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 Topic: Tent choice
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25/8/2018 at 1:03pm
Location: Yorkshire
Outfit: None Entered
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The door slope and height on the Fieldstation will let rain in when it's open (I suspect that's why they've put a zip in the groundsheet, so you can fold it back in this more vulnerable area).
You'll get condensation with it being synthetic,particularly noticeable if you choose not to buy/use the inner. Top vents are all well and good for helping to keep a tent cooler in hot weather but you really need lower-level vents for airflow and to limit condensation - particularly in a synthetic tent - and I don't see very many on the Fieldstation?
With it being a teepee and not having any wall height, you lose inner space, so although it's a 4.5m footprint it'll probably have the same amount of usable space as a regular 4m bell. Also, pegging is different to on a bell tent because of this and you've got longer guys. Which do you prefer?
Pack size and weight is good though (and a lot less than a 4m, or even a 3m bell).
It reminds me of the now discontinued Vango Peace. That was available at considerably less money as it was a single skin with associated condensation issues.
Personally, for what you want it for, I'd go for a better quality, sturdier 3m bell, for around the same price. You won't need an inner and the door won't let so much water in when opened. Pegging is more simple on a bell, I reckon.
Post last edited on 25/08/2018 13:10:17
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25/8/2018 at 2:44pm
Location: Yorkshire
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They're all much if a muchness nowadays as most are made in China. Ours, years ago, was from Belltent, they're the same as supplied by Obelink in Holland (who may no longer supply the UK since Belltent is the sole supplier here).
If and when you're pretty much decided on a bell tent, why not start a new thread 'Which Bell Tent?' and ask for opinions and recommendations? I'm sure lots of regular posters will enjoy posting pics to highlight their views.
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25/8/2018 at 2:50pm
Location: Yorkshire
Outfit: None Entered
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Quote: Originally posted by john,mel,3kids! on 23/8/2018
I have a 5m Bell tent, it's excellent but also canvas
I've just had a look at the place you purchased from - Camping Under The Stars, in Keighley? - I think this must be a relatively new company? Do they have a tent display? The website is interesting.
To the OP: if you take their 4m bell spec as a starting point for comparison, you shouldn't go far wrong:
Canvas
285gr/m2 Water & Mould resistant ,
UV resistant flame retarded and waterproof .
Colour – Beige / Sand
Groundsheet
540gr/m2 ripstop PVC . Colour – Beige / Sand, double welded at stress points for extra durability.
Centre Pole
32mm spring loaded tubing with a loop welded onto top section for a light.
A Frame
22mm spring loaded tubing.
Pegs
Extra strong galvanised pegs that wont rust.
4M Tent Dimensions
Door Height – 1.53m
Centre height – 2.5m
Side Walls – 0.6m
Floor Diameter – 4 metre
Weight – 26kg approx
Bag size 1mx35cmx35cm approx
Alternatively, Soulpad have a good reputation:
3000 hybrid (reduced)
If you're just planning on using a single airbed or SIM a 3m will be fine and will keep the cost down a bit. If you'll be using a double bed then you'll need at least a 4m.
Enjoy choosing (this bit is supposed to be part of the fun!).
Post last edited on 25/08/2018 15:31:20
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25/8/2018 at 6:06pm
Location: west yorks
Outfit: Vango inspire 600xl 5m bell tent
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The soulpad bell tent is what set me off on my journey, I bought from camping under the stars because it is a small bell tent supplier, not one of the big boys so to speak. I would rather have that personal touch than be just another sale.
To the op, a 3m bell tent will not leave you much head room either side of the centre pole, a 4m might just serve you a little better
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25/8/2018 at 9:24pm
Location: Suffolk
Outfit: Very variable
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4 metre tent is very large for one although Soulpads walls are low, limiting that space, Material is on the lighter side at 285 g compared to some others (below).
They have a showroom in Norfolk, but can be a little diffident about welcoming visitors.
Belltent Uk, Camping under the Stars, Blacks of Greenock,Pukka tents, Dusky Deer, all their belltents come Universally well thought of, as far as I am aware.
If on my own, I'd have thought, as others have suggested, a 3 metre tent, or the prior mentioned RobensFairbanks or Gelert Navajo 4, if you can find the latter, a more suitable tent. (One on Gumtree)
As in all things, it is horses for courses, and only you can appreciate your usage and wants.
Several people have found SoulPad fine, others haven't?
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27/8/2018 at 11:29am
Location: Suffolk
Outfit: Very variable
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Quote: Originally posted by Tupik on 25/8/2018
I don't think they do Neil, at least I've not seen one there. There was a sale on not long ago on the Fairbanks which I got for just £260 in an on-line sale in June which was cheaper in price to the polyester one. They're currently discounted to around £345 but a few places may still be offering them cheaper.
Either way, you won't be disappointed with Robens quality or value I think.
Excellent review on review pages, thank you Tupik. Recommended read.........
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