One person tent

[sweetade]

I'm in the market for a new one person tent. (I realise there are already some posts on this topic, but they don't cover all my issues and I hope people will bear with re-visiting this issue). I'm an older woman (60s) with lots of bushwalking experience but very limited practicality and am somewhat overwhelmed with all the options.

I've had a Marmot Eos for many years (can't remember how many - and it now appears that the fabric has deteriorated beyond being worth repairing (It has been re-seam sealed and repaired in the past). The floor is leaking water for the first time. It's the only 1P tent I've owned. I've been very happy with it and have used it both up north in warm conditions and in SE Australia, although not on the heavy duty sort SW Tassie trips I used to do when I was younger. It's 2 layer with a mesh inner, wishbone pole design. I don't believe it's available currently in Australia.

I want a tent that's versatile, will mainly be used in Victoria, not in winter snow, can cope with (at the worst) the Overland Track, so I guess that makes it 3 not 4 season.

The issues I'm aware of are: I would like to minimise my weight but I also need the tent to be warm, waterproof of course, able to withstand wind, and easy to erect. I am not a very practical person and I don't think I could cope with anything too fiddly. I sleep much colder than most people. The small size of the Marmot Eos has not been a problem for me and I suppose it's kept me warmer than a larger tent would. I've appreciated the Marmot being free-standing, means it's not quite as reliant on my (mediocre) pitching skills, but I'm not sure how important that is to me. I'd prefer to buy a tent I can actually see, not order from overseas, but I will consider alternatives.

I've been quite surprised in starting to research this that many of the current tents in the Melbourne shops aren't lighter than my Marmot - I had hopes about new technology! Total weight of the Marmot including bags and the 9 pegs I use is 1453 grams, actually lighter than some of the similar tents I've looked at.
I've looked so far at: One Planet Goondie 1 (the version with mesh inner and 15 D outer), Mont Moondance. Also Wilderness Equipment Space 1 (didn't like it. Zips seemed a bit fiddly and flimsy). Just going on what I've found online, I thought I'd also look at MSR Hubba (would appreciate opinions about whether this requires the added footprint - I would have thought so). Macpac Sololight and Microlight, Nemo Hornet, Big Sky Chinook and Revolution, Exped Spika 2 (2 person tent but in the same weight ballpark). I've read some raves on this site about the much lighter Solplex but it looks a bit more challenging/unfamiliar plus I don't think it's stocked in Melbourne (but perhaps I should consider it).

I'd appreciate any thoughts about any of the above options or any others I should look at.

I apologise for the length of this post.

[photohiker]

Do you use hiking poles?

[Suz]

I am unfamiliar with any of the tents you've mentioned. But I thought i'd annoyingly pipe up anyway.

I know you said you didn't want to order anything from o/s but…i have been happy with my Tarptent Stratospire 1 --- see specs here: https://www.tarptent.com/stratospire1.html -- it may be a good option for you - especially if you use walking poles (as they replace the tent poles in set-up). It is a 3-4 season tent of approx 1kg.

I bought mine 2nd hand off someone on this site. I'm not practical either but because there is a set-up video on the website I just watch that each time before I head off on a trip (to remind myself how to set it up just in case i've forgotten) and that makes it easy. It meets your criteria on waterproofness and wind (tho not extreme wind >40km p/h as I found out in Norway). I wouldn't call it warm but I don't think you can buy warm tents ;P It is not free-standing if thats something you want again tho. It is double layer with a removable inner (the inner comes in full mesh or semi-solid / semi mesh versions). Franco on this forum works for Tarptent and lives in Melbourne I think … he may even be able to show you a real live one.

There are major advances in technology with weight saving materials but they will cost you $$$ and they are mostly made by cottage manufacturers in the US (Zpacks, MLD, etc.) which like a Tarptent you'd have to order sight unseen. Also I guess the exchange rate is not entirely favourable anymore.

As for sleeping cold, I do too. But fixing that I think is about getting the right sleeping mat and bag and not really about the tent. I have found my Exped Synmat UL 9 helpful with cold emanating from the ground. It weighs 600gm though and doesn't pack that small (about 15cm x 25cm) --- but see here: http://www.exped.com/international/en/p ... mat-ul-9-m.

As for sleeping bag I'm about to order a custom made one

[Neo]

Hi sweetade probably no help to you, I'm in the same conundrum of choosing an upgrade. You should be fine ordering a similar model Marmot unseen if the price and specs suit you. All those you mention would be well made. I only have two big box stores within 500km so will be taking the plunge online.

Sounds like a simple crossing pole dome style would suit you, which the Big Sky tents are.

[weeds]

Far out, you have certainly looked at plenty of options and would probably be able to advise us all on the pros and cons of each tent on the market.

We looked at TT but as we were only just getting into hiking we too were nervous about buying a tent from OS without have a look and were not keen on having to have poles.

We ended up with a goondie 2 and a goondie 3 and have been happy with them for the few nights we have slept in them. We like that they are self supporting and seem to be of good quality.

Good luck with the search.

[Petew]

Hi,

Another option is a big Agnes copper Spur ul 1 which you can mail order from QLD. The 2p version weighs around 1.4 kg if you feel like a bit of extra space.

[Franco]

Of the Tarptent models the Moment DW with solid inner could fit the bill.
It isn't freestanding but it is easy enough to erect for most .
See this video clip :


(I did those speed set up for fun but it is real, no tricks used. In the bush it takes 1 to 3 minutes)
I have one on hand but I am now in Creswick, north of Ballarat.
If it is close enough and want to have a look , let me know.
(I don't sell them, just for a look...)
franco @tarptent

[GPSGuided]

I have a TT Moment DW and can say the setup is certainly easy. Lightweight, practical with dual entry and spacious. It does not depend on hiking poles but just one insert and that's a good thing to me. Worth considering.

[RonK]

The Marmot Eos was ahead of its time for an ultralight tent and has been very successful. It's still available in the US so if you like it you could get another.

[Neo]

Try to see the Moment, one pole two pegs. I'm going with one of their trekking pole models.

Here is one link to the Eos, appears that they ship to Australia
http://www.backcountry.com/marmot-eos-1 ... lsrc=aw.ds

[Scottyk]

I own a Goondie, 2 man version
They're great tents and won't let you down.
Well made, light enough with our compromising on things like a decent floor.
Easy to pitch

[paul_gee]

The Marmot Eos - we're looking at carrying some Marmot gear, namely a few of their hiking tents and backpacks, so could see how easily we could get one of these babies in for you? It sounds like you're a big fan of the tent so why jump ship if you don't need to?

As for the others - I'm only familiar with the Mont Moondance, Wilderness Equipment Space, and MSRs, out of the names you mention.

MSR Hubba (NX) - You don't need to use the tent with the footprint but it does have a lighter floor than your Eos. To pitch it 'Fast & Light', you will need the footprint but the total packed weight is only 850g in this configuration. It weighs in at 1.29kg full configuration, packed.

Have you considered MSRs lighter options? Namely the Freelite 1 (740g-1.09kg) and Carbon Reflex 1 (510g-790g).

(Disclosure: I work for Snowys. We stock some of all of the products mentioned in this post. I have published this post as I believe it is sufficiently informational to be helpful to the OP.)

[CasualNerd]

I did this same search earlier this year and ended up with a msr hubba nx. There's a lot of ultralight fans around, but I thought this was the right combination of light, affordable and reasonably durable. I would still look at the moondance as it's a very very similar design and size, slightly heavier, but more durable fabrics. You can find the hubba for $500 AU.

[sweetade]

Do you use hiking poles?

Not yet but currently strongly considering buying them.

[photohiker]

Do you use hiking poles?

Not yet but currently strongly considering buying them.

I asked because two of my shelters use hiking poles instead of the usual paraphenalia.

Neither of them are available in shops in Australia though, but I'm sure there are locals happy to show you them if you like.

I use a Tarptent Notch : https://www.tarptent.com/notch.html

Or a MLD Trailstar : http://www.mountainlaureldesigns.com/sh ... cts_id=102

Both have been excellent in all weather on my trips. The Trailstar takes a relatively large footprint area and does not come with an inner, but you can choose several or go without if the conditions are suitable. The Notch is very compact and tidy and comes with an inner.

[sweetade]

Several people have mentioned Tarptent - Stratosphere and Moment.
Are the floors strong enough not to need a groundsheet?
Franco you mentioned getting the solid rather than mesh interior - why?

[sweetade]

People have mentioned Tarptent both Stratosphere and Moment.
Are the floors strong enough to not need groundsheet?
Franco - you recommend solid rather than mesh inner - because?

[sweetade]

[quote="paul_gee"]

Have you considered MSRs lighter options? Namely the Freelite 1 (740g-1.09kg) and Carbon Reflex 1 (510g-790g).

Would these be suitable for Australian conditions such as OT?

[DaveNoble]

You may want to also consider a Mountain Designs Neutrino One. These tents are now being made again after not being available for many years. I must have bought one of the very first models when they were first available and was always quite happy with it. But over the years a few holes appeared in the floor (due to me standing on sharp objects), and the wands were starting to fracture a bit. But I always liked the tent, its quite light (1.3 kg all up), roomy for one person and its reasonably weather resistant and stable in bad weather. You do have to pitch the inner tent first, then the fly goes over the top. This has advantages and disadvantages. The newly made ones seem exactly be the same as the old ones except for the colour. I was able to get one for around $270 at one of those "sales" outdoor shops often have.

Dave

[photohiker]

Several people have mentioned Tarptent - Stratosphere and Moment.
Are the floors strong enough not to need a groundsheet?

Most use a light groundsheet. Tarptent recommends a Tyvek groundsheet if you need/want one. Tough, light and economical.

Here's Tarptent's info on a groundsheet:

Use of a groundsheet depends on the conditions you expect to encounter and your style of camping. The sewn-in flooring is remarkably tough and does not usually require a separate groundsheet. We sell optional Tyvek groundsheets which are very tough and great for sleeping out or taking a break, but generally heavier than you need for floor protection on longer hikes, in most conditions. For use on very rocky ground and desert conditions where puncture wounds are possible, a groundsheet is recommended.

[Franco]

Are the floors strong enough not to need a groundsheet?
I don't use one but some do.
My suggestion is that if you can walk on the site without shoes you don't need one, the converse is also true (for me..)

Franco you mentioned getting the solid rather than mesh interior - why?
Maybe not needed. Mesh for views and ventilation, solid for more wind protection and a bit of extra warmth.

[paul_gee]

Have you considered MSRs lighter options? Namely the Freelite 1 (740g-1.09kg) and Carbon Reflex 1 (510g-790g).

Would these be suitable for Australian conditions such as OT?

If lightweight is the name of the game, sure thing. The reviews I have heard/read on both of these, on waterproofness, have been very positive. The fly material is crazily light and doesn't look like it would offer much protection, but it performs really well. If you got hit my a little snow, they'd probably perform as well as most quality 3 season tents.

[paul_gee]

Are the floors strong enough not to need a groundsheet?
I don't use one but some do.
My suggestion is that if you can walk on the site without shoes you don't need one, the converse is also true (for me..)

Franco you mentioned getting the solid rather than mesh interior - why?
Maybe not needed. Mesh for views and ventilation, solid for more wind protection and a bit of extra warmth.

And mesh for versatility. I'd prefer to have a tent I can use 3 seasons and change up my mat/sleeping bag to suit the weather conditions.

[sweetade]

Well I've had a look at Big Sky both Revolution 1 and Chinook. Weight between around 1.1kg and 1.4 depending on which model, whether mesh or solid inner. Chinook had a better floor. And extra pole which makes it 4 season. Dual entry with 2 vestibules which is a bit of extra covered space compared with most 1p tents. The floor worries me though. Just has a flimsy feel. Has anyone used these and in what conditions?

[damoprz]

I really like my Big Sky Rev 2, I have always used a Tyvek groundsheet as the floor does feel flimsy so I cannot comment on the durability.

[Neo]

Sounds good. Here is a post by Lizzy about the Chinook 2p:

viewtopic.php?f=63&t=23202&p=299915&hilit=Chinook#p299915

If needed you can try a direct message/question to a member by clicking on their name then click Private Message.

[Son of a Beach]

I got a Goondie 1 person 15D when they first came out. Definitely my favourite tent of all that I've used so far. I wrote a detailed review back then at: viewtopic.php?t=8031

[LachlanB]

Another punt for the Goondie. I have one of the 30D ones. Not the lightest offering on the market, but it's light enough, and really good quality. They're surprisingly expensive too, but I got lucky and spotted one for sale in Invercargill. One major advantage of the 30D fly over the 15D one is that it comes in a rather fetching shade of orange. Makes finding your tent easy!

Only irritating thing is that the newer ones have a hub on the poles, which in my experience proved to be less than reliable. Plus, afaict, the way it pitches means you can't use the fly without either the inner or the proprietary groundsheet.

[Scottyk]

Another punt for the Goondie. I have one of the 30D ones. Not the lightest offering on the market, but it's light enough, and really good quality. They're surprisingly expensive too, but I got lucky and spotted one for sale in Invercargill. One major advantage of the 30D fly over the 15D one is that it comes in a rather fetching shade of orange. Makes finding your tent easy!

Only irritating thing is that the newer ones have a hub on the poles, which in my experience proved to be less than reliable. Plus, afaict, the way it pitches means you can't use the fly without either the inner or the proprietary groundsheet.

What's the hub on the poles about? I don't think my Goondie has one

[LachlanB]

What's the hub on the poles about? I don't think my Goondie has one

I think it's a new 'feature' that One Planet has added. I think the older ones have a plastic carabiner that clips around the two main poles to keep them together and connect them to the tent inner? One person I know who has a newer Goondie and an older one was grumbling about them being added and reckons they're purely cosmetic.

It's just a small piece of plastic with two holes in it through which each of the two poles go at the point where they crossover right at the apex of the tent.
FWIW, one of these: http://www.dacpole.com/html/swivelhub_new.htm (the PC Swivel).

IMO, it was a major pain, as you were left waving the poles around when you tried to pitch the tent as the two poles were stuck together, and it was harder to pack than two separate poles. Dunno what the benefit was?

Note the past tense. The hub on my Goodie broke on about the fourth time I used it, with one of the poles snapping out of its plastic hole. I ended up filing the other pole free of the hub. Thankfully, the pole was fine, but it was irritating to have happen on an otherwise seemingly good quality tent.