I camped in that OEX in a gale and lashing rain in the Lakes.... No problems, kept me dry and safe and sound and no condensation ... Tip: peg the inner and fly together for security. 👍
I have the OEX Rakoon and it is a fantastic tent. Took it out for a 3 day hike along the coast and it withstood some strong winds and a decent downpours when pitched on top of the cliffs
Hi sheamus , I bought the oex rakoon 2 about 3 years ago , £55 quid from G,O,D ( price matched through tent shopper ) think I got a bargain & it ain't let me down yet 🤞 just subbed great channel 👍
Thanks Graham, I’m just in the middle of moving house (hopefully in by Christmas) - So the channel will be re-emerging in the new year … from the Brecon Beacons 🏴
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Good luck with the move Shamus That’s fantastic I love your channel and have watched so many over again. Be great to see you both out again.🐶 Atb Graham 😃
Thank you 😊 I do try not to come over as a review... I just say wants in front of me - there is another video on my channel where I gave that tent a s good wallop in some wind 🐶👍👍🐶
I spent 48 hours in the rakkon, been carp fishing and fell asleep with my top half in the tent and legs hanging out, its great space and it keeps heat so thats my review 😂😂
Glad i've come across your channel, i am really enjoying it. You are sharing all your knowledge in such a clear and well put together way, kinda feels like watching paid for training course. You mention the 'fake' reviews that people do in their living rooms with a brand new peace of gear that they have never used, it's always been a pet hate of mine and youtube is littered with them unfortunately.
Hi Toby, thank you 😊 To be honest it’s why I haven’t done anything for YT during this lock down. Mind you, I’ve been tempted to do some ‘garden’ type reviews - but the lawn is like a swimming pool at the moment 😂 Thank you for watching, I really appreciate it 👍🐶👍
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Haha of course, well if you have used the gear then the surroundings are irrelevant, they should correctly name their videos to 'first impressions'.
I just bought the 2 prs version of this 3F UL tent and was anxious that I'd made a bad choice. It's very difficult to find reviews in English of it. But now after seeing your review, I can see that there's nothing to worry about. It is a clone of the MSL Hubba Hubba, which is a state of the art ultra-lightweight tent. But for me that's too expensive at about £400. For a weight conscious backpacker, this is perfect. If I could change my order now after seeing this, I'd switch to the 1 person version because I can see that the vestibule space would be ample for my needs and there would be a weight saving. There are 3 and 4 season inner options available now and you can order the alternate inner separately. So if you get the 4 season inner included with the tent, you can order the 3 season inner later on for about £50, which has much more mesh for summer temperatures.
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Hello again Seamus. I just received shipment of the 3F UL tent. First impressions are really good. It's very light for its size. All stitching is of high quality as are the anodised aluminium fixings and straps. Tensioning buckles are of good quality as are the supplied pegs and compression sack. The floor fabric is quite thin, so the supplied groundsheet is a must unless you know you are pitching on lawn. Really there are no problems or issues that I can see. So far I'm very happy. However I can't endorse the tent until I have tested it in the rain and also assessed the longevity of the poles. These are the two things I worry about until I test it in real conditions. So I will report back whenever I have had it overnight in the wind and rain. Delivery was very fast overall. It took maybe 7 days before it was dispatched but only 4 days after before delivery. The supplier was the official 3F store on AliExpress. They seem to have used TNT, so top marks for speed of delivery.
I bought a Racoon 2.1 yesterday. Good weight nice looking plenty to access. slept in it last night and it was warm enough. brought it back today the flat roof design let it down as it leaks. I'd call it a fair weather tent at best. I'm used to sleeping under a tarp and stay dry.
Hi mate. Just came across your channel 👍. I have the OEX Rakoon tent and I've camped on some rough weather in the Scottish Highlands and it's not disappointed. Only downside it's a bit heavy for a back pack, but if you're camping not to far away from the car it's absolutely fine. I wouldn't hike up a Munro with it. ATB Martin
Hello Shamus, I've just found your channel today! Would you consider uploading another video again soon mate? Apparently youtube is deleting channels that have been inactive for over two years. Maybe just a quick update video? You've got a great channel, it'd be a shame for it to be deactivated. Have a nice weekend.
Thanks, that’s very much appreciated - we will be uploading a gain. The Google ‘deletion’ thing is to do with the entire account, so provided you use mail or log in, watch TH-cam etc they are happy 👍
Nicely laid out! I like the cost-weight-durability triangle (stealing!) I'd definitely urge taking it easy with a new shelter, and having a plan for what the Americans call "noping out".
Extremely interesting and informative as always. Always learning which make watching even more compelling. Petra is an absolute star ⭐️. Lost our GSD Oscar in August but would like to be able to wild camp with our next one Alfie due In November fingers crossed so any tips welcome Shamus! Love to ‘dog’ section videos too. Thanks
My tent cost £70 it weighs about 2kg,it is durable had it for a few years and still going only issue is condensation :( it is quite cold in there but windproof and waterproof. Really want to get a good one smaller than our bloody beacon (bright blue but use a tarp to hide it from monsters in the woods haha). Great video would love to be able to afford a new 2 man tent (covid-redundant) would love a bivvy looking one :D. Informative,great video,i'm now tent envy.
Very informative video and you continue to inspire me to do more wild camping. An idea for another video, perhaps now we are entering Autumn/Winter - a guide to layering and insulated jackets down v synthetic etc.
Nice to hear somone talking sense about gear and opinion as some garden reviews give wrong info about equipment long term testing is needed as you say opinion is when you have just bought it and review should be after six months of use in all weathers thanks
Another great informative video,about all the little things,that alot of others forget to mention.Got couple tarps,Banchee 200,plus Hex peak with single and double inner.Would love to see the 3f in a bit bad weather.
Thanks Keith, I’ll give the 3F a go in some weather this autumn 👍 I have a Hex Peak with 3 different single inners 😂 it’s like it has its own collection 🤣
Hi great video, I have just bought the OEX Racoon 2 mainly for 1 overnighter summer wild camping, and because of weight I wanted to utilisew it for when I am campsite camping and day hiking, due to space I though this could be my ideal campsite tent, , I am sure the tent is worth it just for good conditions, I am also sure it is ok for dry breezy conditions, but could you tell me how it bears up in heavy rain in non windy conditions? I hear reports of roof leaking, puddle effect due to pole design? can that be eliminated by changing modifying the guy lines or somehow tensioning the 2 poles closer at the roof with cordage? I have also read that some people set up the outer in heavy rain haha no idea how that is done, but I would like to record someone setting it up on video
Thanks Ian, I’ve never used the tent in heavy wind or rain. I would suspect the ‘puddle’ roof ‘thing’ is likely; I’ve seen it in similar designs. Having said that, it is great value for money and provides a very roomy shelter 👍
Being cheap doesn't always mean that it won't stand up to storms. My last tent was relatively cheap (under £100) and was a 4 man dome tent. It not only withstood hurricanes but snow and torrential rain. Outstripped a number of other tents. Wish I still had it but lost it after indycamp and cannae mind the name of the tent.
Hi Petra and Shamus, My take on tents for what its worth! Buy the strongest tent that you can afford and are fit to carry!! if you are going to go wild camping in the mountains on a frequent basis then sooner or later its going to be mush windier that the weather forecast!! When this happens you want to be in a Hilleb___g.
Absolutely agree Tom. I own more Hillebergs than I dare to admit but I do this sort of thing for a living. The problem when wild camping is that you never know when the weather is going to change and if you're in a cheap tent when a storm hits then you are potentially putting your life on the line. I've pitched on a mountain summit in glorious weather only to be hit by 80 mile an hour winds and rain in the night. I know that a Hilleberg will always keep me dry and safe whereas when I was younger and poorer I have had to bail out in the middle of the night and retreat to safer ground when using a lower quality tent.
Another excellent video Shamus!!! Thank you! As I prepare to hike the AT I really need a tent that will keep Mako and I dry. I can’t afford the Hilleberg, somewhere on the middle can you recommend? You are so honest and respectful of product.. I really appreciate that because yes no one can really review a tent unless they have been out in the elements!!! Again thx!!!
Good, fair video. Stitching and guyline detail is often missed so 👍. I've got a lot of tents from Hille and Nanok, TN, Lightwave down to cheaper ones. It's diminishing returns to be honest. Is a Hille 5 times "better" than a Vango F10. No, it's not. But it is undoubtedly better, and on the Cairngorm plateau in March in 70mph winds, any margin of "better" does matter. Nice work, gorgeous pooch too, ATB, 👍
@@darthkek1953 90 mph is hurricane classification on the Beaufort scale. I suspect most tents will struggle with a consistent wind of 90 mph to be fair. There are so many factors beside tent material to be considered such as wind direction, wind change windows and quality of both pitch and pitching, as I said, the Hilleberg gives you an edge (although depends on model, as with any tent) but fully exposed to 90 mph winds at altitude? I’d be questioning the users decision making and planning before looking at tent construction to be honest, unless of course it is a serious expedition type undertaking of course. 😊
@@mountain_del1863 the highest wind speed on the Cairngorm Plateau is recorded at 175 mph. OK that's a bit harsh but in winter be it Scotland or Scandinavia you can get hit with winds VASTLY above that which the weather people predicted. A guy I know pitched a way up Ben Nevis with an expected storm but nothing fruity, without warning it turned near hurricane from 30 to 70 mph. I'd never use my Hilleberg during the 3 seasons, but now I have a Hilleberg is the first time I can properly explore the winter munros multi-day and have real confidence in the shelter. The wind and snow can really smash down here, quick, and without warning.
@@darthkek1953 aye, I'm Scottish, I've been climbing in Scotland for 35 years bud. Actually ran my old F10 Baltoro up Braeriach in 65 mph a couple of weeks ago shared with a mate but at 3.8 kg (still 2kg each) it's still too much. Handled it no problems TBF, but it's a full geo. I'd like a Soulo (have an AKTO but it's a faff and can't get on with the condensation) but reticent to crash 800 quid on yet another tent😂😂😂. Honestly? MWIS, Met Office SAIS and a good Swatch at the map for Leeward side pitches can save a hell a lot of angst. Saying that, I hate the wind so maybe I'm especially averse. No doubt though, Hille are very good tents for the weight.... probably the best. ATB mate 👍
Novice alert! I haven't slept inside a tent before but I plan to as I bought the oex rakoon 2.1 tent as seen in this video. How would i make a tope to stretch out the problematic section of the tent where the outer bottom is in contact with the inner bathtub. I told you, I'm a complete novice and starting from the bottom. I would like to learn how to do this before using the tent to sleep in. Any advice welcomed.
Hi Andy, I assume you me the end of the flysheet wall where it can reveal the inner tent? Tent modifications aren't my thing, and I have no expertise in it... but what I will probably do with this is stitch a small loop of textile tape (sandwiching the flysheet edge) with a reinforcing patch and then tie in a piece of elastic. It wouldn't have to be tensioned too much, just enough to pull out the edge and peg it down - then seam seal. My advice would be to leave it unless it becomes a problem 👍
I have noticed 2 panels on my Torridon that may well need extra tie-outs the same as this. I'm going to leave it for now until it becomes an issue as per Shamus's advice, although I have searched for a fix online in-case it needs sorting and read that a spare patch of fabric with a loop sewn on can be glued to the fly using Seam Grip. This method avoids sewing directly to the fly panel.
Would a tarp clamp work? I’ve not used one myself but they are designed to attach to tarpaulins and you can get them from Amazon, diy stores etc. They clip on to the edge of the tarp or fly sheet and provide a lashing point with no damage to the tarp or need for sewing loops. As with anything quality is variable so I would look at camping sites with reviews if they have them but I don’t think they’re expensive.
Great content as always Shamus, inspiring, but not helping my bank balance, lol! I think in addition to "Leave no trace" Wild campers should use the phrase "Can't take it with you", to ease the relentless looking for new gear guilt?
Hi Mike, we all know that it needn't be expensive ... but it is 😂 The same gear I used 40 years ago should be good enough for today - we're driven by consumerism aren't we? I must dash, I ve just spotted a nice shiny stove on website 😁😁😂😂😁😁 (I'm kidding)
How do you find the hexpeak in comparison to the Akto? I’ve only ever had my hexpeak in winds up to 30 mph and would be interested to know how it gets on in stronger winds
Hi Craig. My choices are sort of skewed because I always have a dog. I’ve had an Akto for many years - it suited me and a spaniel very well. It takes a beating and is nice and cosy. I bought the Hex because Petra is a much larger dog and it seemed the thing to do. I haven’t had the Hex out in ‘heavy weather’ but I’ve seam sealed it and added guy lines for that happy day 😊 In truth I prefer the Akto, it is so simple to pitch, Hex tents take longer to pitch and I don’t find the additional head room all that useable. Having said that, I have spent hundreds of nights in very robust pyramid tents in Antarctica. Many of those camps were for prolonged polar winter conditions - because of the shape ie a ‘pointy triangle’, the design sheds wind very well - and believe me, I’ve had some terrible nights where I’ve wondered if we would survive. The Hex is marginally heavier and certainly a bit bulkier than the Akto to carry - if it was likely to tip down with rain, I think I’d take the Hex just for space to get out of the weather comfortably.
I do wonder about buying something that is a blatant copy. It doesn't sit very comfortably with me 🤔 I don't own a tent but hope one day I will. But I don't know how much use I'll get from a tent so it's tough to choose.
The trouble is that many tents, in fact most kit, has been copied and replicated across the globe - The tents I primarily use are made by a premium manufacturer, Hilleberg, replicated designs really don't meet the same standards. Many people buy direct from the manufacturers in China now - through Ali Express - I wouldn't recommend it to the 'uninitiated' to be honest. Then theres the decline in domestic retail markets to be considered. For what it's worth, I bought that tent used form somebody in Scotland :)
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 what people don't understand about Naturehike and 3FUL is they didn't start their business to sell western designs to western people. A lot of western companies are (surprise surpise) a bit shit in supporting remote parts of Asia, Russia, etc. and it was westernish tents for Asian people who were the intended market. I've spoken to 3F UL people and they were shocked by the sales of the LanShans to the US and elsewhere - and the reason the Pro is so large in the bathtub is due to tall-people western feedback. Naturehike and 3F don't sell anything that can compete with Hilleberg, but they sell tents that perform as-well or better than MSR, Agnes, 6 Moons, etc., at somewhere between half and a quarter of the price.
Interesting video, mate. I have a question about guy lines: How are they best to set up, should they be as far away from the tie off point as possible, as close as possible or somewhere in between? Is there a general rule of thumb?
They need to be far enough away that the supportive vector that they provide is effective. Too close and they won’t be providing enough horizontal support to the structure - that’s how I see it... does that make sense?
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 I think so, it's a difficult thing to explain in messages, I guess. I've always staked them out as far as possible, but I think I'll have a play in the future to see if I get a feel that somewhere in that middle ground is better. I hate tripping over guy lines!
@@theatomictrain10 - I think that’s the balance to be struck 👍 Longer lines provide better stability, but short ones are ineffective. I generally don’t trip in lines but the dog does 🐶😂🐶
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Ah, so I was right in my thinking of the longer the guy line the better? Maybe, I'll guy everything out as stable as possible, apart from near the entrance. Best of both worlds.
I find the length of guy rope is inversely proportionate to the number and/or proximity of other campers: i .e. more campers, shorter guy ropes. I’ve had 2 tents damaged by people tripping over guy lines. It got to the point where I changed my original guy ropes for high viz ones and glow in the dark line locks, not so aesthetically pleasing but it has reduced the number of idiots tripping over them. 🙄
With the stitching on the OEX tent, is it something that could be improved with seam sealing? It is quite an attractive model for that price. I have a Hex Peak for lighter trips and a big Vango tent for my car. The latter is heavy, bulky and difficult to dry, living in a small flat! I've been thinking about going a bit lighter and more compact. Maybe next year. If you come in to some windfall of spare cash any time soon, I'd love to see a comparison between the Soulo and Naturehike's copy, the Cloud Peak 2... ;-) Another enjoyable video. Thanks very much! All the best.
I have a Naturehike Cloud-Peak 2 and it's a clone of the Hilleberg Allak 2, not the Soulo. The differences are robustness, and the fact the Allaks skirt hits the ground (as is the case in all their Black & Red label tents) wereas the Cloud-Peak doesn't (so more like the Yellow label). What does that all mean? I've pitched and had exposed winds of about 30mph, but I wouldn't want to have much more. Too much stress starts to be put on the stitching, it's so big it catches the wind. Oh, and the roof cap is flappy in breeze. HOWEVER. It's a cavern, and cheap (I got mine at discount for £115). I love the size. I just wouldn't pitch it on a summit in a gale.
@@darthkek1953 - That sounds like a good value tent. Roof vent textile often vibrates / oscillates in the wind on the Soulo. It has a tab on it, probably to attach a ‘guy’ to reduce this.
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 the lid on the Peak-2 is very flimsy and it's crazy loud even in moderate wind. Thing is UNLIKE the Soulo etc there is a gap under the skirt so the tent gets plenty of airflow. That lid is there for non-vented tents! So my plan next year is to cut up the lid and get the local Polish tailor woman to stitch fabric from the lid onto the two top panels then obviously I would seal the seam. That means I won't need the lid. I don't mind doing that on a Naturehike, I dread to think about doing that to a Hilly! But as I said, that Hilly needs the vent, the Peak does not.
Very interesting video Shamus. I personally have thee Hilleberg tents and do not mind the slight extra weight. The only one I'm concerned about is the Soulo. All though it is extremely strong it would be nice if there was a little more width in the inner tent. Thanks Steve.
Great content, video and a sub from me. I was waiting for you to head butt a tent then walk in with security 👍👏🏻🏕⛺️👏🏻👍 Nature Hike Cloud Up 2 and OEX Phoxx II v2 also highly recommended 👍
Yeah it is hard not to purchase anything that's been produced in china. I looked at one of my first tents the other day the Gelert Solo and thought what fun I had in it. Everything is relative. Still, I wouldn't spend £1,200 on a tent. There are great tents that can hold up in a storm for a quarter that price. The things people will do for that prized external image. It's much like North Face Vs Craghoppers. They'll get you by. Mark
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Aaah, then it comes down to that old thing called class and access to resources. We could talk a long time about the differentials that exist and the impact it has upon feelings of self worth and or moral. Gotta climb the ladder for this stuff. I'm off on one now. Have a good one.
There are storms and there are STORMS. Hilleberg tents are so strong even their WEAKEST £800 4-seaon tents are used on MULTI-MONTH arctic-condition expeditions. Please, please, PLEASE tell me this 2kg £200 tent that can withstand hundred mile an hour winds on the Cairngorm Plateau. I mean, I've only spent years looking for one before going for a 2nd hand Hilleberg. Don't get me wrong many people buy Hilleberg and they have absolutely no reason to (Abbie Barnes is a perfect example, wondering why she's sweating her tits off in an expedition tent at sea level in summer) but when things get REALLY harsh there is no other piece of fabric I'd want to carry into the wilds.
would have been better to actually test in windy and rainy weather. A good tent in my view must hold up to Scottish weather which can be very unpredictable in the wild.
I camped in that OEX in a gale and lashing rain in the Lakes.... No problems, kept me dry and safe and sound and no condensation ... Tip: peg the inner and fly together for security. 👍
Thanks, Stephen 😊 Thats really excellent feedback 👍👌
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 no worries mate... I love your reviews, that pooch is cool 👍
@@stephenfurlong7505 thank you 😊 👍
I have the OEX Rakoon and it is a fantastic tent. Took it out for a 3 day hike along the coast and it withstood some strong winds and a decent downpours when pitched on top of the cliffs
Excellent 👌
One of the best, most honest tent reviews I think I've ever watched. Great job, thank you.
Thank you Tim 😊 I really appreciate that 😊👍🐶
Shamus you are the best and most thorough reviewer I have come across.
I never knew Goldberg was this proficient at reviewing tents, absolutely brilliant!
Definitely earned a like + sub :)
Hi sheamus , I bought the oex rakoon 2 about 3 years ago , £55 quid from G,O,D ( price matched through tent shopper ) think I got a bargain & it ain't let me down yet 🤞 just subbed great channel 👍
Thank you Martin 😊 I appreciate that 😊👍🐶
Petra is a beauty❤️
Thank you ☺️ 🐶
Had a few oex tents, never had a leak on any seams or zipz. Quality gear for the price.
i dont even need a new tent, just love these vidoes :D
Thank you very much 😊 I really appreciate that 👍🐶👍
OEX is a great value for money brand. I own the phoxx2 and it's a great tent. Highly recommended.
Thank you 😊 The Phoxx II comes very well recommended doesn’t it 😊👍🐶
Hi shamus
Just watching this vid again.
I hope your doing well.
Really miss seeing you out on new vids.
Be great if you made some new ones.
Atb Graham
Thanks Graham, I’m just in the middle of moving house (hopefully in by Christmas) - So the channel will be re-emerging in the new year … from the Brecon Beacons 🏴
@@outdoorsinspiration9284
Good luck with the move Shamus
That’s fantastic I love your channel and have watched so many over again.
Be great to see you both out again.🐶
Atb Graham 😃
Been using the rakoon 2.1 love this tent standing up to some pretty harsh weathers here on isle of man .... Great video atb chris
I'm planning on buying the rakoon, but I've noticed the top of the tent is flat and I'm worried about heavy rain and snow. Does it leak ?
@@ra444vlz it looks flat but rain will run off .. snow with anything it will stand .... just knock off .....its a good tent .
@@Welshchris13 Thank you for answering! Really appreciate it.
@@ra444vlz your welcome... Happy camping 🙂
The best review so far of this 3f tent anyway, and great info on how to view a tent
Thank you 😊 I do try not to come over as a review... I just say wants in front of me - there is another video on my channel where I gave that tent a s good wallop in some wind 🐶👍👍🐶
Thanks think I'll go for the OEX
Thanks for watching, Ian. They have plenty of designs to choose from. Enjoy it and enjoy the great outdoors 👍
I spent 48 hours in the rakkon, been carp fishing and fell asleep with my top half in the tent and legs hanging out, its great space and it keeps heat so thats my review 😂😂
It’s spacious isn’t it, and a fraction of the cost of a fishing bivvi!
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 agreed, oex are doing bits recently 👌
Very good video. Subscribed for sure. Keep it up
Glad i've come across your channel, i am really enjoying it. You are sharing all your knowledge in such a clear and well put together way, kinda feels like watching paid for training course. You mention the 'fake' reviews that people do in their living rooms with a brand new peace of gear that they have never used, it's always been a pet hate of mine and youtube is littered with them unfortunately.
Hi Toby, thank you 😊 To be honest it’s why I haven’t done anything for YT during this lock down. Mind you, I’ve been tempted to do some ‘garden’ type reviews - but the lawn is like a swimming pool at the moment 😂
Thank you for watching, I really appreciate it 👍🐶👍
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Haha of course, well if you have used the gear then the surroundings are irrelevant, they should correctly name their videos to 'first impressions'.
I just bought the 2 prs version of this 3F UL tent and was anxious that I'd made a bad choice. It's very difficult to find reviews in English of it. But now after seeing your review, I can see that there's nothing to worry about. It is a clone of the MSL Hubba Hubba, which is a state of the art ultra-lightweight tent. But for me that's too expensive at about £400. For a weight conscious backpacker, this is perfect. If I could change my order now after seeing this, I'd switch to the 1 person version because I can see that the vestibule space would be ample for my needs and there would be a weight saving. There are 3 and 4 season inner options available now and you can order the alternate inner separately. So if you get the 4 season inner included with the tent, you can order the 3 season inner later on for about £50, which has much more mesh for summer temperatures.
Can you let me know how you get on with this when your order turns up, I would be very interested 😊👍🐶
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 I will indeed. I'm still waiting for delivery but I'll let you know how it turns out.
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Hello again Seamus. I just received shipment of the 3F UL tent. First impressions are really good. It's very light for its size. All stitching is of high quality as are the anodised aluminium fixings and straps. Tensioning buckles are of good quality as are the supplied pegs and compression sack. The floor fabric is quite thin, so the supplied groundsheet is a must unless you know you are pitching on lawn. Really there are no problems or issues that I can see. So far I'm very happy. However I can't endorse the tent until I have tested it in the rain and also assessed the longevity of the poles. These are the two things I worry about until I test it in real conditions. So I will report back whenever I have had it overnight in the wind and rain. Delivery was very fast overall. It took maybe 7 days before it was dispatched but only 4 days after before delivery. The supplier was the official 3F store on AliExpress. They seem to have used TNT, so top marks for speed of delivery.
I bought a Racoon 2.1 yesterday. Good weight nice looking plenty to access. slept in it last night and it was warm enough. brought it back today the flat roof design let it down as it leaks. I'd call it a fair weather tent at best. I'm used to sleeping under a tarp and stay dry.
Thanks Ron, I think the flat aspect to the flysheet is a vulnerability, I had this with another tent where water would pool 😊👍🐶
Hi mate. Just came across your channel 👍. I have the OEX Rakoon tent and I've camped on some rough weather in the Scottish Highlands and it's not disappointed. Only downside it's a bit heavy for a back pack, but if you're camping not to far away from the car it's absolutely fine. I wouldn't hike up a Munro with it.
ATB
Martin
Thank you Martin 😊 That's great feedback on the tent - it's very spacious and versatile so it's nice to hear it can take some weather as well 👍😊🐶
OEX rakoon is an outstanding tent for the money. 5000hh. No water getting into that tent.
It’s certainly good value 👍😊🐶
Hello Shamus, I've just found your channel today! Would you consider uploading another video again soon mate? Apparently youtube is deleting channels that have been inactive for over two years. Maybe just a quick update video? You've got a great channel, it'd be a shame for it to be deactivated. Have a nice weekend.
Thanks, that’s very much appreciated - we will be uploading a gain. The Google ‘deletion’ thing is to do with the entire account, so provided you use mail or log in, watch TH-cam etc they are happy 👍
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Hello, ahhh right okay, sorry for the misinformation haha. Have a nice weekend Shamus.
Nicely laid out! I like the cost-weight-durability triangle (stealing!) I'd definitely urge taking it easy with a new shelter, and having a plan for what the Americans call "noping out".
Hi Kirsten, I like that ‘noping out’ 👍😊
Extremely interesting and informative as always. Always learning which make watching even more compelling. Petra is an absolute star ⭐️. Lost our GSD Oscar in August but would like to be able to wild camp with our next one Alfie due In November fingers crossed so any tips welcome Shamus! Love to ‘dog’ section videos too. Thanks
Thanks John, they're great companions aren't they 😊👍🐶
My tent cost £70 it weighs about 2kg,it is durable had it for a few years and still going only issue is condensation :( it is quite cold in there but windproof and waterproof. Really want to get a good one smaller than our bloody beacon (bright blue but use a tarp to hide it from monsters in the woods haha). Great video would love to be able to afford a new 2 man tent (covid-redundant) would love a bivvy looking one :D. Informative,great video,i'm now tent envy.
Thank you 😊 wishing you the best of luck 👍👌
Very informative video and you continue to inspire me to do more wild camping. An idea for another video, perhaps now we are entering Autumn/Winter - a guide to layering and insulated jackets down v synthetic etc.
That’s a good idea, Michael - added tommy list - thank you 😊
Nice to hear somone talking sense about gear and opinion as some garden reviews give wrong info about equipment long term testing is needed as you say opinion is when you have just bought it and review should be after six months of use in all weathers thanks
Thanks Stephen, that's how I see it, for sure. Thanks for taking the time to comment :)
Another great informative video,about all the little things,that alot of others forget to mention.Got couple tarps,Banchee 200,plus Hex peak with single and double inner.Would love to see the 3f in a bit bad weather.
Thanks Keith, I’ll give the 3F a go in some weather this autumn 👍 I have a Hex Peak with 3 different single inners 😂 it’s like it has its own collection 🤣
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 I got the floor inner incase,you want to leave out inner mesh.Wait for test before I decide.😄
Goo does Keith 👍
👏👏👏Another well presented video, glad I’ve found this channel👍👍
Thanks Steven 😊👍🐶
Thank you for a well balanced review of these tents
Thank you 😊 that’s very much appreciated 👍
Hi great video, I have just bought the OEX Racoon 2 mainly for 1 overnighter summer wild camping, and because of weight I wanted to utilisew it for when I am campsite camping and day hiking, due to space I though this could be my ideal campsite tent, , I am sure the tent is worth it just for good conditions, I am also sure it is ok for dry breezy conditions, but could you tell me how it bears up in heavy rain in non windy conditions? I hear reports of roof leaking, puddle effect due to pole design? can that be eliminated by changing modifying the guy lines or somehow tensioning the 2 poles closer at the roof with cordage? I have also read that some people set up the outer in heavy rain haha no idea how that is done, but I would like to record someone setting it up on video
Thanks Ian, I’ve never used the tent in heavy wind or rain. I would suspect the ‘puddle’ roof ‘thing’ is likely; I’ve seen it in similar designs. Having said that, it is great value for money and provides a very roomy shelter 👍
superb review. well thought out. and the shepherd gets my sub!
Thank you Jonathan 👍😊🐶
verry good grts danny from belgium
Great video. Great information and tips.
Thank you Chris, much appreciated 😊🐶👍
another great informative video keep up the great work.
Thank you, Scott 👍
Excellent reviews, outstanding work yet again! Going to Dartmoor from Kent next weekend, can’t wait!
Thank you, that’s much appreciated. I hope you enjoy the moor 👍
Great video as always 👍
Thank you Dan - I appreciate that 😊👍🐶
Great video thanks. I'm currently looking at a new light weight backpacking tent and hadn't even seen the 3l one anywhere. 👍
Hi Steven - I suspect it's only available via China? 😊
Great video mate... Looking forward to your full reviews to come! Your not reviews are more in depth than some full reviews I've seen 😮
And now I think I want one of those 3L's
Haha - I’ll get this one out on some weather and let you know how it holds up 👍
Being cheap doesn't always mean that it won't stand up to storms. My last tent was relatively cheap (under £100) and was a 4 man dome tent. It not only withstood hurricanes but snow and torrential rain. Outstripped a number of other tents. Wish I still had it but lost it after indycamp and cannae mind the name of the tent.
I think thats very true 👍 Thanks for watching 😊👍🐶
Really useful and enjoyable video.
Thanks Steve, much appreciated 👍
Excellent video mate.i found this video very useful. Been looking a 3l tents but wasn't too sure on quality. Thanks
Thanks, Mate - Once I've given it a thorough 'pasting' in some weather, I'll report back - But so far, it doesn't look bad at all. :)
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 yea il keep an eye for that mate. Cheers ATB James
Hi Petra and Shamus, My take on tents for what its worth! Buy the strongest tent that you can afford and are fit to carry!! if you are going to go wild camping in the mountains on a frequent basis then sooner or later its going to be mush windier that the weather forecast!! When this happens you want to be in a Hilleb___g.
Very, very true, Tom - I can't see me lying under a Cuben fibre tarp anytime soon, that's for sure 😂
Absolutely agree Tom. I own more Hillebergs than I dare to admit but I do this sort of thing for a living. The problem when wild camping is that you never know when the weather is going to change and if you're in a cheap tent when a storm hits then you are potentially putting your life on the line. I've pitched on a mountain summit in glorious weather only to be hit by 80 mile an hour winds and rain in the night. I know that a Hilleberg will always keep me dry and safe whereas when I was younger and poorer I have had to bail out in the middle of the night and retreat to safer ground when using a lower quality tent.
Great reviews Shamus :-)
Great video
Thank you for takin the time to watch, I appreciate that 😊👍🐶
My Hilleberg Nammatj 2GT weighs 4.5kilo with 8 delta pegs. It's a bitch to carry but worth it when the weather comes in.
Another excellent video Shamus!!! Thank you! As I prepare to hike the AT I really need a tent that will keep Mako and I dry. I can’t afford the Hilleberg, somewhere on the middle can you recommend? You are so honest and respectful of product.. I really appreciate that because yes no one can really review a tent unless they have been out in the elements!!! Again thx!!!
Have a look around the NatureHike Cloud Peak 2 - It is a spacious shelter 👍
Thanks I will Shamus
Good, fair video. Stitching and guyline detail is often missed so 👍. I've got a lot of tents from Hille and Nanok, TN, Lightwave down to cheaper ones. It's diminishing returns to be honest. Is a Hille 5 times "better" than a Vango F10. No, it's not. But it is undoubtedly better, and on the Cairngorm plateau in March in 70mph winds, any margin of "better" does matter. Nice work, gorgeous pooch too, ATB, 👍
Thanks, Del, much appreciated. You've hit the nail on the head - it's horses for courses, the right tool for the job and all that :)
>Is a Hille 5 times "better" than a Vango F10
That depends. At 30mph? No difference. At 90mph? The Vango gets you killed.
@@darthkek1953 90 mph is hurricane classification on the Beaufort scale. I suspect most tents will struggle with a consistent wind of 90 mph to be fair. There are so many factors beside tent material to be considered such as wind direction, wind change windows and quality of both pitch and pitching, as I said, the Hilleberg gives you an edge (although depends on model, as with any tent) but fully exposed to 90 mph winds at altitude? I’d be questioning the users decision making and planning before looking at tent construction to be honest, unless of course it is a serious expedition type undertaking of course. 😊
@@mountain_del1863 the highest wind speed on the Cairngorm Plateau is recorded at 175 mph. OK that's a bit harsh but in winter be it Scotland or Scandinavia you can get hit with winds VASTLY above that which the weather people predicted. A guy I know pitched a way up Ben Nevis with an expected storm but nothing fruity, without warning it turned near hurricane from 30 to 70 mph. I'd never use my Hilleberg during the 3 seasons, but now I have a Hilleberg is the first time I can properly explore the winter munros multi-day and have real confidence in the shelter. The wind and snow can really smash down here, quick, and without warning.
@@darthkek1953 aye, I'm Scottish, I've been climbing in Scotland for 35 years bud. Actually ran my old F10 Baltoro up Braeriach in 65 mph a couple of weeks ago shared with a mate but at 3.8 kg (still 2kg each) it's still too much. Handled it no problems TBF, but it's a full geo. I'd like a Soulo (have an AKTO but it's a faff and can't get on with the condensation) but reticent to crash 800 quid on yet another tent😂😂😂. Honestly? MWIS, Met Office SAIS and a good Swatch at the map for Leeward side pitches can save a hell a lot of angst. Saying that, I hate the wind so maybe I'm especially averse. No doubt though, Hille are very good tents for the weight.... probably the best. ATB mate 👍
Does Petra need a sleeping matt ?
Yes - she has a 3/4 length thermarest.
Loving the videos Shamus - fantastic stuff. Can I ask what camera you're using to film with? Looks superb quality!
Hi there, this was recorded very simply on a GoPro Hero 8 and Rode Mic - 👍
Novice alert! I haven't slept inside a tent before but I plan to as I bought the oex rakoon 2.1 tent as seen in this video. How would i make a tope to stretch out the problematic section of the tent where the outer bottom is in contact with the inner bathtub. I told you, I'm a complete novice and starting from the bottom. I would like to learn how to do this before using the tent to sleep in. Any advice welcomed.
Hi Andy, I assume you me the end of the flysheet wall where it can reveal the inner tent?
Tent modifications aren't my thing, and I have no expertise in it... but what I will probably do with this is stitch a small loop of textile tape (sandwiching the flysheet edge) with a reinforcing patch and then tie in a piece of elastic. It wouldn't have to be tensioned too much, just enough to pull out the edge and peg it down - then seam seal. My advice would be to leave it unless it becomes a problem 👍
I have noticed 2 panels on my Torridon that may well need extra tie-outs the same as this. I'm going to leave it for now until it becomes an issue as per Shamus's advice, although I have searched for a fix online in-case it needs sorting and read that a spare patch of fabric with a loop sewn on can be glued to the fly using Seam Grip. This method avoids sewing directly to the fly panel.
Would a tarp clamp work? I’ve not used one myself but they are designed to attach to tarpaulins and you can get them from Amazon, diy stores etc. They clip on to the edge of the tarp or fly sheet and provide a lashing point with no damage to the tarp or need for sewing loops. As with anything quality is variable so I would look at camping sites with reviews if they have them but I don’t think they’re expensive.
@@slippery999 that's a great tip, thank you.
Great content as always Shamus, inspiring, but not helping my bank balance, lol! I think in addition to "Leave no trace" Wild campers should use the phrase "Can't take it with you", to ease the relentless looking for new gear guilt?
Hi Mike, we all know that it needn't be expensive ... but it is 😂 The same gear I used 40 years ago should be good enough for today - we're driven by consumerism aren't we? I must dash, I ve just spotted a nice shiny stove on website 😁😁😂😂😁😁 (I'm kidding)
What happened to this you tube channel? I remember watching these in lockdown....is the dog ok?
She’s fine and chasing about the hills of Bannau Brycheiniog 👍😊🐶
What walking groups you apart of mate?😉
I don’t belong to any really, unless you mean FB related groups - there are plenty of those 😊
How do you find the hexpeak in comparison to the Akto? I’ve only ever had my hexpeak in winds up to 30 mph and would be interested to know how it gets on in stronger winds
Hi Craig. My choices are sort of skewed because I always have a dog. I’ve had an Akto for many years - it suited me and a spaniel very well. It takes a beating and is nice and cosy. I bought the Hex because Petra is a much larger dog and it seemed the thing to do. I haven’t had the Hex out in ‘heavy weather’ but I’ve seam sealed it and added guy lines for that happy day 😊 In truth I prefer the Akto, it is so simple to pitch, Hex tents take longer to pitch and I don’t find the additional head room all that useable. Having said that, I have spent hundreds of nights in very robust pyramid tents in Antarctica. Many of those camps were for prolonged polar winter conditions - because of the shape ie a ‘pointy triangle’, the design sheds wind very well - and believe me, I’ve had some terrible nights where I’ve wondered if we would survive.
The Hex is marginally heavier and certainly a bit bulkier than the Akto to carry - if it was likely to tip down with rain, I think I’d take the Hex just for space to get out of the weather comfortably.
I do wonder about buying something that is a blatant copy. It doesn't sit very comfortably with me 🤔 I don't own a tent but hope one day I will. But I don't know how much use I'll get from a tent so it's tough to choose.
The trouble is that many tents, in fact most kit, has been copied and replicated across the globe - The tents I primarily use are made by a premium manufacturer, Hilleberg, replicated designs really don't meet the same standards. Many people buy direct from the manufacturers in China now - through Ali Express - I wouldn't recommend it to the 'uninitiated' to be honest. Then theres the decline in domestic retail markets to be considered. For what it's worth, I bought that tent used form somebody in Scotland :)
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 what people don't understand about Naturehike and 3FUL is they didn't start their business to sell western designs to western people. A lot of western companies are (surprise surpise) a bit shit in supporting remote parts of Asia, Russia, etc. and it was westernish tents for Asian people who were the intended market. I've spoken to 3F UL people and they were shocked by the sales of the LanShans to the US and elsewhere - and the reason the Pro is so large in the bathtub is due to tall-people western feedback.
Naturehike and 3F don't sell anything that can compete with Hilleberg, but they sell tents that perform as-well or better than MSR, Agnes, 6 Moons, etc., at somewhere between half and a quarter of the price.
Interesting video, mate. I have a question about guy lines: How are they best to set up, should they be as far away from the tie off point as possible, as close as possible or somewhere in between? Is there a general rule of thumb?
They need to be far enough away that the supportive vector that they provide is effective. Too close and they won’t be providing enough horizontal support to the structure - that’s how I see it... does that make sense?
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 I think so, it's a difficult thing to explain in messages, I guess. I've always staked them out as far as possible, but I think I'll have a play in the future to see if I get a feel that somewhere in that middle ground is better. I hate tripping over guy lines!
@@theatomictrain10 - I think that’s the balance to be struck 👍 Longer lines provide better stability, but short ones are ineffective. I generally don’t trip in lines but the dog does 🐶😂🐶
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Ah, so I was right in my thinking of the longer the guy line the better? Maybe, I'll guy everything out as stable as possible, apart from near the entrance. Best of both worlds.
I find the length of guy rope is inversely proportionate to the number and/or proximity of other campers: i .e. more campers, shorter guy ropes. I’ve had 2 tents damaged by people tripping over guy lines. It got to the point where I changed my original guy ropes for high viz ones and glow in the dark line locks, not so aesthetically pleasing but it has reduced the number of idiots tripping over them. 🙄
With the stitching on the OEX tent, is it something that could be improved with seam sealing?
It is quite an attractive model for that price. I have a Hex Peak for lighter trips and a big Vango tent for my car. The latter is heavy, bulky and difficult to dry, living in a small flat! I've been thinking about going a bit lighter and more compact. Maybe next year.
If you come in to some windfall of spare cash any time soon, I'd love to see a comparison between the Soulo and Naturehike's copy, the Cloud Peak 2... ;-)
Another enjoyable video. Thanks very much! All the best.
Hi Olly - Yes, frankly I think it would help to seam seal, but I wouldn't push it in a strong wind. All the best :)
I have a Naturehike Cloud-Peak 2 and it's a clone of the Hilleberg Allak 2, not the Soulo. The differences are robustness, and the fact the Allaks skirt hits the ground (as is the case in all their Black & Red label tents) wereas the Cloud-Peak doesn't (so more like the Yellow label). What does that all mean?
I've pitched and had exposed winds of about 30mph, but I wouldn't want to have much more. Too much stress starts to be put on the stitching, it's so big it catches the wind. Oh, and the roof cap is flappy in breeze. HOWEVER. It's a cavern, and cheap (I got mine at discount for £115). I love the size. I just wouldn't pitch it on a summit in a gale.
@@darthkek1953 - That sounds like a good value tent. Roof vent textile often vibrates / oscillates in the wind on the Soulo. It has a tab on it, probably to attach a ‘guy’ to reduce this.
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 the lid on the Peak-2 is very flimsy and it's crazy loud even in moderate wind. Thing is UNLIKE the Soulo etc there is a gap under the skirt so the tent gets plenty of airflow. That lid is there for non-vented tents! So my plan next year is to cut up the lid and get the local Polish tailor woman to stitch fabric from the lid onto the two top panels then obviously I would seal the seam. That means I won't need the lid. I don't mind doing that on a Naturehike, I dread to think about doing that to a Hilly! But as I said, that Hilly needs the vent, the Peak does not.
Very interesting video Shamus. I personally have thee Hilleberg tents and do not mind the slight extra weight. The only one I'm concerned about is the Soulo. All though it is extremely strong it would be nice if there was a little more width in the inner tent. Thanks Steve.
Haha 😂 I’ll soon find out, Steve, I’ve just got one ... in RED! 😮👍😀
Great content, video and a sub from me. I was waiting for you to head butt a tent then walk in with security 👍👏🏻🏕⛺️👏🏻👍 Nature Hike Cloud Up 2 and OEX Phoxx II v2 also highly recommended 👍
Yeah it is hard not to purchase anything that's been produced in china. I looked at one of my first tents the other day the Gelert Solo and thought what fun I had in it. Everything is relative. Still, I wouldn't spend £1,200 on a tent. There are great tents that can hold up in a storm for a quarter that price. The things people will do for that prized external image. It's much like North Face Vs Craghoppers. They'll get you by. Mark
Thanks Mark 👍 The trouble is with good kit that I own, is that it’s old ... because it’s good 😂😂😂
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Aaah, then it comes down to that old thing called class and access to resources. We could talk a long time about the differentials that exist and the impact it has upon feelings of self worth and or moral. Gotta climb the ladder for this stuff. I'm off on one now. Have a good one.
Wye Explorer - and you, Buddy 👍
@@outdoorsinspiration9284 Will do!
There are storms and there are STORMS. Hilleberg tents are so strong even their WEAKEST £800 4-seaon tents are used on MULTI-MONTH arctic-condition expeditions. Please, please, PLEASE tell me this 2kg £200 tent that can withstand hundred mile an hour winds on the Cairngorm Plateau. I mean, I've only spent years looking for one before going for a 2nd hand Hilleberg. Don't get me wrong many people buy Hilleberg and they have absolutely no reason to (Abbie Barnes is a perfect example, wondering why she's sweating her tits off in an expedition tent at sea level in summer) but when things get REALLY harsh there is no other piece of fabric I'd want to carry into the wilds.
would have been better to actually test in windy and rainy weather. A good tent in my view must hold up to Scottish weather which can be very unpredictable in the wild.
Hi thanks for taking the time to comment. I totally agree:th-cam.com/video/NjLMC9M7vdo/w-d-xo.html
Which is exactly what he said!
Heavier than a Hilleberg? Didn't know that was possible.
It's possible, but not always 😂
Yer GSD Doesn't look like it will suffer fools gladly godbless a guard dog👍👍👍
Oex Phoxx 2 for £60 job done
I live local to you and have 3 other tents you can review. Get in touch if your interested
Thank you, Stuart, much appreciated. I have a lot on my hands at the moment, but ill bear it in mind - thank you :)
Or as we say in software: Good, fast, cheap. Pick any 2.
to minimum, why not try it in really challenging weather? This is just talking. ;-)