Hey, buddy! Long time no chat here on the Tube. Hope you're doing well! On the middle upper guy line, to use one stake between it and the middle bottom guy line, make a connector between the two and use one stake on each middle guy line. By doing this, you'll only need 10 stakes instead of 12. X-mid is one of my favorite tents behind Tarptent. Great product by Dan. Another good vid, brother!
Brilliant review and agree with pretty much everything. I was pleasantly surprised how it’s handled so far. Handled really well on top of Hart Crag a few weeks ago. Subbed 😊
I have the 2p solid. Got it last year. Excellent tent. It is like a palace for one😅 Ive put longer corner guy outs and extra guys at the side. Ive added shock core to the bottom as well. Everything is really well thought out and I like that it has less mesh than other N. American designs. So much better for UK and Ireland. Oh and the pockets take 2 beer cans 😅
@@NoviceWildCamper One mod was to change the ties to the inner door to the old style xmid tie - using a loop and a line lock. I'm going to change it again to using the little magnets that are like washers.They will thread on the cord and click together.. I also had to change the cord for my poles as the handles were a bit too big at the end. All of it added a bit of weight but I don't need all the extra guys all the time so don't need to carry them. I also tossed the stuff sack as it was too small after using the tent. My only niggle has been all in one pitching. I get a perfect pitch doing flysheet first and then putting in the inner. Doing all in one I often get the inner touching the fly. I don't know why and I do know others that have the same problem. I think it is because of the drag on the fly when getting that perfect rectangle. I could be wrong though. Is it my perfect tent? Well, it is my most perfect so far.
I'm really glad you found a tent that works for you. We all need to do that at some point. I like your tent. I may look at one if I ever need another tent. Thanks, for another great video
I’ve the normal (non solid) version and it is excellent. Not just well designed but also well made too Good review mate agree with all of it. I also take the luxe xxl tyvek sheet and use that as a further footprint …. Nearly perfectly sized for it
Thanks Mark. I am in the process of making a tyvek ground sheet for it. Hopefully will have it done by the next camp. Not tonight's video as that is the full camp version when I did this review. Cheers for watching 👍
That's why its taking the world by storm. Makes a nice change to get a tent that's designed by one man with a passion whi can think outside of the box 👍
Haha I thought you'd got 1 I watched your short vid the other day and thought that's a xmid hmm lol 😂.but I must say I've looked at these for awhile and I think it's the only trekking pole tent I'd get as with all tents there's always a cpl little things we'd change like the 2 way zip and things like that I'd prefer it in a darker green but everyone really says how good they are so congrats on joining the durstan cult lol
Just used mine on the West Highland Way and it was brilliant. I made a tyvek footprint to cover all the inside, only weighs 160g and that cut down condensation from the ground. Do miss having a washing line on the inner for socks though.
@@NoviceWildCamper hi, very informative review thank you, very helpful when researching these newer lightweight tents. Do you know if they now have the lamp loops inside then?
X-Mid 1 Solid - $330 CAD. X-Mid 2 Solid - $453 CAD. If you’re going to be pitching in snowy or high-wind conditions, the solid version will help stop both the snow and the wind from entering the tent and blasting your face. The solid basically turns the tent into a 4-season tent.
@@NoviceWildCamperI just ordered the Solid fly but i want to pair it with the mesh inner from the regular xmid.I'll be using it in the Carpathians ( Romania) and in the summer it gets hot even above treeline.
@baldywildcamper no, m been fine. I tend to put the poles in while the fly is fairly loose then tighten the line locks after though buy they've not slipped once set up.
@greekf thanks. 100%, I wish I'd gone with the 2p to be honest just for that little extra room that I prefer but, too late now. Upside is the 1p fits in tighter spaces when trying to find somewhere to camp but there's not much in it.
You sell it well, but i reckon the shape would send me mad. It reminds me of one of those impossible puzzles, if you know what i mean. Looks like it would benefit from another pegging point at the bottom along the sides to make it even sturdier too. Glad you found your baby though. 💗
It has got a pegging point there too. Two on each main long side and one on each end. You could literally have about 18 peg down points if you wanted. I'm loving it. And it's really simple to put up 👌👍
@@NoviceWildCamper Now I have this bug in my head that I need JUST one more. THAT voice in my head. I can’t shift it . The inner kit monster is winning.
Been salivating over this tent for a while since my last camp and deciding I need a much lighter setup. This was the perfect review to tell me I have my sights set in the right place. Also noticed the Kakwa 40 pack they do and it also has really good reviews so to lower the tax, delivery and duty hit I think I will be gettina few things in one go from Mr Durston.
Cheers buddy. Apparently they've got a system where you order the inner and outer separately to avoid tax. If it's over £135 (I think) you have to pay vat and tax but under you don't. Contact Dan direct and he'll tell you the best way. And yes, I love the look of the kakwa pack 👌
I’m saving up money for a Durston. I’m debating mesh or solid inner. I currently have a tent with a mesh inner and I’ve had it out in winter and cold weather, I’m honestly not convinced that it makes any huge difference to temperature inside so I’m currently thinking mesh, I like the idea of being able to open up the vestibules and be able to be a bit more connected to the outside. But I’m not fully decided. I do wonder how each one performs condensation wise when you have to batten down the hatches. What’s your experience with it re condensation
Condensation been fine. Personally I'd always go splodge inner, or get one of each, because of the uk weather. I find it makes a temp difference when there's wind blowing through 👍
an interesting little thing (if you are in to that sort of info) Hilleberg did the thing with the doors on the Allak on purpose the reason is that its their allrounder dome tent if you want a Hilleberg dome tent for demanding weather conditions they make the Staika that that has the doors on opposite sides that's one of the reasons i own them both is use the Allak in warmer weather because you can use those doors to make a draft trough the tent if it get to warm and with the other one well you sort of made that point 🙂 i do live in scandinavia at the moment and i use my tents for mountain stuff on mountains that are more than twice the height of anything in the UK so i do need tents for a bit more extreme conditions than you do
Yeah I'm not sure the x mid can cope with full height mountains as well as a hillyberg and I'd do the same if. I were you. Correct on the hilly doors, I was just using the Allak as an example as it's well known to show what I meant. Not everyone thinks about that asymmetric design and the benefits, even durston commented about it to me. Cheers for watching though 👍
by the way i almost forgot what sort of diving did you do .... i did commercial and technical diving for years and a lot of mapping caves in florida for drinking water and stuff like that. i probably did more extreme dives than most divers
Certainly more extreme than mine. I ised to teach PADI with a mate many years ago. Did it for several years. Mainly going to Egypt live aboard taking people out to do their advanced and specialities. Loved it but haven't been for a very long time. Wreck diving was my favourite. Love exploring the old world war 2 wrecks in the red sea. Tried cave diving but never again. Too claustrophobic for me 😂
To be honest I haven't tried the asta in the wind and haven't seen anyone else. I've had this in real bad wind and it's been good so can only vouch for the x mid. Sorry.
I've really wanted one of these for the last 12 months, but now it seems everyone has one! I'll have to find something more random - which is a shame as it looks a genuinely great tent.
This is the latest model which is updated and to be honest I would let the popularity of it put you off. There's a reason it's so popular. You don't want to miss out on a great tent just because others have it 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper maybe I'll grab one at some point if I can find one without the import VAT / Duty. But at the moment I'm very much selling tents instead of buying them.
Fantastic Mike, I knew it was gonna be this tent when you mentioned to me to wait on your next vid, I had already been looking at it and tbh if it wasn't for the import being almost half the price of the tent I would've bought it 2 weeks ago, be great to have a UK supplier, I did see one on market place for £450 and was almost tempted but I'd already been a purchased the helm 2 🙈🙈 I think it will be your perfect tent mate, also its not gonna sag as its not silnylon its much better material imho, thanks again for your advice and taking the time to try and help me with my lanshan issues but it's now up for sale, I also did give you a thanks on my quick look at the helm2 vid I put up 😊👍👍
@NoviceWildCamper my bad sorry Mike I was looking at the 2p solid, I've had enough of 1p tents though that does look much better than most others, I know you'll love it though, I think on the 2p you don't have that magnetic door clip but simply 2 short bungee cords that you tie together, but may be wrong as I've looked at so many bloody tents lately 🤣🤣
😂 yeah and they seem to have changed several design elements too like the vents but uts good to improve with feedback. Shows they listen to customers and can always improve. 👍
Great review and I’m really tempted by this tent. Thank you for providing all the measurements but just wanted to ask if I’m 6’3” with a long XTherm mat would I fit and not touch the sides as they rise at the ends, my MSR is great as it’s not only long but vertical sides. Cheers 👍
I'm about the same height, bit more and have an neo air x therm max large and fit fine. If I bought it again though I'd probably go for the 2 person as I'd prefer a bit more space 👍
True but there pros and cons for those. I'm not keen on cooking on top of a ground sheet but it's nice to keep you gear dry. I was debating whether to make one from tyvek to suit 👍
I've been looking for a really good inner design myself, does the netting hold up against midges do you know? I'd like to try the design but prefer being able to look out.
It has bug mesh for midges and has been used for a few years by others and I've not heard any issues with midges getting through. I don't think any Hugh end manufacturer would use the cheap open mesh that the very low budget tents guys do to be honest.
Im just around 5,6" (170cm), so my best guess is that ill fit very well inside a Lanshan 1 (newer 230cm version), havent tried yet. So my greatest concern between these 2 tents is wind resistance/stability, rain.... How would you compare these 2 tents in this regard ? Also, what about condensation issues between these 2 ? thank you ;)
At 6'4 I just fit in the larger Lanshan however there is much more usable space in the Durston. Its also considerably more stable in wind and better for shedding rain, snow etc. The lanshan is great but the x mid would outdo it. I have only used the x mid a few times and so far had zero condensation even in dead still weather. The Lanshan I've only had it on the inside of the fly but not the inner and that's the 4 season version. Out of the 2 I'd have the x mid any day but at double the price it's down to budget. 👍
Great review, good detail, I am 6’3” and have tried one of these, but holding off the purchase as I am not sure it would handle the wind on the top of the Cheviots ! It’s very harsh up here, but these are looking good tents, Cheers
Cheers buddy. Yeah I'm 6'4 and just fit nicely. I'll be testing this tent a lot more going forward so be interesting to see how it handles. It was pretty solid in the winds that night but there's options for more guy outs so ill be taking spare cord and pegs 👍
It will stand up to a surprising amount of wind. The secret is trusting the construction strength. Peg it really tight putting tension into the fabric. Use all the guys. It will hold. That’s from experience on Kinder in 40mph winds.
Great review, thank you. Just subbed. I've also got the X-Mid 1p solid - haven't had a chance to use it yet but I've a trip planned for Scotland in June. Already made a couple of small mods. I was a bit worried about the pole tip in the grommet in case it comes out unexpectedly and damages the fly so I got a couple of velcro 'baskets' that you can tie into the grommet and then use the poles tip down, the velcro fastens around the end of the pole handle (h/t Paul Messner). Also (h/t Sniper Hikes) I got a Tyvek groundsheet from Backpackinglight that fits almost perfectly without any mods, giving protection to the inner floor and a groundsheet for the vestibules. There's a small gap between the edges of the groundsheet and the tent, so driving rain shouldn't get onto the groundsheet. If using poles tip down, you'd need to make a couple of small holes in the groundsheet for the tips, maybe reinforcing the holes with some tape. I haven't done this yet as I want to experiment with angling the poles outwards a bit first so I don't clonk into them during the night!
I've ordered some tyvek to make my own groundsheet with grommets and bungee cord to reach the outer pegs on each corner. I'll keep the poles up though as I don't think there'll be an issue with the tips amd hopefully I won't be proved wrong 🤣😬
@@NoviceWildCamper Yes, I've got the bungee cord too. I agree that it is unlikely the poles would come out of the grommet, although I have heard of it happening and causing the fly to tear. (A low probability but possibly high impact event!) I just like the idea of the tip being in the ground so the poles are fixed at both top and bottom. Your point about the entrances and wind direction is a really good one, and not one I'd thought of or seen in any other review. Looking forward to your next thoughts about the tent in due course. Thanks again.
Cheers nick. I noticed it when I used the taiji 2. The weather was all over the place and allowed me to change position to suit the wind. Something you can't do in one vestibule or same end double vestibule tents. Even Durston emailed and said they hadn't thought of that before. 😂 Full video of the camp is out tonight and hopefully I'll have some mods done by the next one. 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper Great stuff - I'll look out for the video tomorrow, and your mods later on. Good that Durston contacted you - they seem very proactive in monitoring people's comments.
Thats what I love about these cottage industry types of companies. They lieten to their customers and their feedback and change accordingly. Doesn't happen with large mainstream manufacturers. 👍
Hi, you mentioned you added a guy out point which help open-up the space and make it more stable. How do you add these? Is it something you did yourself or had them or some other professional do? I think I may go for this tent. Thanks, great review!
There's already a guy out point half way down the door stitch so you just need to add the guyline. Sorry I should have made that more detailed. I'm also doing a couple of mods which will hopefully be in the next video (not this Fridays one as I filmed a full camp video the same night) 👍
Great review! The Durston tents are great. Can I ask why you say you wanted the solid over the mesh inner (at least in the UK) please? Is it just protection from the cold or a combination of things?
Thanks Eve. I'm not a fan of full mesh. Apart from the three days of really hot summer, the nights are still chilly and so long as there is a breeze (which there nearly always is) it keeps you ventilated. The mesh is quite large so it's not like some tents that have hardly any or none so you'll still get ventilation. It weighs a few grams more than the mesh but I'm not fussed about that. 👍
Good review novice. Though im not sure about the allak and wind bit as obviously youd just unpeg that type tent and turn it around to suit. The only lightweight tent i can think of that is perhaps better and a closer comparison is perhaps the Anarus. The Anarus being better as more versatile. Having said that if you bought the Durstan i wouldnt be disapointed.. Worth buying thats for sure.
They are great tents, have a look at the Tarptent Stratosphire 1 very similar in design. I think though not 100% sure it might be a bit bigger. I have one and it's brilliant. The concept of these kind of tents is awesome, love them 👌
@@NoviceWildCamper that`s still another 50 quid or so , i know it`s a great tent but that`s just shy of 300 nicker and i`m not sure it`s THAT good? , great video though mate thanks
Cheers. Roughly double th price of a Lanshan but it's definitely double the quality and design and a lot better than many other £300 tents out there. 👍
I was looking at this a while ago. Out of my price range but definitely on my radar for when i get kicked out for having too many tents. Could you roll the door inward so the wind doesn't catch it?
Yes you can and I should have tried that however most people recommend rolling it that way as if it rains it acts like a gutter and takes the rain away rather than run down inside the tent. I'll give it a go next time as I will be using this tent mostly from now on. It is awesome if you can get it one day 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper just checked the price again and it's not unreasonable. I'd have to sell a few tents to get one and I've only just spent £130 on another tent. I don't need three bikes though 🤔
Looks good and the price would be right without import taxes etc, when a lanshan be be got for less, it's a shame there isn't a cottage industry in the UK but I guess there isn't because of tax! who could buy the materials and make these up.
Yeah if I could design and build my own tent this would pretty much be it. Shame they can't bring it over and make here but no doubt it will just be 50% more expensive anyway. To be fair though, the import tax is only 20% so you still get a really good tent for less than £300 👍
How long have you had it? Had mine about three months. A couple of differences- the vents are on the long side next to the door and there are no loops for lamps in the inner
Seems every time I buy something they upgrade just after! Literally had the tent out today to see if I could add the loops inside for a hanging line. I can see the vents could be better on the ends as ideally you'd pitch it end on into the wind, but I've had no issues with condensation
Yeah I didn't realised they'd moved the vents until I put it up. Makes more sense although you can't fit the poles in through them like the previous models.
The latest upgrades just started shipping in mid April. Nothing too crazy, mainly just moved the vents to match the 2P to standardize the vent placement though-out the lineup and added the interior hand loops where were always on the 2P Solid but not the 1P.
@@NoviceWildCamper Mostly the drab colour. Living here up in the Arctic we have snow on the ground 6 months of the year so having colour is psychologically uplifting. I use tents with orange interiors and in the months of midnight sun a dark outer fly sheet. If Durston did a black or dark green flysheet I would give it a try. Obviously we get severe weather here so not sure how it would stand up in snow or colder nights but could be good for summer.
It's designed to shed snow and deflect wind hence the angular steep sides. It does come out more blue than green in my video bit apparently they're doing a darker green version. I'm not a lover of bright tents as in the uk most places camping is not allowed so you have to be a bit stealthy.
@@NoviceWildCamper I realise the steep sides are good for snow but things are rather extreme up here. Good to hear a darker green is planned that will please a lot of people. Even though we can camp anywhere (pretty much) here I still use dark green to minimise my presence.
Nice. I've been thinking of buying one of these for a while and your review might just push me over the edge! Is the 825g claimed weight the whole tent or a "trail weight"? My Lanshan 1 solid is 900g all in, so I may not be saving weight by upgrading to this bad boy. Your thoughts? Thanks for an excellent channel.
It's just the tent, trail weight. I only use that as I never use the pegs supplied. So yes it might the same or more than a Lanshan 1 but speaking from a huge amount of experience with the Lanshan 1 plus, this has a ton more room. Plus two vestibule and I'd be much happier in heavy rain, snow or high winds in this than my lanshan for sure. For me this purchase wasn't about being the lightest, just being right for me. If you want to go for what might be perfect for you, subject to budget, you could get the x mid pro and knock 360g off but you'd have a mesh inner and pay double for it. I suppose you might be able to order a solid inner as well or ask them direct if they'll swap it for solid if you prefer. Good thing about this type of cottage company, theyre more likely to try and help you out than the big boys. Cheers for watching 👍
😂 it's just want, want, want isn't it 🤣 I actually don't mind the colour. Although it would be nice to have a choice. Better than the colour of DCF either way 👌👍
Definitely 4 season. It's designed specifically to shed wind, rain and snow. I'll be using this all year round along with my Fjallraven Abisko Shape 2 on occasions 👍
Hi. Had a reply back, they said 'these are made with 0.5oz Noseeum netting which uses an irregular micro-knit pattern which should shield you from the smallest of insects such as midges and sand flies'
Ah but I've engineered something else. Basically the same magnet stiched strap like on the tent but not attached so I can use it for other tents or bug mesh on hammocks that flap in your face etc 👌👍
It's a great design badly executed. I told Mr Durston this himself. It needs 2 extra guys fitting and 14 pegs. They only supply 6 which is rediculous for UK weather. Ok for a children's garden camp out. It's also very expensive for what it is . But after 2 months I still like it. Just don't go on summits over 30 mph winds.
Tent manufacturers never supply enough pegs for all the guy outs though. And I mist admit I haven't counted how many there is as I use my Eastons. I've seen a guy use it in 45mph wind and that night it was certainly way over 30mph and it didn't move. 👍
I'm hesitant to include too many stakes because many people have their own preference, so instead of increasing the cost of the tent adding a lot of stakes, we can keep it lower and then people can put that money towards whatever stakes they like. So we do include just enough stakes to get it working alright. You can put two peak guylines on it if you want. There are a few options for where to tie the second one. Glad you're liking the tent.
Agree Dan. I used to wonder why tent companies didn't supply enough stakes when I first started but now I don't think they should bother as then you know exactly what the tent weighs and use your favourite stakes. Good idea about an additional guy line at the tops. Might just bring a spare for thr sake of a few grams. Loving the tent Dan 👌👍
Quality tent Michael, if u was at the top it would of been a really good test because it was blowing where u was , I took my mld duomid at the top and had winds up to 50mph , next time your in Wales let me no 👍👍
Cheers mate. I was going to but wasn't sure where i was going to camp initially and didn't have time to get to the too cos of work. Would certainly have been a good test although zero visibility as it was covered in fog. 😂👍
Two problems I see with your new tent, number one, you cannot stand up in your tent, number two, you’re sleeping on the GROUND, just my opinion, but only savages sleep on the ground.
Brilliant and meaningful review. Thank you.
Cheers Chris 👍
Interesting design..... thanks for the video
Cheers Stephen. 👍
I'm very happy to be a Dan Durston customer.
It's a great product plus I love being able to deal with an individual rather than a faceless corporate email 👍
Absolutely agree. This is a fantastic video BTW. Here to watch it again. Thanks.
Cheers buddy. Glad you like it 👍
Subbed based on the opening lines! RIGHT ON!
Cheers buddy. So many people say 'this is perfect or that is the best.' But it's only best for them, not everyone. 👍
Great looking tent. I think you have convinced me to get it.. as per another good review
Cheers Ash. It is pretty perfect 👌👍
Nice!! Congratulations!!
Cheers buddy. Loving it 👍
Cheers!
Hey, buddy! Long time no chat here on the Tube. Hope you're doing well! On the middle upper guy line, to use one stake between it and the middle bottom guy line, make a connector between the two and use one stake on each middle guy line. By doing this, you'll only need 10 stakes instead of 12. X-mid is one of my favorite tents behind Tarptent. Great product by Dan. Another good vid, brother!
Hey buddy. Cheers for that. I'll take a look. I'm always looking to mod and improve gear 👍
That was an excellent review and test. ⛺️
Thanks buddy. Glad you enjoyed it. 👍
Got mine in 2019 when they first came out, although I got the 2 man version, cracking tent.
Yeah I've been looking since they first came out and always wanted one. Love it 👍
Brilliant review and agree with pretty much everything. I was pleasantly surprised how it’s handled so far. Handled really well on top of Hart Crag a few weeks ago. Subbed 😊
Cheers William. I'm looking forward to getting out more in it 👌👍
I have the 2p solid. Got it last year. Excellent tent. It is like a palace for one😅
Ive put longer corner guy outs and extra guys at the side. Ive added shock core to the bottom as well.
Everything is really well thought out and I like that it has less mesh than other N. American designs. So much better for UK and Ireland. Oh and the pockets take 2 beer cans 😅
Sounds good. I'll definitely be doing some mods to it. Will no doubt bring a video out once done. I know that one of the mods no one has done. 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper One mod was to change the ties to the inner door to the old style xmid tie - using a loop and a line lock. I'm going to change it again to using the little magnets that are like washers.They will thread on the cord and click together.. I also had to change the cord for my poles as the handles were a bit too big at the end. All of it added a bit of weight but I don't need all the extra guys all the time so don't need to carry them. I also tossed the stuff sack as it was too small after using the tent.
My only niggle has been all in one pitching. I get a perfect pitch doing flysheet first and then putting in the inner. Doing all in one I often get the inner touching the fly. I don't know why and I do know others that have the same problem. I think it is because of the drag on the fly when getting that perfect rectangle. I could be wrong though.
Is it my perfect tent? Well, it is my most perfect so far.
I'm really glad you found a tent that works for you. We all need to do that at some point. I like your tent. I may look at one if I ever need another tent. Thanks, for another great video
Thanks Steve. I don't think I'll find anything else as near perfect as this tent 👍
I’ve the normal (non solid) version and it is excellent. Not just well designed but also well made too
Good review mate agree with all of it.
I also take the luxe xxl tyvek sheet and use that as a further footprint …. Nearly perfectly sized for it
Thanks Mark. I am in the process of making a tyvek ground sheet for it. Hopefully will have it done by the next camp. Not tonight's video as that is the full camp version when I did this review. Cheers for watching 👍
great design.
It's a really good design 👌👍
@@NoviceWildCamper yes, a fine example of engineering a great product. strong, light and very usable. a rare combination.
That's why its taking the world by storm. Makes a nice change to get a tent that's designed by one man with a passion whi can think outside of the box 👍
Haha I thought you'd got 1 I watched your short vid the other day and thought that's a xmid hmm lol 😂.but I must say I've looked at these for awhile and I think it's the only trekking pole tent I'd get as with all tents there's always a cpl little things we'd change like the 2 way zip and things like that I'd prefer it in a darker green but everyone really says how good they are so congrats on joining the durstan cult lol
I honestly think its as near perfect as i could get for me. Love it 👌👍
@@NoviceWildCamper that's all you can ask from any tent if it works for that's all that matters👍
Just used mine on the West Highland Way and it was brilliant. I made a tyvek footprint to cover all the inside, only weighs 160g and that cut down condensation from the ground. Do miss having a washing line on the inner for socks though.
Has yours got the two lamp loops inside?
No, vents are on the side too, next to the zip.
Yeah they've upgraded it again. I was expecting vents by the zip. Didn't even realise they'd changed it.
@@NoviceWildCamper hi, very informative review thank you, very helpful when researching these newer lightweight tents.
Do you know if they now have the lamp loops inside then?
Thanks buddy. They have one loop at each end of the tent. Can be used for lamps or to run a line across for drying clothes. 👍
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X-Mid 1 Solid - $330 CAD.
X-Mid 2 Solid - $453 CAD.
If you’re going to be pitching in snowy or high-wind conditions, the solid version will help stop both the snow and the wind from entering the tent and blasting your face. The solid basically turns the tent into a 4-season tent.
I would only use the solid version in the uk as the weather is rarely that good. Anything to keep the inner warmer and more protected from wind 👍
@@NoviceWildCamperI just ordered the Solid fly but i want to pair it with the mesh inner from the regular xmid.I'll be using it in the Carpathians ( Romania) and in the summer it gets hot even above treeline.
Have you had any slippage on the line locks when putting the poles in???
@baldywildcamper no, m been fine. I tend to put the poles in while the fly is fairly loose then tighten the line locks after though buy they've not slipped once set up.
Another great video!Would u consider buying the 2p version now u have tried the 1p?Thank u.
@greekf thanks. 100%, I wish I'd gone with the 2p to be honest just for that little extra room that I prefer but, too late now. Upside is the 1p fits in tighter spaces when trying to find somewhere to camp but there's not much in it.
and this tent is high mountain ....4 seasons...? ...can it resist intense cold..rain..snow ...what is the price?
You sell it well, but i reckon the shape would send me mad. It reminds me of one of those impossible puzzles, if you know what i mean. Looks like it would benefit from another pegging point at the bottom along the sides to make it even sturdier too. Glad you found your baby though. 💗
It has got a pegging point there too. Two on each main long side and one on each end. You could literally have about 18 peg down points if you wanted. I'm loving it. And it's really simple to put up 👌👍
Every time I buy a new tent I say this is “the one”. I have 5 tents. Now you go and show me this!!!
😂 sorry mate. But my work here is done 🤣
@@NoviceWildCamper Now I have this bug in my head that I need JUST one more. THAT voice in my head. I can’t shift it . The inner kit monster is winning.
That voice never goes away 😂
Been salivating over this tent for a while since my last camp and deciding I need a much lighter setup. This was the perfect review to tell me I have my sights set in the right place. Also noticed the Kakwa 40 pack they do and it also has really good reviews so to lower the tax, delivery and duty hit I think I will be gettina few things in one go from Mr Durston.
Cheers buddy. Apparently they've got a system where you order the inner and outer separately to avoid tax. If it's over £135 (I think) you have to pay vat and tax but under you don't. Contact Dan direct and he'll tell you the best way. And yes, I love the look of the kakwa pack 👌
Did you clarify if ordering separately works?
@alanrobinson2229 I didn't. I said for him to contact Dan directly.
@@NoviceWildCamper Well I've just dropped Durston an email,so we will see what they say.
@@NoviceWildCamper Fast reply,yes,it's true,but VAT will still be added.
I’m saving up money for a Durston. I’m debating mesh or solid inner. I currently have a tent with a mesh inner and I’ve had it out in winter and cold weather, I’m honestly not convinced that it makes any huge difference to temperature inside so I’m currently thinking mesh, I like the idea of being able to open up the vestibules and be able to be a bit more connected to the outside.
But I’m not fully decided. I do wonder how each one performs condensation wise when you have to batten down the hatches. What’s your experience with it re condensation
Condensation been fine. Personally I'd always go splodge inner, or get one of each, because of the uk weather. I find it makes a temp difference when there's wind blowing through 👍
an interesting little thing (if you are in to that sort of info) Hilleberg did the thing with the doors on the Allak on purpose the reason is that its their allrounder dome tent if you want a Hilleberg dome tent for demanding weather conditions they make the Staika that that has the doors on opposite sides that's one of the reasons i own them both is use the Allak in warmer weather because you can use those doors to make a draft trough the tent if it get to warm and with the other one well you sort of made that point 🙂 i do live in scandinavia at the moment and i use my tents for mountain stuff on mountains that are more than twice the height of anything in the UK so i do need tents for a bit more extreme conditions than you do
Yeah I'm not sure the x mid can cope with full height mountains as well as a hillyberg and I'd do the same if. I were you. Correct on the hilly doors, I was just using the Allak as an example as it's well known to show what I meant. Not everyone thinks about that asymmetric design and the benefits, even durston commented about it to me. Cheers for watching though 👍
by the way i almost forgot what sort of diving did you do .... i did commercial and technical diving for years and a lot of mapping caves in florida for drinking water and stuff like that. i probably did more extreme dives than most divers
Certainly more extreme than mine. I ised to teach PADI with a mate many years ago. Did it for several years. Mainly going to Egypt live aboard taking people out to do their advanced and specialities. Loved it but haven't been for a very long time. Wreck diving was my favourite. Love exploring the old world war 2 wrecks in the red sea. Tried cave diving but never again. Too claustrophobic for me 😂
Will I get away buying the Asta gear version,or doesn't it cut the mustard,especially in wind?
To be honest I haven't tried the asta in the wind and haven't seen anyone else. I've had this in real bad wind and it's been good so can only vouch for the x mid. Sorry.
I've really wanted one of these for the last 12 months, but now it seems everyone has one! I'll have to find something more random - which is a shame as it looks a genuinely great tent.
This is the latest model which is updated and to be honest I would let the popularity of it put you off. There's a reason it's so popular. You don't want to miss out on a great tent just because others have it 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper maybe I'll grab one at some point if I can find one without the import VAT / Duty. But at the moment I'm very much selling tents instead of buying them.
Works out about £285 all in 👍
Fantastic Mike, I knew it was gonna be this tent when you mentioned to me to wait on your next vid, I had already been looking at it and tbh if it wasn't for the import being almost half the price of the tent I would've bought it 2 weeks ago, be great to have a UK supplier, I did see one on market place for £450 and was almost tempted but I'd already been a purchased the helm 2 🙈🙈 I think it will be your perfect tent mate, also its not gonna sag as its not silnylon its much better material imho, thanks again for your advice and taking the time to try and help me with my lanshan issues but it's now up for sale, I also did give you a thanks on my quick look at the helm2 vid I put up 😊👍👍
Cheers mick. Yeah it'll cost you about 20% in import fees so it's not too bad. Will be less than £300 all in. Atb 👍
@NoviceWildCamper my bad sorry Mike I was looking at the 2p solid, I've had enough of 1p tents though that does look much better than most others, I know you'll love it though, I think on the 2p you don't have that magnetic door clip but simply 2 short bungee cords that you tie together, but may be wrong as I've looked at so many bloody tents lately 🤣🤣
😂 yeah and they seem to have changed several design elements too like the vents but uts good to improve with feedback. Shows they listen to customers and can always improve. 👍
Great review and I’m really tempted by this tent. Thank you for providing all the measurements but just wanted to ask if I’m 6’3” with a long XTherm mat would I fit and not touch the sides as they rise at the ends, my MSR is great as it’s not only long but vertical sides. Cheers 👍
I'm about the same height, bit more and have an neo air x therm max large and fit fine. If I bought it again though I'd probably go for the 2 person as I'd prefer a bit more space 👍
Nice one mate keep looking at that tent.
Be good if they did a footprint into the vestibule as well.
Cheers Graham
True but there pros and cons for those. I'm not keen on cooking on top of a ground sheet but it's nice to keep you gear dry. I was debating whether to make one from tyvek to suit 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper
It’s a good point I just find less condensation and feels more complete just my madness !
🤣🤣
True. Its nice not to drag all the grass in your bed each time you get your coffee or anything 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper
Yep that why I like them.
Love your vids 👍
Cheers G
Cheers Graham 👍
I've been looking for a really good inner design myself, does the netting hold up against midges do you know?
I'd like to try the design but prefer being able to look out.
Haven't really had any experience with midges in this tent yet but I'm sure it will be fine 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper Thanks, just thought you'd have done the research or tested not to know, this tent is new to me like yesterday..no worries.
It has bug mesh for midges and has been used for a few years by others and I've not heard any issues with midges getting through. I don't think any Hugh end manufacturer would use the cheap open mesh that the very low budget tents guys do to be honest.
Im just around 5,6" (170cm), so my best guess is that ill fit very well inside a Lanshan 1 (newer 230cm version), havent tried yet. So my greatest concern between these 2 tents is wind resistance/stability, rain.... How would you compare these 2 tents in this regard ? Also, what about condensation issues between these 2 ? thank you ;)
At 6'4 I just fit in the larger Lanshan however there is much more usable space in the Durston. Its also considerably more stable in wind and better for shedding rain, snow etc. The lanshan is great but the x mid would outdo it. I have only used the x mid a few times and so far had zero condensation even in dead still weather. The Lanshan I've only had it on the inside of the fly but not the inner and that's the 4 season version. Out of the 2 I'd have the x mid any day but at double the price it's down to budget. 👍
Great review, good detail, I am 6’3” and have tried one of these, but holding off the purchase as I am not sure it would handle the wind on the top of the Cheviots ! It’s very harsh up here, but these are looking good tents,
Cheers
Cheers buddy. Yeah I'm 6'4 and just fit nicely. I'll be testing this tent a lot more going forward so be interesting to see how it handles. It was pretty solid in the winds that night but there's options for more guy outs so ill be taking spare cord and pegs 👍
It will stand up to a surprising amount of wind. The secret is trusting the construction strength. Peg it really tight putting tension into the fabric. Use all the guys. It will hold. That’s from experience on Kinder in 40mph winds.
Cheers Richard. I've seen others use it in high winds and it's performed really well. 👍
Great review, thank you. Just subbed.
I've also got the X-Mid 1p solid - haven't had a chance to use it yet but I've a trip planned for Scotland in June. Already made a couple of small mods. I was a bit worried about the pole tip in the grommet in case it comes out unexpectedly and damages the fly so I got a couple of velcro 'baskets' that you can tie into the grommet and then use the poles tip down, the velcro fastens around the end of the pole handle (h/t Paul Messner).
Also (h/t Sniper Hikes) I got a Tyvek groundsheet from Backpackinglight that fits almost perfectly without any mods, giving protection to the inner floor and a groundsheet for the vestibules. There's a small gap between the edges of the groundsheet and the tent, so driving rain shouldn't get onto the groundsheet. If using poles tip down, you'd need to make a couple of small holes in the groundsheet for the tips, maybe reinforcing the holes with some tape. I haven't done this yet as I want to experiment with angling the poles outwards a bit first so I don't clonk into them during the night!
I've ordered some tyvek to make my own groundsheet with grommets and bungee cord to reach the outer pegs on each corner. I'll keep the poles up though as I don't think there'll be an issue with the tips amd hopefully I won't be proved wrong 🤣😬
@@NoviceWildCamper Yes, I've got the bungee cord too. I agree that it is unlikely the poles would come out of the grommet, although I have heard of it happening and causing the fly to tear. (A low probability but possibly high impact event!) I just like the idea of the tip being in the ground so the poles are fixed at both top and bottom.
Your point about the entrances and wind direction is a really good one, and not one I'd thought of or seen in any other review. Looking forward to your next thoughts about the tent in due course. Thanks again.
Cheers nick. I noticed it when I used the taiji 2. The weather was all over the place and allowed me to change position to suit the wind. Something you can't do in one vestibule or same end double vestibule tents. Even Durston emailed and said they hadn't thought of that before. 😂 Full video of the camp is out tonight and hopefully I'll have some mods done by the next one. 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper Great stuff - I'll look out for the video tomorrow, and your mods later on. Good that Durston contacted you - they seem very proactive in monitoring people's comments.
Thats what I love about these cottage industry types of companies. They lieten to their customers and their feedback and change accordingly. Doesn't happen with large mainstream manufacturers. 👍
Hi, you mentioned you added a guy out point which help open-up the space and make it more stable. How do you add these? Is it something you did yourself or had them or some other professional do? I think I may go for this tent. Thanks, great review!
There's already a guy out point half way down the door stitch so you just need to add the guyline. Sorry I should have made that more detailed. I'm also doing a couple of mods which will hopefully be in the next video (not this Fridays one as I filmed a full camp video the same night) 👍
Are you sure you can fit in it properly? How tall are you again?
😂 I'm only 5ft 38"
Great review! The Durston tents are great. Can I ask why you say you wanted the solid over the mesh inner (at least in the UK) please? Is it just protection from the cold or a combination of things?
Thanks Eve. I'm not a fan of full mesh. Apart from the three days of really hot summer, the nights are still chilly and so long as there is a breeze (which there nearly always is) it keeps you ventilated. The mesh is quite large so it's not like some tents that have hardly any or none so you'll still get ventilation. It weighs a few grams more than the mesh but I'm not fussed about that. 👍
Good review novice. Though im not sure about the allak and wind bit as obviously youd just unpeg that type tent and turn it around to suit.
The only lightweight tent i can think of that is perhaps better and a closer comparison is perhaps the Anarus.
The Anarus being better as more versatile.
Having said that if you bought the Durstan i wouldnt be disapointed.. Worth buying thats for sure.
True but I wouldn't want to be unloading and turning round a massive tent in high winds. Too expensive to lose. Seen thet happen before 😂
@@NoviceWildCamper you take yer racksack out and just put all your stuff in the middle of the tent. Then you can turn it round 😂🎪
Still wouldn't fancy it in high winds.
They are great tents, have a look at the Tarptent Stratosphire 1 very similar in design. I think though not 100% sure it might be a bit bigger. I have one and it's brilliant. The concept of these kind of tents is awesome, love them 👌
Yeah I like that tent. It's heavier though and quite a bit more expensive. I prefer the simplicity of the x mid though. Cheers for watching 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper give or take 60 dollars and a 100g difference but you'll pay less in import fees 😉
By the by both excellent tents.
How come you pay less in import fees?
@@NoviceWildCamper msged you 😉
👍
any British suppliers or is it just from Durston?? i`ve worked out that they`re about 230 quid but i`m not sure if you get stung for import duties?
Only usa supply. You'll pay about 20% more so its still not too bad. 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper that`s still another 50 quid or so , i know it`s a great tent but that`s just shy of 300 nicker and i`m not sure it`s THAT good? , great video though mate thanks
Cheers. Roughly double th price of a Lanshan but it's definitely double the quality and design and a lot better than many other £300 tents out there. 👍
I was looking at this a while ago. Out of my price range but definitely on my radar for when i get kicked out for having too many tents. Could you roll the door inward so the wind doesn't catch it?
Yes you can and I should have tried that however most people recommend rolling it that way as if it rains it acts like a gutter and takes the rain away rather than run down inside the tent. I'll give it a go next time as I will be using this tent mostly from now on. It is awesome if you can get it one day 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper just checked the price again and it's not unreasonable. I'd have to sell a few tents to get one and I've only just spent £130 on another tent. I don't need three bikes though 🤔
It's definitely not a bad price for what it is. 👍
Asta gear are now doing a dyneema version,less than a hundred pound more than regular Durston.
Yeah they've been doing that a while now. I'm not sure I'd want to pay that much more for a copy that isn't quite as good.
and this tent is high mountain....4 seasons..?
can it resist the intenso cold..Rain..snow..? ..what is the price?...
.
It's designed specifically for high winds rain and snow. Click the link in the video if you want pricing on models.
Looks good and the price would be right without import taxes etc, when a lanshan be be got for less, it's a shame there isn't a cottage industry in the UK but I guess there isn't because of tax! who could buy the materials and make these up.
Yeah if I could design and build my own tent this would pretty much be it. Shame they can't bring it over and make here but no doubt it will just be 50% more expensive anyway. To be fair though, the import tax is only 20% so you still get a really good tent for less than £300 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper I might have to get one 😉
If Nobody is perfect, then I must be Nobody
😂😂😂
🤣
That's about £214 in real money it seems a bargain for the quality I'm very tempted.
Don't forget delivery and import tax. Comes to about £280 which is still decent for this tent I think. 👍
How long have you had it? Had mine about three months. A couple of differences- the vents are on the long side next to the door and there are no loops for lamps in the inner
Literally a couple of days. It's the latest version. They always seem to be improving and upgrading it. 👍
Seems every time I buy something they upgrade just after! Literally had the tent out today to see if I could add the loops inside for a hanging line. I can see the vents could be better on the ends as ideally you'd pitch it end on into the wind, but I've had no issues with condensation
I also have the 2p - that has end vents and loops the same as your 1P
Yeah I didn't realised they'd moved the vents until I put it up. Makes more sense although you can't fit the poles in through them like the previous models.
The latest upgrades just started shipping in mid April. Nothing too crazy, mainly just moved the vents to match the 2P to standardize the vent placement though-out the lineup and added the interior hand loops where were always on the 2P Solid but not the 1P.
I let out a huge groan when I heard it was the Xmid……🤣 Everybody loves it except me……I can’t stand it 🙈🤣
🤣 what is it about it you don't like? I love it 👌👍
@@NoviceWildCamper Mostly the drab colour. Living here up in the Arctic we have snow on the ground 6 months of the year so having colour is psychologically uplifting. I use tents with orange interiors and in the months of midnight sun a dark outer fly sheet. If Durston did a black or dark green flysheet I would give it a try. Obviously we get severe weather here so not sure how it would stand up in snow or colder nights but could be good for summer.
It's designed to shed snow and deflect wind hence the angular steep sides. It does come out more blue than green in my video bit apparently they're doing a darker green version. I'm not a lover of bright tents as in the uk most places camping is not allowed so you have to be a bit stealthy.
@@NoviceWildCamper I realise the steep sides are good for snow but things are rather extreme up here. Good to hear a darker green is planned that will please a lot of people. Even though we can camp anywhere (pretty much) here I still use dark green to minimise my presence.
Yeah I went to lapland in december. Stunning but very extreme 👌👍
I wonder how many people have bought trekking poles just to use this tent!!
@@mrmods7912 loads probably 😂 although they now make their own as well to go with it 👍
Nice. I've been thinking of buying one of these for a while and your review might just push me over the edge! Is the 825g claimed weight the whole tent or a "trail weight"? My Lanshan 1 solid is 900g all in, so I may not be saving weight by upgrading to this bad boy. Your thoughts? Thanks for an excellent channel.
The main upgrade over the lanshan is better material as the Xmid is sil poly and does not sag or hold water like sil nylon in the lanahan
It's just the tent, trail weight. I only use that as I never use the pegs supplied. So yes it might the same or more than a Lanshan 1 but speaking from a huge amount of experience with the Lanshan 1 plus, this has a ton more room. Plus two vestibule and I'd be much happier in heavy rain, snow or high winds in this than my lanshan for sure. For me this purchase wasn't about being the lightest, just being right for me. If you want to go for what might be perfect for you, subject to budget, you could get the x mid pro and knock 360g off but you'd have a mesh inner and pay double for it. I suppose you might be able to order a solid inner as well or ask them direct if they'll swap it for solid if you prefer. Good thing about this type of cottage company, theyre more likely to try and help you out than the big boys. Cheers for watching 👍
Cheers Michael, great video, whats the price after import tax?
Cheers buddy. About £285 roughly. 👍
I get it and have ordered one , it’s just well ugly to me 😊
Lol. I love the look of it 😂
Wish it came in Khaki 😬
😂 it's just want, want, want isn't it 🤣 I actually don't mind the colour. Although it would be nice to have a choice. Better than the colour of DCF either way 👌👍
What a mega little tent, I really need to check this thing out, do you think it would be an all season tent, or just 3? Oh nice first look 👍
Definitely 4 season. It's designed specifically to shed wind, rain and snow. I'll be using this all year round along with my Fjallraven Abisko Shape 2 on occasions 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper Great, well I’ve think you have just found my perfect tent 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper do you have a link to where you got your xmid from mate 👍
Yeah it's in the description. 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper did you get from the US, if so was there any import tax?
is the mesh midge proof or just mosquito resistant ?
You know I'm not sure. It doesn't say on the website spec so I've emailed them. Probably won't hear till next week though. 👍
Hi. Had a reply back, they said 'these are made with 0.5oz Noseeum netting which uses an irregular micro-knit pattern which should shield you from the smallest of insects such as midges and sand flies'
It is midge proof. My first test of it was in a heatwave with midges, clegs and flying ants. Nothing got in.
A single clothes peg solves the flapping door problem 🙂
Ah but I've engineered something else. Basically the same magnet stiched strap like on the tent but not attached so I can use it for other tents or bug mesh on hammocks that flap in your face etc 👌👍
@@NoviceWildCamper- great video. would you mind posting a photo of what you’ve done adding a new magnet?
If you go to 11.18 in the below video you'll see what I did after this one.
ruclips.net/video/R-qDivxF2V0/видео.htmlsi=9deE4hpf37iNzg1V
@@NoviceWildCamper - brilliant. Many thanks, much appreciated!
Another good video.
I am thinking of buying the 2P version.
When you purchased the tent did Fedex charge you a lot of money to deliver it?
Not really. $29. Thanks for watching 👍
I got the two mam and you will be looking at around 100 extra to pay for the vat and courier charge
@@antduke2361 Thanks for the heads up!
@@NoviceWildCamper Thank you
Yeah you have to add 20% import tax on the cost.
It's a great design badly executed. I told Mr Durston this himself. It needs 2 extra guys fitting and 14 pegs. They only supply 6 which is rediculous for UK weather. Ok for a children's garden camp out. It's also very expensive for what it is . But after 2 months I still like it. Just don't go on summits over 30 mph winds.
Tent manufacturers never supply enough pegs for all the guy outs though. And I mist admit I haven't counted how many there is as I use my Eastons. I've seen a guy use it in 45mph wind and that night it was certainly way over 30mph and it didn't move. 👍
I'm hesitant to include too many stakes because many people have their own preference, so instead of increasing the cost of the tent adding a lot of stakes, we can keep it lower and then people can put that money towards whatever stakes they like. So we do include just enough stakes to get it working alright.
You can put two peak guylines on it if you want. There are a few options for where to tie the second one.
Glad you're liking the tent.
Agree Dan. I used to wonder why tent companies didn't supply enough stakes when I first started but now I don't think they should bother as then you know exactly what the tent weighs and use your favourite stakes. Good idea about an additional guy line at the tops. Might just bring a spare for thr sake of a few grams. Loving the tent Dan 👌👍
Great tent. I LOVE mine.
Quality tent Michael, if u was at the top it would of been a really good test because it was blowing where u was , I took my mld duomid at the top and had winds up to 50mph , next time your in Wales let me no 👍👍
Cheers mate. I was going to but wasn't sure where i was going to camp initially and didn't have time to get to the too cos of work. Would certainly have been a good test although zero visibility as it was covered in fog. 😂👍
Inner tent not high enough for me to sit up straight...
How tall are you?
@@NoviceWildCamper 200 cm
Same with most tents then. The x mid 2p is higher though 👍
@@NoviceWildCamper thanks!
@@NoviceWildCamper That's why I don't use an inner tent.
If your intent is to be content with the extent of your search for the "perfect tent", well, your choice is tentatively contentious.
Exactly
Two problems I see with your new tent, number one, you cannot stand up in your tent, number two, you’re sleeping on the GROUND, just my opinion, but only savages sleep on the ground.
🤣😂👍
Wimp.