THE ROBEN’s Trailstar proved to be a bit of a hit with those in the know in 2010 for it proved that a manufacturer could break the sub-£100 price point for a good backpacking tent.
The Trailstar went on to be highly commended in the Best Backpacking Tent category in our 2010 Camping Magazine Awards. As we pointed out in the summery: “It ticks the boxes at so many levels that it deserves the attention of experienced campers and should prove an ideal replacement tent for many who no longer look for the ultra-lightweight experience.”
The design is similar to that of the Hilleberg Akto and the single hoop style has proved its worth since it first made a commercial impact through the Saunders Spacepacker. However, while other manufacturers strive to reduce weight with the subsequent boost to costs, Robens has chosen to use less technical fabrics and accept the weight penalty in favour of that stunning price.
As to be expected, this may be advertised as a two-berth but space is tight. Roll in the night and you’ll find you are pressing the inner wall against the outer – with the subsequent transfer of condensation to your sleeping bag. It does not matter that you have massive ground vents at each end and that these are matched by large vents at the top of the tent, you will still get condensation forming if used two up.
And, of course, two-up means less room in the porch area for gear and cooking in bad weather. In fact, you will find yourself storing rucksacks out of doors – so remember a rain cover.
Are these gripes? No, such problems are met by any backpacking couple using a small tent. After all, you take the rough with the smooth when seeking lightweight nirvana. But while experiencing the same sort of problems as those using more technical units, whilst carrying double the weight, the Trailstar backpacker can rest in the knowledge that his tent cost less than a half, and in some cases a third, of that forked out on other respected brands.
MORE INFORMATION
Size 240cm x 160cm Inner 210cm x 120cm (105cm)
Packed size 40cm x 18cm
Materials Outer PU-coated polyester, 5,000mm hydrostatic head Inner Polyester Groundsheet PU-coated polyester, Poles Anodised DAC aluminium alloy
Expect to pay £99
Sleeps 2
Packed weight 2.4kg
Pitching time 5 minute
Style Single Hoop
CONTACT
Robens
Tel 01937 591101 • Web
robens.de
This review was published in the November 2010 issue of Camping magazine. Order our latest issue.