very well made 4 season tent.Very similar to the US KUIU Storm Star 2 person tent, which would be my preference for a 4 season, 2 person tent . But instead for years I have owned a Tarptent SCARP 2 and Crossing Poles (I modified them and ran them UNDER the fly).

[@joinmeoutdoors]

The Storm Star 2 has been really popular in the last 6 months or so, and looks like a good tent. Can't say I've ever seen a Scarp with its crossing poles underneath the fly! The new Scarp 1 looks interesting, with their new material. We're all spoilt for choice!

[@TobyOneCanoby]

So wet up there this year; good vid.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thanks Toby. This whole country is a washout in 2023 apart from about four days!

[@MrPurplepirate77]

Great video James I just subscribed 👍

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thanks a lot, Mr Pirate. Welcome aboard! James.

[@adge_ventures4915]

Very thorough as always James! This thing is an absolute monster 💪🏽 Id love to know where it fits in to peoples line ups....... Take care mate, Adge

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Cheers Adge! Wasn't expecting to be convinced to carry a tent like this again, but here we are 😂🫣 Yeah I'm hoping to hear from some Vern 2 users and how they use their tents 👌 Have a good weekend! James.

[@lomino6478]

Looks to be a fantastic tent, very strong, loads of space. A couple of droplets here and there on a sil nylon tent is to be expected, doesn't bother me, if it did I'd seam seal it. Good review 👍

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Yep, as you can tell, I was very impressed too! Great bit of kit. Thanks, James.

[@darkshaman7087]

I have the Vern 1 and there have been lots of bad comments of it not being good in high winds also it does mention in their booklet to about double poles etc, also someone is needing to carry out more of a test with them to find out more, and cheers for your video.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Yes the internet has gone a bit crazy about Vern tents in wind in the last two weeks! I have only used mine on this one camp, so am unable to share any experiences of failures or major issues.

[@darkshaman7087]

@@joinmeoutdoors I been out twice in mine and a great tent for what I want as I like taking astro photography and also have a camp fire so high winds ain't for me while camping but its good to know what the tent could take just incase

[@joinmeoutdoors]

It sounds like the Vern 1 is doing rcabtly/exactly what you need it to do, which is all that matters. Happy camping 🤗

[@jw25782]

Interesting review and very robust looking tent. But surprised you could stomach that Firepot chilli con carne. Worst thing I have ever eaten in my life 🤢. I managed three mouthfuls before the rest got thrown in the bushes…

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Haha someone else messaged me to say something similar actually! I wasn't feeling all that well on this camp, so perhaps my standards were lowered to the point where I enjoyed a meal that others seem to hate? 🤣

[@craig3401]

A great review and good to see you getting a grip with the pack weight 👍.aa for the tent its understandable about water getting through the seams as the thread needs to expand but id be worried about it getting through the zips and id much prefer waterproof zips. I think if i had any of the verns id seam seal it just for peace of mind.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thanks Craig. I think waterproof zips are great from a water ingress perspective, but I think all the added drag on the zip makes them a bit of a nuisance to operate - particular if you've got a curved zip track like on the Vern doors, rather than a straight up and down zip. It's just another of those personal preference things though. I've never owned a tent with a waterproof zip actually, come to think of it, but I tend not to camp in wet weather all that often! Fair comment about the seam sealing. It's probably a nice little task for a hot summer's day. James.

[@roberthunter5398]

Got a good tip for you. One you probably don't consider but one I bet you'll be packing from now on😊

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Spill the beans then 😂 I'm all ears!

[@roberthunter5398]

@@joinmeoutdoors spare boot laces.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Well you're absolutely right - I hadn't considered that particular failure, and what a disaster that would be! I always carry spare guyline and paracord, which I could always use as boot laces, but that's not the reason I've been carrying them until now. Thanks for the tip, Robert!

[@BaltistaniBoys]

Absolutely amazing. Nice sound I recommend you visit the himalayan mountains k2 and Nangaparbat view point from one place Whenever you start a short solo trip of 4-5 days, Moses Peak is a must. It is a 5300m height۔ from the top of moses pea which you can see the views of the K2 world second highest peak in the world, Nangaparbat, K6 k11 and K 12 views in one frame. best time from May to October. This is a family tracked.its open Zone, one did not need a trekking permit or have to pay Royalty fee to climbed this Mountain tower

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Those peaks would certainly give bigger views than Dartmoor's 600 metre elevation! 😅

[@BaltistaniBoys]

@@joinmeoutdoors you just visit there feel the amazing sound of nature.When you guys want to come, be sure to get in touch. And make sure to enjoy this sound. The complete update about the journey and route of this mountain is fully written in the description of my video. You can watch it right there on my channel۔

[@tristanprenton8700]

Another good quality video 👍. To be honest I think anyone that worries about a little water ingress in a tent should just stay at home 😂

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thank you Tristan. Yeah if it's raining, the chances are the humidity levels inside the tent are going to make your gear damp anyway. It's similar to the situation with breathable waterproof jackets - they stop being breathable when they get wet, so you start getting wet from your own sweat 🤷🏻 James.

[@thevalleywalker]

I made the same mistake with the porcini mushroom firepot meal.. more water ! I was glad I was sat in the dry n warm watching you pitching that tent.. wet for sure. The tent reminds me a little of the snugpak fishing bunker tent.. colour and sorta design. Spacious for sure inside there and obvious a 2 person tent so wondered if you noticed being colder as a consequence of just one of you in a bigger space? Good review and like Andrew I would be dabbing potential water ingress areas with seam sealer. A low level luxury camp sotra tent mayeb. atb Al

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Some of them seem to over-state the water volume don't they? So after a few slushy meals I tend to add a bit less water than they suggest...but yep, the Firepot ones maybe DO need as much water as they ask for! Yes the curved/crossed longitudinal poles remind me of a Snugpak tent too, now you mention it. I was perfectly warm through the night actually, despite the thinner sleeping bag, lack of foam undermat and lack of thermal baselayer. Those down pants make every camp warm! Good to hear from you again, Al. I hope all is well with you. James.

[@septicwhelk3654]

Hilleberg Allak doors drop wet inside just the same .I think dome tents are better in snow than rain . WAAA BLASPHEMY And my Allak does leak a tiny bit where the fly seams are strained by the clips , if it does not fall on me I don't care ! The adjustable inner to outer straps are 100% better than the soggy saggy spendyberg laggy ones too . Good review , nice tent , I want one !

[@joinmeoutdoors]

How dare you voice opinions about tents on KZbin! You should know that this is simply not allowed now 😂 I feel the same - if a tent is only allowing one or two microdroplets through on strained, unsealed seams in heavy rain, then I think the manufacturer has done a good job. Nortent even send you the seam sealer if you want the seams to be 100% watertight. For some reason, expectations and emotions have been running extremely high since Nortent released the new Vern tents, but it's good to see that most comments on my video have remained fair and balanced. Thank you for contributing to that theme! James.

[@MrCMHUDDY]

As regards the sil tents like this, I also have the Fjallraven Abisko lite 1 and I just seam-seal them anyway, because why not? It's a minor inconvenience that cannot hurt. Pick a clear day and it's a couple of hours outdoors getting to know your new tent a bit better too :) I'm still waiting for my Vern 1 and it's the first job i'll do. I totally understand why manufactures don't do it... But, they should offer it as an paid option, perhaps. That said, it's not a difficult job. I just consider it maintenance.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

I agree - it's no real hardship, it just takes a small amount of time and is free of charge in this instance. I know that some tent manufacturers offer seam sealing at an additional cost, though I guess it needs to be quite a high cost due to the disruption to production. I hope your new tent arrives soon - I'm sure you'll love it. James.

[@wadirunner]

Superb in-field review of the tent. Your analysis (plus your stoves in the wind comparison video) makes me think you have an engineering background? Either way, very considered review of a tent that is almost a portable bothy! Were you tempted to ask Nortent for the 1p version, or would that have been too similair to your Soulo? For me, I just can't get past the weight, 5kilos!, so I don't think it's for me, even as a base tent!! Maybe the Vern1... which I think is about 2.8kilos with footprint might be more manageable. Regards, Wadirunner.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thank you, and yes you are correct on the engineering front. 5 kg is a lot for one person, but then it is also a lot of tent, as you say! Of course it is better suited to a two person carry, and the Vern 1 would be a far better tool for 1 person trips. I'd love to try out the Vern 1 BECAUSE it is so similar to the Soulo. Maybe in the future, who knows... Thanks a lot for watching and for your comment 🤗 James.

[@Elfin4]

The tent itself looks great, but I'm sensing that this tent needs a few little upgrades before purchasing. Waterproofing of zip fabric and seams, and drainage run-off at doors, shape and design to withstand high winds or doubling up of poles? I think it would also be of benefit if the seams were sealed in the factory as it's not perfect having to do it yourself, especially as it's not a cheap tent. One or two droplets are potentially the start of increased moisture ingress if there is wind-driven rain those droplets may increase. Would like to get my hands on one after the small improvements that are clearly required. What size dry bag did you use to put the wet tent into or was it supplied with the tent?

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Scroll to 8:50 in the vid where I state that I used a 13 litre dry bag to carry the tent on this camp, though it was a bit snug. I think I waffled on about seam sealing and moisture for long enough in the video, so I won't repeat myself here and send you to sleep 😂 This tent might not be a cheap throwaway budget tent, but I would say it represents very good value for the space, quality and materials. I imagine the disruption to the manufacturing process required to seam seal the tents would have to carry a disproportionately high charge (possibly well in excess of £50), which would probably anger some. Personally I think a couple of dabs of seam sealer in the points I highlighted in my video would be just fine. The seams weren't actively leaking into the tent. The choice is yours though 😊 James.

[@Elfin4]

@@joinmeoutdoors Yes I think in hindsight it is probably better that you seam seal yourself to make sure it's done in the critical areas where it's needed. I am waiting on comments from Nortent as to when they intend to upgrade the run-off from the vestibule hood areas so that water doesn't fall into the vestibule. Other than that I think it may be beneficial to get some extra poles at the outset so you have them if the wind picks up when out and about. Thanks for your comments.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

I'd be interested to hear what Nortent say about the updates. I've found them to be really friendly and passionate people, keen to turn out a good product. I hope you end up with what you're looking for 🙌 James.

[@williamstevenson2649]

My new Terra Nova isn't seam-sealed and they don't provide any or give any advice. I haven't used it yet, but my Terra Nova Solar has been in regular use for almost 20 years and that had tape sealing which failed after a few years. However, the tent has remained very waterproof through some long downpors so I'm not bothered. I haven't resealed with glue.

[@vikingjack9994]

Have you tested Barents Trollheimen ? Curious how much it can take Wich backpack do you use for solo camping like this ?

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Hi Jack. I haven't tried that tent, no. More and more people (including me) are saying that they wish there was a standard tent test that gave a rating for the maximum wind speed a tent can withstand. I think it would be really helpful. I use either my Osprey Atmos 65 or my Osprey Exos 48. Typically the 48 litre pack is used in warmer weather and the 65 in colder weather.

[@vsaearth]

So big and spacious inside but not so cozy.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

I agree. I think those two things are mutually exclusive!

[@neo57611]

Will Vern seam seal your tent for you? That's a ton of money for a tent that leaks.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Nortent don't offer a seam sealing option at the point of order, no. Apart from those little elastic tie points, I wouldn't class this as a tent that leaks. Nortent supply the tent with seam sealer, so if you dab each of those eight elastic tieback positions with that seam sealer when you take the tent out on a dry camp, it'll take you perhaps a couple of minutes to resolve. Some Vern owners are choosing to seam seal their tents, though from this one experience of mine, it "seems" (get it?) like we could get away with only addressing those eight elastic points. Far better than taped seams, which eventually perish and crack and need replacing!

[@neo57611]

@joinmeoutdoors Thanks. Yes, these tents have a great design ideal in high winds. They include the seam seal with purchase or do you pay for that as well separately. I like the vern one as well. Thanks for your review and comments experience is a great teacher.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Yep, the seam sealer is included. You can watch my "first look at the Vern 2" video to see a bit more info about this tent regarding pricing, specs and pitching etc, including a quick mention of the included seam sealer 👍 I like the look of the Vern 1 too!

[@Camped_on_Dartmoor]

I am going to seam seal my vern 1 tonight, just because I can. maybe it will add some strength to the threads?

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Perfectly sensible decision 👍 Have you used your Vern 1 in rain yet, unsealed?

[@Camped_on_Dartmoor]

@@joinmeoutdoors yes on dartmoor, in rain and hail..and no water ingress. I did notice that the clips do put a lot of pressure on the threads on the upper sections on the tent. so will seal those areas.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

That's good to hear. I haven't seen a Vern 1 yet but the Vern 2 pitches with a fair bit of tension too, which keeps it all nice and taut. The materials all seem to be up to the task, but giving the seams an extra helping hand with sealing can be no bad thing!

[@Camped_on_Dartmoor]

Just watching this video again. The space is massive, tempted to buy one for me and the wife.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

That would make a lot of sense if you're getting on well with your Vern 1! In my previous video I showed my two 25" wide pads side by side in the tent, which might show the true size a bit more clearly 👍

[@Sneaky-Sneaky]

Just watch Fellman Dave’s Vern 2 get busted up….snapped poles! Good luck!

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Yeah that was an eye-opener wasn't it? Poor old Dave! It would appear that he found the limits there, which is really helpful info. I wonder if his findings tie in with Nortent's own testing? I can't see why not.

[@Sneaky-Sneaky]

@@joinmeoutdoors I don’t know how they do their testing. I know some manufacturers use wind tunnels and other similar methods. But getting hit by a storm would put some different types of stress on a tent compared to blowing strong air in one constant direction with the tent facing in its best direction to handle it. If I am not mistaken, there was another pole problem with a Vern 1….cant remember who it was. Cheers !

[@joinmeoutdoors]

I know that Nortent take their tents out into the field for testing and proving, but I'd also say that wind tunnel testing probably has its place too. The more testing the better really! I saw the Vern 1 being pushed to failure as well (a guy called Rowan). When Andrew Park released that very first video on KZbin of the 2024 Vern 1, I did comment on his video to ponder whether the crossover points on the longitudinal poles could potentially cause them to crush each other in strong winds, which would lead to almost immediate failure. I'll have to re-watch the failure vids and see if I can spot if the failures happened at that crossover point. If so, I wonder I'd they might benefit from having a small plastic separator piece that stops the poles from clattering against each other? There seem to be some excessive emotions flying around about Nortent vs Hilleberg at the moment. Social media at its best, hey? 😂

[@Sneaky-Sneaky]

@@joinmeoutdoors Good to hear about their testing protocols. The first time I saw a video about the Vern1 the reviewer was checking out the strength of its pole structure and the side to side strength seemed good but front to back was surprisingly weak. The reviewer made the comment….’ The guy lines will stiffen that up’. At the time my first impression was the crossing points were to low which created a narrow base and a longer run between the crossing points and the crossing pole in the middle of the tent. Other tents of this design that are stronger front to back have the crossing points higher up. And, this does give the tent a more rounded shape. I hope the public discourse doesn’t get too personal….while I can appreciate good gear….I don’t form emotional relationships with any of it….😂🤣

[@joinmeoutdoors]

@Sneaky-Sneaky I think the position of those crossing points is going to be really crucial isn't it? Having it low down means that you have nice slim ends to the tent, which makes it aerodynamic...but there are trade-offs elsewhere. Designing a brand new tent must be an absolute minefield!! I think you will go far in life if you don't get emotionally attached to bits of nylon and polyester 😂👍

[@klatlap]

If you need to dry the clothes you should have done in the other vestibule

[@davidmorland4370]

I am tall, 6'6. Will I fit inside? ..it looks a little on the short side. Would I have to sleep at an angle? The deimensions on their website are not so clear. Also - how do you think this stacks up agains the allak 2 in terms of 1) quality and 3) sturdyness?

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Hi David. I did take a few measurements in the first video I made on this tent, so that might help you get a feel for space. You can see that video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZ7ZoX5rfbOqmKs As for the Allak 2, I'm afraid I have no experience of that tent so I won't attempt to answer a question I'm not qualified to answer. Sorry!

[@TheEnigma64]

I have an Elevation 400 and was really disappointed with it! I replaced it with a ME Helium 400 and the difference is just chalk and cheese!

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Oh that's interesting. I think the Elevation line died off a while ago now. It was an affordable way for me to dip my toe in the world of down sleeping bags at the time, and was VASTLY superior to my awful cheap synthetic Mountain Warehouse bag I'd previously been using! I do like Mountain Equipment gear though - sounds like it was worth the switch. James.

[@TheEnigma64]

I don't think the range existed for long and it was at the time that Berghaus were becoming part of JD Fashion Group...but me too, it was an intro in to a 3 season bag. However, I found it cold below about 4°C.(even with an Xtherm) and it just didn't really fill the gap between my Vango Venom 200 (now discontinued also, but performs better than it's statistics would have you believe) and my OEX Leviathan 900! Ok, so the ME bag cost me £230 as opposed to the about £85 that the Berghaus bag was...but the difference between 2 down bags that have a 400g fill and a 700 or so fp is just amazing! The ME bag is 830g against 1kg, compresses to about 2/3rds the size and is snug down to 0°C in the same conditions!! The difference that better baffle construction, better materials and more experience in design make are more than tangible!

[@joinmeoutdoors]

I just looked up the specs of both bags. That's quite bizarre isn't it? Even their temp ratings are miles apart (+4°C comfort for the Berghaus vs -5°C for the ME), which ties in with your experience. How odd! I'm sure I could have a lighter and more compressible bag to replace my Berghaus bag now, but it's all money. It still serves a purpose, even if it's not the best bit of kit available. I'll no doubt spill mousse au chocolat all over it one of these days and write it off 😂

[@TimmyBobinson]

The tent should have been called the armadillo.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

You need to apply for a job on Nortent's marketing team! 😂

[@TimmyBobinson]

Leave the trendy KZbin vvanker beers at home. My winter overnight pack is sub 15 kg, and that's with extra chocolate. 🍫🍬🍪 Addendum: I don't have primo superlight gear. Just the decent branded gear that the average keen wild camper uses.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

I rarely take beers on camps, and if I do, it's generally just one small can. It sounds like you've got your winter pack weight down to a good level though. As you say - it's hard to be light, compact and warm with budget gear, but there's no need to go too crazy for most of us. I went for a camp a few nights ago and left all my filming gear at home. Pack was sub-15 kg I believe, and that's with a Soulo and footprint. Amazing how much weight all the filming gear adds. Maybe it's time to stop 🙂

[@TimmyBobinson]

@joinmeoutdoors If I may comment, I believed wild camping was a passion. However, the lure of money has turned yet another pleasure of God's creation into a money earner. KZbin is the disease. I tent to watch mostly new channels that haven't had access to monetising yet. It's a great video all the same, Sir. Polite and eloquent.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

I'm quite comfortable in the fact that I'm a YouTubing wild camper, rather than a KZbinr who goes wild camping. I don't make videos for KZbin to get rich, and this channel will never pay me a salary I can live off. I chose seriously unwisely if I wanted to start a channel that would allow me to give up my day job! 🤣 I decline almost all offers of free kit that come my way, because I usually have no interest in them, and see no point in accepting free stuff just because I can. Youll notice that equipment I DO receive free of charge is the kind of equipment I use anyway, or have a genuine interest in. There is a difference between benefitting from some of the perks that my efforts have earned, and cashing in to chuck out junk content that might get a few likes. That's my side of this story anyway, but I accept that many people will hold many different views of the way I do things. Such is life 😊 I hope the video was of use to you nevertheless 👍 James.

[@pzolsky]

High Willhays? Sounds a bit Dorset.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Close - it's in Devon! 👍

[@camouflage962]

water ingressing a new tent... - ultimate dealbreaker... no matter what excuse is brought forward...

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thank you for representing this side of the argument. So - a non-antagonistic question here; would those occasional drips from the elastic ties and from the zip at the top of the door on the rainy/windy end of the tent rule this one out for you? (Bear in mind that I haven't applied any of the seam sealer that comes with the tent)

[@ewi57ty]

Well overpriced but no one complain when they get a tent for free. I like your video because you actually give us some information about real usage. For this price leak and water channels its a real problem.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

I think this might be the first comment I've seen where someone has felt that a Vern 1/Vern 2 is overpriced! In comparison to Hillebergs, lots of us who own Vern tents have found them to be an incredibly competitive price. In hand they look and feel similar to Hilleberg products, and many of us had high hopes for comparable performance in strong winds too, so the price difference seemed to be a real slam dunk for Nortent! A couple of recent vids in high winds showed that pole strength (or perhaps pole positioning?) is a differentiating factor between the Vern tents and Hilleberg offerings, with Hilleberg appearing to come out on top in these very early days. This is the first wave of a brand new design though, and Nortent are gathering lots of feedback from people like me (e.g. rain gutters). I hope to see some design updates come through in time, as with the evolution of any brand new product. I think it's a damn good tent for their first go! I'm glad you found the evideo informative 👍 James.

[@ewi57ty]

@@joinmeoutdoorsI love how easy you can pitch this tent and I will be happy to buy this tent for max 300£.

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Okay that's interesting. I own a Naturehike Cloud Peak 2, which is a budget 2 person tent. Those cost around £160 and are not particularly strong. The materials feel okay, but you can tell that it is a budget tent. The Nortent Vern 2 is barely comparable to the Cloud Peak 2, so I don't think we can realistically expect to buy a tent like this for only twice the price of a Cloud Peak 2, personally. It would be great if we could though!

[@fraserconnell21]

😊🫵👍🏼

[@joinmeoutdoors]

😁👌

[@leehayes70]

Can’t understand why companies make amazing tents, but don’t seal them for you. For that reason alone I won’t be buying…

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Hi. I tried to explain that in the video to help you to understand, but perhaps I wasn't thorough enough. For a manufacturer to seam seal the tsnt, each and every tent has to be pitched, sealed, and then left for 24 hours to cure. The amount space and extra time required to do this would add a crazy amount to the cost of the tents, and would majorly disrupt the flow of manufacture. They would need more staff, more warehouse space, AND it would slow down their manufacturing process, thus reducing the number of tents they could sell each year. The knock-on effect in cost would be significant, and would have to be passed on to the buyers, so it's not just a case of manufacturers being lazy. The seams that you would be sealing are practically watertight as they are, and applying the seam sealer would only take you an hour or so. If everything about the tent is ticking your boxes, it would be a shame to deny yourself the product just because of this one factor, but I know that some people feel very strongly about this.

[@rskl3284]

I read that in a dragons den voice

[@joinmeoutdoors]

The old Duncan Bannatyne "So am oot" 😅

[@shnobi24]

​@@joinmeoutdoors I have to agree, it would take a short amount of time and effort to waterproof the seams yourself.

[@camperp195]

Great vid,whats it like under foot? Fancy doing meldon area in a couple of weeks 👍

[@joinmeoutdoors]

Thanks! It wasn't too bad underfoot for the most part. Wet taking the direct route down from High Willhays to the reservoir, as usual, but otherwise decent. I see you can pay via the Ring Go app now, provided you get a signal 👍