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Good observations Scout.

I too have been window shopping tents recently, although I am in the market for a smaller tent this year.

Agree about Hi Gear appearing better this year, but I still think there are a few simple design decisions (like windows or lack there of) that let some otherwise good family tents down).

I've seen more Sunncamp tents this season and they too appear to be getting much better in quality and worth a good look.

I'd love to see some Kampa's on display.

Really disappointed with the Coleman tents this year (although to be fair I haven't seen the "Premium Range" Mackenzie's yet) - but it looks like there has been conscious effort to enter the "budget market" more aggressively which has resulted in cost cutting, which in turn has compromised design and features.

Vango , solid as ever - the Icarus I think will be the best seller this year.

Outwell just more of the same, but still a big high quality hitter to me (Fantasy range a joke though let's be honest) - Nevada M is favourite in my tent quest currently.

A little disappointed that there has been a significant price hike on some tents this year.

A mixed bag for me, but it is good there is still plenty of choice throughout the price range.

Quote: Originally posted by Reemo on 29/3/2010

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Mentioned it on another thread earlier today... The 2010 model has a 3 piece pole above the side door with 2 elbow brakets instead of just 1 pole that you had bend putting lots of stress on the door.

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Another excellent report Scout.

I went to Calver last Friday. I pretty much agree with all you say.

For some reason the Outwell Virginia 5 didn't do it for me, but the price is very good.

I like the Coleman Mackenzie's very much and I'm glad the Weathermaster gets a worthy successor. They'd be high on my list if I was shopping for a "large" tent.

The Sprayway's just don't do it for me either. Its a style thing that just doesn't "click" with me (but I used to think that about Sunncamp tents, and they grew on me in the end - I now think they have "cutting edge" style).

My tent hunt is over now. Got Fforest Fields booked for a long weekend at the end of the month for the maiden voyage of what will be our new "weekender"; an Outwell Nevada M. Hopping to pick one up and save a few quid using some Go Outdoors discount vouchers (but I'm not holding my breath on the chances of a discount).

Edit: I'd love a Bear Lake 4, but too much money, too big for the car and too heavy

Your only regret about Fforest Fields is that you are only going for a long weekend and not longer; it's a wonderful campsite, very well run and a lovely atmosphere (cue Russ Abbot song: "Atmosphere!  I love a campsite with a happy atmosphere!").  Tell them that Former Scout from Glossop sends his best and that I hope to be there in the not-too-distant future.

What does it for me with the Virginia, as with many of Outwell's tents, is the windows.  It means that even if you are trapped inside because of rain or midges you can still have a good view of the scenery around you.

Quote: Originally posted by Former Scout on 08/4/2010

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What does it for me with the Virginia, as with many of Outwell's tents, is the windows. 

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Spot on! If there is one thing I like most about the Outwell Miny, Nevada, Carolina, Oakland et al "shape" is the "front design", and the windows. Plus they generally have good extension canopies.

Fforest fields will be great, I'll name drop you whenever the opportunity arises.