Tent Investment Guide

A good tent is more than just an outdoor accessory—it’s an investment in freedom. With the right tent, you’re no longer restricted by seasons, weather, or location. It becomes a reliable shelter that provides peace of mind, allowing you to explore the great outdoors without limitations.

At our store, we offer tents from TerraNova, Wild Country, and Vango—brands that have set the standard for reliability and durability for decades. With these trusted options, you can pursue your aspirations with confidence, knowing that your shelter is built to withstand any condition.

The benchmark for bombproof tents was set by Wild Country in the early 1980s. Pioneered by climbers Ben and Marion Wintringham and Mark Valance, these geodesic tents—including the Quasar, Hyperspace, and SuperNova—were designed for the most challenging environments on Earth. These designs were so successful that they became the blueprint for modern geodesic tents.

In 1993, Wild Country’s tent division became TerraNova, which has continued to innovate. Today, TerraNova offers two main ranges:

• TerraNova: For those who demand the highest performance.
• Wild Country: High-quality, value-driven options for budget-conscious adventurers.

For extreme adventures, a 4+ season tent is non-negotiable. Whether you’re ice climbing in South Africa, Patagonia, or the Himalayas, you need a shelter that can withstand harsh conditions.

• Vango F10 MTN 2: The strongest tent Vango has ever made. Featuring Silnylon fly fabric, 7001 T6 aluminum poles, and Dyneema guy lines, it’s a lightweight yet robust option at 3.3 kg. With two porches and a geodesic design, it’s perfect for adverse weather. Watch the F10 MTN 2 Video
• Wild Country Trisar 2D: A more affordable yet durable alternative. Made with polyester and offering a 4000mm water head, it’s slightly heavier but still reliable. Watch the Trisar 2D Video

If high-altitude winter trips aren’t in your plans but you still need a reliable backcountry tent, consider a 3+ season option:

• Vango Apex Geo Range: A solid geodesic structure with one door, available in 2- or 3-person versions. Endorsed by Glenmore Lodge, Scotland’s mountaineering training center.

For lower altitudes and warmer seasons, 3-season tents provide lighter and cooler shelter options:

• Panacea Range: Compact and easy to set up, these tents are stronger than most 3-season options and ideal for South African conditions. Available in 1- and 2-person models. Watch Panacea Tent Videos
• Helm Range: Designed for car camping and 3-season hiking. These tents are light, reliable, and available in 2- and 3-person models. Watch Helm Tent Videos

Not every adventure requires a tent. For milder conditions or unique terrains, consider:

• Bothy Bags: Emergency shelters for groups, available in 2-, 4-, and 8-person versions. Lightweight and compact, they’re ideal for organizers and hikers.
• Bivi Bags: Perfect for solo hikers or minimalists. These weatherproof options are great for alpine ridges and canyons. The more weather-resistant the bag, the higher the cost.

To extend the life of your tent:

1. Use a footprint to protect the groundsheet.
2. Empty dirt from the interior before packing.
3. Clean and dry your tent if packed wet or dirty.
4. Store it in a cool, dry, and ventilated space.

For maintenance, use Nikwax products:

• Tech Wash: Cleans without damaging the water-repellent coating.
• Tent & Gear SolarProof: Adds water repellency and UV protection.

Shop In-Store: Speak with experienced staff to find the perfect tent for your needs. A good tent can last 10–15 years or more, making it a worthwhile investment.

Shop Online: Browse our full range of tents and accessories from the comfort of your home.

Choose the right tent, and you’re choosing freedom, safety, and adventure. Whether you’re scaling peaks or exploring valleys, we’ve got you covered.