I also have the Notch Li. I agree with what Morgs said about length. The two best things about this tent are that it is light, and that your head and feet have plenty of leeway before pushing against the fly (both outwards and upwards). Other great things are that it has two doors and two vestibules, with decent quality zips. It's quick to pitch, and the inner and outer go up together. Downsides are that the mesh pockets are not very usable. Also, although it's spacious for sleeping, there's not much space at the side for other stuff. I leave my pack, gaiters and boots outside, but I like to bring everything else inside. I can barely manage this, whereas in my other tent (Big Agnes Copper Spur 1) there's ample space for all that stuff. If there's not a lot of wind, the tent pitches fine with four pegs. But I bought some full-size groundhog pegs for the pole tie-outs so that it's rock solid in strong wind on any ground. I also extended the end tieouts like Morgs did, but with a lineloc, to give a little more flexibility in peg placement. In strong wind it has been bombproof, but there's a lot of flapping, so I made some further mods. I added two more peg-out points on each side, which makes it more comfortable inside when the wind is gusting from the side. I use pegs at the base of the struts to keep the inner more stable in heavy wind. So now I take twelve pegs (!) for extreme conditions, but for less wild conditions it's absolutely perfect with 6 pegs. I took it on the Cape Wrath Trail in the Scottish highlands before I made the mods, and I had a couple of very windy high camps, and I was super happy with how it performed. To round out the mods, I added a lightweight cord inside the top of the inner to make an indoor "washing line", and I put another hook for easier hanging of my torch. I also tied a cord across the top of the outside of the tent, for use as an outdoor washing line. I might hang a mesh bag from the top at one side, to use instead of the mesh pockets. With all these mods the tent weighs 668g including the sack and six pegs. If I'm expecting wild weather, I add six more pegs (another 66g), and unless I know I'll be camping on soft grass I take a tyvek groundsheet which I have cut to the exact size of the inner (112g). With the groundsheet and the extra pegs everything still fits into the supplied sack.
Hi Roger. Thanks so much for your very comprehensive response. This information will be very, very useful for anyone who is interested in buying the Notch Li. I too use pegs on the strut corners in wind and I have added extra guy lines on the tarp doors so I have extra strength in wind. Using MSR Groundhogs ensures great stability. I've not struggled too much with the internal space. I tend to chuck everything in the head end and only leave my rucksack in the awning. I know have my food on the inner having been raided twice by mountain foxes!
I remeber we looked at the Tarptent range when deciding on our tent for the PCT - obviously the 2 man versions - and really liked their designs. What put us off in the end was that there was no way of testing the tent to see if we could get along with it without incurring huge import and shipping costs. US companies have great returns policies, but if you are based abroad it is still very expensive if you find you don't like it. Glad you are happy with it and hope it works for you for a long time.
Yes, it was a gamble but I'd read so many reviews and one in particular by a UK based guy who backpacked using it from Kent to Scotland. He described it as the best ever backpacking tent. It was then that I took the plunge. Many thanks for taking the time to comment!!
Excellent review. I bought the Notch non DCF version about 5 years ago and I have been well pleased with the design, used it in the Pyrenees. However, I agree with you on the nylon material sagging and holding water. I have been meaning to upgrade to DCF for sometime. I have looked at ZPacks Plexamid, Tarptent ProTrail and GG The One. However, I think I will seriously look to upgrade my Notch to the Notch Li following your superb honest video. It is a lot of money to ship to the UK, I live in the Channel Islands, so thankfully I don't have to pay too much import duty. I am going to backpack the South West Coast path in the spring, so hopefully by then I will have stopped procrastinating and hit the BUY button. Thanks again, happy trails.
Thanks very much for your kind words Paul. I would have bought the sil nylon version but it was not in stock for ages so bit the bullet. It is very, very light and at first I was worried that the material was too flimsy. After 7 weeks walking and camping, those fears are well and truly banished. It's a tough material so if you do buy, knowing how the Notch works, you'll love the upgrade.
Thanks for the confirmation of how it fits a tall person. As you suggest, when shopping for a tent don't just look at the stated interior dimensions but look at how well the outer wall separates from the inner fabric. I'm 6 feet 4 plus a smidge. The Notch has a listed interior floor length of 84 inches and I know that when my feet and bag stretch out there will be times that the end of the bag will touche the end of the inner tent. However I also see and you appear to have confirmed that the outer wall has sufficient separation such that I wouldn't be concerned. I may still purchase a Rainbow instead because of the extra width and because it can be fashioned into a free standing structure if necessary, but the Notch is still under consideration.
You're very welcome indeed. And, thanks for taking the time to comment on the video. Making such a purchase takes some consideration and I'm glad that I've been able to help. Good luck with your final choice.
Thanks for taking the time to make the video--very informative and answered some questions I had. Maybe one day you could make a video outlining some of the modifications you've made and why? I see the extra piece of cordage at the end of the pitchlocs and that seems like a great idea to be able to use heavy objects on the stakes. Makes me wonder what other good ideas you've implemented
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment. I'm pleased that my review has helped you. It's a good idea regarding the modifications although they have been very minor. Essentially, I have added guy lines to the existing guys to provide extra length to assist with pegging out. In addition, I use the 4 blue pegs to peg out the ends of the carbon fibre struts to provide more rigidity. I use the elastic stretchy bit at the end of the carbon fibre poles to place the blue pegs. I do this because I have learned that by not pegging out the carbon fibre poles, the poles can move in strong wind and the outer awning can then touch the inner. The guy line set up to keep the carbon fibre poles is good but not foolproof and isn't as rigid as I might prefer. I do hope that this extra information helps you.
I bought this tent a year ago and have used it for about 20-25 nights so far. Will bring it for my long distance hike (10 weeks) in the swedish mountains this year. I agree to your pros and cons. Like to add that while the outer magnetic toggles are superb, I really don't like the inner toggles (or lack of them). I'm going to do something about them, as for the pockets. Just a few inches seam, to prevent stuff from falling out. One thing I really like is how easy it is to change the hight, even after I've pitched it. Now some questions: You mentioned it's wind capabilities. What is you're experience om how to place it best to the wind? Also wonder about you're chocking cord at the doors. Do you find it helpful? Have been thinking of a similar solution. Thanx for your vid!
Hi Sandra. Thanks for taking the time to comment. I'm pleased you're happy with your Notch. Your solutions for the inner tent cords and pockets are good. I think I'll revisit both to improve them. If it's windy, I find that the tent performs best when it is sideways onto the wind. The ridge of the tent is at 90 degrees to how we sleep in it and if the wind hits the tent at either the foot or head end, then the outer pushes down in the inner. I don't understand your question regarding the cord on the doors. Can you clarify for me please? 10 weeks in Sweden!! Wow, what an adventure you'll have!
Thanks for the review. I like dcf for tents and love my Plexamid for ease of use, but it does flap and struggle with wind and is not very warm on colder breezy nights. The Aeon Li is the other consideration, but as it’s single skin and Tarptent only use olive drab dcf which is almost see through, I’m considering the Notch Li. I’d be interested to know what mods you made to improve its wind performance. Cheers
Thanks for taking the time to comment. I have added guy lines to the existing lines as if the existing ones fray then you're stumped. I have taken out the hopeless pegs that it comes with and use my trusty groundhogs. In addition I stake down the corners of the struts at each end. That's about it and it performs rather well in wind. Last night was breezy but as the inner is partially solid I was snug.
Thanks David, for this review, I'm in the Market for a lightweight setup. It does look like a good setup. Enjoyed your Dales High Way Series also. Looks like you are by the small bothy in the Black Mountains.
Thanks for commenting Phillip. It is a lightweight tent and you would be pushed to find a better one for the weight. If you do commit, I don't think you'll be disappointed. Yes, I filmed this in the Black Mountains and there is a video on that two day walk out next Saturday.
Great review of the Tarptent Notch Li. Pleased you mentioned about the length inside the inner. Been thinking about these DCF tents for a while now and I'm starting to do some investigation about them now. I have been looking at the Zpacks Duplex XL as well. Only thing is ordering a tent with out getting in it first. Really enjoyed watching and subbed you. Atb Steve 👍
Thanks Steve. I'm so pleased that my review has helped you make a future informed decision. The interior length was a potential issue for me so that's one less thing for you to worry about. It's a good tent.
Hi Ryan, It certainly does help with regards to keeping the inner warmer in breezier conditions as opposed to the full mesh option that Tarptent also offer. Due to the way the awning works, this tent is definitely more vented than many on the market but the fabric definitely helps to mitigate against all but the strongest winds.
At 6 ft 3 inches I've always been put off the Notch - at 6 ft 4 you have reassured me! I was wondering about your modifications? Can you elaborate, or possibly you have covered in a previous video?
Hi David. I've added extra guys to existing guys as if the existing ones fray you're a bit stumped. I also peg down the corners where the struts meet the ground so carry extra pegs.
@@morgs4mountains Thanks for replying. I know some people also add a DCF stick on patch woth line lock with short guy to the lower middle of the pegged door. You clearly haven't felt that is needed that.
No, I haven't done that and personally see no need to. There is plenty of space between the inner and the outer and the only other reason I can conclude is for greater performance in wind. But, if you pitch it end on into the wind and use extra pegs on the struts, it's very stable.
Tarptent website lists two different solid inners, which one do you have? 1) Solid with Dyneema floor or 2) Both mesh and solid interiors with Dyneema floors? The latter is a lot more expensive so I would have thought you have no.1?
I have the solid version with the dyneema floor. Despite my initial reservations on dyneema, I'm very impressed and its condition is still excellent after 70+ camps.
Great review. I am still tossing up a tarp setup or perhaps the bigger StratoSpire li. I really want to 1. Be able to sit up 2. Have room for my pack and gear inside with me. So what, 150g more including pegs? Anyway it’s a beautiful tent you have there and a very informative review. Thanks 😊
You're very welcome David. I'm pleased that my review has been informative to you and provided more information as you work towards making your final choice.
B&B, if you can find one with vacancies, will be £35 upwards so after 18 nights you will be saving. So even a £300 tent is 'cheap' and sees easy returns.
I have the Gen 2 Notch Li (made in China and a bit better workmanship than the Gen 1). MY MODS: 1.) stake loops (sewn to reinforcement circles) two per side 2.) green deyed "solid" inner tent (RIT Dyemore synthetic dye) 3.) optional TT tent pole "handle pockets" tied in each peak (permits pole handles to be upright and NOT in the dirt) BTW, this tent is "just" large enough to allow you to change your mind while inside. ;o) This tent, when guyed out and using ALL stakes is nearly bombproof in 40 mph (24 KMPH) winds. NO flapping. Although intended by Henry Shiresm the designer, as a 3 season tent it will withstand a windy snow storm of less than 10 inches deep. UPDATE: BTW I dyed my inner tent "Parrot Green" with RIT Dyemore synthetic material dye for more shade and privacy.
Pleased you have made some modifications that have improved your experience with the tent. I thought I would be bothered by the upside down poles but it's never been an issue for me. I'm always really careful when inserting the metal tip of the pole into the grommet. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
I also have the Notch Li. I agree with what Morgs said about length. The two best things about this tent are that it is light, and that your head and feet have plenty of leeway before pushing against the fly (both outwards and upwards). Other great things are that it has two doors and two vestibules, with decent quality zips. It's quick to pitch, and the inner and outer go up together.
Downsides are that the mesh pockets are not very usable. Also, although it's spacious for sleeping, there's not much space at the side for other stuff. I leave my pack, gaiters and boots outside, but I like to bring everything else inside. I can barely manage this, whereas in my other tent (Big Agnes Copper Spur 1) there's ample space for all that stuff.
If there's not a lot of wind, the tent pitches fine with four pegs. But I bought some full-size groundhog pegs for the pole tie-outs so that it's rock solid in strong wind on any ground. I also extended the end tieouts like Morgs did, but with a lineloc, to give a little more flexibility in peg placement.
In strong wind it has been bombproof, but there's a lot of flapping, so I made some further mods. I added two more peg-out points on each side, which makes it more comfortable inside when the wind is gusting from the side. I use pegs at the base of the struts to keep the inner more stable in heavy wind. So now I take twelve pegs (!) for extreme conditions, but for less wild conditions it's absolutely perfect with 6 pegs. I took it on the Cape Wrath Trail in the Scottish highlands before I made the mods, and I had a couple of very windy high camps, and I was super happy with how it performed.
To round out the mods, I added a lightweight cord inside the top of the inner to make an indoor "washing line", and I put another hook for easier hanging of my torch. I also tied a cord across the top of the outside of the tent, for use as an outdoor washing line. I might hang a mesh bag from the top at one side, to use instead of the mesh pockets.
With all these mods the tent weighs 668g including the sack and six pegs. If I'm expecting wild weather, I add six more pegs (another 66g), and unless I know I'll be camping on soft grass I take a tyvek groundsheet which I have cut to the exact size of the inner (112g). With the groundsheet and the extra pegs everything still fits into the supplied sack.
Hi Roger. Thanks so much for your very comprehensive response. This information will be very, very useful for anyone who is interested in buying the Notch Li.
I too use pegs on the strut corners in wind and I have added extra guy lines on the tarp doors so I have extra strength in wind. Using MSR Groundhogs ensures great stability.
I've not struggled too much with the internal space. I tend to chuck everything in the head end and only leave my rucksack in the awning. I know have my food on the inner having been raided twice by mountain foxes!
I remeber we looked at the Tarptent range when deciding on our tent for the PCT - obviously the 2 man versions - and really liked their designs. What put us off in the end was that there was no way of testing the tent to see if we could get along with it without incurring huge import and shipping costs. US companies have great returns policies, but if you are based abroad it is still very expensive if you find you don't like it. Glad you are happy with it and hope it works for you for a long time.
Yes, it was a gamble but I'd read so many reviews and one in particular by a UK based guy who backpacked using it from Kent to Scotland. He described it as the best ever backpacking tent. It was then that I took the plunge. Many thanks for taking the time to comment!!
Excellent review. I bought the Notch non DCF version about 5 years ago and I have been well pleased with the design, used it in the Pyrenees. However, I agree with you on the nylon material sagging and holding water. I have been meaning to upgrade to DCF for sometime. I have looked at ZPacks Plexamid, Tarptent ProTrail and GG The One. However, I think I will seriously look to upgrade my Notch to the Notch Li following your superb honest video. It is a lot of money to ship to the UK, I live in the Channel Islands, so thankfully I don't have to pay too much import duty. I am going to backpack the South West Coast path in the spring, so hopefully by then I will have stopped procrastinating and hit the BUY button. Thanks again, happy trails.
Thanks very much for your kind words Paul. I would have bought the sil nylon version but it was not in stock for ages so bit the bullet.
It is very, very light and at first I was worried that the material was too flimsy. After 7 weeks walking and camping, those fears are well and truly banished. It's a tough material so if you do buy, knowing how the Notch works, you'll love the upgrade.
Thanks for the confirmation of how it fits a tall person. As you suggest, when shopping for a tent don't just look at the stated interior dimensions but look at how well the outer wall separates from the inner fabric. I'm 6 feet 4 plus a smidge. The Notch has a listed interior floor length of 84 inches and I know that when my feet and bag stretch out there will be times that the end of the bag will touche the end of the inner tent. However I also see and you appear to have confirmed that the outer wall has sufficient separation such that I wouldn't be concerned. I may still purchase a Rainbow instead because of the extra width and because it can be fashioned into a free standing structure if necessary, but the Notch is still under consideration.
You're very welcome indeed. And, thanks for taking the time to comment on the video. Making such a purchase takes some consideration and I'm glad that I've been able to help. Good luck with your final choice.
Thanks for taking the time to make the video--very informative and answered some questions I had. Maybe one day you could make a video outlining some of the modifications you've made and why? I see the extra piece of cordage at the end of the pitchlocs and that seems like a great idea to be able to use heavy objects on the stakes. Makes me wonder what other good ideas you've implemented
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment. I'm pleased that my review has helped you. It's a good idea regarding the modifications although they have been very minor. Essentially, I have added guy lines to the existing guys to provide extra length to assist with pegging out. In addition, I use the 4 blue pegs to peg out the ends of the carbon fibre struts to provide more rigidity. I use the elastic stretchy bit at the end of the carbon fibre poles to place the blue pegs. I do this because I have learned that by not pegging out the carbon fibre poles, the poles can move in strong wind and the outer awning can then touch the inner. The guy line set up to keep the carbon fibre poles is good but not foolproof and isn't as rigid as I might prefer. I do hope that this extra information helps you.
I bought this tent a year ago and have used it for about 20-25 nights so far. Will bring it for my long distance hike (10 weeks) in the swedish mountains this year. I agree to your pros and cons. Like to add that while the outer magnetic toggles are superb, I really don't like the inner toggles (or lack of them). I'm going to do something about them, as for the pockets. Just a few inches seam, to prevent stuff from falling out.
One thing I really like is how easy it is to change the hight, even after I've pitched it.
Now some questions: You mentioned it's wind capabilities. What is you're experience om how to place it best to the wind? Also wonder about you're chocking cord at the doors. Do you find it helpful? Have been thinking of a similar solution.
Thanx for your vid!
Hi Sandra. Thanks for taking the time to comment. I'm pleased you're happy with your Notch. Your solutions for the inner tent cords and pockets are good. I think I'll revisit both to improve them.
If it's windy, I find that the tent performs best when it is sideways onto the wind. The ridge of the tent is at 90 degrees to how we sleep in it and if the wind hits the tent at either the foot or head end, then the outer pushes down in the inner.
I don't understand your question regarding the cord on the doors. Can you clarify for me please?
10 weeks in Sweden!! Wow, what an adventure you'll have!
Thanks for the review. I like dcf for tents and love my Plexamid for ease of use, but it does flap and struggle with wind and is not very warm on colder breezy nights. The Aeon Li is the other consideration, but as it’s single skin and Tarptent only use olive drab dcf which is almost see through, I’m considering the Notch Li. I’d be interested to know what mods you made to improve its wind performance. Cheers
Thanks for taking the time to comment. I have added guy lines to the existing lines as if the existing ones fray then you're stumped. I have taken out the hopeless pegs that it comes with and use my trusty groundhogs. In addition I stake down the corners of the struts at each end. That's about it and it performs rather well in wind. Last night was breezy but as the inner is partially solid I was snug.
The sound on this video is excellent.. What mic are you using?
That's very nice of you to say so Sophie. I use an AGPTEK lavalier microphone that plugs into my phone. It works for me!!
Thanks @@morgs4mountains
Thanks David, for this review, I'm in the Market for a lightweight setup. It does look like a good setup. Enjoyed your Dales High Way Series also. Looks like you are by the small bothy in the Black Mountains.
Thanks for commenting Phillip. It is a lightweight tent and you would be pushed to find a better one for the weight. If you do commit, I don't think you'll be disappointed. Yes, I filmed this in the Black Mountains and there is a video on that two day walk out next Saturday.
Great review of the Tarptent Notch Li. Pleased you mentioned about the length inside the inner. Been thinking about these DCF tents for a while now and I'm starting to do some investigation about them now. I have been looking at the Zpacks Duplex XL as well. Only thing is ordering a tent with out getting in it first. Really enjoyed watching and subbed you. Atb Steve 👍
Thanks Steve. I'm so pleased that my review has helped you make a future informed decision. The interior length was a potential issue for me so that's one less thing for you to worry about. It's a good tent.
Thanks for the info I've been close to hitting buy it now
I'm glad my review has helped you. I'm looking forward to my next 3 week trip with my Notch. Such a good tent.
Great video! Does that mesh inner help as a wind block?
Hi Ryan,
It certainly does help with regards to keeping the inner warmer in breezier conditions as opposed to the full mesh option that Tarptent also offer. Due to the way the awning works, this tent is definitely more vented than many on the market but the fabric definitely helps to mitigate against all but the strongest winds.
At 6 ft 3 inches I've always been put off the Notch - at 6 ft 4 you have reassured me! I was wondering about your modifications? Can you elaborate, or possibly you have covered in a previous video?
Hi David. I've added extra guys to existing guys as if the existing ones fray you're a bit stumped. I also peg down the corners where the struts meet the ground so carry extra pegs.
@@morgs4mountains Thanks for replying. I know some people also add a DCF stick on patch woth line lock with short guy to the lower middle of the pegged door. You clearly haven't felt that is needed that.
No, I haven't done that and personally see no need to. There is plenty of space between the inner and the outer and the only other reason I can conclude is for greater performance in wind. But, if you pitch it end on into the wind and use extra pegs on the struts, it's very stable.
@@morgs4mountains I blame you and this video for my wallet now being rather lighter than before I watched it. 😁
I can assure you that once you get used to it, you won't regret it. Tonight will be my 32nd night in mine and I feel very lucky to own one.
Tarptent website lists two different solid inners, which one do you have? 1) Solid with Dyneema floor or 2) Both mesh and solid interiors with Dyneema floors? The latter is a lot more expensive so I would have thought you have no.1?
I have the solid version with the dyneema floor. Despite my initial reservations on dyneema, I'm very impressed and its condition is still excellent after 70+ camps.
@@morgs4mountains Thanks for the quick reply! Enjoy your videos, so keep up the good work. All the best from Norway!
Nice one and still loving mine, by the way you are pitched exactly where I pitched with my son in law in the Black mountains, a popular spot indeed.
👍
I think it must be Dave. Right by the bothy. I've camped in many locations in the BM but this was a first for me. The next video explains why!!
@@morgs4mountains look forward to the video 👍
Great review, thank you for this.
Cheers from Switzerland
You're very welcome indeed. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Great review. I am still tossing up a tarp setup or perhaps the bigger StratoSpire li. I really want to 1. Be able to sit up 2. Have room for my pack and gear inside with me. So what, 150g more including pegs? Anyway it’s a beautiful tent you have there and a very informative review. Thanks 😊
You're very welcome David. I'm pleased that my review has been informative to you and provided more information as you work towards making your final choice.
B&B, if you can find one with vacancies, will be £35 upwards so after 18 nights you will be saving. So even a £300 tent is 'cheap' and sees easy returns.
I agree!! Thanks for posting!!
Great review
Thanks Jonah.
I have the Gen 2 Notch Li (made in China and a bit better workmanship than the Gen 1).
MY MODS: 1.) stake loops (sewn to reinforcement circles) two per side 2.) green deyed "solid" inner tent (RIT Dyemore synthetic dye) 3.) optional TT tent pole "handle pockets" tied in each peak (permits pole handles to be upright and NOT in the dirt) BTW, this tent is "just" large enough to allow you to change your mind while inside. ;o)
This tent, when guyed out and using ALL stakes is nearly bombproof in 40 mph (24 KMPH) winds. NO flapping. Although intended by Henry Shiresm the designer, as a 3 season tent it will withstand a windy snow storm of less than 10 inches deep.
UPDATE: BTW I dyed my inner tent "Parrot Green" with RIT Dyemore synthetic material dye for more shade and privacy.
Pleased you have made some modifications that have improved your experience with the tent. I thought I would be bothered by the upside down poles but it's never been an issue for me. I'm always really careful when inserting the metal tip of the pole into the grommet.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.