THE Osprey is a two-pole sloping tunnel tent for backpackers. The poles run through internal sleeves that provide increased stability and a sleek profile that should have no trouble shedding snow.

Pitching is easy. The pole sleeves are blanked off one side and have a plastic cup on the open end. Just push the poles through until they can go no further, insert the free end into the cup and tension using the tape. Then just peg out with the rear to the wind and pull the tent erect.

The Osprey has two massive vents; one at the rear and one in the front panel. The vents are protected by cowls, which are held open by guy lines. The guy lines also provide additional support.

Zip-up internal curtains back the mesh panels to keep out excess draft. These can be adjusted from inside the tent – the rear panel is accessed via a zipped opening at the back of the inner.

The inner door folds into one of the corner pockets. The inner tent is roomy enough for two and it has a clothesline running its length for a spot of airing.

Camping says Robens is the technical sister brand to Outwell and the Osprey is part of its Lite series designed for lightweight campers.

I particularly like the door and large porch. The versatile door panels can be opened in a variety of ways to suit wind direction, and the two-way zips can be cracked open to provide additional ventilation. There is plenty of room in the porch to store boots, rucksack, waterproofs and stove.

Although not as stable as geodesic or domes, tunnel tents are quicker to pitch – something I appreciate after a long day on the hill. This tent should pitch faster than your stove can boil up a brew.

The price tag seems good value when you take into account the quality materials used. Although not the lightest backpacking tent, it should provide the backpacker or other lightweight camper with a secure three-season home. Sometimes you have to sacrifice weight for longevity.

FACTFILE

Price £199.99
Packed size 51cm x 16cm
Materials Outer Silicon coated HydroTex Ultralite Ripstop polyester, 3,000mm hydrostatic head Inner Breathable polyester Groundsheet Polyester 210T PU coated, 10,000 mm Poles 7001 T6 anodised aluminium alloy
Dimensions Outer 325cm x 150cm Inner 225cm x 130cm; Height 110cm (inner 100cm)

Sleeps 2
Packed weight 2.5kg
Pitching time 5 minutes
Style Tunnel

CONTACT

Robens
Tel 01937 591101
Web www.robens.co.uk


This review was published in the April 2009 issue of Camping magazine. Order our latest issue.

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