Is The Durston X-Mid The Best Ultralight Backpacking Tent? (WHW Ep5)

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  • Опубліковано 18 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 218

  • @durstongear
    @durstongear 6 місяців тому +84

    Thanks for the kind words and using our gear. Glad you're liking the tent!
    - Dan Durston

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +14

      Thanks Dan! Signed up for the X-Dome info, can’t wait to see the design.

    • @viv3d
      @viv3d 6 місяців тому +4

      Do you have an estimate of when the X-Dome would be released?

    • @connorspurling2295
      @connorspurling2295 6 місяців тому

      @@viv3dthink it was sometime in August

    • @durstongear
      @durstongear 6 місяців тому +6

      @@viv3d We'll probably show it off in September. Shipping soon after.

    • @thomaskerr2477
      @thomaskerr2477 6 місяців тому +1

      oo new dome idea , am hoping it fit different bikepacking options from either split to fit on front forks or in front of bike handlebars or any other location lite ,and budget and for scottish uk weather thats what am looking for

  • @davidminor6537
    @davidminor6537 6 місяців тому +29

    As a Canadian I found your comment to my American neighbours to be freaking hilarious. Well played!

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +10

      😂 thanks. When I was a teenager I worked part time in a camera store and my boss was Canadian and he couldn’t stand people asking him where in America he was from. Giving him some justice 😁

  • @Ruckanonymous
    @Ruckanonymous 6 місяців тому +36

    As an American, Id have also looked at you surprised for an instant if you asked where in Canada I was from. We're too self-important to even consider someone would be joking about that. Loved the joke within the video and hope I hear a similar in my international travels.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +9

      🙂 My accent is hard to place for some people and I always enjoy the various guesses. I’ve been accused of being Canadian, American, Scottish & Northern English 😂 it’s always a goood conversation starter

    • @Trundlebugg
      @Trundlebugg 6 місяців тому +4

      @@StephenJReid every Irish guy I know has been accused of being Canadian 😅 and my mums partner who is Canadian but’s lived in the uk for 30yrs is regularly accused of being Irish 🤦‍♀️

    • @thomasbjohnston
      @thomasbjohnston 6 місяців тому +4

      To avoid this snafu, I usually ask which part of North America are you from, which *mostly* works.

    • @jacoblong3541
      @jacoblong3541 5 місяців тому +3

      The first Irish guy I ever met asked me where is was from. I responded “oh im American”. He came back with “i could’ve guessed that I was asking which state.”

    • @samuelyoder9005
      @samuelyoder9005 4 місяці тому

      @@jacoblong3541😆

  • @daveflanagan4213
    @daveflanagan4213 6 місяців тому +8

    Love the vids. Supremely well made with all the giggles any normal human being can take without splitting our sides. Great work.

  • @thenextadventure8079
    @thenextadventure8079 6 місяців тому +7

    We thought the possibility of using your tent as a toilet hilarious. Well edited and presented video and the weather seemed to have got a little better ….though that blister looks horrendous. And we have just seen the thumbnail of the next video …OMG. Must remember not to be eating dinner whilst we are watching that one. 🫣 Thanks again Stephen, brilliantly funny with loads of useful info.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      Thanks! Yeah the blister grows quite a bit overnight 😱

  • @AjaySingh-228
    @AjaySingh-228 6 місяців тому +5

    Never thought I'd watch a 20-minute video about a tent but here I am... entertained by stories of sheep and sausage. Thanks Sir! 😂

  • @knightsoutdoors
    @knightsoutdoors 3 місяці тому +2

    Possibly the best 12seconds of a UA-cam video I’ve seen this year. 😂

  • @peterrobertson8141
    @peterrobertson8141 6 місяців тому +1

    Brilliant review of the X-Mid and comparison between the different types, Stephen! Really enjoying all your WHW videos. They are reminding me of when my wife and I did the walk almost 30 years ago in our early 40s. Looking forward to the last part 😊

  • @markbailey15
    @markbailey15 6 місяців тому +6

    Loving the west Highland way videos Stephen and can appreciate the time it takes to edit just one😁👍

  • @shaunhiggins1545
    @shaunhiggins1545 6 місяців тому +4

    So enjoyable to share your adventures. I've got the X-mid 2, as I wanted enough space to keep my camera gear inside. It's a wonderful tent and still super light. New Zealand gets its fair share of inclement weather and it has stood up well. The inner can get close to the outer sometimes causing sticking and damp at the top but I found not having the inner too tight at top solves that.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      Guessing the 2 has that issue as the sides aren’t as steep? I’d love to go camping in New Zealand!

  • @alanslade2319
    @alanslade2319 6 місяців тому +3

    Hi Stephen great show again, thanks for the update on the tent, I'm sure one day you will be in it and the test will be on, now that foot looked so sore.looking forward to seeing the next video, take care of yourself and yours , Alan 💯👍

  • @Andrea2h0a
    @Andrea2h0a Місяць тому

    Great review! I also have the x-mid 1 and I love it for the exact same reasons you mentioned. Thank you, it was nice to watch.

  • @tomfenn7149
    @tomfenn7149 6 місяців тому +1

    Thanks so much for doing this review, Stephen. I too thought the Durston looked impressive, especially at that price. And now you've helped confirm that I need to get one for myself. The toilet top tip, most impressive, as the one thing I've dreaded for my entire life is being caught short in the middle of nowhere, a particularly well exposed, middle of nowhere.

  • @MicheálMannion-b5o
    @MicheálMannion-b5o 6 днів тому

    When the rain starts to fall,
    I’ll be there for you toooooo

  • @imaybesometime
    @imaybesometime Місяць тому +2

    Thank you for doing this for the "standard" x-mid. So many UK videos on the x-mid turn out to be really about the Solid.

  • @mohammed5593
    @mohammed5593 26 днів тому +1

    You're wearing the Harrier Lomond jacket! It's an amazing bit of kit at an equally amazing price

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  26 днів тому

      @@mohammed5593 yup! Big fan and I do some work with them too🙂 How do you know about them?

    • @mohammed5593
      @mohammed5593 26 днів тому

      @@StephenJReid I was lucky enough to stumble upon them a few years ago when I was looking for a race vest. They saved me so much money. I recently bought their Lomond jacket -again saving loads of money. They put a lot of thought into their products and make it affordable.

  • @markreevestravels758
    @markreevestravels758 6 місяців тому

    Came here to look for more gadgets like Muzen which I just purchased, saw your title "should you unsubscribe" - watched it and found you have a gadget channel! Well that worked well - subscribed to both. I can really relate to your music for hiking and running ideas. I too have been on a run and my buds packed up - that was it, I just went home! I listen to trance music (I'm 56) but look forward to the music more than the run, but once I get going I get into a zone and a really good place and often over run my finish just to listen for longer. I have always been against music when hiking and often complain to my wife when I hear it. A month ago my wife broke her leg hiking and now I have to hike alone. I experimented with music on my phone and found that it was good company and if chosen carefully - the music totally elevated my mood. For the past month I've played music whilst hiking (mute when approaching others) - I now look forward to the hikes even more (just like when running). Now I've got my Muzen - holy moly, what a gadget! It's a thing of beauty and easy to mute. I have to thank you for this! Looking forward to watching lots more of your videos. I liked the Messner one with the cinematic bits (I'm also into this and will explore your channel in search) Thanks again, keep up the great work!

  • @PotooBurd
    @PotooBurd 6 місяців тому +1

    I enjoy this so much! Amazing content, best wishes to you and your future projects! 🌻

  • @DJVIurphy
    @DJVIurphy 6 місяців тому +3

    I've got the solid version and had it out in 30-35 mph wind and it took it like a champ. The big sides bellowed in a fair amount but it kept me safe through the night.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      Good to know! Was it fully pegged out?

  • @BimbleWithBruce
    @BimbleWithBruce 6 місяців тому +2

    Great video and what amazing views. The more I watch, the more I need to do the WHW.
    Thank you for sharing your adventures and laughs on the way.
    I've always liked the Durston X-Mid 1. However, I think the only way I'll get I'll get one of these if I ever win a competition 😅

  • @Stu1972Mac
    @Stu1972Mac 6 місяців тому +2

    Great video, Stephen. I bought this tent 2 months ago and have to say I've been very impressed with it so far.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      😁 what made you get it?

    • @Stu1972Mac
      @Stu1972Mac 6 місяців тому +2

      @StephenJReid Months of reading reviews 🤣 I have an msr access 2 for four seasons, but I wanted something even lighter for summit and multi day hikes, and always fancied trying a trek pole tent. So far, I've used it in the North West Highlands on Beinn Dearg and the Moelwyns in North Wales.

    • @Stu1972Mac
      @Stu1972Mac 6 місяців тому +1

      @StephenJReid Stephen I meant to ask where you got the elastic loops for adding additional peg points?

  • @erikclaasen639
    @erikclaasen639 6 місяців тому +1

    So much more entertaining than the average WHW videos. I would also highly rate the X-Mid 2 Solid (my birthday present last year), especially for all year usage, that and my son has the X-Mid 1 Solid which I once borrowed - but felt too much like a coffin with the solid sides = the 2 for me.
    Can't wait for the next episode.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      Thanks Erik! That’s a good point I missed, the mesh inner makes it feel bigger and brighter

  • @vickym5064
    @vickym5064 6 місяців тому +1

    You’ve convinced me, ordering my Durston. Thank you 😊

  • @kaspersergej
    @kaspersergej 6 місяців тому +1

    Mate, this one is especially well made, kudos. It was entertaining, informative and had a "story" to tell.

  • @adventurousdavee
    @adventurousdavee 6 місяців тому +3

    Great vid as always Stephen 👌 Will be getting one of these for the WHW , and for summer camps up the mournes 👍

  • @drytool
    @drytool 6 місяців тому +3

    The new Durston hiking poles are awesome! Highly recommended. There is nothing like them.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      I thought they looked cool but wish they had a strap as I always use the straps in the Nordic style

    • @drytool
      @drytool 6 місяців тому

      @@StephenJReid Dan's talking about doing them with straps as an option, I think. they are so light they don't fall out of the hands as easily as you would think. I put my thumb on top for the Nordic style push off.

  • @Collected1
    @Collected1 6 місяців тому +1

    I like how this transitions from general chat about tent requirements to overhead shots of the highlands worthy of Countryfile. Brilliant. I've always been very sceptical of trekking pole tents but I'm starting to see more and more of them. Especially on long distance hikes. I'm just not sure if I want the 1P version or the extra room of the 2P.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +2

      Thanks! 🙂 Trying to mix up the topics of my WHW videos otherwise they will just be all the same.
      I was dead against them previously after seeing someone have a difficult time pitching one but I’ve completely changed my mind.
      I’ve found the head height makes it feel much bigger inside that other tents with a similar sized inner

  • @thomaspaschen77
    @thomaspaschen77 6 місяців тому +1

    damn... this gorgeous tent and the beeeaaaauuutiful scotish highlands in the back... paradise😎 did the whw 5 times already... and will always be back for more

    • @thomaspaschen77
      @thomaspaschen77 6 місяців тому +1

      just KT tape on blisters... and before;-)

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      I've a feeling I'll be back too!

    • @thomaspaschen77
      @thomaspaschen77 6 місяців тому +1

      @@StephenJReid nothing beats scotland in my heart, not even the pacific crest trail, scotland was my first love and will be my last🥰

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      Really? I’ve wondered about some day doing one of those trails in USA. What was it about Scotland that made it so different for you?

    • @thomaspaschen77
      @thomaspaschen77 6 місяців тому +1

      @@StephenJReid the pct is/was a „once in a lifetime feeling“… unbeatable scenery, breathtaking in every possible way… i don‘t think there is a more beautiful trail in the world, even if they are nice, AT, CDT, TA… not equal😊 BUT… it‘s hard to put in words… the feeling when I walked through glencoe for the first time, the scottish people… just everything, it remains my no1 place of heart🤷‍♂️🫡

  • @billywalsh269
    @billywalsh269 6 місяців тому +4

    I’m a beginner wild camper and the last 2 wild camps I’ve been on have shown up my lack of navigation skills. Saw you checking your watch for navigation. What watch and app do you use. Hope you enjoy the rest of your trip 👍

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      I plan with paper maps and usually carry paper map and compass (unless I know the place really well). That’s a Suunto Race watch, first time using a watch with maps on this trip. Really like it

    • @feldgraufox4927
      @feldgraufox4927 6 місяців тому +1

      Get a few navigation books mate. I've had the same issues but fortunately If you can read a map properly, take a bearing and triangulate your position, and use a bit of common sense, you're 80% of the way there. Where it gets trickier is when the cloud/mist/fog rolls in and the terrain is quite featureless. Which seems to have been the case the last few times I've gone out, hence the books, I bought like 5 navigation books 😂 been lucky so far but do not wish to tempt fate.

  • @Northeast-SouthwestOutdoors
    @Northeast-SouthwestOutdoors 6 місяців тому +4

    With those impressions you've become a pin up here in Wales🐑 been carrying OG Vern 1 on Pembrokeshire coastal path but thinking X mid for 4 days of Hadrian's wall in summer👍🏻

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +2

      Yeah I think 2 tents is the ideal. Light and fast for most of the year/less windy camping and then a 4 season fortress for everything else.

  • @HatEinenAnDerWaffel
    @HatEinenAnDerWaffel 3 місяці тому

    I have also a Durston X-Mid. It is my first Tent and I was very, very lucky do get it extramly cheap.
    A friend of mine has the Hubba hubba NX.
    Both tents are great in their own way. 😊

  • @alangauld6079
    @alangauld6079 2 місяці тому

    I got the XMid2 Solid with their poles(I do a lot of 'base camp' style camping where I need the trekking poles during the day). I agree with everything you said. However, I do wish I'd bought the 1-man instead of the 2-man. I usually need a 2-man for space but the Xmid2 is enormous! The footprint is massive and I'm pretty sure you could squeeze 3 inside at a pinch. One thing I like that you didn't mention is that you can create an awning/verandah by putting a trekking pole(or stick) into the end of the door panel and lifting it up as a roof using a spare guy line. That's great for creating a huge sheltered living space in damp but not windy conditions. Also, you can reduce the footprint slightly by performing some tent origami(see the Durston videos), although there is a compromise in weather resistance. But when you compare the price of the basic Durstons to other tents of the same weight and quality they are really good value, even with the £!00 shipping added on.
    PS Another advantage of double (and especially solid) skins is that they are darker inside in summer, which makes it easier to get to sleep. They do have just as much condensation as single skins but the condensation drips onto the inner rather than onto the occupant, and that is important IMHO!

  • @thedaftestnameicouldthinko8233
    @thedaftestnameicouldthinko8233 6 місяців тому +3

    If pitching is limited probably best not to do the cat hole under an outer first pitching tent. I did but the weather was so bad that I had to give up on my planned hike and return to my used and abused pitch. Served me right!

  • @greyhikes5236
    @greyhikes5236 6 місяців тому +4

    Unfortunately my xmid2 v2 ripped yesterday in high winds on my last day of the CWT. Gutted love that tent. Forecast was on 18mph but large gusts cought it and slammed the pole through the roof. 😕 Will try a repair but it's not looking good.

    • @MrRmacattack1
      @MrRmacattack1 6 місяців тому +4

      Unfortunate. I saw there is a conversion to have the handles at the top

    • @vvs3796
      @vvs3796 6 місяців тому

      Bcs ultralight is junk..

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      Oh yikes, there’s a mod you can get that allows you to put the poles handle up that I think is to avoid this.

    • @gregoryoutdoors
      @gregoryoutdoors 6 місяців тому

      What? Thats crazy, thats why I never pitch my tent this way I think its silly... I put handles in top first and on the bottom sharp bit of trekking poles I put my plastic tarmac endings which are very strong and will not pierce my footprint. Anyway works great I never had any issues. You just need to make sure you trekk poles stand proper straight to prevent them from slidding to sides etc. if you know what I mean.

    • @greyhikes5236
      @greyhikes5236 6 місяців тому

      @@gregoryoutdoors I actually had the road walking caps on as I was aware of the potential issue in high winds but it unfortunately went straight through. I think with the combination of the tent being tied down really tight might have exasperated the puncture. 😕

  • @Rationalskeptic49
    @Rationalskeptic49 6 місяців тому +1

    Another excellent well-informed video, even though I'm not buying a tent anytime soon, I really enjoyed how well you explained your criteria for a good lightweight tent. Not so keen on the pooing in the tent idea, but if it was an emergency then maybe!

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      Thanks ! 🙂 Yes definitely emergency use only! 💩 ⛺️

  • @JonleePeakman
    @JonleePeakman 6 місяців тому +1

    Excellent video, I have the solid version and I am also unsure about the performance in wind. I might be taking it out in 40mph gusts.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      Personally I wouldn’t want to use in anything gusting over about 30mph. But I’ve seen other people saying they’ve had it out in those conditions.

  • @alanrobertson5497
    @alanrobertson5497 6 місяців тому +2

    Great video, love watching ❤❤

  • @GoodBlokeOutdoors
    @GoodBlokeOutdoors 6 місяців тому

    Editing goals 😍

  • @markgoodsmith7229
    @markgoodsmith7229 26 днів тому

    Greetings from Iowa. Great review! I think I am in love with your trails. Question about ventilation. Do the zippers on the fly go top down so you can increase the venting at night?

  • @Leeslost
    @Leeslost 6 місяців тому +1

    Fantastic video
    Stephan ,
    And not a carrot in sight 🥕
    I’ve been looking at the x-mid 2 + pro
    Might put it on my Christmas list 😂

  • @BrokenBackMountains
    @BrokenBackMountains 6 місяців тому +2

    Enjoyed this one.
    I have the x-mid 2 solid. I wouldn't say it is true Scottish 4 seasons but definitely 4 season for the glens.
    The bag is too small and not waterproof so I keep it in a 5 litre dry bag.
    Wind? It does quite well if battened down and using all the guy points. It is less flappy than my helium 1.
    Like you, I love my x-mid. Niggles? Large footprint but it is a palace inside. I never get the pitch right if I try it all in one so always pitch fly first and then hang the inner.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      Hmmm I might reconsider my ideas to replace my 4 season. Although my 4 season Terra Nova Laser Compact AS isn’t a really solid 4 season either. But then I don’t tend to camp in crazy weather.
      I wonder if maybe the larger one is tricker to pitch? I’ve never had any real issues even on uneven ground, maybe some small adjustments.

    • @BrokenBackMountains
      @BrokenBackMountains 6 місяців тому +1

      @@StephenJReid I think the larger is trickier except on a nicely cropped flat pitch. I wouldn't use it on a summit pitch in the winter but low level would be ok.

  • @kenwebster5053
    @kenwebster5053 6 місяців тому +4

    Well, I always thought sheep say Marrr & Goats say Narrr (means No).😉
    Ps, the solution to blisters is wear 2 pairs of socks. The inner pair should be a light weight & slip easily against the tougher outer sock. That way, there is no blister causing stress within the dermis. I do a lot of wet wading while fly fishing & have neoprene socks to fill the space normally occupied by wader booties. Walking overland in neoprene socks will give you blisters in 10 minutes or so. You aren't going to get far like that, but with a sock liner you can go all day & the next and so on. I have never had a blister since adopting this practice some 30+ years ago.

    • @BrokenBackMountains
      @BrokenBackMountains 6 місяців тому +2

      Same here. Isocool liner socks and an outer pair as well. Never get blisters

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +3

      I’d been wearing a pair of double layer socks one of the days the blister was developing and didn’t help. It usually does. I think the problem was that I spent the first two days walking 30/40miles on wet feet

    • @BrokenBackMountains
      @BrokenBackMountains 6 місяців тому +3

      That would do it, yeah.​@@StephenJReid

  • @toolsreviewsandmore5326
    @toolsreviewsandmore5326 4 місяці тому

    I bought mine as from spare parts.I ' ve combined the solid outer and the mesh inner from the normal X-mid, so now i have best of both tents.Maybe in the future i'll buy a solid inner.Also i took it out of its bag and use dry bags instead I keep the inner and outer in separate dry bags.

  • @glassrobot
    @glassrobot 6 місяців тому +3

    Since you have both I'm curious how would you compare the X Mid to the Decathlon tarp tent? Is the X mid worth double the price even if it's a little bit lighter?

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +2

      Yes. The decathlon tent has very little space in it and is more difficult to pitch. It’s good for the money though.

  • @craig3401
    @craig3401 6 місяців тому +4

    I'd been looking at the xmid for a cpl years and finally got 1 at the beginning of the year.the weigh saving was my main reason.i got the solid 1p I like how easy it is to pitch and the weight the headroom is great single pitch is also great.i wish the inner was a little wider tho.i don't use a ground sheet so hope the floor is going to be strong enough I like the 2 doors.i got it primarily for summer so wasn't to bothered about the 4 season side my main thing is that it takes a lot bigger space to pitch for not much living space so the foot print is same as most of my 2p tents but that's not a deal breaker.on the whole I'm happy with it.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      It does have a large footprint, but after a couple of years using much smaller tents I’m much happier with having more space

  • @st1ffee
    @st1ffee 3 місяці тому

    i think for weight size and weather resistance its the best all rounder ive used

  • @coreyhudson3484
    @coreyhudson3484 2 місяці тому +2

    Got a little concerned when you mentioned cooking inside your tent, but then i remembered you folks dont have to worry about bears lol

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  2 місяці тому +2

      sometimes I wish I lived somewhere with proper wilderness and better weather and then I remember, bears.

  • @jameswolf8599
    @jameswolf8599 6 місяців тому +1

    For me the clear winner for the uk weather is the MLD Duo-mid. Yes it takes a little more practice to set up but is far more stable, more room and much more versatile.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      What’s it come in at price and weight?

  • @gavinjackson7248
    @gavinjackson7248 6 місяців тому +1

    love your videos dude, you have me in stiches 🤣🤣 Question for you , what stove you using with the new Fire Maple pot? I bought one but my MSR pocket rocket 2 doesnt fit 😵‍💫

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      I bought the kit that came with a fire maple stove.

  • @FinnsFenian
    @FinnsFenian 3 місяці тому

    Thats a feckin awesome tent.

  • @guelio_g
    @guelio_g 4 місяці тому +1

    How is it with rain ?

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  4 місяці тому +2

      Dry on the inside

    • @guelio_g
      @guelio_g 4 місяці тому +2

      ​@@StephenJReidno water xoming from the floor ? Bcs I've had the problem with some tents (like the msr hubba hubba nx)

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  4 місяці тому +2

      @@guelio_g no I’ve no issues like that. I’ve used it in heavy rain and on damp ground. Haven’t camped in a puddle yet though. So dunno how it would handle a proper flooded pitch

  • @paulryan2081
    @paulryan2081 6 місяців тому +1

    Hi Stephen.
    Another issue with Dyneema is that it's virtually see-through. Therefore, think twice if you want to engage in a bit of adult fun 😂😂
    Tfs, Paul

  • @nafbuwa
    @nafbuwa 6 місяців тому +2

    Good Sheep impressions 😂. Another great video mate.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      Thanks, I’ve been practicing 😂

  • @easternmenace
    @easternmenace 6 місяців тому +1

    Currently its the only tent I own. Just so easy to pitch and as long as you don't summit camp during a storm it will be fine. It has now been on Cape wrath trail with me and the Skye trail. WHW was my first trail so I had a cheaper, heavier and worse tent then. Also on the Cotswold way I took a camo tarp because I had to stealth camp on that trail and this tent isn't very stealthy lol. That is the only issue for me really, I might get the south downs way done this year and will be taking the tarp again just to be stealthy.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      How important is stealth on those trails? I’ve seen people doing them with quite visible tents. Could always bring a camo net and chuck it over the tent, although prob weighs as much.
      I have the tiny Rab ridge raider for stealthy camps but it’s properly tiny

    • @easternmenace
      @easternmenace 6 місяців тому +1

      I suppose if you set up late and leave early it's fine, I just wanted a bit more stealth and also smaller footprint.

  • @mary-ruthflores4107
    @mary-ruthflores4107 3 місяці тому +2

    I have a strong Texas accent, and when I’m asked where in Canada I’m from , i say the far West! And I just get a puzzled look , no laughs yet!

  • @FOXMAN09
    @FOXMAN09 6 місяців тому +2

    You've actually made me realize how useful a tarp can be for an emergency bathroom 😂

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      😂 providing a public service here

  • @KNURKonesur
    @KNURKonesur 6 місяців тому +1

    As a bikepacker I'm still looking for more brands to give options for different poles with their tents. Most tents have poles with 35-45cm sections which aren't very packable onto a bicycle, and very few companies offer "bikepacking pole" versions of their tents like Big Sky does. Currently looking at their lineup and they tick a lot of boxes + have freestanding options. Otherwise I'd buy a Durston, but hiking poles take too much space and buying a set of lightweight tent poles is a bit rough.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      I think it’s a great bikepacking tent, I got the durston z-flick poles to use with. Entire tent and poles fits in a tiny 4L fork bag: ua-cam.com/video/TJ_Sw8l45KM/v-deo.htmlsi=YVvufiAPWRRAK-st
      Previously I use the Terra Nova Laser Compact for bikepacking and its tiny by comparison

  • @jj2536
    @jj2536 6 місяців тому

    re the blisters - have you tried using 2 pairs of socks? Ive never had a blister since starting to do that. also - what is the 4 season tent you prefer to the xmid solid 2?

  • @wendyamsterdam8482
    @wendyamsterdam8482 6 місяців тому

    18:34 I'm not a camping person but this looks so uncomfortable...the wind blows in the tent as well ? Would be nice for hot climate probably

  • @thomaskerr2477
    @thomaskerr2477 6 місяців тому +1

    hi there hope your good ,.......great video .....i have question with all the tents you have used within budget me of 250 witch of them would think will fit on bike as front of the bike not back yea strange question as i try still find one like that i can fite on front handlebars , also as doint walk so tents using trekking poles not something i thinking of but i could get normal pole options that not trekking poles if you think that style as of tent be for first bike tent , anyway thanks for any ideas you may give

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      You can fit the durston X-Mid easily on a bike and you can get carbon poles for it so you don't need trekking poles. Durston make the Z Flick poles but there are others out there.
      The other bikepacking tent I've used that has it's own poles was the Terra Nova laser compact 1. Great tent, about 1kg, packs small and often can be found in a sale for close to £300. Or keep a look out for second hand, I sold my mine for £250 this year as the X-Mid has replaced it for me.

    • @thomaskerr2477
      @thomaskerr2477 6 місяців тому

      @@StephenJReid hi thanks for quick reply ,hope ur well ....i do have video idea for you me do video using as many tents you can get and doing form of different bike packing fits from front of bike or split up into likes of front forks or options from back of seat option or other parts of bike . and pack up with idea of going on bike or ebike kit so like video ur done using ebike and me could send pictures of each set up likes of go outdoors sits as u can get tends for use of doing that and links to videos of each tents , as looking the tents from station13 looks nice to , needs like low budget , middle budget and high budget ,as looking around finding tent low or middle budget that may fit ways on a bike .........any way just an idea

  • @escapeoutdoors.
    @escapeoutdoors. 6 місяців тому +1

    Ok love your vids. Did you notice when the wind does hit the outer fly touches the inner mesh Bearing in mind I have the Xmid solid 1&2 and the only way to combat this problem is to drop the inner fly or add more guy lines ( more than what actually came with the tent ) and dropping the inner fly not so much too have a 💩but just via the strap to give you a couple more inches of breathing space between the inner & outer. Hence not the best in high winds thanks to Durston not supplying more guy lines ( lazy gits )

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      I hadn’t noticed this myself. I’ve heard it’s more an issue with the 2 rather than the 1. Even when I was in the wind the outer wasn’t touching the inner.

  • @jsimes1
    @jsimes1 6 місяців тому +1

    First time I visited Scotland I pretended I was Canadian ... it was during the Bush years ... but I also wore a Boston Red Sox cap so I wasn't fooling anyone least of all Eilidh the proprietor of the inn I stayed at. Of course I called her Eye-lid because I thought she would think I was cute, and of course she didn't ... I asked my pal from Maghera who met me in Edinburgh for the weekend why his black pudding looked cooked to perfection and mine was oozing blood into my eggs and he said "Because I'm not making fun of her name you t^@#!" 😆

  • @LiLBitsDK
    @LiLBitsDK 6 місяців тому +2

    clicked like the instant of the "which part of canada" joke :D I liked it :-P

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      Are you Canadian? 😂

    • @LiLBitsDK
      @LiLBitsDK 6 місяців тому +1

      @@StephenJReid nah danish but I got humor :D

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      Actually met a Danish hiker on the trail, worked for a ferry company. Seemed to laugh at my jokes 😂

    • @LiLBitsDK
      @LiLBitsDK 6 місяців тому

      @@StephenJReid we like jokes... and we are not afraid about making jokes about ourselves either

  • @camping_guru_uk
    @camping_guru_uk 6 місяців тому +1

    I really wanted an X-Mid but now i think i have the best budget big 4 products you can buy. The Asta Gear yun chuan 2p £125-£150. The Asta Gear down quilt £60. The Naturehike R 5.8 sleep pad £80 and the Naturehike Dyneem Rock 60 + 5 backpack £65. Obviously this is because im in the UK and importing some of these US brands makes it not viable for me. I would love to see you use this set up and truly say if the bigger brand kit is truly so much better.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      I've mixed feelings about this as it looks like that tent has ripped off the X-Mid and if we all bought cheap Chinese brands that could eventually kill off original innovation. But on the other hand people have different budgets.

    • @camping_guru_uk
      @camping_guru_uk 6 місяців тому +1

      @@StephenJReid To be fair the Asta Gear is far from cheap quality and the X-Mid is an evolution of other tents for sure. I get what you are saying though but I think maybe the x-mid customer will always buy the x-mid and wouldn't buy the Asta Gear anyway. Cheers for your thoughts.

  • @MrRmacattack1
    @MrRmacattack1 6 місяців тому +3

    Have my eye on one, but difficult to get in UK at a reasonable cost. Looking at £320 + to get here.

    • @BTurner.
      @BTurner. 6 місяців тому +2

      Valley & Peak are U.K. stockists for Durston but at the moment this particular model is out of stock. Currently saying they sell them for £316.99.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +3

      I got mine through kavisco, was able to pay shipping and taxes in one go. But they are out of stock now.

    • @BTurner.
      @BTurner. 6 місяців тому

      @@StephenJReid I have a Hilleberg Niak which I love, is it worth buying the Durston specifically for the WHW to save a bit of weight?

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +2

      For me it was as I was aiming for a max pack weight of 10kg all in including my 5 cameras.

    • @BTurner.
      @BTurner. 6 місяців тому

      @@StephenJReid I’m stuck at about 15kg with everything including three dried meals and a litre of water. I could get lighter with a new sleeping bag and tent but don’t really want to spend a few hundred pounds.
      You could always tag along with me as my Sherpa. 😊

  • @kpj5
    @kpj5 4 місяці тому +2

    Wonder if u can cycle that instead.. walking looks tiring 😂

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  4 місяці тому

      You can cycle most of it. I’m actually thinking of doing that in spring!

  • @TheRamblingHiker
    @TheRamblingHiker 5 місяців тому

    I've got the Yunchuan 2 which is *allegedly* "inspired" by the X-Mid. It has stood up fine to 35 mph gusts continually for 4-5 days. I'd imagine the X-Mid is even better (albeit yours is the 1 man version).

  • @kmichaelp4508
    @kmichaelp4508 6 місяців тому +1

    I’m from far south Canada… Flarda 😂

  • @pixelpeter3883
    @pixelpeter3883 6 місяців тому +1

    Do you always try to pitch a tent length-wise into the prevailing wind? Guess that's the smartest thing to do, but your pitch-site might not always allow for this, and those darn winds have the nasty habit of changing all the time of course :-)

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      I try but the wind moves around a lot. Typical overnight it’ll change direction a lot

  • @escapeoutdoors.
    @escapeoutdoors. 6 місяців тому +1

    Totally agree with the first 20 seconds of your vid this is not the best tent as a lot of UA-camrs have been ranking it as great yourself & I have an agreement it just isn’t. Now I’ll carry on watching 😂

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      I ignore any video that claims to have found the perfect tent. It’s just an impossibility. But the X-Mid is definitely one of the best options for backpacking in decent conditions

    • @escapeoutdoors.
      @escapeoutdoors. 6 місяців тому +1

      @@StephenJReid I agree on that just because it’s a 2 skin tent hence the condensation you get from a single skin

  • @TomChaton
    @TomChaton 6 місяців тому +1

    I have the same running poles, the 125cm length. Would these work with the X Mid 1?

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      Might be a bit long. Mine are 120cm and sometimes I have to angle them slightly. I suppose you could angle them a bit more although possibly that might effect the stability

  • @PHYSIZIST
    @PHYSIZIST 6 місяців тому +1

    yes, it will bend in wind because its a tipi tent. for it to be best in wind, line the ridgeline parallel with the wind.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      Unfortunately the wind almost always changes direction here. It was in line with the wind when I pitched it and 30mins later it shifted. So it’s not something to rely on

    • @PHYSIZIST
      @PHYSIZIST 6 місяців тому +2

      @@StephenJReid i seem to have no issue and higher winds (I'm Scottish btw)

  • @bilaltahir9978
    @bilaltahir9978 Місяць тому

    What do you think of the x mid solid?

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  Місяць тому +1

      I’ve got one, bought the solid 2 to use for winter camps in calm conditions. Haven’t camped in it yet though, maybe this week

  • @malbig2344
    @malbig2344 22 дні тому

    Great tip about having a shite in the Durston, I will definitely be doing that in overpriced campsites from now on.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  22 дні тому

      🤣 The ground is softer in actual campsites too. Although they often do have toilets...

  • @davidpoots8362
    @davidpoots8362 6 місяців тому +2

    Never mind your feet, my sides are sore from laughing, my lawyer will be in touch

  • @sueKay
    @sueKay 5 місяців тому +1

    I nearly caused a physical fight once by asking Americans whereabouts in Canada they were from. I was working in a shop in a tourist area and we'd had tons of Canadians in as part of a big organised tour group, and they were from all over Canada. In the middle of all this, some Americans came in and I asked them where in Canada they were from...and they took great exception and started loudly slagging Canada off (and not in a joking fashion!!) needless to say they were overheard by quite a few Canadians...who didn't take this slagging lightly. It turned into a bit of a squabble 😬

  • @bartonianoutdoors
    @bartonianoutdoors 6 місяців тому

    speaking of a toilet tent... I've been there & done basically that.... was out on Dartmoor and I always split pack the inner & fly of my Lanshan, I was almost all packed up except for the fly so when I desperately needed a poo I just dug a hole, did my business and then took the fly down.

  • @novemeberalphabravo
    @novemeberalphabravo 5 місяців тому +4

    You know you're in the UK when you're not concerned about bears. It's honestly weird to watch an outdoor UA-camr not talk about bear bags or containers.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  5 місяців тому +3

      Australia and Antarctica are feeling left out.

  • @lifelikeatob
    @lifelikeatob 6 місяців тому +1

    Well done on spreading the cheese with a sausage 😂😂

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      Thanks! Im full of great ideas 🤣

  • @judithrussell9162
    @judithrussell9162 6 місяців тому +3

    Did the Americans ask what part of Scotland you were from?

  • @chriswarren4546
    @chriswarren4546 6 місяців тому

    why does no one in the uk mention the nemo hornet is it because we only talk about things people send you ?

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      No idea, but I bought this with my money.

    • @chriswarren4546
      @chriswarren4546 6 місяців тому

      @@StephenJReid fair enough but we all goof over trekking pole tents the nemo is just over 1kg all in no trekking poles needed

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +1

      Nemo looks like its inner pitch first which is just deal breaker for me, rains too much here.
      I’m guessing Nemo hasn’t spent a lot of money on marketing in UK which is why it’s somewhat unknown here. That or it hasn’t won over any big outdoor channels who feature it.

    • @chriswarren4546
      @chriswarren4546 6 місяців тому

      @@StephenJReid i know its inner pitch but it goes up quick and as its double walled it will dry and doesn't suffer as much with condensation how is the durston with condensation ?

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      Durston double walled and can be pitched off the ground for extra ventilation so good airflow.
      It only takes a few seconds for an inner to get completely soaked in rain, happened to me once with an inner pitch tent and I haven’t used one since. Caught in a proper rain storm that lasted for ages.
      The inner had puddles in it after just a few seconds of rain, wouldn’t have happened with an outer pitch first. So I just don’t think it suits the climate here

  • @sachamerilion118
    @sachamerilion118 2 місяці тому

    Can anyone tell me if derstin tents have intentional PFAS chemicals in them? (Forever chemicals) thanks

  • @meepmeep1313
    @meepmeep1313 14 днів тому

    While it's a great tent, I feel the Durston X-Mid owes far more to the almost identical earlier design of the Sierra Designs High Route than they like to admit. The High Route ticks all the same boxes, and the only thing different is the very marginally different X-Mid geometry is slightly better for storage.

  • @verykeen2please
    @verykeen2please 6 місяців тому +1

    Got the Pro on oder - wise i am

  • @andreasweber7828
    @andreasweber7828 6 місяців тому +5

    If you really have to dig a cat hole at least have the curtesy to drop an acorn or walnut in it 😅
    Just for fun

  • @CecilliaDB
    @CecilliaDB 6 місяців тому +2

    I get the humor. I’d of probably tried to pull off my best(which is bad) Canadian accent and made up a place…

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +2

      “We went camping in the Rockies last weekend, eh, and cooked up some poutine by the campfire, eh, sorry”

    • @CecilliaDB
      @CecilliaDB 6 місяців тому +1

      @@StephenJReid you did a great impression of me doing an impression of a Canuck 🤣

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому

      @@CecilliaDB 😃

  • @arthurrafferty4102
    @arthurrafferty4102 4 місяці тому

    I could have a fortnight in Spain for that type of money, this is just ott for a few days camping.

  • @littlegrandadoutdoors
    @littlegrandadoutdoors 6 місяців тому +1

    My toilet bag contains the trowel, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, bio-degradable wipes and a large poncho..... you just never know when you gotta go....Take care out there.

  • @thomasbjohnston
    @thomasbjohnston 6 місяців тому +1

    Wait, have you just invented Reid's Poop Tent™??

  • @Ugloke
    @Ugloke Місяць тому

    where is your talcum ?

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  Місяць тому

      I’m allergic to it

    • @Ugloke
      @Ugloke Місяць тому

      @@StephenJReid Bummer

  • @mickhorsley3169
    @mickhorsley3169 6 місяців тому +2

    Good idea to mix the WHW content with other stuff. Plenty of people doing " I walked here, then I walked there." type videos.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +2

      Thanks! That was my aim as it’s been done to dead with vlogs.

  • @mawilliams777
    @mawilliams777 6 місяців тому +2

    Making the sound of sheep is fine Stephen, but Bah is how it’s spelt, how you pronounce it is up to you, so let’s see your spelling for all of ‘you’re’ new sheep sounds😳🤷🏻‍♂️

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +3

      😂 meeeehhhhhhhhhhh burrrrrrrrerre

    • @mawilliams777
      @mawilliams777 6 місяців тому +2

      @@StephenJReid sorry mr SJ Reid, just doesn’t have the provenance of Bah😂

  • @Bluemerlehikes
    @Bluemerlehikes 6 місяців тому +2

    That joke was like me saying what park of Scotland are you from just not funny probably why they didnt laugh😑

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +3

      Honestly I would think that was funny and would have been a great icebreaker leading to conversation about the shared history and culture between Ireland and Scotland. Most likely my ancestors were Scottish.
      Ask me where in England I was from on the other hand.. 😂

  • @alanhanley2981
    @alanhanley2981 2 місяці тому

    No the new X Dome is....

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  2 місяці тому

      I’m not convinced yet. It’s heavier, slower to pitch and has one less door. But I definitely want to test one!

  • @yeahbutytho126
    @yeahbutytho126 5 днів тому

    Those sheep had a Scottish accent.

  • @PitchnYaw
    @PitchnYaw 2 місяці тому

    We all know you did that poo...

  • @daveflanagan4213
    @daveflanagan4213 6 місяців тому

    Nighttime bro? Exposed area? Leave the tent and drop the shorts. End of. Keep it simple. Sheep do it and don’t feel the need to dig holes. Just a thought. But then I am a dirty mother trucker. Take the lead from our Woolley friends.

    • @StephenJReid
      @StephenJReid  6 місяців тому +6

      Pick up a sheep 💩 in one hand and a human 💩 in the other, have a smell and tell me if you still think they are the same 😂
      Human poop carries a lot more nasties than most animals. Cases of norovirus along hiking trails often linked to people not disposing of their poop properly.

    • @daveflanagan4213
      @daveflanagan4213 6 місяців тому +2

      @@StephenJReid task in hand. Shall let you know my findings.