by Aidan » Thu 27 Aug, 2015 10:34 pm
I currently own and use a Macpac Microlite, Minaret and a bivy.
The bivy is a replacement for one I wore out over many years and have yet to use the new one.
I have the expectation that it will be the equal of the one it replaced.
Both my Microlite and Minaret have enjoyed lots of use.
Both have so far been impervious to weather and have suffered no leaks that I'm aware of.
Should there ever be a problem, I'll get the folk at Macpac to do a repair.
They have replaced the straps on my Cascade pack a few years ago and the service, repair and turn around was excellent (IMHO).
I'd have the same expectation of a quality product of the Sololite.
I'd have the same expectation of service and warranty repair should there be any issue.
When out of warranty, I'd have the same expectation of service, quality repair and prompt turn around.
I also own and use Macpac sleeping bags and I've a range of some of their clothes and rainwear.
Over all I'm happy with what I've bought and happy to buy more of their products although I'm always open to other brands too.
I think its my service and repair experiences that keep me going back for more.
Some of my gear is not Macpac so I'm not blinded to other possibilities and don't consider myself too biased.
Luckily we are spoilt for choice these days with regards products for all budgets and due to many sales, we rarely have to pay anything nearing full price no matter which brand to make a final purchase decision on.
Its a competitive market out there for camping gear and brands need to deliver quality goods at decent prices to get their cut.
Anyone pumping out rubbish isn't going to stay in the game for long me thinks.
I think what I'm trying to say in a long winded method is if you try the Sololite, you'll not be disappointed by the quality allowing for weight/price point.
I've no intimate knowledge of your mentioned Hllieberg Enan, but they are a well regarded brand and I'd expect a good run out of one of their products.
A tent I'm awaiting more feedback on for my cycle touring is the new Tarptent Protrail which due to its weight (or lack there of) may be worth a squiz for you, being from memory at a similar price point.
You asked for thoughts, well theres a few to chew over