Just bought this tent its just brilliant for wild camping easy to pitch and the vestibule is great to store your gear in and you are able cook in it if the weather turns ive used it twice now in delemere forest love this tent i know its tight but i fit in quite snuggly people have to remember that its a one man tent thanks for your thoughts and the time to make the review
@@Cheshirebackpacking hi I'm 5 foot eleven in hight and I have no problems or bother but again it's a one man tent so space is at a premium if you're unsure test one for size and just return it with all labels still attached if you have a store near by
Great review.. I have been using mine for two years now.. I mostly just use the outer shell and leave the inner bit at home. It gives loads more room and the net tends to sag. Its been in use on Dartmoor in January with frost and been fine for that also I had it on the Isle of Wight up on ST Catherines Down. That night was the heaviest rain on record and with just the outer it stood up really well to the wet... subscribed
Hi Dan, I also purchased a Racoon 2.1 which I REALLY like. That’s the main reason I’ll be selling this one. The Racoon 2.1 is a little bit heavy for my liking but it’s a cracking tent.
Thanks for the review, I love this tent, it's easy to pitch, feels solid as a rock in the wind and good height so I can sit up comfortably. I rarely zip up the inner so it feels spacious enough with the large vestibule. The design of the tent with the large high opening make this tent great for stargazing
A tip for summer use is to have the top of the flysheet door open where the mesh is as it can gather a small bit if condensation inside the fly and stick to the inner near the corners, This is my personal favourite tent regardless and it will continue to be. Great vid
Thanks for the review. I think its good budget tent (I paid £70). 5000mm flysheet, 4000mm groundsheet, 1.9 kg, all that for under £100. I have this tent, used it on TMB trail. Survived heavy rain with no problems, while my friends £500 tent was leaking. I used vestibule area for keeping all my gear at night. It wasn't 5 star hotel comfort, but great adventure.
Thanks mate, I’ve just seen the just released ultra light version of this tent and just bought it! Amazing value as it comes under at 1kg in the new fabrics
To me it looks like an update of the old Blacks Octane tent, which I bought about eleven years ago for £90 then. The single pole design is nearly identical except the front door zips differently and it has a small flap above the door - also the ground sheet covers the vestibule area which the Octane didn't. The asymmetric design of the inner allows a generous vestibule for you backpack / cooking kit. The size seems almost the same. I was 75 years old last year and almost 6' and managed fine - I found it only now is beginning to lose its seam sealers and the ground sheet a bit less waterproof - an emergency space blanket put under the ground sheet provides total waterproofing for a few ££ and weighs almost nothing. . I hiked 750 miles backpacking in the UK a few years ago with the Octane and last year in the UK under the most ferocious thunderstorm I have ever experienced on the South Downs Way- it kept me dry but mightn't have saved me from a lightening strike. It also kept me dry in the Outer Hebrides. If this is anything like as good, then I can only say you'll save hundreds of pounds on more expensive tents, and it'll work just as well. It is extremely easy and quick to pitch and you can keep the inner attached to the fly sheet to speed erection and keep the inner dry. I think you should be able to do the same with this tent. It looks as if this design has made the inner a bit narrower and the vestibule wider. I am travelling to the UK from NZ in a couple of weeks and I'll be buying this one if it does fit. It is small, it's supposed to be, but it works. You can actually sit up in it, and the vestibule is generous. The inner tent is proper tent cloth and not just a bug screen and is an extra layer of protection. If it's as good as the Octane then I can thoroughly recommend. Also if you're wild camping a smaller tent is easier to find a small patch of level ground to camp on, in the Outer Hebrides camping in the dunes/machair I was able find the smallest suitable spot and keep out of the wind.
@@jockmoron thanks for this. They’ve just released an ultralight version of the bobcat which as you say has the history of the octane.. it’s all blacks and millets just rebranded for a new generation. Hopefully they’ll keep making the bargain budget versions tho too
I love my little Bobcat. I'm a shortass so it's fine. Cycled and wildcamped up Wales and back. It can be left with inner attached and put up in one go in 5 minutes in pitch black (trying to be stealthy) I had a lucky few days of glorious weather so never tested in rain or wind. Cheap and cheerful 🏴
The TN Solar Minor was an asymmetric design with the single pole going diagonally across the tent. It was tiny! But it was a solid sub-two kilo backpacking tent over twenty years ago, so not too shabby.
I've got the expedition tarp too, it works really well with this tent. My only issue is it weighs approx 1kg. Personally, I'd rather a much larger tent than take both the Bobcat and Exped Tarp.
Update - after spending the night in it again for a second time, literally just last night in the garden... I’ve now decided to just use this shelter in it’s “tarp configuration” only, so much more ‘usable room’ without that useless small saggy inner tent inside!! It now measures (internally) L220cm by W150cm, and H105cm. That’s also saved 600g in weight too, now only 1.3kg.. It could even fit two people in now 👍🏻
Did my first wild camp in the Bobcat last week, it is a very cosy space inside with the bedroom all zipped up though! I’m 5-10” and thought if I was over 6ft, then I’d be struggling for room.. It is a great little tent though and pitches in under 5 mins, which comes in handy if it’s raining.. I have made a few mods to mine, the first being cutting 1” off the second pole section from the end, this has now made it an absolute doddle to pitch! I really don’t know how OEX have got this so wrong on all these tents, however, it is a relatively easy and simple fix, all said and done… The second mod I’ve made is to zip-tie those hooks at the bottom to the inner, as they always come off after it has been packed away again, this just makes it even faster to pitch it all-in-one. I like the headroom for sitting up in it with the bedroom door rolled down at the bottom, I measured this height at 105cm in the centre of the arch.. Like that it can also be used as a tarp with the inner removed altogether, and that you can partly unzip the main door at the top on either side, to use as a makeshift lookout/bird-hide too. It also took 25 mph gusts in its stride ‘face on’ with no problem at all! I personally think their is a lot going for this little shelter, as long as your under 6ft tall that is and don’t carry too much extra gear with you. 👍🏻
I had the previous yellow model and used it at least yearly, usually 2-3 times a year for about 10 years, eventually the floor started letting in moisture on very wet days but otherwise it was still at great tent and lasted really well. Have just ordered this model so hope it is as well made.
I used it on SW Coast path, until I put it in tumble dryer. I tied 2 stakes to porch bit and back, and peg it upright, then stake it out, eventually after alot of use years constantly the back stretched abit but id replaced poles, very good tent, and I cut the porch vestibule sheet out to save weight, and got some lightweight stakes. I also bought a mosquito net with idea to cut weight, but never tried that, the zips are very strong, quick set up. very good and i put it up in very small spaces, as long as you got 7ft by 2ft space, that is flat, I put it up next to bench on hill, under trees in small areas, and it's very good colour for hiding it,
@@BackpackingUK I'm about 6ft, if you zip up inner it's only wide enough for you to put camp mat, you say 5ft 8 and not good for smaller, but big guy in scotland reviewed it, and he was 6ft 3 and said he liked it, plenty of leg room, but you only zip up that part to sleep. with the inner part unzipped it's quite big space, and especially unusual head height and leg length, you can sit up and not touch head on ceiling, or 1.94 kg, your looking at tunnel tent maybe,
Picked one up new today from GO for £49. Had the Phoxx2 v2 until I fell on top of it and collapsed the poles. (totally my fault) Had many weeks of use from it. Have full confidence in the Bobcat. Can't go wrong for the price.
Like it because of its height and ease with which you can put it up. (Don’t need to remove inner tent after first use so even easier aftertaste that!). It is small but then it is a one man tent. I use it as a storage tent with my Campervan. Small, light and nice height so easy access, not all the crawling in and out business.
Nice review of my favourite tent! Small enough to park pretty much anywhere and bomb proof against heavy wind n rain. Had mine 2 years in all conditions and locations and hasn’t let me down. I’ve made a wee modification to mine which improves it even further! My winter wild camp video had details on that. Cheers!
its very similar to the Blacks Octane1 apart from the tiny overhang at the door and guy line middle of the back. its a good design that if you orientate it right will take 70mph winds with relative ease. Octane1 doesnt have the vestibule floor. ive always improvised one to slow the slugs journey to my boots so good idea OEX
My friend has this tent as we have been camping a fair bit. We some really strong wind up Kinder Scout and this tent was fine, I’ve upgrade the pegs on those stronger wind occasions. Great tent though in dry weather I’m not sure how enjoyable it would be in the rain.
Hi Andy, amazing review, i just turned 16 today and this tent is on the way as we speak. I am 6ft flat and i layed in the tent at Go Outdoors and fit perfectly fine. I can't wait to try it. But do you have any tips on storing it outside the backback when i don't have clips at the bottom of the pack. For reference i have the Trespass inverary 45L. Thanks, love your videos.
Phoenix did this design in the 80s / 90s with their phoenix phreeranger. Trekkertent kept them going even today if you want one with modern materials. Then Terra Nova did it with their Terra Nova solar and voyager 2.2 (early 2000s maybe). Tarptent double rainbow is sort of similar but not quite
Snug and waterproof, I've used mine in all weathers including high winds. The only issue I have is that it's not particularly aerodynamic. If you pitch with the door on the leeward side, the entire profile of the tent is presented to the prevailing wind, like a sail. I normally use a delta peg on the guy on this side but it doesn't stop the fly curving in and robbing what little space you have. It was a struggle to locate the pole into the lugs until I trimmed 10mm off one section - now it's perfect.
Hi Andy, I agree, far too snug for my liking. Also, at 1.9KG I think I prefer my Phoxx IIv2 which weighs in at 2.1KG, although it is an inner pitch first. All the best, Dave.
Nice review Andy. It’s not a bad looking tent, tbh. Wonder what it would be like in real bad weather. Can you please do a review on the Robens Starlight 1 please? All the best.
It’s a lot like the design of the 1980’s Phoenix Phreeranger & Phreerunners. The addition of a short cross pole would make a lot of a difference to the space inside. The Phoenix’s though were 2 man, and happily take 2 +6 footers. At the same weight of the OEX.
Also guy lines reflective - I have added 2 more main guys to give more stability. Virtually impossible to fit tent pole in clips that are sewn in so I've made one on a short adjustable line - problem solved. To save weight and increase space, tend to use outer with no inner. Have separate groundsheets to fit footprint. Have added some V-shaped pegs to main guys for soft ground. Nice to be able to sit upright in a backpacking tent. Cooking in rain inside tent awkward but achievable.
Great review . and great site . on the OEX BoBcat 1. I am seeking a suitable tent , lite, compact for Gravel biking / wild camping . this tent, does it have air vents in the main body ..? Cheers
I agree with you buddy that most OEX tents can be used for 4 seasons. At least here in the UK. As we don’t really have snow to worry about for the most part. For me I like a mix solid walls and mesh. All mesh definitely 2-3 season. But I would much rather be slightly colder in winter than wet due to the condensation you tend to get with most true 4 seasons tents as they tend to be solid walled with little or no mesh for air flow. The tent definitely interesting to me, but to fair I have a serious tent problem lol 🤣 my naturehike cloud up 2 I used most often for me currently.
This is an almost a direct copy I think of the Bergahus Peak 3.1 I have although this is a few years old now. And it's red which isn't ideal. But as a 1 person tent for an overnight it's fine and with more headroom than the coffin style OEX 1 man I also have which pitches inner 1st. So I'd still go with the berghaus if you can get it.
I'm 6'1" am I gonna struggle then in this? I was looking at it today at go outdoors and really liked the look and after watching this I like it even more 👌
Gotta love tents that allow you to set up the fly first and then the inner. But yeah this is way too small even for me (im only 162cm/51kg). I think the tent would benefit more if the vestibule door can be propped up by poles, creating a small outdoor area to cook under the rain. The design also reminds me a bit of the Bundok Solo Dome tent. Nice review as always Andy. Cheers!
I've seen a few of these OEX Bobcat1 tents in brown for sale on Amazon, Black's & Ebay etc, you mentioned not to buy the brown one. Other than colour, what's the difference?
They don’t exist! The stock photos are all brown but in reality they’re all green. Don’t ask me why but if you were to look on Google images you’d only ever find green ones in real life.
I like this tent, but the pole is so hard to put in when 1st pitching and i bent mine a wee bit on my 2nd camp, its great for stealth camping and hh 5000 is great 👍 got mine for £80. top tip, if you're 5'10" or smaller it's ok, but it definitely does feel cramped and I'm 5'10". I also think it needs 2 guylines at the back as it seems to sag too much.
The pole is one of the hardest I have ever tried. Just make sure all the fly is fully pulled through first. I wish the inner connected to the fly on the back, that would have the inner feel much larger.
Their is an easy fix for this issue with the saggy inner tent! After much deliberation about the mod I could use to solve this issue, I realised it was a very quick and simple fix indeed, all you need are a couple of strong neodymium magnets - placed where the rear guy-line connects, one on the outer and the other on the inner tent.. I tried this out with a couple of small week ones (although they were not strong enough and popped straight off again) to begin with.. Amazing the extra room/feel this simple fix gives you when fully zipped inside the sleeping compartment! I then brought some good quality round coin-style magnets (15x5mm - £11) online, with a strong 6kg-pull-weight, and these were plenty strong enough to hold the inner in place! Although personally, I’m still preferring my Bobcat just as a tarp-tent shelter, I’ve now cut 3cm off each end of the pole to get it to ‘hunker down’ and sit fully on the ground, with no gaps at the bottom of the fly, although I have now lost 2” of headroom, but deffo worth it to have no gap and drafts coming underneath anymore with having no inner inside.. I had to modify the peg-out points too, by making holes further up the tabs and then putting in some brass eyelets, again to aid in pulling the fly right down to the ground. It still has enough ventilation with the mesh under the rain flap on the door, but I can always open that little area also on the zips - if I need more airflow through! I have really enjoyed modding my Bobcat, it was crying out to be improved 👍🏻
Do you think someone who is 6’4 would fit inside the bobcat ? I’m not bothered about touching the sides I just want to able to sleep inside it im 192 cm but it’s 200cm long
I bought this tent but had to return it, as a 6 foot+ bloke I found it a little uncomfortable, particularly with the fabric hanging down on my face in the middle of the night!
I opted for the berghaus peak 3.1 pro, weighs only 1.7k ..same sort of design, have used it in all seasons on the mountains in the scottish Highlands..unfortunately can't buy it now
im always skeptical of reviewers that put affiliate links in the description. there is a direct conflict of interest against being honest about the items negative features.
Why? It’s not like we’ve been paid. Also, if your reviews are BS, no one will subscribe, so if a creator has a decent following it’s fairly safe to say you can trust them.
you make money the more people click that link. so from that fact alone i think the review could be biased. thats my opinion, you are welcome to have your own.
I've bought a Phoxx off the back of the excellent reviews ... Whilst the tents are great, I think people need to keep in mind Blacks/Millets/etc use Evri (the re-branding of the often loathed Hermes); Which means communication is near non existant, if you have a problem with your delivery. Asking Millets for info, similarly doesn't always meet with useful assistance, as presumably, they have just as hard a time trying to get guidance from Evri as we might .... So, in my humble opinion, I would say, yes, buy OEX tents/items, but save yourself potential problems, and buy IN THE SHOP itself!
Hi Andy I have this tent and yes is small one thing you can do with the outer door which is good is use to trekking poles to hold it up which gives you more space if it rains and shelter from the sun Atb Graham
My mate had one and he was 6ft tall...couldn’t sit in it or lie in it without touching the sides or roof ..very small too no room for your gear and pack ...couldn’t really cook in the vestibule if it was raining
A better tent is the Berghaus Peak 3. 1, or the Pro version. Same design but longer with slightly less head room. Unfortunately it’s not being made now, but you still see them on eBay regular.
So it's tiny inside, heavy, difficult to pitch, cheaply made, large pack size for a 1p, and bad in hot weather due to lack of ventilation. It's cheap, and that's the only thing it has going for it. Interesting choice of words by labeling it as "brilliant" in the opening monologue. It looks like pure shit.
I can see how it polarises views. I still have, and have had many tents over the years, all more expensive than this, but the Bobcat is my favourite. Never come across a porch as big, it's thick material so quite robust, hence it's weight. Take the poles out of the bag and it compresses to less than half the size. Built in groundsheet is great in the porch, it's good in wind and better than most for condensation. I know of no other tent at 1.4m wide that gives so much and allows me to camp in comfort where others can't. It's not like it's a secret that the sleeping area is small. It's Marmite, but if you like Marmite and have an open mind, it's great fun. It's far from pure shit.
Buy from Go Outdoors here: tidd.ly/39Xy7Xp
Is this freestanding?
@@matterdowe4350 no
I just got this fr £59 in their sale,, well pleased 😀
Just bought this tent its just brilliant for wild camping easy to pitch and the vestibule is great to store your gear in and you are able cook in it if the weather turns ive used it twice now in delemere forest love this tent i know its tight but i fit in quite snuggly people have to remember that its a one man tent thanks for your thoughts and the time to make the review
Just out if interest how tall are you? I'm 6ft 1 is it suitable?
@@Cheshirebackpacking hi I'm 5 foot eleven in hight and I have no problems or bother but again it's a one man tent so space is at a premium if you're unsure test one for size and just return it with all labels still attached if you have a store near by
Trekology UL 140 sleeping mat is perfect for this tent! Just fits in the inner and keeps the inner from sagging!! A match made in heaven!!
Great review.. I have been using mine for two years now.. I mostly just use the outer shell and leave the inner bit at home. It gives loads more room and the net tends to sag. Its been in use on Dartmoor in January with frost and been fine for that also I had it on the Isle of Wight up on ST Catherines Down. That night was the heaviest rain on record and with just the outer it stood up really well to the wet... subscribed
Wow! Thanks for sharing 👍
I love my oex bobcat tent one of my best 1 person tent
Hi Dan, I also purchased a Racoon 2.1 which I REALLY like. That’s the main reason I’ll be selling this one. The Racoon 2.1 is a little bit heavy for my liking but it’s a cracking tent.
Thanks for the review, I love this tent, it's easy to pitch, feels solid as a rock in the wind and good height so I can sit up comfortably. I rarely zip up the inner so it feels spacious enough with the large vestibule. The design of the tent with the large high opening make this tent great for stargazing
A tip for summer use is to have the top of the flysheet door open where the mesh is as it can gather a small bit if condensation inside the fly and stick to the inner near the corners, This is my personal favourite tent regardless and it will continue to be. Great vid
Great tip 👍
Thanks for the review. I think its good budget tent (I paid £70). 5000mm flysheet, 4000mm groundsheet, 1.9 kg, all that for under £100. I have this tent, used it on TMB trail. Survived heavy rain with no problems, while my friends £500 tent was leaking. I used vestibule area for keeping all my gear at night. It wasn't 5 star hotel comfort, but great adventure.
Thanks for sharing!
Used this tent on the coast to coast, pennine way and ireland way great little tent for long distance hiking and held up fine
Thanks mate, I’ve just seen the just released ultra light version of this tent and just bought it! Amazing value as it comes under at 1kg in the new fabrics
Great video pal i heading out on c2c with bobcat 1
To me it looks like an update of the old Blacks Octane tent, which I bought about eleven years ago for £90 then. The single pole design is nearly identical except the front door zips differently and it has a small flap above the door - also the ground sheet covers the vestibule area which the Octane didn't. The asymmetric design of the inner allows a generous vestibule for you backpack / cooking kit. The size seems almost the same. I was 75 years old last year and almost 6' and managed fine - I found it only now is beginning to lose its seam sealers and the ground sheet a bit less waterproof - an emergency space blanket put under the ground sheet provides total waterproofing for a few ££ and weighs almost nothing. . I hiked 750 miles backpacking in the UK a few years ago with the Octane and last year in the UK under the most ferocious thunderstorm I have ever experienced on the South Downs Way- it kept me dry but mightn't have saved me from a lightening strike. It also kept me dry in the Outer Hebrides. If this is anything like as good, then I can only say you'll save hundreds of pounds on more expensive tents, and it'll work just as well. It is extremely easy and quick to pitch and you can keep the inner attached to the fly sheet to speed erection and keep the inner dry. I think you should be able to do the same with this tent. It looks as if this design has made the inner a bit narrower and the vestibule wider. I am travelling to the UK from NZ in a couple of weeks and I'll be buying this one if it does fit. It is small, it's supposed to be, but it works. You can actually sit up in it, and the vestibule is generous. The inner tent is proper tent cloth and not just a bug screen and is an extra layer of protection. If it's as good as the Octane then I can thoroughly recommend. Also if you're wild camping a smaller tent is easier to find a small patch of level ground to camp on, in the Outer Hebrides camping in the dunes/machair I was able find the smallest suitable spot and keep out of the wind.
@@jockmoron thanks for this. They’ve just released an ultralight version of the bobcat which as you say has the history of the octane.. it’s all blacks and millets just rebranded for a new generation. Hopefully they’ll keep making the bargain budget versions tho too
I love my little Bobcat. I'm a shortass so it's fine. Cycled and wildcamped up Wales and back. It can be left with inner attached and put up in one go in 5 minutes in pitch black (trying to be stealthy) I had a lucky few days of glorious weather so never tested in rain or wind. Cheap and cheerful 🏴
Thanks for sharing 👍
The TN Solar Minor was an asymmetric design with the single pole going diagonally across the tent. It was tiny! But it was a solid sub-two kilo backpacking tent over twenty years ago, so not too shabby.
Yes, the Solar is a very similar design.
I’ve just bought this £49. I’ve got the oex bivvy bag & an oex sleeping bag too!
You can improve the space by stretching the door out as a canopy with hiking poles or using the expedition tarp with it.
I've got the expedition tarp too, it works really well with this tent. My only issue is it weighs approx 1kg. Personally, I'd rather a much larger tent than take both the Bobcat and Exped Tarp.
Awesome review buddy ! Love your reviews very thorough, really much appreciated !
Thanks! 👍
Update - after spending the night in it again for a second time, literally just last night in the garden... I’ve now decided to just use this shelter in it’s “tarp configuration” only, so much more ‘usable room’ without that useless small saggy inner tent inside!!
It now measures (internally) L220cm by W150cm, and H105cm. That’s also saved 600g in weight too, now only 1.3kg.. It could even fit two people in now 👍🏻
Great idea!
I just got one and spot on review ok one night not sure if I'll use again and biggest problem was condensation it was wet through in the morning
Did my first wild camp in the Bobcat last week, it is a very cosy space inside with the bedroom all zipped up though!
I’m 5-10” and thought if I was over 6ft, then I’d be struggling for room..
It is a great little tent though and pitches in under 5 mins, which comes in handy if it’s raining..
I have made a few mods to mine, the first being cutting 1” off the second pole section from the end, this has now made it an absolute doddle to pitch!
I really don’t know how OEX have got this so wrong on all these tents, however, it is a relatively easy and simple fix, all said and done…
The second mod I’ve made is to zip-tie those hooks at the bottom to the inner, as they always come off after it has been packed away again, this just makes it even faster to pitch it all-in-one.
I like the headroom for sitting up in it with the bedroom door rolled down at the bottom, I measured this height at 105cm in the centre of the arch..
Like that it can also be used as a tarp with the inner removed altogether, and that you can partly unzip the main door at the top on either side, to use as a makeshift lookout/bird-hide too.
It also took 25 mph gusts in its stride ‘face on’ with no problem at all!
I personally think their is a lot going for this little shelter, as long as your under 6ft tall that is and don’t carry too much extra gear with you. 👍🏻
Thanks so much for sharing 👍
OEX haven't got the pole lengths wrong lol. Having high tension on it increases the strength of the tent - you have weakened yours.
I had the previous yellow model and used it at least yearly, usually 2-3 times a year for about 10 years, eventually the floor started letting in moisture on very wet days but otherwise it was still at great tent and lasted really well. Have just ordered this model so hope it is as well made.
I used it on SW Coast path, until I put it in tumble dryer. I tied 2 stakes to porch bit and back, and peg it upright, then stake it out, eventually after alot of use years constantly the back stretched abit but id replaced poles, very good tent, and I cut the porch vestibule sheet out to save weight, and got some lightweight stakes. I also bought a mosquito net with idea to cut weight, but never tried that, the zips are very strong, quick set up. very good and i put it up in very small spaces, as long as you got 7ft by 2ft space, that is flat, I put it up next to bench on hill, under trees in small areas, and it's very good colour for hiding it,
Thanks for sharing 👍
@@BackpackingUK I'm about 6ft, if you zip up inner it's only wide enough for you to put camp mat, you say 5ft 8 and not good for smaller, but big guy in scotland reviewed it, and he was 6ft 3 and said he liked it, plenty of leg room, but you only zip up that part to sleep. with the inner part unzipped it's quite big space, and especially unusual head height and leg length, you can sit up and not touch head on ceiling, or 1.94 kg, your looking at tunnel tent maybe,
Thanks I did consider this tent might stick with my bivvy tent it worked!!
Great video mate, appreciate the bad points highlighted as well.👍
Cheers 👍
Picked one up new today from GO for £49.
Had the Phoxx2 v2 until I fell on top of it and collapsed the poles. (totally my fault)
Had many weeks of use from it. Have full confidence in the Bobcat.
Can't go wrong for the price.
It's a bargain at £49!
@@BackpackingUK Thank You. Looking forwards to using it!
Like it because of its height and ease with which you can put it up. (Don’t need to remove inner tent after first use so even easier aftertaste that!). It is small but then it is a one man tent. I use it as a storage tent with my Campervan. Small, light and nice height so easy access, not all the crawling in and out business.
Nice review of my favourite tent! Small enough to park pretty much anywhere and bomb proof against heavy wind n rain. Had mine 2 years in all conditions and locations and hasn’t let me down. I’ve made a wee modification to mine which improves it even further! My winter wild camp video had details on that. Cheers!
Thanks for sharing 👍
Which video please>
@@stevelewis7077 at about 11:18 on this one fella. th-cam.com/video/wMJ0AW9gTuM/w-d-xo.html
DM me on insta if you need any details on the mod.
@@stevelewis7077 the first one on his home page 👍
@@mj6463 Got a link to said video?
Great, clear presentation. Subbed 👍
Welcome aboard!
You really sold it to me ! Lol
"I wont use it again...." made me chuckle
…and people keep telling me I’m too positive when I do my reviews! I think my conclusion here is fairly final 😂
its very similar to the Blacks Octane1 apart from the tiny overhang at the door and guy line middle of the back. its a good design that if you orientate it right will take 70mph winds with relative ease. Octane1 doesnt have the vestibule floor. ive always improvised one to slow the slugs journey to my boots so good idea OEX
My friend has this tent as we have been camping a fair bit. We some really strong wind up Kinder Scout and this tent was fine, I’ve upgrade the pegs on those stronger wind occasions. Great tent though in dry weather I’m not sure how enjoyable it would be in the rain.
I think all OEX tents are well suited to cope in poor weather. The design is well thought out for all seasons.
I’ve just got one of these yesterday
Great. They’re a bargain at the mo!
Hi Andy, amazing review, i just turned 16 today and this tent is on the way as we speak. I am 6ft flat and i layed in the tent at Go Outdoors and fit perfectly fine. I can't wait to try it. But do you have any tips on storing it outside the backback when i don't have clips at the bottom of the pack. For reference i have the Trespass inverary 45L. Thanks, love your videos.
Phoenix did this design in the 80s / 90s with their phoenix phreeranger. Trekkertent kept them going even today if you want one with modern materials. Then Terra Nova did it with their Terra Nova solar and voyager 2.2 (early 2000s maybe). Tarptent double rainbow is sort of similar but not quite
Thanks for sharing 👍
Snug and waterproof, I've used mine in all weathers including high winds. The only issue I have is that it's not particularly aerodynamic. If you pitch with the door on the leeward side, the entire profile of the tent is presented to the prevailing wind, like a sail. I normally use a delta peg on the guy on this side but it doesn't stop the fly curving in and robbing what little space you have. It was a struggle to locate the pole into the lugs until I trimmed 10mm off one section - now it's perfect.
Thanks for sharing! 👍
Ooh. New tent.
Your missus must be thrilled. Lol
😂😂😂
Honey, I shrunk the tent.
Hi Andy, I agree, far too snug for my liking. Also, at 1.9KG I think I prefer my Phoxx IIv2 which weighs in at 2.1KG, although it is an inner pitch first.
All the best, Dave.
I agree, the Phoxx 2 is a better tent.
Great review! Quick question - What groundsheet would you recommend with this tent!?
Personally, I don’t think it really needs one.
I bought that last week for Peak District next wkend
Let me know how you get on 👍
I have this tent and love it, just subbed you
Thanks for the sub!
Nice review Andy.
It’s not a bad looking tent, tbh.
Wonder what it would be like in real bad weather.
Can you please do a review on the Robens Starlight 1 please?
All the best.
I'll check it out 👍
@@BackpackingUK Thanks.
It’s a lot like the design of the 1980’s Phoenix Phreeranger & Phreerunners. The addition of a short cross pole would make a lot of a difference to the space inside. The Phoenix’s though were 2 man, and happily take 2 +6 footers. At the same weight of the OEX.
Thanks for sharing 👍
Also guy lines reflective - I have added 2 more main guys to give more stability. Virtually impossible to fit tent pole in clips that are sewn in so I've made one on a short adjustable line - problem solved. To save weight and increase space, tend to use outer with no inner. Have separate groundsheets to fit footprint. Have added some V-shaped pegs to main guys for soft ground. Nice to be able to sit upright in a backpacking tent. Cooking in rain inside tent awkward but achievable.
Thanks for sharing 👍
Great review . and great site . on the OEX BoBcat 1. I am seeking a suitable tent , lite, compact for Gravel biking / wild camping . this tent, does it have air vents in the main body ..? Cheers
I think this would be a really hot tent in summer. Personally, I'd take a look at the Naturehike tents if you're a 3 season camper.
Great video.
I agree with you buddy that most OEX tents can be used for 4 seasons. At least here in the UK. As we don’t really have snow to worry about for the most part. For me I like a mix solid walls and mesh. All mesh definitely 2-3 season. But I would much rather be slightly colder in winter than wet due to the condensation you tend to get with most true 4 seasons tents as they tend to be solid walled with little or no mesh for air flow. The tent definitely interesting to me, but to fair I have a serious tent problem lol 🤣 my naturehike cloud up 2 I used most often for me currently.
True, solid mesh = condensation, especially when in a small tent like this one. However, it’s warm so you can’t have it both ways 😂
@@BackpackingUK if only there was a tent that does it all. I’d pay an arm and leg for it too 😂
Can you pitch "in one" like the Macpac ?
This is an almost a direct copy I think of the Bergahus Peak 3.1 I have although this is a few years old now. And it's red which isn't ideal. But as a 1 person tent for an overnight it's fine and with more headroom than the coffin style OEX 1 man I also have which pitches inner 1st. So I'd still go with the berghaus if you can get it.
I checked that out, it really does look similar!
I'm 6'1" am I gonna struggle then in this? I was looking at it today at go outdoors and really liked the look and after watching this I like it even more 👌
To be honest I think you will! You’d be better off in a Phoxx 2 if you like OEX tents.
@@BackpackingUK hey thank you mate that's much appreciated I will check them out 👌👌
@@BackpackingUK just watched the phoxx 2 review you suggested and yep you're right I'd definitely be better off with that one. Thank you 👍
Gotta love tents that allow you to set up the fly first and then the inner. But yeah this is way too small even for me (im only 162cm/51kg). I think the tent would benefit more if the vestibule door can be propped up by poles, creating a small outdoor area to cook under the rain. The design also reminds me a bit of the Bundok Solo Dome tent.
Nice review as always Andy. Cheers!
Totally agree with the vestibule door, they missed a trick there. My only issue with the vestibule is you have to climb over your gear to get out!
I have a macpac ultralight zenith ,. And the bobcat looks like it's based on it.
Is there a way for me to purchase this and ship to Philippines. Your link says it’s currently unavailable
What is the floor waterproof grade in HH ? If ypu can answer please
I'm your newest subscriber. 10 aug 22
Welcome aboard!
I've seen a few of these OEX Bobcat1 tents in brown for sale on Amazon, Black's & Ebay etc, you mentioned not to buy the brown one. Other than colour, what's the difference?
They don’t exist! The stock photos are all brown but in reality they’re all green. Don’t ask me why but if you were to look on Google images you’d only ever find green ones in real life.
Cheers ears- I found this ver ver informative
Does it pack smaller than the banshee pro 200 ?
Yes!
They are 50 pounds at my local go outdoors should I get one for scouting?
They’re a bargain at £49!
I like this tent, but the pole is so hard to put in when 1st pitching and i bent mine a wee bit on my 2nd camp, its great for stealth camping and hh 5000 is great 👍 got mine for £80. top tip, if you're 5'10" or smaller it's ok, but it definitely does feel cramped and I'm 5'10". I also think it needs 2 guylines at the back as it seems to sag too much.
The pole is one of the hardest I have ever tried. Just make sure all the fly is fully pulled through first. I wish the inner connected to the fly on the back, that would have the inner feel much larger.
Their is an easy fix for this issue with the saggy inner tent!
After much deliberation about the mod I could use to solve this issue, I realised it was a very quick and simple fix indeed, all you need are a couple of strong neodymium magnets - placed where the rear guy-line connects, one on the outer and the other on the inner tent.. I tried this out with a couple of small week ones (although they were not strong enough and popped straight off again) to begin with..
Amazing the extra room/feel this simple fix gives you when fully zipped inside the sleeping compartment!
I then brought some good quality round coin-style magnets (15x5mm - £11) online, with a strong 6kg-pull-weight, and these were plenty strong enough to hold the inner in place!
Although personally, I’m still preferring my Bobcat just as a tarp-tent shelter, I’ve now cut 3cm off each end of the pole to get it to ‘hunker down’ and sit fully on the ground, with no gaps at the bottom of the fly, although I have now lost 2” of headroom, but deffo worth it to have no gap and drafts coming underneath anymore with having no inner inside..
I had to modify the peg-out points too, by making holes further up the tabs and then putting in some brass eyelets, again to aid in pulling the fly right down to the ground.
It still has enough ventilation with the mesh under the rain flap on the door, but I can always open that little area also on the zips - if I need more airflow through!
I have really enjoyed modding my Bobcat, it was crying out to be improved 👍🏻
I had the same problem , i did find the strap which gave a little movement but yes definitely a bit stiff
What about condensation build up
Not good, but to be fair that applies to all one person, four season tents.
Do you think someone who is 6’4 would fit inside the bobcat ? I’m not bothered about touching the sides I just want to able to sleep inside it im 192 cm but it’s 200cm long
Personally, I’d leave this tent well alone if you’re that tall.
I bought this tent but had to return it, as a 6 foot+ bloke I found it a little uncomfortable, particularly with the fabric hanging down on my face in the middle of the night!
I don't blame you! It's a shame it's not a bit bigger because it's a nice design.
oex mega fan
Attach the bedroom first and then it's just pitch in one go with a dry bedroom
This is a great tent. How much did you pay for it? Great review.
Forget it. You answered my question. Should have watched the whole thing before I commented 😅
haha it's ok!. The price fluctuates massively. I would recommend googling it to see who's selling it the cheapest and who has offer codes on.
@@BackpackingUK have you ever reviewed the Coshee Micro Tent from wild country. I have seen it for about £150 on Cotswold outdoors.
Copy of the phoenix phrerunner from the late 80s.
Fantastic tent.
I opted for the berghaus peak 3.1 pro, weighs only 1.7k ..same sort of design, have used it in all seasons on the mountains in the scottish Highlands..unfortunately can't buy it now
It looks very similar.
im always skeptical of reviewers that put affiliate links in the description. there is a direct conflict of interest against being honest about the items negative features.
Why? It’s not like we’ve been paid. Also, if your reviews are BS, no one will subscribe, so if a creator has a decent following it’s fairly safe to say you can trust them.
you make money the more people click that link. so from that fact alone i think the review could be biased. thats my opinion, you are welcome to have your own.
I've bought a Phoxx off the back of the excellent reviews ... Whilst the tents are great, I think people
need to keep in mind Blacks/Millets/etc use Evri (the re-branding of the often loathed Hermes);
Which means communication is near non existant, if you have a problem with your delivery. Asking Millets for info, similarly doesn't always meet with useful assistance, as presumably, they have just as
hard a time trying to get guidance from Evri as we might .... So, in my humble opinion, I would say, yes,
buy OEX tents/items, but save yourself potential problems, and buy IN THE SHOP itself!
Totally agree, buy in the shop if you can. The shop will also price match what's online.
Today Sunday 23 Oct 2022 your link shows a price of £49. That IS a good price for a 4 season tent sun 2kg 🙂
100%, it’s an absolute bargain at that price!
It's a pity that you can't buy it with shipping to Poland
Best 1 man tent on market for price .
If you get it under £100 it's a really good tent for the money.
Hello mate, What about someone who is 5,11 like myself?
You would just be ok.
Hi Andy I have this tent and yes is small one thing you can do with the outer door which is good is use to trekking poles to hold it up which gives you more space if it rains and shelter from the sun
Atb Graham
Totally agree!
Just got this from GO Outdoors for £59 in there Sale 😀..
Bargain!!!
My mate had one and he was 6ft tall...couldn’t sit in it or lie in it without touching the sides or roof ..very small too no room for your gear and pack ...couldn’t really cook in the vestibule if it was raining
Yes, I can believe it!
Ppl need to stop giving this tent good reviews, the price has gone through the roof 😂
North ridge col 1
Can you pack it with the inner liner attached? For me that’s always a bind to do
I’m fairly sure you can!
@@BackpackingUK Cheers. I’ve just bought it so can confirm it’s doable 👍
Im 6'4"
I use a 4m x 4m budget tarp because I dont fit in most tents and the ones I have camped in all leaked.
My blue tarp was the best £10 ive spent
I don't have that trouble as I'm a vertically challenged! 😂
A better tent is the Berghaus Peak 3. 1, or the Pro version. Same design but longer with slightly less head room. Unfortunately it’s not being made now, but you still see them on eBay regular.
Thanks for sharing 👍
Great video ,till you said you wouldn’t use it again,that’s a shame .😢
It’s just a bit small for me. Still a cracking little tent though.
But the Army also say skin's waterproof, if it ain't raining, it ain't t training 🤣
😂😂😂
You start the video by saying this tent is great and finish by saying this tent is shit I'll never use it again. Which one is it great or shit ?
It’s both depending on how tall you are.
Anyone here 6ft with the bobcat
Check out the OEX Facebook group, people in there definitely have 👍
Cheers il have a look
Not a word about ventilation, insect mesh
There's a reason for that!
So basically what you have is a North ridge col light one-man tent they've just changed the name of the tent.
Yes, it's very similar.
read description, 2kg one man, yeah nah.
In it's defence it is more of a 4 season tent.
@@BackpackingUK Just move to Australia problem solved.
Not keen on this model, its a very odd shape.
It's a bit of a Marmite tent. Some people absolutely love it whilst others hate it!
I've got one for sale 😁 I'm 6ft and too small for me
I don’t blame you. It’s not that it’s a bad tent, just that’s it’s suited to smaller people.
So basically it's shit.
So it's tiny inside, heavy, difficult to pitch, cheaply made, large pack size for a 1p, and bad in hot weather due to lack of ventilation. It's cheap, and that's the only thing it has going for it. Interesting choice of words by labeling it as "brilliant" in the opening monologue. It looks like pure shit.
It's not that bad!!!
I can see how it polarises views. I still have, and have had many tents over the years, all more expensive than this, but the Bobcat is my favourite. Never come across a porch as big, it's thick material so quite robust, hence it's weight. Take the poles out of the bag and it compresses to less than half the size. Built in groundsheet is great in the porch, it's good in wind and better than most for condensation. I know of no other tent at 1.4m wide that gives so much and allows me to camp in comfort where others can't. It's not like it's a secret that the sleeping area is small. It's Marmite, but if you like Marmite and have an open mind, it's great fun. It's far from pure shit.
Typical obnoxious yank
Difficult to pitch?🤣
TenT not a Ten.
No time at all ...🫤bro really lol