Love this! You really did your research and it's great to hear feedback from folks who've really done their homework and use the tent in the conditions we built it for. Glad you're loving the tent!
@@SlingFin1 it sure does! I reckon that one might be for use on Macquarie Island (on the way to Antarctica). Weather here can get absolutely nuts in the mountains. Smack bang in the middle of the roaring forties!
@@lennart822 We would really like to! We still haven't found the right fabric. It needs to be light, stable, and not make the tent cost a million dollars. So far we have only been able to find fabrics that fit two of those criteria...
Can't wait to hear more about the trip. I have a slingfin portal 2 in the new green. The better fabrics silicone, PE not PU coated . Good weight, wind resistants using walking poles, internal cross guide line and the ability to use heavier and stronger poles. I made a stronger pole set form my old tent poles. Very happy so far.
Yes it was but luckily the wind mainly came after we'd established camp. Have had many nights in similar conditions and I felt much more comfortable this time around!
I have a portal 2, likewise a strong tent. I like the modularity ie you could take just a bathtub floor, no mesh to save weight if mosquitoes are not an issue ( you need the mesh version against midges in Scotland in the summer!) If dry you could set up mesh only or fly only with ground sheet.
Mowser I just noticed your numbers. Congrats on the subscription growth! I think I found you when it was 3or 4 hundred and you were joking about maybe getting 500 and its just so cool to see. 😊
Great video. I wish I’d seen it before I purchased the Big Agnes copper spur. I camped in a storm in the Bogong high plains last summer with strong winds. The Big Agnes managed ok but I did find the side of the tent kept pushing in against me and I got a little wet. If I ever choose to upgrade I will definitely look at the slingfin
@user-ju4se7sm2e I *literally* bought a Copper Spur today (before watching this video). I have not received it yet and may return it unopened and buy the SlingFin3. My concern with the Big Agnes is both the wind stability and the PU coating soaking up water. I got the Big Agnes on closeout for $405 USD, and the SingFin is $600 USD. Worth the extra 30% you think? I do love the Sil/Sil thing and more guy out points. I have a larger Big Agnes Big House 6 that nearly folded with 1/2" of sleet on it (granted, much bigger tent). I do not want a repeat of that.
Great channel buddy. I have the portal 2 and the Windsaber for summit camps in Scotland. The extra cross pole and adding the trek poles on the Windsaber makes it as strong as a shed. At 2.5 kg for a 4 season tent, its a no brainer.These tents are solid. Brilliant vid.
Thanks for the great review! The SlingFin Portal 3 is indeed a great tent for summer and early fall travel. It's sad that SlingFin doesn't have a similar product in the four-season tent category that weighs up to 4 kg
I've been looking for a 2 person backpacking tent for awhile with many hours of research. After watching your video, decided to purchase this one too. Thanks so much for such a great review and recommendation!
@@mowsertas Thanks. Just bought a Portal based largely off your review, but it's an upgrade from the Copper Spur. Will be good to add the extra margin.
Thanks for the feedback! I’ll definitely look into recommending some alternatives that fit those criteria. I always like to test the gear before reviewing so stay tuned!
An excellent review. It looks like a well engineered tent. Polyurethane is notorious for drlsmination of coatings on tents and inside packs and sleeping bag covers. Painful stuff especially vulnerable in hot climates. It definitely pays to be open-minded with new brands that come onto the market and having a leap of faith trying something after the appropriate research and consultation.
Yes, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 held up well. We did tend to pitch it in the more sheltered position at each campsite but it still did received some big wind gusts. The main thing i noticed was that the SlingFin Portal 3 dried out much quicker and didn't hold ANY water after a good shake out when packing up. The flysheet on the Big Agnes was tending to hold the water a bit BUT this was around 4 years old and probably needs a retreatment. Definately like the fact that with the slingfin there were A LOT more guy points.
@@mowsertas Yes. This SlingFin 3 vs. Copper Spur is the question. They are SO close in size and weight that they are a natural "which one?" question. I know it is for me! I've had my Big Agnes Big House 6 come close to laying down on us before and sagged really badly with just 1/2" of sleet in the Tetons early this summer. BA makes a great tent, but seemed a little more sketchy when weather is less than ideal.
My current favourite pillow is the Flextail pillow geni.us/n5NC2Ab But i used a Nemo Fillo pillow for years. geni.us/ItvyQ Both are great but I like the lower profile of the Flextail and generally I personally like a slightly flatter pillow. Flextail also has a nice cover on it.
Hey Mowser, Good vid. The long reach to the vestibule zip can be partially addressed if you tie a piece of cord to the inner zipper pull (10-20 cm usually suffices for the longest reaches). Leave that cord closer to the tent inner, and voile, you grab that and even the longest reaches become feasible. You mentioned mesh inner versus solid inner. Perhaps you could have explained why. I’ve always found the mesh inner to be much cooler and draftier than a comparable solid inner tent. What was your experience and why would you have purchased the solid inner if you could have? Might have been worth a mention: i assume the toggle connections between inner and outer tent mean you pitch both inner and outer tents at the same time. An important consideration when the skies disgorge rain torrents that would soak the inner if you had to pitch that first. The integral pitch avoids that hassle, and the outer protects the inner from getting too moist while you are setting up the tent. Cheers
Very wise re: the string option. Will try! Most of my tents have always had a solid inner and i think I prefer that due to less draftiness etc. Also, to me, Mesh, psychologically seems more delicate. It's more a personal preference thing really and what I'm used to. Will definately get used to more of a mesh tent. Mesh was fine on this trip despite the rain and wind and we had no hassles. This tent doesn't allow for an integral pitch however you can first erect the rain fly followed by the inner - a bit fiddly but can be done.
Sling Fin has a solid tent for a true four-season tent-the CrossBow 2 Four-Season. It is 50 inches wide, so it would be a tight fit for two, especially in the winter. But it does not look like they have a solid tent for three people. I use the Portal 2 primarily as a one-person tent. And like you love the performance at the weight of 46 ounces, which is usable as a single-person tent.
Thanks Mowser! You make great videos. RE this tent, isn't it fiddly to set up in strong winds with the separate pitch and many poles, clips etc? I would have thought a Hilleberg with simultaneus pitch and "channels" for poles would be the choice. Those you set it up in a blink even in very very strong winds. They are made for such exposed conditions above tree line. Withstanding strong winds once up is just a bit of the requirements, but set up and take down is just as important.
Thanks for watching! I've spent plenty of years with tents similar to this and generally find them pretty easy to setup even in windy and rainy conditions. It would definately be fiddly if you weren't used to a tent of this type. I did also use to use fully integrated tents that had simultaneous pitch and I have owned a Hilleberg Allak in the past. With this tent I wanted a happy medium with weight and stability AND I wanted dual entry points for 2 people so this fit the bill. I like Hilleberg but for something like an Allak 3 it is nearly twice the weight and for 9 or 10 day trips this makes a big difference to our final pack weight. If we were going in winter in more unreliable conditions we'd probably opt for something a bit stronger like a Hilleberg.
The tent pole clip was actually invented (by our board member, Paul Kramer) because setting up pole sleeve-style tents in the wind is so difficult. If it's windy enough, it's impossible to set up sleeve-style tents, because the tent doesn't reach its full strength until all the poles are in and getting the pole through the sleeve is a huge pain. Therefore the risk of breaking a pole is much higher during setup than with a clip-style tent. Clip-style tents let you put the poles up first with no windward surface area and attach the tent body when the corners are already staked down.
Great question! The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 is definitely a solid choice for its lightweight design and durability. If I had to choose though, I'd pick the slingfin portal 3 and it is the tent i'll be taking for 2 man missions for the foreseeable future. Feels a bit roomier and the stability when the trekking poles are added makes it that level above the Copper Spur. I would like the option of a nylon inner with the Slingfin but happy to make the sacrifice for a more wind worthy tent!
Thank you for a legit USER review (vs back yard or similar). Given that this is a very close match to the Big Agnes Copper Spur (which you mentioned) more details about the differences compare/contrast would be super helpful. But careful reading of specs (especially materials) and other reviews do tell a few things. However, the nearly side-by-side nature of this trip gives unique opportunity for compare/contrast. Thanks for this review as is though. Very helpful.
The Mont tents are fantastic absolutely no doubt. I actually very nearly went with a Mont Dragonfly 2 person instead of the Slingfin. Ended up going with the Slingfin as a bit roomier and I wanted to try a new brand.
hey mowser, i purchased just this tent based off your reviews and my needs for heading to tassie, so thanks it was a huge help. i bought mine off backpacking light aus but the tent doesnt come seam sealed, did you have the same with your purchase? and if you done the seam seal yourself i was wondering how has it been holding up, i used the recomended seam seal but its all just a bit messy tbh!!! yet to use it but looking forward to it this coming summer down in tassie. thanks
Yes, I had to seam seal it myself too. Had never done it before but it worked well and is holding up no problems at all having just used the tent again. From memory I used the Gear Aid Silicone seam sealer. Was very messy putting it on though!
I would definitely get hot during the day if you were in it. Full mesh inner so airflow should be good can also open up doors etc if needed. I think I would be ok using it in WA
@@mowsertasDoing more research. I need a Portal 3 ($1079) to accommodate two wide sleeping pads side by side. The Nemo Osmo Dagger 2 ($699) does the same thing. The math seems pretty compelling to me.
Great review, thanks mate ! How suitable do you think this tent is for the western Arthur’s ? And what height are your trekking poles when used in support ?
More than adequate for the WAs. I have taken MSRs, Terra Novas and Big Agnes through the WAs and never had any trouble. All the designated campsites are fairly well sheltered. I need wind resistance more for off track and exposed campsites and this certainly fits the bill for that. Any adjustable trekking pole will work with this. Mine adjusts up to 125cm
Woohoo I'm super excited that you managed to review this tent! I have mentioned and ask your opinion on this tent a couple of times and was worried that you wouldn't post a video on it before I bought a new tent (hint, he did not and is still using a $150 tent that has miraculously survived an entire year of outdoor education where I'm literally camping 1 week out of every 3-4 weeks). Everyone on my course has been telling me to buy it so I stop complaining about being unsure which tent I should buy lol. This is just another factor as to why I should buy the portal 2! Question: On their website, the slingfin portal 2 talks about two zips. Not sure if it is also with the Portal 3, but do you know what that is about? Is that two entirely different zips, or just two zippers? I'm so happy that I've found your channel! Definitely my most favourite hiking channel on YT and definitely the most underrated!
Thanks again for watching! I think all the SlingFins have 'spare' zippers. From their website: Pre-installed spare sliders on all the zippers double your zippers' lifespan and eliminate the need for half-baked field repairs when you're 90% of the way to the terminus of whatever long trail you're on. So when you look at the zippers there is a second set you can call upon if ever the originals break.
@@mowsertas is that because the copper spur is mesh only in the top half of the inner? Furthermore how would you compare the two more broadly, price aside. I know the video touches on this but would appreciate a bit more info as I’m trying to make decision between portal 3 and the Agnes at the moment. Is there one that handles weather/ventilation/rain/ease of setup and use/ comfort particularly better or are they basically the same except the slingfin might be a bit more longer lasting due to no PU? And I don’t use trekking poles, so is the slingfin setup without trekking poles going to still be significantly better?
@@mowsertas also, is the crossbar on the CS HV UL3 not going over/under the hub? I’ve heard people complain that water pools in a triangle there on the roof as a result.
Hi Mowser, how is this tent for tall people? I’m 6’5” and am attracted by the 234cm length, but interested to know how usable that length is, or whether my feet would be touching at end? Thanks!
We are almost exactly the same height by the sounds of it. I haven't had an issue with feet touching as yet and have found it to be good for someone of my height. Also plenty of room to situp inside too.
Great new recommendation by youtube. I've been looking at getting a new tent. That style and configuration has aways been my favourite, my first two tents of that style were Salewa (I think they were first to make it?) and the most recent is a Mountain Designs snow version which is now giving up its coating. I used the Salewa in Tasmania for four years (1988-1992) and South American Andes. It out performed MacPac Olympus and its smaller version. They seem to lay down in cross winds. I now live in the hotter part of Australia and the full mesh inner might be the go?
Have you tried a tunnel style tent? They are supposed to have improved wind stability, over domes. In Australia the Wilderness Equipment Second arrow Ultralight
My first serious tent was a Macpac Olympus tunnel tent (back in the 90s). Was a great tent, absolutely love it. Have also closely looked at a lot of Hilleberg tents that are in the same style and will eventually get one of those i reckon.
Can totally give a thumbs up to Wilderness Equipment Second Arrow tunnel tent. I do outdoor education in New Zealand, and one of the people in my course uses this tent. She was up on Mt Ruapehu and the weather was 50-50 and completely changed direction so rather than passing over the gully like the forecast predicted, it funneled down the gulley towards the tents. There was a hut close by with wind recording, and there was constant wind of 60-80, with gusts going up to 115km/h (although the hut is slightly more exposed than the gully, but it did go down the gully rather than over it). The next morning, they got the group off the mountain ASAP (leaving the outdoor education centre tents that the students used behind but packed up staff tents). As a result of that night: 2 tents were ripped so badly they had to be retired immediately, one went flew off and was lost in the time they left the mountain and I and a few others went up at around 1-3pm, and multiple had replaceable but broken or bent poles. The Wilderness Equipment Second Arrow tent? She was fine - only a tiiiiiny rip that was easily stitched up and she used it 2 weeks later and has been using it ever since in our outdoor education course
@@mowsertas I'm probably going to be doing the opposite: I have had a Hilleberg Anjan 3 since 2017, which has been incredible (extremely storm-worthy, just got back from a Patagonia trip where it performed as it always does). I'm looking for a free-standing tent now and will probably get the Slingfin Portal 2 or 3 for camping with my partner. I'd love to get away with the Portal 2, but I think it would be just a little too tight of a squeeze with the Zenbivy double bed that I want to get. But on the bright side I think the Portal 3 has heavier-duty zippers
I just pitched my portal 2 for the first time and im very thrilled to use it for three weeks in Norway! I have one question about the seams and poles. I don’t get them in the same place, above eachother. I see you have the same “problem”. So, is this actually a problem or should I rock it likes this? Can’t freaking wait to use it in the mountains!!
I haven’t found it to be a problem as long as you have the fly attached to the poles correctly you should be ok. I was in Norway this time last year. So jealous! Can’t wait to get back there and do some longer hikes. Such an amazing place!
It did ok. Getting a bit older so the fly probably needs a retreatment as it was really holding on to the water. Definately not as good in strong winds either (in situations where we had trekking poles setup in Slingfin). Slingfin was much sturdier.
I was so ready to pull the trigger on this tent because of its claim of wind endurance and then I read Switchback travels review where they took it to Patagonia for its wind worthy claim. It did worse than the other tents they had. May have been a fluke but the fact it flattened on them I believe lost it a top rating because they liked a lot of other features of it.
Yep, I did read that review. I note they didn't use the trekking poles for reinforcement for the test. For me, adding the poles in after a couple of windy nights really dialled it in and there was basically no blow ins/blow downs. My only fear would be in really really strong winds. As the trekking poles have no give in them, you could potentially get a tear in the fly if the pressure became too much!
Yep, that was unfortunate! It's true that they didn't use the trekking poles (which add a TON of strength), nor did they use all the external guylines or install any additional internal guylines. A tent is only as strong as its setup, and if you don't bother to set up the tent properly it's unsurprising that it won't perform up to its potential! Additionally, most of the other tents in the test were significantly heavier, (heavier even than the Portal with the heavy-duty pole set added), so the comparison wasn't even to tents in the same category. It was disappointing to see the tent misused by an ostensibly technical publication, but the fact is that many reviewers often don't take the time to actually learn about all of the features of the tents they're reviewing, which is why we really appreciate a well-informed review like @mowsertas here 😉
@@SlingFin1 Thank you for taking the time to respond. Interesting information on the fact that it was a comparison to tents not in its same class. If that is true it reflects badly on Switchback Travel for not mentioning that. You wouldn't have the names and makes of the comparison tents?
@@Over50YearsOffgrid I think the main one I felt indignant about was a tent from S2S, not sure which model, but it weighed about 2.5lb more than the Portal, so almost twice as much, and I think the Nemo Dagger was in there as well, which is in a similar category but weighs 8oz more, in part because it uses heavier poles. For trips in Patagonia or similar we recommend picking up the heavy duty poles, which add 6oz and give the Portal as much or more wind resistance than most lightweight four-season tents.
mowser, come on. weight to floor size area is good. but I'll take the pepsi challenge any day my friend - that my minaret is standing long after your slingfin is a pile of fabric ! ps. grow a moustache with that beard, or you'll get arrested
Hi mate. This tent looks exactly as 1.000 other ones, tipically sold for 100 bucks. It's a MSR Hubba Hubba clone. The body fabric is 15D so too thin for most people and usage. The floor is 20D, that means it will break in just a season. Inside it's all mesh, almost no fabric, to keep prices down (but that also means you will freeze into the winds). The waterproofiness seems inadequate (1200/1800?!); manufacture also advise you to seam seal some sewings. Only thing that is almost "ok" are the poles. I say "almost", as the top one is just placed on, while the perimetral ones are kept together just by a piece of plastic. The usage of trekking poles is a gimmick (they just added a piece of fabric...), that you can also do with any other tent of similar type. Yes, the weight is down, but you are buying a half tent, for quadruple the price. I hope they gifted you this tent, as you are also selling your dignity.
First off, I want to clarify that I always disclose when a product is gifted because maintaining authenticity in my reviews is crucial-I’m certainly not selling my dignity - I purchased this tent with my own money. It sounds like you’ve really put this tent through its paces. My team and I used the Mutha Hubba across various models for over ten years in some of the toughest off-track and scrubby hiking conditions in Tasmania, and it’s always performed well. When I was looking for a new tent, I wanted something of similar size and features but better wind stability and having used the Slingfin on some very windy peaks with and without trekking poles, there was a noticeable difference in stabilty. After about a month of use, this tent has held up well and met my expectations so far. I appreciate your detailed feedback, as it's important to consider all perspectives when choosing the right gear for specific conditions. I will of course follow up in a year or two with a further review after more extensive use.
I really prefer mesh inner to solid inner, the fly protects from wind if you pitch low to the ground. Some companies offer solid and mesh inners so you can choose, seems like most are mesh inners in North America.
Holy Christ if any of you have an hour and a half to watch a tent review, this site is for you. We’re here for a good time buddy, not a long time. A little less hearing yourself talk would be great.
Thanks for your feedback! It’s early days in my TH-cam journey and I aim to provide comprehensive and in-depth reviews that cover all aspects of the product, which can take time. I believe the length of the video is necessary to ensure that all important details are covered thoroughly. TH-cam offers flexibility in viewing options such as increased speed and skipping sections, which you might find helpful. I appreciate your input and understand that everyone’s preferences differ. Thanks for watching!
Love this! You really did your research and it's great to hear feedback from folks who've really done their homework and use the tent in the conditions we built it for. Glad you're loving the tent!
Thanks so much! Glad you found the vid and happy to recommend such a high quality product! Perfect tent for Tasmanian conditions!
The Tassie government just got one of our Kahiltna Domes for invasive species field work! Sounds like Tasmania has got some real weather!
Could you please please make portal with a solid inner or offer a solid inner separately? That would be great.
@@SlingFin1 it sure does! I reckon that one might be for use on Macquarie Island (on the way to Antarctica). Weather here can get absolutely nuts in the mountains. Smack bang in the middle of the roaring forties!
@@lennart822 We would really like to! We still haven't found the right fabric. It needs to be light, stable, and not make the tent cost a million dollars. So far we have only been able to find fabrics that fit two of those criteria...
I got super lucky and got a slingfin portal 2 for 125 bucks brand new I've taken it out a few times and absolutely love it
Oh wow! What a steal!
I like the facial hair! I’m so glad I recommended Slingfin to you!! Appreciate the shout out, cheers!
The crossbow is essentially the same, or very similar with a solid inner. But not avail as a 3P. I’m testing the hotbox atm, fantastic but very small.
Thanks again for the recommendation!
Was just looking at the Crossbow online this morning. Is it tight with 2 people?
@@mowsertas it would be I imagine as it would be similar to the Portal 2. It’s a 4 season tent though as it uses the Slingfin pole sleeve system.
Can't wait to hear more about the trip. I have a slingfin portal 2 in the new green. The better fabrics silicone, PE not PU coated . Good weight, wind resistants using walking poles, internal cross guide line and the ability to use heavier and stronger poles. I made a stronger pole set form my old tent poles. Very happy so far.
Sounds great! Trip video coming in the next few months. Will be a long one!
Such a practical review, thank you. 126km winds is full on. Must have been interesting setting up the tent.
Yes it was but luckily the wind mainly came after we'd established camp. Have had many nights in similar conditions and I felt much more comfortable this time around!
I have a portal 2, likewise a strong tent. I like the modularity ie you could take just a bathtub floor, no mesh to save weight if mosquitoes are not an issue ( you need the mesh version against midges in Scotland in the summer!) If dry you could set up mesh only or fly only with ground sheet.
Mowser I just noticed your numbers. Congrats on the subscription growth! I think I found you when it was 3or 4 hundred and you were joking about maybe getting 500 and its just so cool to see. 😊
Awesome! Thank you! And thanks for following along, it's been a crazy few months!
Great video. I wish I’d seen it before I purchased the Big Agnes copper spur. I camped in a storm in the Bogong high plains last summer with strong winds. The Big Agnes managed ok but I did find the side of the tent kept pushing in against me and I got a little wet. If I ever choose to upgrade I will definitely look at the slingfin
@user-ju4se7sm2e I *literally* bought a Copper Spur today (before watching this video). I have not received it yet and may return it unopened and buy the SlingFin3. My concern with the Big Agnes is both the wind stability and the PU coating soaking up water. I got the Big Agnes on closeout for $405 USD, and the SingFin is $600 USD. Worth the extra 30% you think? I do love the Sil/Sil thing and more guy out points. I have a larger Big Agnes Big House 6 that nearly folded with 1/2" of sleet on it (granted, much bigger tent). I do not want a repeat of that.
Great channel buddy. I have the portal 2 and the Windsaber for summit camps in Scotland. The extra cross pole and adding the trek poles on the Windsaber makes it as strong as a shed. At 2.5 kg for a 4 season tent, its a no brainer.These tents are solid. Brilliant vid.
Yep, they are rock solid! Thanks for watching!
More people need to experience SlingFin gear! Glad you loved it!
So good
Thanks for the great review! The SlingFin Portal 3 is indeed a great tent for summer and early fall travel. It's sad that SlingFin doesn't have a similar product in the four-season tent category that weighs up to 4 kg
I've been looking for a 2 person backpacking tent for awhile with many hours of research. After watching your video, decided to purchase this one too. Thanks so much for such a great review and recommendation!
Glad you found it helpful! I spent a lot of time trying to decide on this purchase and am super happy with it. Great tent!
Great review, thanks. How did the Copper Spur go in the same conditions?
Not bad. Did struggle bit more in the wind but no real complaints
@@mowsertas Thanks. Just bought a Portal based largely off your review, but it's an upgrade from the Copper Spur. Will be good to add the extra margin.
Great video, like it. Maybe you can also recommend alternatives with similar strengths: 3-season, durability, light weight and high quality?
Thanks for the feedback! I’ll definitely look into recommending some alternatives that fit those criteria. I always like to test the gear before reviewing so stay tuned!
An excellent review. It looks like a well engineered tent. Polyurethane is notorious for drlsmination of coatings on tents and inside packs and sleeping bag covers. Painful stuff especially vulnerable in hot climates.
It definitely pays to be open-minded with new brands that come onto the market and having a leap of faith trying something after the appropriate research and consultation.
I do like trying new stuff out and seeing how it fairs. So many unknown brands out there. I get excited when I find a new one!
Great concept for a video. Well said. Nice information. Great looking tent. New follower here. Crow✌️
you said someone had a Big Agnes tent on the same trip, can you compare how the two held up a little?
Yes, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 held up well. We did tend to pitch it in the more sheltered position at each campsite but it still did received some big wind gusts. The main thing i noticed was that the SlingFin Portal 3 dried out much quicker and didn't hold ANY water after a good shake out when packing up. The flysheet on the Big Agnes was tending to hold the water a bit BUT this was around 4 years old and probably needs a retreatment. Definately like the fact that with the slingfin there were A LOT more guy points.
@@mowsertas Yes. This SlingFin 3 vs. Copper Spur is the question. They are SO close in size and weight that they are a natural "which one?" question. I know it is for me! I've had my Big Agnes Big House 6 come close to laying down on us before and sagged really badly with just 1/2" of sleet in the Tetons early this summer. BA makes a great tent, but seemed a little more sketchy when weather is less than ideal.
Looks great 👍
Thanks 👍
Best pillow recommendations?
My current favourite pillow is the Flextail pillow geni.us/n5NC2Ab
But i used a Nemo Fillo pillow for years. geni.us/ItvyQ
Both are great but I like the lower profile of the Flextail and generally I personally like a slightly flatter pillow. Flextail also has a nice cover on it.
Hey Mowser,
Good vid. The long reach to the vestibule zip can be partially addressed if you tie a piece of cord to the inner zipper pull (10-20 cm usually suffices for the longest reaches). Leave that cord closer to the tent inner, and voile, you grab that and even the longest reaches become feasible.
You mentioned mesh inner versus solid inner. Perhaps you could have explained why. I’ve always found the mesh inner to be much cooler and draftier than a comparable solid inner tent. What was your experience and why would you have purchased the solid inner if you could have?
Might have been worth a mention: i assume the toggle connections between inner and outer tent mean you pitch both inner and outer tents at the same time. An important consideration when the skies disgorge rain torrents that would soak the inner if you had to pitch that first. The integral pitch avoids that hassle, and the outer protects the inner from getting too moist while you are setting up the tent.
Cheers
Very wise re: the string option. Will try! Most of my tents have always had a solid inner and i think I prefer that due to less draftiness etc. Also, to me, Mesh, psychologically seems more delicate. It's more a personal preference thing really and what I'm used to. Will definately get used to more of a mesh tent. Mesh was fine on this trip despite the rain and wind and we had no hassles. This tent doesn't allow for an integral pitch however you can first erect the rain fly followed by the inner - a bit fiddly but can be done.
Sling Fin has a solid tent for a true four-season tent-the CrossBow 2 Four-Season. It is 50 inches wide, so it would be a tight fit for two, especially in the winter. But it does not look like they have a solid tent for three people. I use the Portal 2 primarily as a one-person tent. And like you love the performance at the weight of 46 ounces, which is usable as a single-person tent.
Yes. Have looked at crossbow. Would love that in a 3 man option!
@@mowsertas I couldn't agree more! 👍
Now available in Canada too from Geartrade in Alberta.
Thanks Mowser! You make great videos. RE this tent, isn't it fiddly to set up in strong winds with the separate pitch and many poles, clips etc? I would have thought a Hilleberg with simultaneus pitch and "channels" for poles would be the choice. Those you set it up in a blink even in very very strong winds. They are made for such exposed conditions above tree line. Withstanding strong winds once up is just a bit of the requirements, but set up and take down is just as important.
Thanks for watching! I've spent plenty of years with tents similar to this and generally find them pretty easy to setup even in windy and rainy conditions. It would definately be fiddly if you weren't used to a tent of this type. I did also use to use fully integrated tents that had simultaneous pitch and I have owned a Hilleberg Allak in the past. With this tent I wanted a happy medium with weight and stability AND I wanted dual entry points for 2 people so this fit the bill. I like Hilleberg but for something like an Allak 3 it is nearly twice the weight and for 9 or 10 day trips this makes a big difference to our final pack weight. If we were going in winter in more unreliable conditions we'd probably opt for something a bit stronger like a Hilleberg.
The tent pole clip was actually invented (by our board member, Paul Kramer) because setting up pole sleeve-style tents in the wind is so difficult. If it's windy enough, it's impossible to set up sleeve-style tents, because the tent doesn't reach its full strength until all the poles are in and getting the pole through the sleeve is a huge pain. Therefore the risk of breaking a pole is much higher during setup than with a clip-style tent. Clip-style tents let you put the poles up first with no windward surface area and attach the tent body when the corners are already staked down.
You have the big Agnes copper spur ul3.
If you had to choose one tent would you select this or the Agnes? Thank you
Great question! The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 is definitely a solid choice for its lightweight design and durability. If I had to choose though, I'd pick the slingfin portal 3 and it is the tent i'll be taking for 2 man missions for the foreseeable future. Feels a bit roomier and the stability when the trekking poles are added makes it that level above the Copper Spur. I would like the option of a nylon inner with the Slingfin but happy to make the sacrifice for a more wind worthy tent!
@alexwhite3707 This was my question EXACTLY. Thanks for asking it! And thanks to @mowsertas for answering!
Thank you for a legit USER review (vs back yard or similar). Given that this is a very close match to the Big Agnes Copper Spur (which you mentioned) more details about the differences compare/contrast would be super helpful. But careful reading of specs (especially materials) and other reviews do tell a few things. However, the nearly side-by-side nature of this trip gives unique opportunity for compare/contrast. Thanks for this review as is though. Very helpful.
I'm glad you found the review helpful! I'll definitely consider diving deeper into the comparisons with the Big Agnes Copper Spur in future videos.
I find the Australian made Mont tents fantastic in Australia, including Tasmania. How does the SlingFin compare to Mont tents?
The Mont tents are fantastic absolutely no doubt. I actually very nearly went with a Mont Dragonfly 2 person instead of the Slingfin. Ended up going with the Slingfin as a bit roomier and I wanted to try a new brand.
Where did you go for your 9 day tassie trip?
To the Eldon Range! Epic!
Are you using the Slingfin Portal 3 tent primarily for a single person with all your gear or to accommodate 2 people most of the time ?
Bought this as a dedicated 2 man tent. Heaps of room for 2. Most gear goes in vestibule for both of us
hey mowser, i purchased just this tent based off your reviews and my needs for heading to tassie, so thanks it was a huge help. i bought mine off backpacking light aus but the tent doesnt come seam sealed, did you have the same with your purchase? and if you done the seam seal yourself i was wondering how has it been holding up, i used the recomended seam seal but its all just a bit messy tbh!!! yet to use it but looking forward to it this coming summer down in tassie. thanks
Yes, I had to seam seal it myself too. Had never done it before but it worked well and is holding up no problems at all having just used the tent again. From memory I used the Gear Aid Silicone seam sealer. Was very messy putting it on though!
@@mowsertas thanks for letting me no, i agree it was a super stressful experience wondering if i am potentially ruining my new tent!!!
Too hot for hot dry Australian summer use? Or is there adequate ventilation? Perth based. SW Stirling Range mid winter probably worst 4th season use.
I would definitely get hot during the day if you were in it. Full mesh inner so airflow should be good can also open up doors etc if needed. I think I would be ok using it in WA
@@mowsertasDoing more research. I need a Portal 3 ($1079) to accommodate two wide sleeping pads side by side. The Nemo Osmo Dagger 2 ($699) does the same thing. The math seems pretty compelling to me.
Great review, thanks mate ! How suitable do you think this tent is for the western Arthur’s ? And what height are your trekking poles when used in support ?
More than adequate for the WAs. I have taken MSRs, Terra Novas and Big Agnes through the WAs and never had any trouble. All the designated campsites are fairly well sheltered. I need wind resistance more for off track and exposed campsites and this certainly fits the bill for that. Any adjustable trekking pole will work with this. Mine adjusts up to 125cm
Where was your 9 day trip ?
Done the WA’s twice in a Portal in mixed conditions. No trouble.
Woohoo I'm super excited that you managed to review this tent! I have mentioned and ask your opinion on this tent a couple of times and was worried that you wouldn't post a video on it before I bought a new tent (hint, he did not and is still using a $150 tent that has miraculously survived an entire year of outdoor education where I'm literally camping 1 week out of every 3-4 weeks).
Everyone on my course has been telling me to buy it so I stop complaining about being unsure which tent I should buy lol. This is just another factor as to why I should buy the portal 2!
Question: On their website, the slingfin portal 2 talks about two zips. Not sure if it is also with the Portal 3, but do you know what that is about? Is that two entirely different zips, or just two zippers?
I'm so happy that I've found your channel! Definitely my most favourite hiking channel on YT and definitely the most underrated!
Thanks again for watching! I think all the SlingFins have 'spare' zippers. From their website: Pre-installed spare sliders on all the zippers double your zippers' lifespan and eliminate the need for half-baked field repairs when you're 90% of the way to the terminus of whatever long trail you're on.
So when you look at the zippers there is a second set you can call upon if ever the originals break.
Is there anything the copper spur HV UL3 is better in?
Good Question. I probably do prefer less mesh on the tent inner and the Copper spur fits this bill.
@@mowsertas is that because the copper spur is mesh only in the top half of the inner?
Furthermore how would you compare the two more broadly, price aside. I know the video touches on this but would appreciate a bit more info as I’m trying to make decision between portal 3 and the Agnes at the moment.
Is there one that handles weather/ventilation/rain/ease of setup and use/ comfort particularly better or are they basically the same except the slingfin might be a bit more longer lasting due to no PU?
And I don’t use trekking poles, so is the slingfin setup without trekking poles going to still be significantly better?
@@mowsertas also, is the crossbar on the CS HV UL3 not going over/under the hub? I’ve heard people complain that water pools in a triangle there on the roof as a result.
Hi Mowser, how is this tent for tall people? I’m 6’5” and am attracted by the 234cm length, but interested to know how usable that length is, or whether my feet would be touching at end? Thanks!
We are almost exactly the same height by the sounds of it. I haven't had an issue with feet touching as yet and have found it to be good for someone of my height. Also plenty of room to situp inside too.
@@mowsertas thanks, that’s really helpful info 🙂
Is it possible to pitch this tent in heavy rain, with the inner attached to outer?
This tent doesn't allow for an integral pitch however you can first erect the rain fly followed by the inner - a bit fiddly but can be done.
Great new recommendation by youtube. I've been looking at getting a new tent. That style and configuration has aways been my favourite, my first two tents of that style were Salewa (I think they were first to make it?) and the most recent is a Mountain Designs snow version which is now giving up its coating. I used the Salewa in Tasmania for four years (1988-1992) and South American Andes. It out performed MacPac Olympus and its smaller version. They seem to lay down in cross winds. I now live in the hotter part of Australia and the full mesh inner might be the go?
Thanks for watching! I haven't used Salewa but have seen plenty around. Yep, in hotter parts I'd definately go for a full mesh inner!
Have you tried a tunnel style tent? They are supposed to have improved wind stability, over domes. In Australia the Wilderness Equipment Second arrow Ultralight
My first serious tent was a Macpac Olympus tunnel tent (back in the 90s). Was a great tent, absolutely love it. Have also closely looked at a lot of Hilleberg tents that are in the same style and will eventually get one of those i reckon.
Can totally give a thumbs up to Wilderness Equipment Second Arrow tunnel tent.
I do outdoor education in New Zealand, and one of the people in my course uses this tent. She was up on Mt Ruapehu and the weather was 50-50 and completely changed direction so rather than passing over the gully like the forecast predicted, it funneled down the gulley towards the tents. There was a hut close by with wind recording, and there was constant wind of 60-80, with gusts going up to 115km/h (although the hut is slightly more exposed than the gully, but it did go down the gully rather than over it).
The next morning, they got the group off the mountain ASAP (leaving the outdoor education centre tents that the students used behind but packed up staff tents). As a result of that night: 2 tents were ripped so badly they had to be retired immediately, one went flew off and was lost in the time they left the mountain and I and a few others went up at around 1-3pm, and multiple had replaceable but broken or bent poles.
The Wilderness Equipment Second Arrow tent? She was fine - only a tiiiiiny rip that was easily stitched up and she used it 2 weeks later and has been using it ever since in our outdoor education course
@@mowsertas I'm probably going to be doing the opposite: I have had a Hilleberg Anjan 3 since 2017, which has been incredible (extremely storm-worthy, just got back from a Patagonia trip where it performed as it always does). I'm looking for a free-standing tent now and will probably get the Slingfin Portal 2 or 3 for camping with my partner. I'd love to get away with the Portal 2, but I think it would be just a little too tight of a squeeze with the Zenbivy double bed that I want to get. But on the bright side I think the Portal 3 has heavier-duty zippers
I have a First Arrow and Second Arrow.
Very strong tents.
Did you buy it directly from Slingfin?
I bought mine from an Australian retailer
Check out the KUIU storm star stronger less flappy and. Weighs 51/2 lbs. cheers
Thanks for the tip! Will check it out!
Did the wind come through the mesh and bother you?
We haven’t found it to be an issue. I thought it may be but it hugs pretty low to the ground so absolutely no concerns for me!
@@mowsertas Good to know! Thank you 🙏
@@lennart822 no problem!
Rob Stitch ....not a bad side gig :)
I just pitched my portal 2 for the first time and im very thrilled to use it for three weeks in Norway!
I have one question about the seams and poles. I don’t get them in the same place, above eachother. I see you have the same “problem”. So, is this actually a problem or should I rock it likes this?
Can’t freaking wait to use it in the mountains!!
I haven’t found it to be a problem as long as you have the fly attached to the poles correctly you should be ok. I was in Norway this time last year. So jealous! Can’t wait to get back there and do some longer hikes. Such an amazing place!
Bach Apteryx for Kajak trips and really bad Conditions and Portal for lightweight Trips.
Then you have the most reliable tents.
Good to know! I have never seen the Bach tents before so thanks!
How did your friends Big Agnes do?
It did ok. Getting a bit older so the fly probably needs a retreatment as it was really holding on to the water. Definately not as good in strong winds either (in situations where we had trekking poles setup in Slingfin). Slingfin was much sturdier.
I was so ready to pull the trigger on this tent because of its claim of wind endurance and then I read Switchback travels review where they took it to Patagonia for its wind worthy claim. It did worse than the other tents they had. May have been a fluke but the fact it flattened on them I believe lost it a top rating because they liked a lot of other features of it.
Yep, I did read that review. I note they didn't use the trekking poles for reinforcement for the test. For me, adding the poles in after a couple of windy nights really dialled it in and there was basically no blow ins/blow downs. My only fear would be in really really strong winds. As the trekking poles have no give in them, you could potentially get a tear in the fly if the pressure became too much!
What the wind breaketh, duct tape can repaireth. Ask me how i know this. Eyeroll!
Yep, that was unfortunate! It's true that they didn't use the trekking poles (which add a TON of strength), nor did they use all the external guylines or install any additional internal guylines. A tent is only as strong as its setup, and if you don't bother to set up the tent properly it's unsurprising that it won't perform up to its potential! Additionally, most of the other tents in the test were significantly heavier, (heavier even than the Portal with the heavy-duty pole set added), so the comparison wasn't even to tents in the same category. It was disappointing to see the tent misused by an ostensibly technical publication, but the fact is that many reviewers often don't take the time to actually learn about all of the features of the tents they're reviewing, which is why we really appreciate a well-informed review like @mowsertas here 😉
@@SlingFin1 Thank you for taking the time to respond. Interesting information on the fact that it was a comparison to tents not in its same class. If that is true it reflects badly on Switchback Travel for not mentioning that. You wouldn't have the names and makes of the comparison tents?
@@Over50YearsOffgrid I think the main one I felt indignant about was a tent from S2S, not sure which model, but it weighed about 2.5lb more than the Portal, so almost twice as much, and I think the Nemo Dagger was in there as well, which is in a similar category but weighs 8oz more, in part because it uses heavier poles. For trips in Patagonia or similar we recommend picking up the heavy duty poles, which add 6oz and give the Portal as much or more wind resistance than most lightweight four-season tents.
mowser, come on.
weight to floor size area is good. but I'll take the pepsi challenge any day my friend - that my minaret is standing long after your slingfin is a pile of fabric !
ps. grow a moustache with that beard, or you'll get arrested
Love the Minaret! Have spent many a night in a Minaret and an Olympus!
@@mowsertas well done with the channel growth btw
Hi mate. This tent looks exactly as 1.000 other ones, tipically sold for 100 bucks. It's a MSR Hubba Hubba clone. The body fabric is 15D so too thin for most people and usage. The floor is 20D, that means it will break in just a season. Inside it's all mesh, almost no fabric, to keep prices down (but that also means you will freeze into the winds). The waterproofiness seems inadequate (1200/1800?!); manufacture also advise you to seam seal some sewings. Only thing that is almost "ok" are the poles. I say "almost", as the top one is just placed on, while the perimetral ones are kept together just by a piece of plastic. The usage of trekking poles is a gimmick (they just added a piece of fabric...), that you can also do with any other tent of similar type. Yes, the weight is down, but you are buying a half tent, for quadruple the price. I hope they gifted you this tent, as you are also selling your dignity.
First off, I want to clarify that I always disclose when a product is gifted because maintaining authenticity in my reviews is crucial-I’m certainly not selling my dignity - I purchased this tent with my own money.
It sounds like you’ve really put this tent through its paces. My team and I used the Mutha Hubba across various models for over ten years in some of the toughest off-track and scrubby hiking conditions in Tasmania, and it’s always performed well. When I was looking for a new tent, I wanted something of similar size and features but better wind stability and having used the Slingfin on some very windy peaks with and without trekking poles, there was a noticeable difference in stabilty. After about a month of use, this tent has held up well and met my expectations so far. I appreciate your detailed feedback, as it's important to consider all perspectives when choosing the right gear for specific conditions. I will of course follow up in a year or two with a further review after more extensive use.
@@mowsertas thanks for clarifying and keep up the good work!
I really prefer mesh inner to solid inner, the fly protects from wind if you pitch low to the ground. Some companies offer solid and mesh inners so you can choose, seems like most are mesh inners in North America.
Holy Christ if any of you have an hour and a half to watch a tent review, this site is for you. We’re here for a good time buddy, not a long time. A little less hearing yourself talk would be great.
Thanks for your feedback! It’s early days in my TH-cam journey and I aim to provide comprehensive and in-depth reviews that cover all aspects of the product, which can take time. I believe the length of the video is necessary to ensure that all important details are covered thoroughly. TH-cam offers flexibility in viewing options such as increased speed and skipping sections, which you might find helpful. I appreciate your input and understand that everyone’s preferences differ. Thanks for watching!