⚡ Thanks for checking out this video, if you have any questions about the Notch then please drop them down below. If you fancy a look at the typical camping gear I take on my trips, check out this video here: 🎦 ua-cam.com/video/mZ4xI7cBO28/v-deo.html
I bought a notch right before the pandemic, and was going to bring it for my trip to Britain during summer of 2020. Well we all know how that went.... I'm hoping to do it next year now. I'm hopefully going to be testing it out for some dispersed (UK: wild) camping this summer in the US.
Looks decent Robin, those vents look like they’d help with the condensation I hate it when you have to seam seal tents, I’m messy at it! 😅 Thanks for sharing mate Ash
Good review for this clever tent. For a 4 SEASON silnylon solo tent I chose the very similar Tarptent Moment DW BUT I ran the optional "Crossing Pole" UNDER the fly for more strength in high winds and snow load. To do this shorten the pole 5" - 6" and sew short double-sided Velcro strips under the fly at the two points where the exterior X-ing Pole attachments are located. These double-sided Velcro straps hold the X-ing Pole in place in very high winds. (I live in Nevada and backpack the mountain west.) For a 3 SEASON solo tent I chose the Tarptent Notch Li (Dyneema fabric) tent with "solid" interior, like you have. I added 4 stake loops at the fly hem using circles of Tenacious Tape folded over the fly edges for reinforcement and sewed on nylon grosgrain tape for stake loops. These loops are needed in high winds. I used women's elastic hair circles/loops girth-hitched to the tent loops for more give in wind gusts. TIPS-> 1.)DO remember to use your pole guy lines instead of putting all the lateral strain on the doors. Your tent will last longer and be far more stable (and taut after a wet night where nylon sags). 2). As you've likely figured out, lower your poles to lower the fly on very windy/rainy/snowy nights. You have a well designed, well made tent. Thank Henry Shires, the Tarptent owner/designer.
Top post Eric really useful, thanks for taking the time to reply. Love Tarptents and I did consider the Moment DW myself. I take it the floor space is very similar?
You'll love it. I bought the DCF version last year and like it. It definitely needs a bit of getting used to if you've been used to more space in the past. But, it's lightweight (DCF even lighter!) and really functional. Not impressed with the internal pockets or ties to keep inner tent open but those are about the only issues I don't like. I'm 6'4" and it's fine for what I need. Enjoy this year and hopefully many more to come!
Totally agree about the internal pockets, they're useless, the ties could be better, but these are minor niggles. I might need to switch to DCF one day. 😁
Tarptent sells POLE HANDLE POCKETS for the peaks of the Notch tents so you can put the pole handle UP and out of the dirt. I use small rubber pole tips on the bottoms of my poles for better grip on rocky terrain we have here in Nevada, USA.These rubber tips also keep my pole tips form sinking into the ground when I pitch my NOTCH Li with the handle up in theTT pole pockets.
800g but with the trekking poles it looks like it will withstand pretty much all of what Scotland's weather will throw at it if guyed out & with decent ground anchors,,I really like it,the two vestibules/doors are brilliant to have too..I think my lightest tent is 1.15kg & here's me thinking I'm going ultralight 😬.. finger's crossed your oot & about in the mountains & glens real soon Robin 🤞🏻..all the best fella.
Cheers Andy, I agree. Pitched correctly and I reckon it will handle a lot of bad weather. 1.15kg is decent, the Trailstar with groundsheet is around the same. For me it's not just weight, but bulk in your pack.
This looks really cool, first time I've seen this one, and your right about looking for the ultimate backpacking tent. God knows how many tents I've got now? The thing is, a lot of them look great, but when you go out and test them its the last time you ever use them due to some unforeseen problem. Coming back to the tent you have there though; it genuinely does look good! I think i might get one and give it a go! Thanks for a great video.
Hi Robin, I ditched using the short blue Easton stakes for longer ones, as they don't hold very well in soft ground, but I carry two as spares and normally use them to peg out the inner instead of fiddling around with the cord around the trekking pole handles which works much better for me.
Cheers Gav. I'll be taking 6 9" Eastons with me, but carrying 2 of the 6" Eastons is a good idea for pegging out the inner. Thanks for the tip mate. 👍🏼
Made me chuckle how you were catching your breath just pitching mate! 😅 That tent looks pretty neat actually. Seems spacious enough for small people like me! Might help with my ultraheavy backpack. Look forward to seeing how it performs out in the elements. Cheers, Mari
Looking forward to seeing this get some use Robin. Yes, the inner tie-backs are a bit naff. They are the same on the Scarp as well. It is compact inside but the two vestibules make the tent very functional. I'm keen to use mine again as it means the weather is improving! ATB, Chris
An interesting point from rigby Unbound in the comments section, about sticking the handles into the roof instead then put the look through the spike. 🤔 The two vestibules are an excellent feature. Really useful.
Evening Robin, great video and well presented 👌🏕 what a cracking looking bit of kit, cant wait to see it out in action, we love a good gear review! Thanks for this, Ceri and Kat ☕🤗❤
Reminds me of my old Vango Banshee which felt claustrophobic inside. Though the two vestibules were handy as were the two doors for cooking depending on wind direction. Mind you at 800gm and quicker to put up compared to banshee you can’t complain. I prefer the Lanshan Pro 1 for the space. Still a neat, compact tent for multi day use.
How is it compared to your SMD Lunar Solo of old? 😛 looks like you’ve given it a good test on the CWT! I’m also on the hunt for the ultimate UK tent for thru hikes haha!
It's a step up from the Lunar Solo, better made and less flappy in the wind, more headroom too. Albeit a smaller floor space, that the double vestibules makes up for. I'm happy with it. 🏕 👌🏼
Nice one Robin and Looking forward to your trips with it. I have the Notch Li and found you need good pegs for the 2 end pegs as they seem to take a lot of stress. All the best Robin.👍
Looks good Robin and hope you get on with it. As you say a few design quirks but nothing too bad standing out. Not long now until you can try it out. Atb
It looks that being 6'1 I'd struggle - as you said, seems claustrophobic. The solution is to get so tired hiking that you fall asleep straight away. ;) But 800 g for a double-wall tent is a very good score and its small size makes it perfect for winter conditions (easier to warm it up). The most important thing - enjoy it and I hope it will let you discover new beautiful places. Cheers, Seb
You might get away with being 6'1", Keeping the inner doors open really helps making it feel more spacious. Then just close them just before nodding off. Hope you're keeping well Seb.
If you want quickness and ease of set up, you could not do better, that looked so easy. I love the fact it all goes up in one as well, so much easier. With a bit of luck, I can see you using this very soon, cheers Alan
Hey. Have a look at Henry Shires’ video for setting up the Notch on the Tarptent website - he inserts the trekking poles handle down through the vents at the top of the doors when setting up, which looks less likely to catch and rip the fly than your method of pushing them under the fly. Also his video shows how to stow the end ventilation flaps that you were struggling with. 👍
Cheers Neil, I've tried that since making the video and working the poles through the vents works a treat. Will watch back for the flaps though as that is less obvious.
Im waiting for my tent now. Exited! I confess iv been watching your overview like a mad man. haha. Is this the 2020 version of the notch? 2021 version i said to have an identical innertent as to Notch LI...
Haha, they're good tents. Maybe not as solid as the Scarp, but 500g lighter. I bought mine early 2021, so not sure if it's a 2020 model or new enough for the changes.
Looks like a great tent. I love the fact it only takes 4 pegs. I went with the Dan Durston XMid 1-P... did you consider this tent as an option? I love my Tarptent Motrail and used it for the JMT. Are you going to use a footprint? Tc and stay safe.
Hi Grant, I hadn't heard of Durston tents until your comment landed. Just bookmarked the website for future reference. They look good though and I love cottage companies. I've never bothered with footprints to be honest. Henry Shires advises they're not needed. I'll use some tyvek if I plan to camp in the woods.
@@WalkWithWallace the Dan Durston was much cheaper and has been great on its first couple of outings. The issue I had with the single inner tents is that your kit will get damp in the vestibules (not to mention that a lack of footprint can lead to more condensation). I've used Tyvek, Fabsiled one side and would definitely recommend. The Dan Durston has a rectangular foot print so easy to add tie outs to keep everything ship shape. Looking forward to seeing you out and about again. Cheers Grant
@@grantbell6451 I suppose a footprint is definitely something I should consider for the longer trips. But for the single night summit camps, condensation usually isn't an issue. I know what you mean about dampness in the vestibule areas. I put all my gear back into their dry sacks. Not too long to go now for some more freedom. 🏕 🤞🏻
I've looked at tarp tents for a while Robin. I think they have good tents and like you I might give em a go. This looks like it might handle condensation well what with the fly also. Wait and see. Well, all the best in it. Mark
Yeah I'm totally the same, I've dipped in and out of their website lots over the years. It was always the Scarp that was on my radar, not the Notch. Had looked at the Rainbow and Moment too. Lot too long now mate.
It’s a nice weight , interesting to see how it handles strong winds Robin . But with the 2 pole system it should be fine , sort those couple of mods and you will be sorted . Is this the one you got stung with import duty ? We just need releasing now and it’s all systems go ⛺️👍
Aye Parcel Force held on to it until I paid up. 🙈 My thinking is it will be decent in the wind and make use of the two optional guylines in windy conditions. 😁
Decent looking tent that Robin. Will look forward to seeing how you get on with it long term. Hopefully not too far off yet. My perfect tent is still the Lunar Solo. Are you no longer a fan of yours?
Cheers James. I liked the Lunar Solo, but the tensioners loosened off too easily in the wind. Thankfully SMD have addressed that and the new models have linlocs.
@@WalkWithWallace There are some quite simple and cheap mods you can do to sort that mate. Admittedly I have only used it in the Peak and Lake District but in some pretty grim weather mark my words. On that note, would love to see you and Kev do a bob around the Lakes one time. 👍
Looking good. I'm waiting on my order of the Li. Was nice to see there's still some space around the sleeping pad, I've got the same exped synmat. Enjoy your backpacking trips, looking forward to the videos.
Nice mate, I'd be interested to hear how you get on with the DCF version, I can't decide if they're worth the extra money yet as I haven't seen one in the flesh. Definitely some room around you for bits and pieces, but I'll be making full use of the second vestibule.
@@WalkWithWallace Ordered it 4 weeks ago hoping to get it in time to use on my LEJOG in 4 weeks time from now but unfortunately it was an error on the website and was out of stock so will have to use the lanshan 1 pro and switch out about 3/4weeks in to my hike.
not a fan of the trekking pole handles being on the ground (little 'bears' love to chew on them especially cork) / can you invert them (that would solve the loop problem too). what is odd is i thought they'd started using the magnet tiebacks on all their tents now.. but that's an easy hack. great honest review.. cheers
I can't see the handle being on the top doing any harm, it's reinforced anyway for the spikes, so I may try that. Just raise the height to compensate for the spike sinking into the earth up to the basket. Like you say I can then pop the loop into the spike too. 😁
Great to see YOU got this one as you seem to gear up for the same conditions i do. I'd love to see how you fare in it in windy conditions. I've got the DCF version. Took it out only a couple of times so far. I must say, i fared poorly in (very) high winds. Was testing in preparation for use in Norway so purposely set up in a very exposed place. One pole came down on me in the night unfortunately. I've got a feeling I didn't set up properly. Or maybe it was the short stakes (I was using 6" groundhogs on the guylines) or perhaps i was too casual in how i applied the stakes. In any case, it put a dent in my confidence in using the Notch Li instead of the Akto (when we're finally allowed to travel and get into the mountains that is!) Once again, looking forward to see you how you fare with this.
That would knock my confidence in the tent too, but it could be user error. Did the tent peg come out resulting in the collapsed pole? I would definitely use the additional 2 tie out points as that should firmly hold each pole in place. I'm going to be using 9" Eastons on all sides.
@@WalkWithWallace I was using the two tie-outs too. And no, the pole stake did not come out but the whole system loosened enough to allow the pole to dislodge. I watched you carefully adjusting for the ridgeline and perhaps i didn't do that so well. Clearly, this tent needs proper tensioning and maybe i didn't do that well enough (it WAS my second time setting this up so...) Also, perhaps the pole wasn't itself screwed tight enough and maybe it telescoped even a little and disrupted the tensioning. I'll tell you one thing though, it was very windy even before i actually slept and i felt totally secure and, till the episode, slept very very well! I must have set it up wrong and messed up somewhere. I will certainly take the Notch out again when it's blasting F6/7 and try it again. I have this feeling it would work if i do it right and i use longer stakes.
A nice taut pitch! It is worth paying extra to have them seam seal. Hard to seam seal and unsure if I have done properly. Adds quite a bit of extra weight. How about passing your pole through the hole from outside as instructed. I once pitched my pole like you did and almost made a hole in the canopy right next to the ring. I love the Notch. But it is a tiny tent. I wouldn’t recommend it to tall and/or big hikers. They call it “Coffin”. Lol.
Do you mean with the doors open or through the vents? I friend made a small hole in his Stratosphere doing exactly that, so definitely something I want to avoid doing.
@@WalkWithWallace through the vent. Please watch how to pitch instruction video. Henry Shires himself does it. He is a great guy. I talked to him on the phone before I bought it. Unless I pay $600 for Z-Packs Duplex, I will stick with Notch. You can’t find a better double-walled tent that weighs 2 pounds for $300.
@@yongkim2088 thanks Yong. I'll watch his video again and do that the next time I pitch the Notch. The double vestibule and head room when sitting up makes up for the small floor space.
@@WalkWithWallace Yeah, I agree. Even though the end buttresses have a downside (awkward to store in the backpack), they help expand living space (despite relatively small footprint) and increase air circulation thus limiting condensation further (in addition to 2 vestibules).
The inner looks very like my Terra Nova Laserlight but you have far more outer room with the two porches. My first thought is that it would be far more taught between the poles if you pegged out the yellow guy lines especially as you'll be carrying the pegs anyway. Looks very good though, what's the weight of it Robin?
I got the tent nice and taut by just tightening up the side guys. Will take spare pegs for the higher guys, for windy weather. Weighs in at 800g, which is decent. 😁
Good one Robin. That goes up faster than mine. The two guyline will tighten up the ridge. How tall are you Robin. The two vestibules are good. Could you put pegs in the inner tent ground loops. You done a good job with the seam sealing 👍. Enjoyed watching Robin. Thanks Steve
Cheers Steve. 👍🏼 Aye sussed out on another pitching on getting the middle apex nice and taut. Plus with the optional guylines too. Good idea for the inner loops. 2 extra pegs in the pack won't weigh me down.
I think the idea of walking poles going through the loops could pull out the poles and damage the material. If you move around in the inner tent doing things and sleeping turning over there's a lot of weight going to them points. 👍
NICE 🤗 I have a Tarptent Scarp 1 which is a wee bit bigger (and heavier) but a great tent ⛺️ I love the two porches as it means I don’t have to have all my crap cluttering up the inner and they’re awesome for ventilation on calm summer nights. I’m sure with a bit of fettling you’ll get the Notch just the way you want it. Can’t wait to see it in action. Does your misses know you have this many tents ?😂
Seems lovely and of course, ultralight. I’ve been pondering over the Tarptent Rainbow for bikepacking over the last few months, but the US seems the only place to buy one!!
Hey Shameer, yeah there's no EU or UK distributor so you have to buy direct from the US. Worth it though and they hold their value if you look after them.
Hi mate I see you changed to the xmid but still use the lanshan. I have the pro 1 too and love it for the reasons you do.. Was thinking of the notch as a slightly better harsh weather tent, (sil poly so less flapping. What's your thoughts, do you still use this at all? Cheers 👍🏻
Hey Danny, the Notch is a solid backpacking tent, it served me well on the CWT, alas it fell out of favour when I got the Scarp. I found it a little too compact for general weekend camps with the inner tapering in at the feet and head. I sold it on to help finance the X-Mid.
Nice one, looks a nice shelter, is there a single pole version of this ? I have seen a tarptent in DCF with a single pole in action, loved the simplicity of it... Look forward to seeing this out on the trail ,,,, ATB 👍
Nice one Robin, looks like a fantastic bit of kit! Would it be possible to either tie a loop or add a toggle to the inners ties? Might be a solution for you & definitely worth looking into modding those pole fixing points for peace of mind. How do you feel about the lack of guy lines?
Cheers Scott. Need to think about the ties, but not too much of an irritant to be honest. Couple of comments have suggested pegging out the inner loops and I'll carry an extra 2 pegs for that. I'm quite relaxed about the lack of guylines, I think it'll shed wind quite well with that profile. 🤔
The scarp 1 is a great tent but would be much better in winter with the extra poles that run front to back diagonally. Makes it free standing too. Great setup and very stable.
Great tent. Look forward to seeing your trips in this, I’ve got a Notch Li with the half solid inner. I’m wanting to get more use from it as lockdowns mean it’s had very little use so far. It’s got some niggles, I’ve got a few thoughts on a couple of mods so it’ll be good to see where you might tweak things too.
Half solid inner is the way forward IMO. Since posting this video, others have already suggested in the comments using additional pegs to hold out the inner, so that's that issue sorted. Just those tie backs for the inner doors. 🤔
@@WalkWithWallace Yep. Also pondering whether an extra cord loop to peg the mid point of each door panel may be necessary for our windy scenarios. I also bought the little trekking pole handle adapters that tarptent sell to use the poles handle up (instead of tip up) but not yet convinced by them to be honest - bit too fiddly and can’t get the tension set as easily. If we’re ever allowed out to play again I should upload a vid of what I’m on about as I struggled to find anyone else using them when I was eyeing up the tent last year.
@@WalkWithWallace my only thought why that was the design choice is because there’s better tension with the tips in the eyelets. With the handles up there’s more play. Just speculation, it’s an interesting design choice.
@@Jimaroid I suppose in light winds you could use the handles up instead. You'd have to lengthen the poles to compensate for the tips sinking into the earth too.
Great video! Been looking for a new lightweight tent for summer, mine is currently 2.5kg! Trying to get the backpack down as much as possible, and recommendations would be fab! I also like a little more space for my gear. 😊
Hey Kelly, 2.5g is a heavy beast for summer camping. This is a good tent, but the lack of space inside I'd say its more suited to multi day trips. Have you looked at the Lanshan range on Ali Express?
@@WalkWithWallace yeah, id not like the lack of space, only bought the one i have because it was easy to put up and was a total novice 😂shall have a wee look at them, thank you 😊
@@WalkWithWallace thank you! Yeah, water off a ducks back. Too amazing an experience to be bothered. Very lucky! Just need to get this bag down from 26kg! Thanks again.
@@kellylander2895 aye ignore it, no harm in it at all, particularly when you've got dafties going into each others houses for parties. 26kg though!! That's bonkers heavy. 🤯
Nice video again 👍 Great lightweight tent. Just never quite understood the logic of buying a tent that you have to seal yourself, or am I missing something?
Cheers David. It's the 4th shelter I've sealed now, and it really doesn't bother me. Takes circa 40 minutes. They do offer a sealing service of around $30 usually.
@@WalkWithWallace I didn't realise the hotel was still closed at Inchnadamph but managed to get my head down elsewhere. Some of the terrain makes very very hard miles. Snow and sleet again today. Your handywork is still on display in the Schoolhouse blackboard. What a great wee bothy. Bumped into you and Kev at Sheilin O Mark about two and a half years ago
@@sniperhikes3716 Yeah, it was closed when we dropped in at Inchnadamph, but had reopened when we heading home 3 days ago. I didn't enjoy the last section to Glencoul. The School House is a class wee bothy, the room to the left is well insulated I thought. Ah nice, that was a guid night, small world too.
Cheers Daniel, I could have sworn I had already replied your comment. I don''t have any thing for sale at the moment as I usually sell one to fund the new tent.
Cheers Pete. Good question, two different tents, so hard to pick. The space in the Lanshan is excellent, but I'd the trust the Notch more in bad weather, plus the half solid inner will give me protection too. So Lanshan for the good weather trips and the Notch for longer trips or when the weather is poor.
Interesting video. Thanks. I’ve never understood the need for a customer to to seam seal, the manufacturer should do it. For me it is like buying a car that only has aundercoat of paint and no top coat of paint.
I know what you mean. My understanding is, these are small cottage companies so to seal themselves would take too long. They do offer a service if you don't mind waiting a bit longer for your tent, I think it's around $40 for them to seal it.
@@WalkWithWallace That's a interesting service but important to take into account when comparing costs of tents. Teh tent you review looks to be a great light weight option though.
@@alanc4264 up to each individual I suppose. It's the 4th shelter I've sealed, so it doesn't really bother me. £9 for a tube of sealant and 30 mins of my time to seal it. At 800g fully sealed with pegs, you'd have to go down the DCF route to get a lighter tent. 🤔
Haha, the inner is a bit coffin shaped. The Exped SynMat isn't too bad, around the 500g mark with a decent R value for the colder nights. I've got an Alpkit CloudBase for the warmer nights.
@@WalkWithWallace thanks. Did you consider any of the other tarptents before picking the notch? I'm weighing up the notch or the moment dw. There's the weight vs internal space debate, given the two tents have very similar footprints.
@@praktika1082 I didn't go for the Moment DW as I felt it was a bit too similar to my old Hille Akto. Plus I wanted a trekking pole tent. I felt the double vestibule of the Notch would mitigate the compact space inside. I've recently bought a Scarp 1 when weight isn't as important, but space is.
@@WalkWithWallace thanks for your considered responses. I'm attracted to the brand given its history/background as a small family business, etc. Very tempted by the scarp, but at 1.5kg, that's not much of an improvement on my current crop of tents. Thanks and I look forward to your next video!
@@praktika1082 the Notch is ideal for multi day trips, when pack size and weight is important. I'll use the Scarp for 1 nighters or in poor weather. Mine came in at 1.3kg by the way.
Nice video Rob, you seem to have tested out most UL tents... Quick question - whats your top recommendation for a newbie looking for their first UL backpacking tent?
@@davidcressey that's a decent budget for your first tent. 👍🏼 You could get the Notch in DCF with that budget. But if you're not after an American import. You've got tents like the Hilleberg Enan, Terra Nova Laser Competition, MSR Access 1, PreTent Soloist to name a few.
@@WalkWithWallace Thanks Rob, much appreciated. I have the all season Terra Nova laser compact 2 but i just find it too low in height for me. I am therefore selling that to get something with a bit more headroom. I just did the WHW in a Cloud Peak 2 which was super comfy but a tad heavy at 2.5kgs.
I'm looking to get the Tarptent Scarp 2.I am a bit worried about the additional import charges,tax etc though.Could you advise on an average cost these would be please ?.
Hi Jamie, I paid £280 for the Notch then £75 import taxes on top of that. This calculator should help give you a cost of what to expect. www.simplyduty.com/import-calculator/
@@WalkWithWallace You're a star mate.Thank you very much for your help.Keep up the great work and always a pleasure watching. Stay safe and looking forward to your adventures when we can can all get out in the wilderness..
@@WalkWithWallace It worked out at £97 for import etc.The Scarp 2 is approx £320 ($434) so i'm pretty happy with that.I have a husky so i need extra space or it would be the Scarp 1.Looks a fantastic tent.
@@jamieforsyth4804 That's not bad actually. Folk on ebay were recently trying to cash in selling the Scarp 1 at £550+, claiming they're extremely rare tents. 😒Just have to sit tight on their new stock email alert.
@@WalkWithWallace i think any lanshan is a better deal price wise , vango are remarkable reliable , and a good fly sheet not a tarp is versatile , like the ratnik shelter ,theres also the , finnish army cloaks , there hardcore , . merry crimbo dude
@@TheInnacity I like Lanshans, but the quality isn't nearly as good. A Henry Shires tent will last. Vangos are decent, but you'll pay a premium for their lightweight backpacking tents. 🏕
⚡ Thanks for checking out this video, if you have any questions about the Notch then please drop them down below. If you fancy a look at the typical camping gear I take on my trips, check out this video here:
🎦 ua-cam.com/video/mZ4xI7cBO28/v-deo.html
I bought a notch right before the pandemic, and was going to bring it for my trip to Britain during summer of 2020. Well we all know how that went.... I'm hoping to do it next year now. I'm hopefully going to be testing it out for some dispersed (UK: wild) camping this summer in the US.
Are you happy with the Notch or not really used it enough to decide?
Looks decent Robin, those vents look like they’d help with the condensation
I hate it when you have to seam seal tents, I’m messy at it! 😅
Thanks for sharing mate
Ash
Cheers Ash, think I've kind of nailed my technique with the old sealing. Its waiting for a decent day to let it dry. 😁
It’s good it’s got two layers. I guess light means small but for thru hikes in summer is walk until you drop, eat and repeat
That's kind of my thinking, plus it doesn't feel as small as it is if you leave the inner doors open until you hit the pillow for the night.
So true
Good review for this clever tent.
For a 4 SEASON silnylon solo tent I chose the very similar Tarptent Moment DW BUT I ran the optional "Crossing Pole" UNDER the fly for more strength in high winds and snow load. To do this shorten the pole 5" - 6" and sew short double-sided Velcro strips under the fly at the two points where the exterior X-ing Pole attachments are located. These double-sided Velcro straps hold the X-ing Pole in place in very high winds. (I live in Nevada and backpack the mountain west.)
For a 3 SEASON solo tent I chose the Tarptent Notch Li (Dyneema fabric) tent with "solid" interior, like you have. I added 4 stake loops at the fly hem using circles of Tenacious Tape folded over the fly edges for reinforcement and sewed on nylon grosgrain tape for stake loops. These loops are needed in high winds. I used women's elastic hair circles/loops girth-hitched to the tent loops for more give in wind gusts.
TIPS-> 1.)DO remember to use your pole guy lines instead of putting all the lateral strain on the doors. Your tent will last longer and be far more stable (and taut after a wet night where nylon sags). 2). As you've likely figured out, lower your poles to lower the fly on very windy/rainy/snowy nights.
You have a well designed, well made tent. Thank Henry Shires, the Tarptent owner/designer.
Top post Eric really useful, thanks for taking the time to reply. Love Tarptents and I did consider the Moment DW myself. I take it the floor space is very similar?
The TT MOMENT DW has about 25% more floor width and slightly wider vestibules. @@WalkWithWallace
You'll love it. I bought the DCF version last year and like it. It definitely needs a bit of getting used to if you've been used to more space in the past. But, it's lightweight (DCF even lighter!) and really functional. Not impressed with the internal pockets or ties to keep inner tent open but those are about the only issues I don't like. I'm 6'4" and it's fine for what I need. Enjoy this year and hopefully many more to come!
Totally agree about the internal pockets, they're useless, the ties could be better, but these are minor niggles. I might need to switch to DCF one day. 😁
how does it withstand strong winds?
Tarptent sells POLE HANDLE POCKETS for the peaks of the Notch tents so you can put the pole handle UP and out of the dirt.
I use small rubber pole tips on the bottoms of my poles for better grip on rocky terrain we have here in Nevada, USA.These rubber tips also keep my pole tips form sinking into the ground when I pitch my NOTCH Li with the handle up in theTT pole pockets.
Sounds ideal, if I put another order in, I’ll take a look. Postage is expensive getting stuff over the pond to the UK.
800g but with the trekking poles it looks like it will withstand pretty much all of what Scotland's weather will throw at it if guyed out & with decent ground anchors,,I really like it,the two vestibules/doors are brilliant to have too..I think my lightest tent is 1.15kg & here's me thinking I'm going ultralight 😬.. finger's crossed your oot & about in the mountains & glens real soon Robin 🤞🏻..all the best fella.
Cheers Andy, I agree. Pitched correctly and I reckon it will handle a lot of bad weather. 1.15kg is decent, the Trailstar with groundsheet is around the same. For me it's not just weight, but bulk in your pack.
Watching with Leo 😊 “uncle Robin!! Uncle Robin!!” Whilst pointing 😊💜
Cuteness. 😁 Give him a high 5 from me. 🙋🏼♂️
@@WalkWithWallace I shall do 😊💜
This looks really cool, first time I've seen this one, and your right about looking for the ultimate backpacking tent. God knows how many tents I've got now? The thing is, a lot of them look great, but when you go out and test them its the last time you ever use them due to some unforeseen problem.
Coming back to the tent you have there though; it genuinely does look good! I think i might get one and give it a go!
Thanks for a great video.
I reckon you need 2-3 tents as the perfect tent just doesn't exist. 😁
Hi Robin, I ditched using the short blue Easton stakes for longer ones, as they don't hold very well in soft ground, but I carry two as spares and normally use them to peg out the inner instead of fiddling around with the cord around the trekking pole handles which works much better for me.
Cheers Gav. I'll be taking 6 9" Eastons with me, but carrying 2 of the 6" Eastons is a good idea for pegging out the inner. Thanks for the tip mate. 👍🏼
Made me chuckle how you were catching your breath just pitching mate! 😅 That tent looks pretty neat actually. Seems spacious enough for small people like me! Might help with my ultraheavy backpack. Look forward to seeing how it performs out in the elements. Cheers, Mari
Cheers Mari, so far so good. Its a great wee tent in the wild. 😁 Hope you're well and got some trips planned.
Looking forward to seeing this get some use Robin. Yes, the inner tie-backs are a bit naff. They are the same on the Scarp as well. It is compact inside but the two vestibules make the tent very functional. I'm keen to use mine again as it means the weather is improving! ATB, Chris
An interesting point from rigby Unbound in the comments section, about sticking the handles into the roof instead then put the look through the spike. 🤔
The two vestibules are an excellent feature. Really useful.
Evening Robin, great video and well presented 👌🏕 what a cracking looking bit of kit, cant wait to see it out in action, we love a good gear review! Thanks for this, Ceri and Kat ☕🤗❤
Thanks C&K, it should be a good addition to the setup. 🏕
Reminds me of my old Vango Banshee which felt claustrophobic inside. Though the two vestibules were handy as were the two doors for cooking depending on wind direction. Mind you at 800gm and quicker to put up compared to banshee you can’t complain. I prefer the Lanshan Pro 1 for the space. Still a neat, compact tent for multi day use.
My thinking is use the Lanshan for good weather trips and the Notch for longer trips or not so good weather. 2 vestibules is always a nice touch. 😁
Am I subscribing just to listen to his delightful accent… maybe 😏 But thanks for the video! This is the tent I've landed on for the Colorado Trail.
Haha, glad you like the Scottish accent. 😁 Good tents if a tad small. Good luck for the Colorado Trail. 👣
Looks like a great buy. I did read somewhere that if the poles are too high the ridge line will sag. Cheers for sharing. 👍
Cheers Grays, I managed to sort the sag afterwards, it was just the side guylines needed tightened up. 👌🏼
That looks a cracking tent nice and light enough space to sit up,store kit and cook on a stormy day nice one!
Thank you and I would concur. 😁 👍🏼
How is it compared to your SMD Lunar Solo of old? 😛 looks like you’ve given it a good test on the CWT! I’m also on the hunt for the ultimate UK tent for thru hikes haha!
It's a step up from the Lunar Solo, better made and less flappy in the wind, more headroom too. Albeit a smaller floor space, that the double vestibules makes up for. I'm happy with it. 🏕 👌🏼
@@WalkWithWallace great to hear! So did you find the perfect tent in this then? Despite the SilNylon (vs Poly), and long pack size? 😁
Nice one Robin and Looking forward to your trips with it. I have the Notch Li and found you need good pegs for the 2 end pegs as they seem to take a lot of stress. All the best Robin.👍
Nice tent Robin. Did you sell your SMD lunar Solo?
Cheers Dave, I'll be taking 6 9" Eastons with me or maybe 4 of the 6" Eastons they supply with 2 of the 9" pegs.
@@davidpaterson8779 I sold it last year and bought the Lanshan Pro 1 as a backup.
@@WalkWithWallace top job👍
Looks good Robin and hope you get on with it. As you say a few design quirks but nothing too bad standing out. Not long now until you can try it out. Atb
Cheers Ray. I've got a feeling I'll like it mate. 🏕
LOWER the height of the tracking poles
And correctly adjust the guy lines
And there will be no sagging at the top of the ⛺ !
Yes, dead easy. 👌🏼
It looks that being 6'1 I'd struggle - as you said, seems claustrophobic. The solution is to get so tired hiking that you fall asleep straight away. ;) But 800 g for a double-wall tent is a very good score and its small size makes it perfect for winter conditions (easier to warm it up).
The most important thing - enjoy it and I hope it will let you discover new beautiful places.
Cheers, Seb
You might get away with being 6'1", Keeping the inner doors open really helps making it feel more spacious. Then just close them just before nodding off.
Hope you're keeping well Seb.
Really nice tent thank you for the overview. Looking forward to seeing how it fairs on the hills. Cheers, Jason 👍
Cheers Jason. 🏕 😁
If you want quickness and ease of set up, you could not do better, that looked so easy. I love the fact it all goes up in one as well, so much easier. With a bit of luck, I can see you using this very soon, cheers Alan
Not long now for us now mucker. You guys are a bit earlier by 2 weeks I think. 😁
Hey. Have a look at Henry Shires’ video for setting up the Notch on the Tarptent website - he inserts the trekking poles handle down through the vents at the top of the doors when setting up, which looks less likely to catch and rip the fly than your method of pushing them under the fly. Also his video shows how to stow the end ventilation flaps that you were struggling with. 👍
Cheers Neil, I've tried that since making the video and working the poles through the vents works a treat. Will watch back for the flaps though as that is less obvious.
Im waiting for my tent now. Exited! I confess iv been watching your overview like a mad man. haha.
Is this the 2020 version of the notch? 2021 version i said to have an identical innertent as to Notch LI...
Haha, they're good tents. Maybe not as solid as the Scarp, but 500g lighter. I bought mine early 2021, so not sure if it's a 2020 model or new enough for the changes.
Looks like a great tent. I love the fact it only takes 4 pegs. I went with the Dan Durston XMid 1-P... did you consider this tent as an option? I love my Tarptent Motrail and used it for the JMT. Are you going to use a footprint? Tc and stay safe.
Hi Grant, I hadn't heard of Durston tents until your comment landed. Just bookmarked the website for future reference. They look good though and I love cottage companies. I've never bothered with footprints to be honest. Henry Shires advises they're not needed. I'll use some tyvek if I plan to camp in the woods.
@@WalkWithWallace the Dan Durston was much cheaper and has been great on its first couple of outings. The issue I had with the single inner tents is that your kit will get damp in the vestibules (not to mention that a lack of footprint can lead to more condensation). I've used Tyvek, Fabsiled one side and would definitely recommend. The Dan Durston has a rectangular foot print so easy to add tie outs to keep everything ship shape. Looking forward to seeing you out and about again. Cheers Grant
@@grantbell6451 I suppose a footprint is definitely something I should consider for the longer trips. But for the single night summit camps, condensation usually isn't an issue.
I know what you mean about dampness in the vestibule areas. I put all my gear back into their dry sacks. Not too long to go now for some more freedom. 🏕 🤞🏻
Wow! at 800grams I would be very happy carrying that in my rucksack! have a great week.👍👍👍
Cheers Tony, not too shabby at that weight. Hope you're well and have a good one too mate. 😁 👍🏼
I've looked at tarp tents for a while Robin. I think they have good tents and like you I might give em a go. This looks like it might handle condensation well what with the fly also. Wait and see. Well, all the best in it. Mark
Yeah I'm totally the same, I've dipped in and out of their website lots over the years. It was always the Scarp that was on my radar, not the Notch. Had looked at the Rainbow and Moment too. Lot too long now mate.
@@WalkWithWallace That would sum it up nicely Robin. Yeah, be out and about before long.
It’s a nice weight , interesting to see how it handles strong winds Robin . But with the 2 pole system it should be fine , sort those couple of mods and you will be sorted . Is this the one you got stung with import duty ?
We just need releasing now and it’s all systems go ⛺️👍
Aye Parcel Force held on to it until I paid up. 🙈 My thinking is it will be decent in the wind and make use of the two optional guylines in windy conditions. 😁
A cool design on that tent Robin. Looking forward to seeing you take that adult on some trips. ATB - Ben
Cheers Ben. We're so close now to getting out. 😁
Decent looking tent that Robin. Will look forward to seeing how you get on with it long term. Hopefully not too far off yet. My perfect tent is still the Lunar Solo. Are you no longer a fan of yours?
Cheers James. I liked the Lunar Solo, but the tensioners loosened off too easily in the wind. Thankfully SMD have addressed that and the new models have linlocs.
@@WalkWithWallace There are some quite simple and cheap mods you can do to sort that mate. Admittedly I have only used it in the Peak and Lake District but in some pretty grim weather mark my words. On that note, would love to see you and Kev do a bob around the Lakes one time. 👍
@@James-uj3us yeah, I've not been down to the Lakes for a while. So we'll definitely be down at some point.
Looking good. I'm waiting on my order of the Li. Was nice to see there's still some space around the sleeping pad, I've got the same exped synmat.
Enjoy your backpacking trips, looking forward to the videos.
Nice mate, I'd be interested to hear how you get on with the DCF version, I can't decide if they're worth the extra money yet as I haven't seen one in the flesh.
Definitely some room around you for bits and pieces, but I'll be making full use of the second vestibule.
@@WalkWithWallace Ordered it 4 weeks ago hoping to get it in time to use on my LEJOG in 4 weeks time from now but unfortunately it was an error on the website and was out of stock so will have to use the lanshan 1 pro and switch out about 3/4weeks in to my hike.
@@PaulOvaDoze ah that's a pain, but to be fair the Lanshan 1 Pro is an excellent substitute.
Really like this tent, watching on a daily basis for the Li version coming back into stock. Atb 🏴🏕🏔
I'm happy with the silnylon version, think Ray (Renegade Scot) hinted he may be selling his Notch Li. 🤔
@@WalkWithWallace oh if he is tell him to give me a shout 😁 cheers Robin 👍🏻👍🏻
@@lawrencejack5038 ping him a wee message on Insta or his FB page. 👍🏻
@@WalkWithWallace did you speak to him ? He sent me a friend request on fb, but I did message him on his mod video on the Li
@@lawrencejack5038 I've pinged him a message, he'll get a lot of interest in that.
not a fan of the trekking pole handles being on the ground (little 'bears' love to chew on them especially cork) / can you invert them (that would solve the loop problem too). what is odd is i thought they'd started using the magnet tiebacks on all their tents now.. but that's an easy hack. great honest review.. cheers
I can't see the handle being on the top doing any harm, it's reinforced anyway for the spikes, so I may try that. Just raise the height to compensate for the spike sinking into the earth up to the basket. Like you say I can then pop the loop into the spike too. 😁
Great to see YOU got this one as you seem to gear up for the same conditions i do. I'd love to see how you fare in it in windy conditions. I've got the DCF version. Took it out only a couple of times so far. I must say, i fared poorly in (very) high winds. Was testing in preparation for use in Norway so purposely set up in a very exposed place. One pole came down on me in the night unfortunately. I've got a feeling I didn't set up properly. Or maybe it was the short stakes (I was using 6" groundhogs on the guylines) or perhaps i was too casual in how i applied the stakes. In any case, it put a dent in my confidence in using the Notch Li instead of the Akto (when we're finally allowed to travel and get into the mountains that is!) Once again, looking forward to see you how you fare with this.
That would knock my confidence in the tent too, but it could be user error. Did the tent peg come out resulting in the collapsed pole?
I would definitely use the additional 2 tie out points as that should firmly hold each pole in place.
I'm going to be using 9" Eastons on all sides.
@@WalkWithWallace I was using the two tie-outs too. And no, the pole stake did not come out but the whole system loosened enough to allow the pole to dislodge. I watched you carefully adjusting for the ridgeline and perhaps i didn't do that so well. Clearly, this tent needs proper tensioning and maybe i didn't do that well enough (it WAS my second time setting this up so...) Also, perhaps the pole wasn't itself screwed tight enough and maybe it telescoped even a little and disrupted the tensioning. I'll tell you one thing though, it was very windy even before i actually slept and i felt totally secure and, till the episode, slept very very well! I must have set it up wrong and messed up somewhere. I will certainly take the Notch out again when it's blasting F6/7 and try it again. I have this feeling it would work if i do it right and i use longer stakes.
@@robertsant4369 let me know how you get on Robert. I'm confident the Notch in Silnylon or DCF are capable tents.
@@WalkWithWallace i certainly will....and i'm sure you'l put YOUR experience up on here. good luck out there
@@robertsant4369 I certainly will, watch this space. 😁
A nice taut pitch!
It is worth paying extra to have them seam seal. Hard to seam seal and unsure if I have done properly. Adds quite a bit of extra weight.
How about passing your pole through the hole from outside as instructed. I once pitched my pole like you did and almost made a hole in the canopy right next to the ring. I love the Notch. But it is a tiny tent. I wouldn’t recommend it to tall and/or big hikers. They call it “Coffin”. Lol.
Do you mean with the doors open or through the vents? I friend made a small hole in his Stratosphere doing exactly that, so definitely something I want to avoid doing.
@@WalkWithWallace
through the vent.
Please watch how to pitch instruction video. Henry Shires himself does it. He is a great guy. I talked to him on the phone before I bought it.
Unless I pay $600 for Z-Packs Duplex, I will stick with Notch. You can’t find a better double-walled tent that weighs 2 pounds for $300.
@@yongkim2088 thanks Yong. I'll watch his video again and do that the next time I pitch the Notch.
The double vestibule and head room when sitting up makes up for the small floor space.
@@WalkWithWallace
Yeah, I agree.
Even though the end buttresses have a downside (awkward to store in the backpack), they help expand living space (despite relatively small footprint) and increase air circulation thus limiting condensation further (in addition to 2 vestibules).
Awsome Robin it's looks great tent I love tarptent 👍👌
Cheers Bryan. 😁 👍🏼
Tarp, bivi and a stick for the centre pole. Good to go.
Way too small for me. I need room especially head room. But for a midget looks cosey.
I've got that with the Trailstar, works well for out of the midge season.
@@WalkWithWallace Good stuff.
@@thegroove2000 lol @ midget. To be fair, what the Notch lacks in floor space it more than makes up for head room with the two pole set up.
The inner looks very like my Terra Nova Laserlight but you have far more outer room with the two porches. My first thought is that it would be far more taught between the poles if you pegged out the yellow guy lines especially as you'll be carrying the pegs anyway. Looks very good though, what's the weight of it Robin?
I got the tent nice and taut by just tightening up the side guys. Will take spare pegs for the higher guys, for windy weather. Weighs in at 800g, which is decent. 😁
The vent flaps at each end are a good idea. 800 gm 👍 I thought my Tipinova was good at 1 kg. It'll be interesting to see how it goes.
The vents are a nice touch, should help with condensation. I'll have to switch to DCF to go any lighter.
Awesome Video! Thank you for uploading. Can't wait to see more 👍
Cheers Q. TV. 😁
Thank you for uploading my friend! Such a awesome video x
Thanks Saz. 😁
Good one Robin. That goes up faster than mine. The two guyline will tighten up the ridge. How tall are you Robin. The two vestibules are good. Could you put pegs in the inner tent ground loops. You done a good job with the seam sealing 👍. Enjoyed watching Robin. Thanks Steve
Cheers Steve. 👍🏼
Aye sussed out on another pitching on getting the middle apex nice and taut. Plus with the optional guylines too. Good idea for the inner loops. 2 extra pegs in the pack won't weigh me down.
I think the idea of walking poles going through the loops could pull out the poles and damage the material. If you move around in the inner tent doing things and sleeping turning over there's a lot of weight going to them points. 👍
NICE 🤗 I have a Tarptent Scarp 1 which is a wee bit bigger (and heavier) but a great tent ⛺️ I love the two porches as it means I don’t have to have all my crap cluttering up the inner and they’re awesome for ventilation on calm summer nights. I’m sure with a bit of fettling you’ll get the Notch just the way you want it. Can’t wait to see it in action.
Does your misses know you have this many tents ?😂
I really quite fancy a Scarp 1 for the shorter winter trips to complete my rent collection. 😁
Aye, she just rolls her eyes at me. 😂
And the porches are great for storing your wet gear.
Aye looks pretty neat this Robin. Good find 😊 Maybe this is THE ONE ! 👍👍
Fingers crossed. 😁 Got the Lanshan too, so I'll keep this for the longer trips. 🏕
Seems lovely and of course, ultralight. I’ve been pondering over the Tarptent Rainbow for bikepacking over the last few months, but the US seems the only place to buy one!!
Hey Shameer, yeah there's no EU or UK distributor so you have to buy direct from the US. Worth it though and they hold their value if you look after them.
@@WalkWithWallace what about customs charge?
@@ShameerShahProject I paid £75, bit of a sting in the tail, but you've got to factor that in.
@@WalkWithWallace crazy man! Does that include the delivery charge?
@@ShameerShahProject with the exchange rate I paid £280 for the tent including shipping. Then £75 import tax. £355 all in. 😬
Good stuff Robin , nice new tent bud ..cheers Stevie
Cheers bud, I used your sealant on that last section by the way and it was fine. 👍🏼
Hi mate I see you changed to the xmid but still use the lanshan. I have the pro 1 too and love it for the reasons you do.. Was thinking of the notch as a slightly better harsh weather tent, (sil poly so less flapping. What's your thoughts, do you still use this at all? Cheers 👍🏻
Hey Danny, the Notch is a solid backpacking tent, it served me well on the CWT, alas it fell out of favour when I got the Scarp. I found it a little too compact for general weekend camps with the inner tapering in at the feet and head. I sold it on to help finance the X-Mid.
@@WalkWithWallace thanks for the reply. I'm only 5'7 so may be OK for me if I go in the middle 😂.
@@dannyknight8082 tbf I'm 5'10" and it wasn't too small for me. Just wasn't quite for me in the end.
Yeah thats what id want. A near see through tent...
Not feeling it then? 👀
Nice one, looks a nice shelter, is there a single pole version of this ? I have seen a tarptent in DCF with a single pole in action, loved the simplicity of it...
Look forward to seeing this out on the trail ,,,, ATB 👍
Cheers mate. 😎
I don't believe they make a single pole version or not that I'm aware of anyway. Looking forward to getting it out myself. 😁 👍🏼
Nice one Robin, looks like a fantastic bit of kit! Would it be possible to either tie a loop or add a toggle to the inners ties? Might be a solution for you & definitely worth looking into modding those pole fixing points for peace of mind. How do you feel about the lack of guy lines?
Cheers Scott. Need to think about the ties, but not too much of an irritant to be honest. Couple of comments have suggested pegging out the inner loops and I'll carry an extra 2 pegs for that.
I'm quite relaxed about the lack of guylines, I think it'll shed wind quite well with that profile. 🤔
@@WalkWithWallace Excellent! That’s a good idea re the pegs, sorted 💪
Nice looking tent looks super light
I have the scarp 1 it’s been a good tent
Soon be back out !!
Atb mate 👍🏽
The Scarp 1 is on my shortlist too. For a winter tent. Would you recommend?
@@WalkWithWallace defo did a few reviews on my Chanel and used it a good few times
Great tent expensive but solid 4 season
Atb mate 👍🏽
@@DaveDoesOutdoors nice one Dave. 😁 Maybe later this year or early next depending on funds.
The scarp 1 is a great tent but would be much better in winter with the extra poles that run front to back diagonally. Makes it free standing too. Great setup and very stable.
@@fraross6212 thanks for comment Fra
Yeh love the Scarp1 👍🏽
Atb
Nice one bud. Great review. Guid looking tent likesay 😎
Cheers mucker. 😁 👍🏼
Great tent. Look forward to seeing your trips in this, I’ve got a Notch Li with the half solid inner. I’m wanting to get more use from it as lockdowns mean it’s had very little use so far. It’s got some niggles, I’ve got a few thoughts on a couple of mods so it’ll be good to see where you might tweak things too.
Half solid inner is the way forward IMO. Since posting this video, others have already suggested in the comments using additional pegs to hold out the inner, so that's that issue sorted. Just those tie backs for the inner doors. 🤔
@@WalkWithWallace Yep. Also pondering whether an extra cord loop to peg the mid point of each door panel may be necessary for our windy scenarios. I also bought the little trekking pole handle adapters that tarptent sell to use the poles handle up (instead of tip up) but not yet convinced by them to be honest - bit too fiddly and can’t get the tension set as easily. If we’re ever allowed out to play again I should upload a vid of what I’m on about as I struggled to find anyone else using them when I was eyeing up the tent last year.
@@Jimaroid interesting, I never knew such a thing existed. Is there any reason why putting the trekking pole handles in the roof wouldn't work?
@@WalkWithWallace my only thought why that was the design choice is because there’s better tension with the tips in the eyelets. With the handles up there’s more play. Just speculation, it’s an interesting design choice.
@@Jimaroid I suppose in light winds you could use the handles up instead. You'd have to lengthen the poles to compensate for the tips sinking into the earth too.
Great video! Been looking for a new lightweight tent for summer, mine is currently 2.5kg! Trying to get the backpack down as much as possible, and recommendations would be fab! I also like a little more space for my gear. 😊
Hey Kelly, 2.5g is a heavy beast for summer camping. This is a good tent, but the lack of space inside I'd say its more suited to multi day trips. Have you looked at the Lanshan range on Ali Express?
@@WalkWithWallace yeah, id not like the lack of space, only bought the one i have because it was easy to put up and was a total novice 😂shall have a wee look at them, thank you 😊
@@kellylander2895 no probs, loved your recent tweets by the way despite the some of heat you got. Not bad having that on your doorstep. 😁
@@WalkWithWallace thank you! Yeah, water off a ducks back. Too amazing an experience to be bothered. Very lucky! Just need to get this bag down from 26kg! Thanks again.
@@kellylander2895 aye ignore it, no harm in it at all, particularly when you've got dafties going into each others houses for parties. 26kg though!! That's bonkers heavy. 🤯
Nice video again 👍
Great lightweight tent. Just never quite understood the logic of buying a tent that you have to seal yourself, or am I missing something?
Cheers David.
It's the 4th shelter I've sealed now, and it really doesn't bother me. Takes circa 40 minutes. They do offer a sealing service of around $30 usually.
Is this what your taking on the CWT? I believe you're about 2-3 days ahead of me. Cheers 👍
Hi mate, it is indeed. Had around 5-6 nights in it during the CWT. Not long left Oykel Bridge. How did you know I was on the trail?
@@WalkWithWallace stopped off at Lochhournhead Tea Room. I'm night 4, a tough day from Barrisdale
@@sniperhikes3716 tough going around Ben Aden etc isn't it. We've just arrived at Inchnadamph for supplies.
@@WalkWithWallace I didn't realise the hotel was still closed at Inchnadamph but managed to get my head down elsewhere. Some of the terrain makes very very hard miles. Snow and sleet again today. Your handywork is still on display in the Schoolhouse blackboard. What a great wee bothy. Bumped into you and Kev at Sheilin O Mark about two and a half years ago
@@sniperhikes3716 Yeah, it was closed when we dropped in at Inchnadamph, but had reopened when we heading home 3 days ago. I didn't enjoy the last section to Glencoul. The School House is a class wee bothy, the room to the left is well insulated I thought.
Ah nice, that was a guid night, small world too.
Cracking tent. Are you selling any of your old tents on?
Cheers Daniel, I could have sworn I had already replied your comment. I don''t have any thing for sale at the moment as I usually sell one to fund the new tent.
@@WalkWithWallace You did! For some reason my comment was posted twice.
@@FreestyleGGD ah okay. I thought there was a glitch in the Matrix there. 😄
Looks a good wee tent Robin especially at only 800g i thought it looked heavier than that, would you rate it over your Lanshan Pro1?
Cheers Pete. Good question, two different tents, so hard to pick. The space in the Lanshan is excellent, but I'd the trust the Notch more in bad weather, plus the half solid inner will give me protection too. So Lanshan for the good weather trips and the Notch for longer trips or when the weather is poor.
Where didy ou order it?
Direct from Tarptent. 🏕 👍🏻
Interesting video. Thanks. I’ve never understood the need for a customer to to seam seal, the manufacturer should do it. For me it is like buying a car that only has aundercoat of paint and no top coat of paint.
I know what you mean.
My understanding is, these are small cottage companies so to seal themselves would take too long. They do offer a service if you don't mind waiting a bit longer for your tent, I think it's around $40 for them to seal it.
@@WalkWithWallace That's a interesting service but important to take into account when comparing costs of tents. Teh tent you review looks to be a great light weight option though.
@@alanc4264 up to each individual I suppose. It's the 4th shelter I've sealed, so it doesn't really bother me. £9 for a tube of sealant and 30 mins of my time to seal it.
At 800g fully sealed with pegs, you'd have to go down the DCF route to get a lighter tent. 🤔
Just ordered one of these myself! Are you still using it 1 year on?
Used it for the first time in ages on Saturday as I was covering a lot of distance and wanted a lighter tent. Still liking it. 😁
@@WalkWithWallace Ah great stuff can't wait for mine to turn up now!
Let us know how you get on mate. 👍🏻
Nice new toy! I was expecting the weight in pounds not ounces but since you mentioned 800 grams I can understand that because I can count to 1kg 😛
Haha. I'm new school Snowy. 😁
Nice tent/review almost like a fancy coffin 😂 Why do you use a exped isomatress - it seems to me that you are quite weight cautious? Atb Stripey
Haha, the inner is a bit coffin shaped. The Exped SynMat isn't too bad, around the 500g mark with a decent R value for the colder nights. I've got an Alpkit CloudBase for the warmer nights.
How's this tent going for you? Solid in bad weather?
It's still to get a right good testing in bad weather, but I trust the Notch with the right pegs/stakes.
@@WalkWithWallace thanks. Did you consider any of the other tarptents before picking the notch? I'm weighing up the notch or the moment dw. There's the weight vs internal space debate, given the two tents have very similar footprints.
@@praktika1082 I didn't go for the Moment DW as I felt it was a bit too similar to my old Hille Akto. Plus I wanted a trekking pole tent. I felt the double vestibule of the Notch would mitigate the compact space inside. I've recently bought a Scarp 1 when weight isn't as important, but space is.
@@WalkWithWallace thanks for your considered responses. I'm attracted to the brand given its history/background as a small family business, etc. Very tempted by the scarp, but at 1.5kg, that's not much of an improvement on my current crop of tents. Thanks and I look forward to your next video!
@@praktika1082 the Notch is ideal for multi day trips, when pack size and weight is important. I'll use the Scarp for 1 nighters or in poor weather. Mine came in at 1.3kg by the way.
Nice video Rob, you seem to have tested out most UL tents... Quick question - whats your top recommendation for a newbie looking for their first UL backpacking tent?
Cheers David. I've tried a handful, so much choice out there. What sort of budget have you got and will you be going out in all weathers? 🏕
@@WalkWithWallace Budget is probably up to £600 and i think a three season would do. Im not a winter camper... too old and too soft!
@@davidcressey that's a decent budget for your first tent. 👍🏼 You could get the Notch in DCF with that budget. But if you're not after an American import. You've got tents like the Hilleberg Enan, Terra Nova Laser Competition, MSR Access 1, PreTent Soloist to name a few.
@@WalkWithWallace Thanks Rob, much appreciated. I have the all season Terra Nova laser compact 2 but i just find it too low in height for me. I am therefore selling that to get something with a bit more headroom. I just did the WHW in a Cloud Peak 2 which was super comfy but a tad heavy at 2.5kgs.
It's a bit of a minefield isn't it. I usually have a small shortlist and blitz the reviews on here.😄
You say Lanshan 1 pro Robin, Thought you had solo ??
I sold the SMD Lunar Solo and got the Lanshan 1 Pro for backup.
@@WalkWithWallace kWL Just wondering, I have solo, Lanshan 1 pro, and scarp 1 for autumn
@@johnmccarron that's a decent set up. I've got the 1 Pro, Notch and the the Trailstar. May sell the latter if I don't get much use out of it.
I'm looking to get the Tarptent Scarp 2.I am a bit worried about the additional import charges,tax etc though.Could you advise on an average cost these would be please ?.
Hi Jamie, I paid £280 for the Notch then £75 import taxes on top of that. This calculator should help give you a cost of what to expect.
www.simplyduty.com/import-calculator/
@@WalkWithWallace You're a star mate.Thank you very much for your help.Keep up the great work and always a pleasure watching.
Stay safe and looking forward to your adventures when we can can all get out in the wilderness..
@@jamieforsyth4804 nice one Jamie. Is the cost looking alright then? 🤔
@@WalkWithWallace It worked out at £97 for import etc.The Scarp 2 is approx £320 ($434) so i'm pretty happy with that.I have a husky so i need extra space or it would be the Scarp 1.Looks a fantastic tent.
@@jamieforsyth4804 That's not bad actually. Folk on ebay were recently trying to cash in selling the Scarp 1 at £550+, claiming they're extremely rare tents. 😒Just have to sit tight on their new stock email alert.
Looks like (not saying it actually is) a falling leaf would destroy that hahahaha
Looks can deceive. 😁
I would rather go with extra weight to get more room in a 2/3man tent.
That's understandable, it's up to each individual what they prefer and for what season. In winter I'd want more space than what the Notch offers.
Looks small inside. Get the six moons back.
It is small inside, but the double vestibul makes up for that and plenty headroom. Much prefer this to the SMD effort.
expensive
What would you get instead?
@@WalkWithWallace My santa list
a tent a blanket
a small spirit stove ,
the love of a good woman ,
a glass pf Santa,s flying reindeer urine!
@@TheInnacity 😂 nice list, have a good one mate. 🎅
@@WalkWithWallace i think any lanshan is a better deal price wise , vango are remarkable reliable , and a good fly sheet not a tarp is versatile , like the ratnik shelter ,theres also the , finnish army cloaks , there hardcore , . merry crimbo dude
@@TheInnacity I like Lanshans, but the quality isn't nearly as good. A Henry Shires tent will last. Vangos are decent, but you'll pay a premium for their lightweight backpacking tents. 🏕
Cracking tent. Are you selling any of your old tents on?
Cheers mate, nothing to sell at the moment, as I kind of do a one in, one out policy. So I sold the Helm Compact to help fund the Notch.