Six 4 Season Tents Review - Hilleberg Akto Soulo - The North Face Ve25, Mountain25, Mtn35 Westwind
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- čas přidán 29. 08. 2024
- In this video I look at six of my four season tent collection for wild camping - Two tents from Hilleberg and four tents from The North Face - I discuss and showcase five features that I love about each tent and three features that I hate...Do I have a favourite? ATB Tom
If you have enjoyed this video you can help the channel and support this type of content by buying me a coffee using the link below... Many thanks Tom
ko-fi.com/tomh...
One of the best group tent reviews I've ever seen. It must have taken you ages! Much appreciated 👍
Hi thank you for your positive comments. Yes I think it took me about 6 hours on the day. I even had another tent but decided not to include it in the review due to the time factor. ATB Tom
This is the best tent comparison video I've ever seen and the only one showing premium 4-season tents side by side. Well done.
Back in 1978 I bought a tent made by "Black Ram" from Kresge's department store that was virtually identical in size, shape, and design to the VE25. The specs are so much the same that the rain flies are interchangeable. After 45 years and hundreds of nights use, the fabric and stitching on my Black Ram started showing its age and wear so I decided it needed to be retired and started the long search to find another like it. I was relieved when I found the VE25. The VE25 was definitely an improved version with enhanced ventilation, a second door, an enclosed vestibule, lots of pockets, and more tie down points, but it was the same tent. I gave $60 for my first one. I was shell shocked at the price of the VE25, but eventually got a really good deal on one that there was a sign that said everything on that shelf was 50% off. I jumped on it. When I went to check out it rang up at full price. I mentioned it was on the shelf marked 50% off and when the cashier went back to check there were several other VE25's on the shelf. She called the manager. I'm not one to take advantage of someone else's honest mistake so I didn't press the issue, but the manager did. She insisted that if I was going to buy the tent at the discounted price that she wanted me to buy it at that price. We almost got into an argument. I told her that I'd feel like a crook to buy the tent due to an employee mistake. She replied with this: "If we don't honor the price that led you to want the tent, every time the subject of tents comes up in the future you'll have the story to tell of how they made a mistake and didn't honor the price marked. However, if we sell the tent to you at that price you'll have the story of how we are a stand-up company that wants its customers to be happy and stands behind its pricing, if a mistake was made. Which story would you want told about your company? The story you will tell of how we did the right thing will create way more sales for us in the future than the single time loss we'll have by selling you the tent and lose $350. So, since you were going to buy the tent, I ask that you proceed but to please remember how you got it." I bought the tent and have spent the last 12 years telling this story. So, I want to give a shout out to Rock/Creek at Hamilton Place Mall in Chattanooga, TN. These guys are the best.
As for the tent, the VE25 continues to be my go-to tent and has served me well. It's a premium quality tent that I HIGHLY recommend. I like it for all the reasons you pointed out, plus if you're car camping it will hold a queen size air mattress and still have room for clothing and gear inside for two people. The only cons to the tent are that it takes longer to setup because mine has full length pole sleeves and can be challenging to setup with one person, and it can be difficult to get the rain fly properly oriented and over the tent when setting up alone. As a tip, I've found it's much easier to enter and exit the tent through the back vestibule than the front. Happy camping!
Hi, thank you for sharing your tent experiences and of course your positive comments regarding the video.... My second VE25 was a barging too... It was advertised at half price when in fact the company were selling an Oval 25 at half price but someone had got mixed up and pit the label on the Ve25... Again the company honoured the deal wholeheartedly. A small business called Surf Mountain who unfortunately dont trade anymore.....
I ended up using the Ve25 on my own and found it just too heavy. Also like you say trick to put up and down when it gets windy.... A really good all round tent... ATB Tom
Another fabulous review of six tents, Tom, production is excellent and presentation is 1st Class. The journey you described is the journey of modern camping with the transition from the base camp tent to cuben fibre lightweights. I was a member of the Cromlech Club and two of the founders, Don Whillans and Joe Brown only used tents as a base camp at the base of the wall they were climbing in the Llanberis Pass or on the Isle of Skye. If the weather was particularly wet, they’d transfer to a road mender’s hut. They met Chris Bonnington in one.
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It’s clear that future development is with the like of your two red tents and I’m hoping that you’ll be exploring variations on those, from my selfish point of view. Your years of experience comes across with great authority and your description of features is second to none. My long time experience is in the three-man variety and I’m very keen to hear what information you can pass over about tents for one-man occupancy. ATB, Tom.
Hi Gary, thank you for your positive comments they are much appreciated. I was waiting on you to comment for a few days as I know that you do the detail and I get a lot of value from what you say. For many years now I have wild camped for the sake of wild camping with no other trip purpose other than to be in my tent in mad conditions in a remote location and enjoy it protecting me. I did many trips to Scotland in the winter using a base camp tent on the campsites and something like a Terra Nova Quasar for further trips on summits and places like the Cairngorm Plateau. The development now of lighter tents and particularly smaller ones has opened up wild camping possibilities for many adventurers. Even if two or three people go wild camping together its nice to have your own tent as you can still talk to each other from tent to tent but have your own space. I would love to review more tents of this type but even though its a growing trend it is still ultimately a very niche market for my channel.... ATB and thank you for the detail and thought behind your comments. ATB Tom
Fantastic, Tom - Great delivery and superb audio. The tents are all great, but I do have a sweet spot for the Akto, 😊👍🐶
HI Shamus, thank you very much. I am continually working to get my audio better and not finished yet.. Your recommendation on microphones has got me to this level so I really appreciate it. ATB Tom
Don't take the thumbs down to heart. There is absolutely nothing to dislike about this video. In another video (can't recall whose or which one it was - not this one though) I inadvertently hit the dislike and couldn't figure out how to undo it. So, there's always that...
Very nice comprehensive video again, Tom. You have a very thorough and professional presentation technique!
Hi Scott, Thank you so much for your positive comments they are really appreciated and it brought a smile to my face. Your are totally right about not taking it to heart and I suppose I didn't think of some one hitting it by mistake. My videos are not perfect by any means and after you watch them a few times yourself you always notice the bits that you didn't say exactly what you wanted to etc. Should have another one up tonight on my AKTO and SOULO taking on 40mph winds on the coast... Look out for the AKTO getting hammered by the spray of the waves from the sea as I was a little closer than I would have liked.... ATB Tom
Six in a row, how cool is that?! I loved your personal motivation in the end, were you tell when and why you bought each tent. This is candy for adults. A nice trekking tent is a symbol for freedom and adventure.
Hi Jasper, thank you for watching and commenting once again. I never find it difficult to find motivation to buy another tent. I am an expert at finding reasons to introduce them to the household if you know what I mean..... ATB and looking forward to your next video and kayak trip. Tom
This is such a wonderfully put together review. I love that this review comes from being an owner and user of each tent. Most reviews on CZcams seem to be an initial reaction, but I'd love that you have actually used these in the conditions they were made for.
Hi David great to hear your thoughts 🤔💭... I have used all these tents extensively and have a soft spot for them all.. The westwind is probably one of my favorites for the type of camping I do most of.. It has such a great strength to space to weight ratio.. Thank you once again for watching and taking the time to comment.... All the very best Tom
Excellent Tom, I really enjoyed seeing the VE25. It’s a tent I’ve admired from afar but never had the chance to see on up close. Really interesting to see all six tents lined up side by side. The amount of prep you’ve gone to for this film is incredible.
Thank you, Phil.
Hi Phil thank you once again for your positive comments. This one wasn't too difficult as I have used all the tents so much and just had to talk about my experiences likes and dislikes. Still a good few hours putting to together. ATB Tom
Great video Tom and having had most of these I have to agree with you across the board. Fantastic fleet, I would be reluctant to sell any of them ( but the VE25 is the Icon for me ) ATB A
Hi Andrew, thank you for taking the time to comment especially when you have a great Channel yourself. Just subbed as I see you have recently got your hands on Samaya Assult 2 Ultra.. and I love different top end tents... ATB Tom
Another great video. Love your journey through time explaining why you bought each tent. I have had most of those tents, Soulo BL on order now.
Hi William, thank you for watching and listening. Its always hard to know what exact content to include and the story bit kind of fell into place as I always needed an excuse to buy another tent. You are the second commenter on this video that has ordered a BL Soulo. The design, poles and fabrics on it are amazing as is the fact that it can go up in the house for a quick look before you take it out.... I wish you all the very best with it and hope it comes soon. If I didn't have the red label then I would be going for the black too...ATB Tom
Excellent job of explaining the pros and cons. Thank You. Big AL
Hi Alan, thank you once again for watching and commenting. Good to see you have an interest in a variety of tents... Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 Tom, Thanks. I aprpreciate your reviews as I am interested in purchasing a Helleberg tent. I am thinking the 2 person 4 season tent. It may be overkill but I've been a many backpacks ( Baffin Island, Alaska two trip above the Artic Circle, and the Cirque of the Unclimbables). You are absolutely right, you cannot beat high quality gear. It's peace of mind!! keep the video's coming!! Many Thanks. Big AL
Very enjoyable and thourough! Thanks! I just ordered my first Hilleberg tent - A Soulo BL!!
Hi Kevin, great to hear that you have ordered the BL Soulo. I am such a fan of the 10mm poles. I even use one in my Akto. The Soulo design is fantastic and with the black label fabrics the durability will be outstanding. I hope you get it tomorrow or Monday....... ATB Tom
Outstanding review from actual years of use . Brilliantly presented 👌👌🇮🇪
Hey thank you very much for watching and your kind comments...Love all of these tents and a good mixture of models here. The North Face Westwind is kind of my wild card favourite as at 2.7 kg its a manageable excellent one person tent... ATB Tom
Awesome video. All incredible tents. There is a tent for every scenario for sure. Great job.
Thank you for your positive comments, Yes each tent here has been my favourite at some point. Ever one of them has a few very special attributes. ATB Tom
my first tent trango 2. then westwind then msr then staika then nallo then Allak then superlite quasar then soulo and finally , the niak has been my most used tent for over 5 yrs light waterproof and great for one person. great videos by the way i wish there had been as much info about tents as i was going through my tent evolution!
Hey I had two Trango 2 s and two quasars, mountain hyperspace and a few others not shown here.. Yeah many years ago there wasn't much information about or actual choice of tents. Great to hear of you tents and collection. That superlite quasar is definitely very rare but good to have a geodesic tent so light but using the fabrics from the laser I think... I might do a review of the Niak in the not too distant future. But anyway thank you for your comments as a user of some great tents. ATB Tom
Loved this review! I used to have the Moss Little Dipper, it was unbelievably strong, the problem was the fabric took on a mildew smell that could not be removed, someone once mentioned the red fabric from that period was known for taking on this smell.
Hi Fred, thank you for your comments. The pole structure looks fantastic and a bit different on the little dipper, just had a look.... . Yes I bought a second hand tent on one occasion from eBay which had a damp smell which I couldn't shift either.. ATB Tom
Great video Tom and great to see all those tents again! Still my absolute favorite tent and tbe one we spent the most time in is the VE25.... it is the perfect livable 4 season tent!!
Hi Neil maybe we will get out in it again sometime before I sell it.... Its liability is outstanding. ATB and thank you for your comments over all my videos. Tom
Top notch video ! me being a gearhead I would say that it was very informative and entertaining.
I had so far Salewa Sierra Nevada ,Vaude Space 1,Vango Hurricane beta, CARAVAN (Hilleberg) Keb. ,
THE NORTFACE Westwind , Mountain Hardwear hoopla , Weekend Sapa , Nemo Galaxi , Helsport Fonnfjell pro2
next stop probably Hilleberg probably Jannu in my opinion outer tend pitch first (combined ) is key in bad weather.
Hi Domingo, thank you for your comments here especially sharing the tents that you have owned... Thats a great selection.... Have you a favourite? I have a review of the Jannu on my channel and next up will be the Nammatj 2 which I currently own and am testing.... ATB Tom
Another excellent and detailed comparo! Thank you!
Hey Cameron, I hope you are having a nice lazy Sunday... The conditions are turning cold here in Northern Ireland towards the end of the week so I plan a camp and review to test out an ultra light tent that I have borrowed. I really enjoyed this six tent test too although erecting and taking down the tents took serious time especially filming in between ha . ATB Tom
Another great review, thanks. Some collection of tents. Great to see them all pitched and compared side by side. Having used most of the NF tents here I would agree they are really well made and impressively strong for their weight/volume. Love the mountain 35 and VE 25 for 2/3 people and Westwind is my new go to tent for 1/2 person summit camps. Looks like I might have to try a hilleberg next!
Hi John, I reviewed 6 tents here and two were yours... Thank you so much for letting me borrow them back. You have great experience with all of these North Face Tents so appreciate your comments. Yes they do look good in a line up especially on a nice sunny day. ATB Tom
Great Work as always 🤩🥇doble poles works great on tunnel tents an give them good , good strenght. Are extremly easy to pitch in one go , but can be a bit weaker When the wind hits 3m2 of materials hard from the side😉
Hi Audun, Yes double poling on this one just needs one extra pole to gain a lot of extra strength and stability. You have to be confident that the construction and fabrics are good though as making one area stronger can expose weaknesses in others... ATB Tom
You really are "mr. 4. season tents" - what a row of tents! And you really love pockets in tents
My tents:
Hilleberg Enan (too klaustrophobic for me)
Hilleberg Niak (favorite 3 season tent)
Hilleberg Soulo (Favorite tent i tough condisions)
Hilleberg Staika (I was a little sad it got beaten by the other two tents in your other review:-))
BR Jens
Hey Jens 4 Hillebergs is amazing. Maybe some day I will have four of them too... Love the way you have a favourite for different conditions. Thats the right way to do it.. ATB Tom
Hello Tom my name is Nick That was a great presentation I am from Southern California And I do have the new VE25 North face Thank you for the information about the rear of the tent That is vulnerable in high winds.i do have anew kuiu storm star extremely strong tent. Some day soon I would love to purchase a soulo black label tent.
Hi Nick, thank you for watching and commenting. It's great to hear than you have a new North Face Ve25. This one here is my third... I also have a video on CZcams comparing this one to one made a couple of generations ago as things don't always get better over the years due to cost cutting! I would be very interested to hear your thoughts on the Kuiu Storm Star as I have looked at it online many times and like its features. Have a look at my recent BL Soulo in one of our recent storms here in Ireland and I am sure you will be impressed. ATB and thanks for making contact. Tom
You seem such a tent nerd
... And I love it 🤓 keep the good content up, appreciate your efforts.
I am afraid so Mike. Not a bad way to spend the afternoon putting them all up and having a coffee in each... You didn't see that bit... ATB Tom. Got the grass specially cut for the show too... ha ha
wouldn't that be a tent geek
Whats your tent collection? Here are some of mine over the years. I hope that you enjoy my thoughts on some of my favourite tents. ATB Tom
What’s your favourite tent out of all of them ? I use the Hilleberg soulo and love it
@@sfrenchy5943 I didn't really want to say but previous it was the Mountain 25, now it would be between the Soulo and Akto.. Some days its the Soulo and some days the Akto... ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 yeah I think the soulo has a really good set of features, no tent is perfect but it excels at what it’s intended for with a good usable use of space that’s not too much along with a decent vestibule area, it also blends in very well (sand) to the environment.
@@sfrenchy5943 Sand was my first choice for my AKTO but I ended up with red.. Outdoors Inspiration has a sand one I wonder where he got it... ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 yeah the sand blends so well. Great colour! Whats your thoughts on the new soulo BL over the standard soulo .... upgrade worthy or unnecessary??
Great video Tom, cracking set of tents. Seeing them side by side gives real perspective of their size. The West Wind is a cracking tent but as you say, it's a pity its inner first. My next piece of kit will either be a new sleeping bag or sleeping mat so if you are planning on doing a video in the near future on either of those 2 items, that would be superb 👍😂 Again Tom, great video and thanks for sharing. Adam
Hi Adam great to hear from you and I hope that you are well and planning a trip out in the Mourne too. Yes I would love to cover sleeping bags and mats but its just sourcing them which I am working on... ATB Tom
Interesting collection I had the NF west wind when it first came out a long long time ago great tent, I replaced it with an Akto when that first appeared then replaced it with another Akto years later, I still have it tho I bought a Tarp Tent
Scarp 1 about six years ago when in the USA. I have to say it's a lot more livable and just as strong as the Akto just a bit awkward to pack tho I understand the end poles are now removable.
Hi David, thank you for your comments here. Very interesting that you are able to compare the Akto and Scarp 1. Not too many people will have had both these tents. I have looked at the Scarp 1 many times and they seem very popular too. Nice option of the extra poles too.... ATB and thank you for your input once again.. Tom
Fantastic video... looking for an Akto but Hilleberg is almost impossible to find in Canada due to our crazy fire proofing laws. I ran across the Keron 4 and bought it at a good price. Hilleberg sure knows how to make a tent!
Hi, thank you for your positive comments. The Akto is sold out here in the UK too. A French company Tents 4 Saisons quite often have them when others done, although none at the moments. You could check if they ship to Canada. ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 Unfortunately Canada has stringent fire retardant laws to protect Canadians from burning to death in their tents. Apparently there must have been a rash of deaths in the Alpine and Canadians must have been going up in mini funeral pyres all over the wilderness. The Canadian Government stepped in to solve yet another imaginary problem. Hilleberg refuses to compromise the breathability of their product by coating their tents with toxic chemicals so they can't be imported but must be smuggled or obtained from some other round about means. Thus the rarity of these great tents in a place were people could really use them. Next trip to Alaska and an Akto might find its way into my truck some-how.
Brilliant as always Tom. Got my Soulo BL ordered yesterday. Although it won’t be here until end of June/ start of July. Could have held on and tried to get one when the go on sale but didn’t want to chance it so it’s just pre ordered. have heard of so many shops already sold out of their first batch!
Hi Stuart, thank you. So glad to hear of your order (the third here on these comments going for a BL Soulo). I need one too and it looks like they will be so popular and for good reason. ATB and thanks once again for your continued support and comments. Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 are you ordering one?? If you are thinking about it your more than welcome to borrow mine for a look against yours 👍🏻 just didn’t want to chance not getting one so I’ve waited this long... what’s another couple of months
@@stuart6347 Hi thank you Stuart. No I haven't got one on order and not sure if I will. With heavy camera equipment I am battling with kit weight the BL is heading in the long direction. If I didn't have a Soulo though then I probably would be my choice. ATB Tom
Thanks Tom for a comprehensive review. I am a Hilleberg Akto user. I am a relatively skinny guy and the inner tent is good enough to me to have enough width space and head room. I can use the vestibule to cook at night during winter. And put my backpack and boots there and have a tidy inner tent. Agreed with you that it will be much better to have one or two more pockets in inner tent.
Hi thank you for your positive comments. The Akto is the tent that I will use the most in the future. The pocket thing is not an issue but I had to mention it to get my 3 dislikes and it so easily could be better... ATB Tom
Scottish Mountain Gear will gladly fit an extra pocket if you want one.
@@petergilbert72 Hi Peter that's good to know thank you for your input. ATB Tom
Thanks.
Welcome.
I decided to buy the Hilleberg Soulo after 2 tents bit the dust in the last few weeks - both single wall. A Mountain Hardwear Direkt 2 (PU floor became very sticky) and a Sierra Designs Convert 2 (waterproof coating is flaking off everywhere). I decided to spend a bit more but get a tent that I know will be good for 10+ years. Those single wall winter tents are almost as expensive and deteriorate while simply being stored. Not making that mistake again. BTW - the Mountain Hardwear warranty was fantastic. I sent the tent in to them and they gave me full credit for the value of the tent even though it was about 5 years old.
Congratulations on your Soulo. It’s a great tent. If you take care of it, it will last a very long time. My first Hilleberg is still going strong, and it’s about ten years old. Still looks brand new, and is still a bomber tent. Hilleberg makes quality stuff.
I will second all of that. The quality and attention to detail on the Hilleberg tents is fantastic. As I said in the video... right down to the pole and peg bags.. Tom
@@p.richter9592 ... so i guess the akto is also a high queasy long life tent?
@@andrer4221 If you mean the Akto is a high quality tent, I would definitely think so. Hilleberg makes great tents. It’s just a matter of finding the tent that fits you, and your needs. That’s the most difficult part. I’ve never gotten wet in a Hilleberg tent, and I’ve not had much problems with condensation either. Not even when it’s been pouring down. I trust my Hilleberg tents to keep me dry, and keep the weather at bay. And so far, I’ve never been disappointed.
@@p.richter9592 thanx, for your respond
Brilliant setup!
Thank you Kris. ATB Tom
Amazing review 👏 thank you 😊
Thank you John for your positive feedback.. Really appreciate it.. Tom
North face look like incredible tents
Yes nice features and attention to detail. Just too heavy and not practical for me carrying and setting up only own in high winds... ATB Tom
I love my old North Face convertible. It sets up inside out or outside in. Inside out uses the velcro loops from the fly to the poles. Outside in uses clips from the tent to loops sewn into the pole sleeves on the fly. I want this tent in a square, 4p config badly.
Hi thank you for the comment.. I have a fair knowledge of tents but didn't realize North Face made a convertible one.. Thank you and best wishes.. Tom
Great review. I have the West Wind and it is an incredible tent in big windy raining storm. I wonder how the Soulo behaves in such conditions.
Hi Ben, West wind was one if my favourite tents and my go to for many years.. I have a few videos of the Soulo on high wind action if you have a look across my channel when you get a moment.. ATB Tom
Awesome review! Thanks a lot!
You are welcome thank you for the comment and watching. ATB Tom
Can you please do an in depth interview on the akto. Great vid btw.
Hi Bart, thank you for your positive comments. Yes I will do in the not too distant future. ATB Tom
Just a quick one here. Tents that I have not shown, but previously owned are: Terra Nova Quasar, Hyperspace, Ultra Quasar and Laser Competition, Two Mountain Hardwear Trango's, Mountain Hardwear Tangent 2, Hilleberg Nammatj 2, an older North Face Mountain 25, Mountain 24, and an older VE25, a Crux X2 Storm and a few Vango's. ATB Tom
PREVIOUS TENTS: Ultimate Peapod, Phoenix Phalcon 2 (outer pitching 1st - shape like a TNF Westwind), Vango Hurricane Beta 2, Wild Country Quasar (with Bulldog poles), Wild Country Hyperspace, Super Quasar, TNF Westwind, TNF Mountain 24. CURRENT TENTS: Black Diamond FirstLight, Rab Latok, Hilleberg Nammatj GT 3, MSR Wind 2, MSR Stormking, Hilleberg Katium 3, Hilleberg Nallo 2, Hilleberg Akto, Helsport Patagonia 3, Hilleberg Allak 2. Would say the one that really stood out was TNF Westwind (ski touring tent) it did every thing well, weight - strength - inside space for two and winter gear - pack size - snow load - used in most places in UK, Scotland winters, French Alps, Norway & Sweden winters & high up in Acrtic Circle in winter, WISH TNF still made. Your latest series of Tent reviews have been excellent a real understanding of each Tents characteristics, appreciated.
@@finsejokulhytta9884 That is an insane collection of past and present. Thank you so much for engaging with my comment. So interesting that you liked the Westwind...I was so happy with mine for many many years. It was this tent that kept me from buying the Soulo for so long as it is just as strong and has much more volume at a minimum weight penalty.... ATB and thanks once again. Tom
Great tent collection. I love tnf summit series and tents. Shame they dnt sell all their smaller tadpole tents any more they were nice and light weight.
Hi Chris, thank you very much. Yes the tadpole design was great but I agree its a pity they don't make them anymore.. ATB Tom
I bought a North Face Big Fat Frog last year second hand but brand new and have yet to trial it. I am mainly doing cycle touring at the moment and it seems like it will be ideal as it is like an extended tadpole. I am 6 ft 4 and just need a slightly longer length than the average.
Thanks for review. Rrgards
You are very welcome. Thank you for watching and commenting. ATB Tom
I would love every one of them. I was glued to the screen for this video. I love my soulo but the inner definitely flaps about a bit in strong winds. Think the V25 wins the "looks cool" category for me. You mentioned Slingfin in a previous video and in this one too so was looking at them online .The crossbow 2 look very interesting as does the Tarptent Scarp 1.I need to cut up the credit card before things get out of hand. Great video as always Tom thanks.
Hi Joe, thank you for your positive comments and I notice that you comment on a lot of my videos so that is very much appreciated. Great that you share my thoughts on the VE25 and to hear your similar experiences with the Soulo. Yes I have looked at the crossbow 2 on many occasions and am looking forward to the update on the WindSaber. Might be tempted.. ATB Tom
Excellent array of tents Tom. I can see you’re a very ‘intense’ guy! 🤣 Good to see your evolution over the years and how your needs and priorities have changed. A few of my friends have the Akto and really like it, although I’d add in an extra pole (or stick) to support the end in high winds as it can get crushed quite a bit. Also, how did you double pole the Westwind mid section when usually they only have a single eyelet? Also, is there such a thing as a perfect tent? Does the Akto come close for you?
Keep up the good work Tom.
Hi Barry, thank you very much. The Westwind has two eye lets on each side. If it had just one more I could get 3 poles in there ha ha.. Yes the Akto is as close as it gets for me at this moment of time. So very good in so many areas.. ATB Tom
Thanks for the information 🙂
HI Marco, you are welcome and thank you for commenting. Hope you are getting out camping yourself. ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 Hi Tom, yes whenever I can 🙂
For extreme winds you have to try the Hilleberg Tarra, especially if you are camping like me in Patagonia.
Yes I love the Tarra, but can only borrow one at the moment so might purchase in the future at some point. Tierra del Fuego is some place. Been there in 2015 and to Ushuaia too but not camping unfortunately... ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 When this pandemic ends we will be able to walk together through Patagonia. It is the best place in the world for trekking
@@dadsantafe Yes yes and I will be using my RED BL Soulo
Watched most of your videos, how many tents do you own 😱🤣 tent envy lol
Hi thank you for your comments. I don't own as many as I would like as I borrow some for my reviews and sell others on when I fancy something different. I have owned all the tents here at some point but just borrowed them back for this review.... ATB Tom
Gratis video. I thought i Was the only obsesive about tents, but I'm not alone. I owned a M25 M35 and VE25 as welled . I would add that M35 has lack of proper ventilation. The New generation of M25 is my go to option. It has the same pole configuration than the M35 with great liveability. Personaly i don'tlike the crystal Windows are a wick point a it trends to stick out. Are not well bonded to the fabric
Hi Nicolas, thank you for watching and your comments. Great to hear that you have owned the same tents here. I agree that the new MTN25 has great liveability for two and the best pole configuration in my opinion for two and 3 man tents.... My older MTN25 had the window come off and North face repaired it but just stitched it on which I thought was a bit crude for a so called factory repair... ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 I had the same problem on my brandnew M25 just after the first trip. I solve the issue in a repair shop that glue and apply a thermo seal tape. Regarding Hilleberg the construction and fabrics are top notch. See you Tom
The interesting thing about the Moss tents was how the poles were sprung in opposition, each side had a pole which hooped back to the same side rather than crossing over the tent to an opposing corner, creating four intersections rather than one. With the way the pole sleeves were designed, the tent was sprung in opposition, like a big spring, it may have had ten or twelve intersecting points. The color scheme was very nice when inside, big spacious red and tan panels, almost like being in a big flower. I was sad the smell had developed, I always pitched dried it after use. I believe it was marketed as a three person tent, but four could easily fit, it was pretty heavy, at twelve plus pounds.
Hi Fred thank you that's interesting about the design and you have explained out well. I am not so sure Moss tents have been available in the UK. Looks they they were bought by MSR. The previous MSR Storm King looks like it got some of its design from Moss... ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 www.outinunder.com/sites/default/files/Moss_catalogue-17_1992.pdf
I found this old pdf of their line-up, thought you might enjoy seeing how diverse the line-up was. The quality was every bit as good as Northface, and the designs were so refreshing.
@@TOMHEANEY100 here is another interesting link: www.billmosstents.com/about
also there is a book: www.amazon.com/Bill-Moss-Fabric-Artist-Designer/dp/0989239306/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=bill+moss&qid=1620007390&sr=8-1
Hello Tom. Thank you for this fantastic video. Six great tents. I am particularly interested in The north face mountain 25 tent. But I also find the Hilleberg Tarra or Saivo very interesting. The biggest difference is mainly in the price of the much more expensive Hilleberg tents. And the Tarra has pretty bad ventilation, which many people complain about. What is your preference? Or tips what I should consider.
Hi Raymond it's a difficult decision for sure.. The Mountain 25 will tick most boxes and is good value... I am sure you have also looked at the Mountain Hardwear Trango 2s.. The inner first pitching is not great in rain or high winds and that's a big advantage of the Tarra
The Tarra also has a superior floor and fly quality is better too. It's always a hard call as pros and cons. If money no object then the Tarra or Saivo. Value then a Mountain 25 over the Trango.. Havnt had my hands on a Saivo but it looks very strong due to 10mm poles and aerodynamic shape. Love the 10mm poles on the Tarra too.. Not much else in this class that I would consider... If you come across something different let me know and I will share my thoughts... Hope you get sorted.. ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 Thank you Tom, for the answer. Of course I also looked at the Trango 2. Trango 2 and the mountain 25 are definitely 2 almost equivalent tents. Trango 2 has the advantage that it is more spacious and easier to set up. But the the mountain 25 has better aeration. And at that point the Trango 2 falls off for me, along with the Tarra. Then the Saivo and Mountain 25 remain for me. Then you still have the problem if you have to replace a tent pole. Here in Europe you don't get that at The north face company. This is much better at Hilleberg. Even if the tent is broken, you can send it to them. And what is also important, if you want to sell the tent you will get quite a bit money for it back. I'm going 100% for the Saivo. Extremely strong with far away the best aeration and much easier to set up.
@@raymondlogister6828 great to hear.. I bent poles on my North Face Ve25. North Face had none to repair them.. So poor service.. Hilleberg customer service is absolutely fantastic. The Saivo is no doubt superior IMO. I wish you many many happy camping trips in it... Tom
Hello Tom- all the way from South Africa. Great comparison review. I also have and absolutely love my Hille Soulo, except that it's a South Paw friendly entrance. It would appear they haven't changed this with the new Soulo BL! Really looking forward to your upcoming review on headlamps- I'm in the market and am absolutely stumped for choice. Silva (exceed 4xr?), Led Lenser, Petzl, Black Diamond?? Would sincerely appreciate you opinion. Recently subscribed. Regards, David.
Hi David thank you for subscribing and commenting. Great to hear that you have a Hilleberg Soulo. I just hope that it is RED.... I have done a couple of reviews on Ledlenser lamps and have owned a Silva Exceed 2XT which I have also reviewed on my channel. I love LedLenser, Black Diamond are great, Petzl have been making them forever but as to Silva.......Have a look at that review. I hope to get my next on up by Wednesday. ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 Thanks for the reply Tom. I've seen your previous lamp reviews (& gave them all a 👍), and particularly the Silva Exceed 2xt. We have a local supplier now, who informs me that the current 3xt model is sold out/unavailable, which will be replaced by the 4xt, come August. Silva is all good- being Swedish, reputable name, etc. but, following your review of the 2xt, well, for that coin I would have asked for perfection... Hoping that they engineered out the little problems... Then again Hille hasn't taken into account my sincere comments re. the location of the Soulo door. Oh, yes, mine is RED, both colour and series.
Looking forward to Wednesday with tremendous anticipation! Keep well and stay safe out there. David.
Good review
Thank you it turned out ok I think... ATB and thank you for you positive comments. Tom
Super comparison, thanks !!
I'm hesitating between the VE25 and Nemo Chogori, the latter being substantially lighter (more fragile??) For winter/snow touring with skis and Pulka.
Although the pulka helps carrying heavy stuff, I'm always trying not to load it too much.
The Chogori seems very interesting but is quite more expensive, and does not have pole sleeves like the VE25, which could help spreading the wind or snow load on the fabric, thus making the North Face stronger (at least on the paper). But the Nemo has snow skirts all around...
What would be your thoughts on these points? And have you tried the Chogori by any chance? (I've tried the Samaya Base Camp too... Great for 2-3 pers very roomy but way too expensive and big to carry 😅)
Cheers and keep up with the good work 👍
Hi thank you for the comment on this and one of my other videos... Not an easy choice between these two tents as I haven't had direct experience with the Nemo... I think I personally would give it a chance though.... All the very best wishes and let me know if you pull the trigger... All the very best wishes Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 not sure I'll make the step towards the Nemo, quite a bit more expensive than the North Face, for so much doubts. And nearly impossible to see in shops in my country :/
I'll keep doing some research for now and let you know;)
Another good comparison from you Tom. One question.. are you experiencing inner moisture buildup in the Akto?
Hi Stewart, thank you for your comments. Not so far but it has always been windy each night I have camped in it so far. There is just nearly always a breeze at least here in Northern Ireland. ATB sorry that this is not much help. Tom
Another great comparison Tom. I would like to ask about the internal space for myself on the Hillebergs. I have a North Face Big Fat Frog but am looking to buy a Hilleberg next year but can't decide between Soulo, Allak, Staika or Akto. I like the idea of the Staika but probably a bit too heavy. I am concerned about the liveability in the Akto and whether it would just be too small for my height (6ft 4in) and flexibility (poor) for getting changed and cooking. What do you think? It's mainly going to be for cycle touring and a bit of backpacking. Thanks
Go for allak- great and not to heavy
@@audungillerdalen thanks.....I was convinced that was what I was going to go for but the more videos I watch I seem to keep changing my mind!
Hi I change my mind fairly frequently too. For your size I would rule out the Akto. You will struggle to sit up in it and it loses height fairly rapidly once you move away from the highest point. The Staika as you say is potentially a bit too heavy and I honestly was a bit disappointed with the usable length as the ends are not vertical and slope in very fast. That leaves you with the Soulo or Allak. Soulo for strength Allak for liability. So that's two recommendations for the Allak.... ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 Thankyou very much Tom... Good to hear from experts in this field especially when it's a big outlay. Really liked all your videos...hope you can keep going with them all and helping others.👍Allak it will be ...now just the colour to decide on🤣
@@evangelistcryinginthewilde6380 Hi. If you haven’t bought already you might consider the Unna or Niak ( 4 vs 3 seasons ). They are both quite roomy inside for a tall user. The Allak is great, I have one, but if reducing weight and pack volume are important I would look at the ones mentioned. Good luck.
Hi Tom, Excellent review, extremely helpful.
I am leaning toward the Akto rather than the Sulo
but was just wondering what it’s like to thread the pole in the continuous sleeve if the fly and pole are wet?
By the way, New Subscriber
Cheers Alan.....
Hi Alan, thank you very much for your comments and Sub. If I am being honest I haven't had the opportunity to do this yet in the wet. I use a 10mm pole instead of the 9mm and it certainly threads very easy even though its thicker. The 100D pole sleeve is durable and reasonably rigid which stops the pole catching on it as you thread it through. Its always going to be slightly more difficult in the wet but not an issue that I have ever heard of before or anyone commenting on it. The ROBENS STARLITE''S 1 or 2 have a combination of poles and clips with a similar design but not the same quality of fabrics or construction design... ATB Tom
Great review but have you ever considered a tipi style tent and if so what brand would you recommend
Hi Chris thank you for your comments. Tipi tents most of which are ultralight would not be my choice for harsh weather camping although as always there will be many who disagree...I will be testing a Z - Packs Altaplex in a couple of days so look out for that. I have also looked at MLD (Mountain Laurel Designs) which look pretty good on paper. ATB Tom
Great video.
Thank you very much. ATV Tom
Love The North Face's summit gold color; wish they had not changed it. My Mountain 25 and 35 have PU waterproofing which sucks; love time it breaks down and becomes sticky. Does your VE-25 have silicone waterproofing? You want to sell your Mountain 25?
Hi thank you for the comment.. Yeah unfortunately both my North Face Mountain 25 and Ve25 have taped seams.. A step backwards IMO.. The Mountain 25 is an American version which has a polyester fly. The tape is still good apart from a couple of welding extra fabric bits coming off at some of the guy points.. There holes in the pole slieves too where the pokes have rubbed against the fabric.. I would not sell it in this condition.. Inner is very fresh though..
With your comprehensive experience of tents, what would you consider the best tent for extremely high winds, looking for an outer/all in one pitch, min of 2 people, double wall for the strongest winds. Not had much luck with tents coping in the past.
Hi thank you for this comment and commenting and watching my other videos. I would go for the Hilleberg Tarra and buy one extra pole to double pole the vestibule pole on the windward side. If its 3 person tent then a Hilleberg Saivo. A number of factors make up the strength of the tent particularly for high winds: Number of poles, geodesic geometry, thickness of poles, fabrics, aerodynamics, guy system, construction and un supported panel size. The hillebergs have all of this covered. If you have any other questions or thoughts on a tent then let me know and I will give you my honest opinion.... ATB Tom
I really like that mountain 25 do you still have it more import do you still use it or is it stuck in a cupboard
Sold it on.. Probably one of my best tents ever.. It was just getting tired from harsh use so not fair in it the keep taking it out in harsh conditions.. Too heavy for me now too... Hey hope you are well.. Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 shame really want one …. Ps i am good still exploring the jungles of Vietnam mostly in a hammock but plan to do the bones road by bike in Russia and and tent a bomb proof tent
Hi there ! I watched your video a while back thinking of getting a ve 25 or mountain 25 now I'm riding a motorcycle around the world for 8 years now and always had lightweight tents but now I'm in chile 🇨🇱 heading south and the weather is bad and windy ! Now I'm sure this tent can handle this but will it handle the warm weather ? Is it possible just to sleep on the inner and not pitch the outer tent ? I have done this many times with my msr fly 2 ! We are talking no rain just really a moskito shelter ! Thanx for your help really liked the video ! I am frank by the way
Hi Frank, great to hear from you and your travels. I have used my Mountain 25, Ve25 and Westwind on many occasions without the fly... Its amazing to have the space without the weight... They all will turn a reasonable shower too so I defiantly will recommend..
@@TOMHEANEY100 thank you for the quick reply ! There is a ve25 waiting for me in ushaia 3 days to go !! Thanx a lot !!
@@frankneikes Hi Frank I have been there.. Wow is insanely a great place.. You will love the tent.. Some serious camping about there in that location... ATB Tom
Well done! Thank you, Tom! I have a first generation VE25, an Expedition25 and a Mountain 25 and I love them all. I recently had some issues with a leaking rainfly for the Expedition25. After many issues with the warranty department, they have offered to compensate me with a gift card. I am considering the new Bastion4. Do you have any experience with that tent? The North Face tells me that they will be receiving a new shipment, possibly in September. I would appreciate your opinion on where I should go from here. As I said, I love the Expedition25, but with my options running out on acquiring a new rainfly for it, I have little recourse with extending the life of it. Thank you for your help and your time!
Hi Russell, thank you for sharing your experiences of many great North Face tents. I recently tested a Trango 4 and the Hilleberg Saitaris which you can see on my channel. I recommend two alternatives as well and the Bastion is one of them..... I don't have personal experience of that exact tent but I think that its a great tent and represents very good value too. I like the different pole structure and features. ATB Tom
Hi Tom, just wondering if you hot tent? Thanks so much
Hi Tony thank you for watching and commenting on many of my videos.. I just don't understand this one ?? Tom
Great Video Tom. What are your thoughts on the overall strength of something like the Soulo compared with a traditional inner pitch first geodesic? When I was growing up I always wanted a North Face geodesic and my early tents were all inner pitch first. These types of tent seem to have fallen out of favour in recent years, especially since the Soulo and the likes became so popular. Obviously the all in one pitching of the Hilleberg’s make them much more convenient, but part of me still assumes an inner first fully geodesic would be stronger, especially considering the fly sheet over the poles adds to the stability? Plus less flapping. I currently use a Nammatj 2 for winter which I love to bits but it’s so noisy in the wind.
Hi Jamie, I have often considered all the points that you have mentioned...As far as I am aware the companies that make inner first pitching tents are the ones who claim that it is stronger. I am not convinced, though not 100 percent sure. Having come from an inner first background of tents I have a number of quite serious issues with them. They are very difficult to pitch in challenging conditions. I have got bent poles on all of the North Face tents here on a number of occasions when pitching the tents in high winds. - To make the guy line system more effective there needs to be some way of attaching the fly to the poles. In the North Face tents here they use velcro attachments. This is almost un manageble when its cold and windy. So even when the guys are attached to the fly which is attached to the inner and poles its just not as effective at supporting the tent as when the guys are directly attached to the poles as on the Hillebergs. From an un scientific example when you try and push against the poles to simulate wind the Hilleberg ones are stronger. The 10mm guyed out poles on the Nammatj are very strong. I have had one too. Looking at the Hilleberg Tarra which is completely geodesic - it has great tension on the inner too. The tension on the inner and flapping about is as much due to the unsupported panel size as it is about the inner first I think.... Just my thoughts from a fair amount of experience using both over the years.... ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 Wow, thanks for taking the time to write all of that. Very insightful. I’d love a Tarra as looks like it’s best of both worlds, but the prices are getting a bit mad lately plus availability is an issue. ATB.
Which (2 person tent ) would you recommend for highest mountain peak, i mean for extreme ….. cold weather?
Hi thank you for your comments. My first choice would be the Hilleberg Tarra, followed by a North Face Mountain 25, then a Mountain Hardwear Trango 2. They all have a few advantages and disadvantages depending on personal preference... I hope that this helps. ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 😊 thanks
I have the Nf mnt 25 . I love it but, the window in the front vestibule came off. On a day that was 70 degrees and no wind. The glue failed.
Hi Charles, yes I had the same problem but managed not to loose it. I sent it back to North Face and they just stitched it which was ok but would have expected it glued again just like when it was new. Great tents though.. ATB Tom
Crux storm 2 is bomb proof.
Yes I know I had one for a while but bought it from Ebay and its condition wasn't great so I didn't keep it very long. One of my best friends has one and loves it. Thank you for your input here as a great four season tent owner.. ATB Tom
hypothetically lets say i dint own 2 hillebers already and was on the market for tents i would buy hilleberg
Hi Tommi, great to hear your thoughts.. Me too after experience with 10 Hilleberg tents and owning many others.. ATB Tom
Thanks for review! Have a question. According to your experience, how do you think, is it possible to accommodate 65sm(width) sleeping mat in Akto?
Hi Mike, leave that one with me for a day or too and I will get back to you. ATB Tom
For what it’s worth I had an Akto and an Enan at the same time for a fortnight to choose between them. I have a Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated large and it fitted both (snugly). The mummy shaped mat is 65cm at the shoulders but narrows at the very top end. The Akto widens away from the ends so it seemed fine to me. A rectangular mat 65cm wide probably wouldn’t fit.
@@petergilbert72 Hey Peter thank you again for your help here. Its very decent of you to share you experiences. ATB Tom
@@TOMHEANEY100 I decided not to add yet another congratulatory post as there seemed plenty of those already, but thought this of more practical benefit 😁.
Hi, I have just pitched my AKTO and placed my Thermarest NeoAir Camper SV inside it. The mat is 196 x 63 and fits fine. I feel you would get away with another coupe of cm just depending exactly how the manufacturer has measured it.. ATB
Did the Ve25 got discontinued?
Hi thank you for your comments on this and many of my videos. Thank you for watching too.... No no they still make them but I don't see tents being a priority for North Face.... ATB Tom
Ayo where's my mountain hardwear trango 2 tent
I have owned two Trango s over the years and they are a great tent... I would definitely have included them here if I had been able to source one.. I have reviewed a Trango 4 though in another video.. Hey I appreciate your comments thank you.. Tom
Soulo noisy in high winds. Kinda defeats the purpose.
Hi Linus, one of the disadvantages of outer first pitches as the inner tents tent to be looser and more flappy. Took me a long time to get used to this and I now prefer it as inner first tents are difficult and vulnerable to set ups in the sort of winds I regularly encounter here in Northern Ireland...ATB and thank you for your thoughts... Tom
Just noticed a thumbs down... There is always one...Tom