Hi Wil, Thank you for the review and feedbacks. We are working on something awesome with our Limited Edition Stargazer series (Duo and Solo) and a lot of improvements on the interior part of our tent. Here’s to name a few: -. X raise hinge for additional space (now you will have full use of the 85” sleeping space, you will be able to sleep on both ends) -. Insulation will be included -. No more interior clips it will be Velcro -. Big windows on top by the big opening and by the X hinge. -. Better Hybrid Mattress -. Dual Chanel on top -. More interior space -. Redesign Main door opening -. High ceiling and space for the (solo) -. The most important part, it will still be Lightweight: Solo final product will be 80lbs while Duo will be around 95lbs.
You had me snorting out loud at ‘so it’s good for holding books’ and then again ‘for all the people into feet’. Maybe too many drinks before watching! I’m not even in the RTT market, but just enjoy your vids, so thanks Will. And oooooh those feet 😂
Get a lost horizon inflator/deflated pump. It makes the air mattress so much easier. No rolling the mattress to get the air out. It's rechargeable and has a built in light. Light weight and about 3 inches long. Game changer
I got the Inspired Overland Carbon Fiber RTT direct from the OEM manufacturer in China (here in China its sold as the Off-Grid RTT, inspired overland just buy it OEM and sell it in the US/Aus) took it on a 35 day 10000km round trip across the Gobi desert into the TianShan mountains on the China / Kazakhstan border in September/October... pretty wild how light it is during off roading... and aye the mattress is good... if a pia to get inflated... But one thing I think you forgot to mention is the lack of venting... we were camping some nights at about 3500m elevation (11500ft), it got pretty cold (5c) and we didn't have a diesel heater only electric blankets (was fine), but we had to keep the windows rolled down a bit for air flow... there is no covered/sheltered ventilation flaps at the top, so without those the condensation was crazy in the cold... It is one of those tents designed/expected to be used with a heater in winter, with a diesel heater no problem, but without... in winter if any precipitation you are eitheer gonna get soaked from condensation or snow/rain coming in via windows... the back window can be held out via the poles, which sorta provides some shelter from rain if you need airflow, but only if the wind is good for you... One other things... the carbon fiber for the roof will not last well in the Sun... the factory warned us about this, so we put on a UV PPF sticker on the top.
GREAT Info! I’ve used the ducting ports as vents, but there aren’t screens there. I haven’t seen any issue with UV, but mine stays in the garage unless I’m on a trip, and my trips are only about a week long each time. Really appreciate this comment!!
I didn’t even notice the carbon fiber tent on my 392 during the Rubicon…but I didn’t like keeping my bedding in the Jeep. Worth it though to have an RTT…I’d do it again.
Love my Inspired Carbon Fiber RTT. For my use, weight savings was the most important issue. I don't mind at all keeping bedding in the jeep. Adds an extra step, but no biggie.
Will, I think you might be confusing density with compression when it comes to foam. High Density foam just means lots of tiny bubbles forming the foam, verses larger air pockets and voids in the foam. IE, the cellular density is high. What you are wishing for is a higher compressive strength foam, That is a factor of the foam material, and less a factor of density. Does that make sense?
I've tried a couple Inflators for my RTT but the RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless High Volume Power Inflator with the 4AH battery is 3X faster than anything on the market. I modified the cone attachment by shortening and adding a plastic washer to get a better seal.
Another great informative useful video Will. Bravo! Maybe in the future, consider adding your quick thoughts on intermediate options between the two such as the FSR Aspen Lite or the Intrepid Geo. Thanks!
For the IO carbon fiber tent, I pulled the handle for the top down and put it under one of the latches, holds real tight, minimal to no flapping even in wild wind On mine, one of the latches isn’t positioned right, so it’s a particular process to get it put back together right. And it doesn’t fully seal even when fully tore down, but haven’t had any issues with that minor gap
After seeing the weight on my adventure rack system at 180lbs I am looking at the Inspired carbon fiber. My 1 criteria was that I bolt solar to the top. I did see an upgraded mattress on inspired's web site, that I'm curious about. I realize the tear down is more, but I'm now seeing how much weight I carry. Thank you so much for the review!
Your timing with this episode is great because I am considering a rooftop tent for my 392. But, you didn't make it easy to decide. Both of these tents have qualities that make them very appealing. Don't get me wrong, you did a fantastic job comparing these two tents. I just don't know which one I would choose. I am going to have to think more about it. Thanks for your unbiased review. I trust your opinion because I know you are being straight up honest with us about the products you review regardless of sponsorship or not. As always, I enjoy your content and look forward to the next video.❤❤
Neither of these companies are sponsors. They did send me the tents at no cost, but I didn’t promise them anything, or sign a contract, or anything like that. For me..I want to use as many as I can somI can keep giving valuable info. It’s so hard to buy an RTT because it’s basically an online purchase you can’t see in person..then you can’t return it if you don’t like it.
I wonder how the $899 ironman tent would stack up that they offer. I have a FSR EVO2 tent that is 184 lbs I like it being a more insulated tent, very roomy and easy to set up. I understand the light weight tent for a purpose like the Rubican. Great review and keep up the tent reviews. They are changing so fast every year. I am working on a true electric heat system for mine so I don't have to deal with diesel heaters.
Great comparison video. I have a different brand of budget RTT and I really do like it. It's my first one so I didn't want to go whole hog. Could you do a video on RTT care and upkeep? I had moisture in my tent last time I used it. Probably due to humidity and temp changes here in TX.
I have been eyeballin the ironman ursa over the orion because of the weight, and I am greedy when it comes to being able to sprawl out when I sleep lol haha.
When you close the inspired Carbon are you leaving the all the windows unzipped? I hear a lots of people saying if you leave it unzipped it allows all the air to escape making it smoother to close.
What roof rails are you using on your SmartCap on the Gladiator to mount the tent? Also, what roof rack is over the cab? I’m building up a ‘23 Gladiator and have a SmartCap as well, which I love. Thanks.
I used to have Front Runner load bars, but they really aren't strong enough for an RTT...so the ones you see in this video are Rhino Rack Recon Bars. Plenty of strength to hold eve this heavy tent. The rack is from Sherpa. I keep my starlink mini and traction boards up there. It also is where I mounted those Ironman 4X4 lights. The smart cap is great...I just wish it were a little lighter, but it's hard to beat the strength of stainless steel.
I had the v1 Inspired Overland roof top tent for a while. It’s a fantastic tent, but it’s a bit small on the inside and not at all comfortable. For its niche, though, it’s probably the best bang for your buck.
It's different for a truck. A truck has the actual bed shell plus the camper. I have been using the Hest sleeping system in my GFC. Whole shell/camper less than 300 lbs. My old fiberglass camper shell weighed more than that.
Great video as usual. Quick question other the Big 4x4 Ostrich, Alu-cab, Bush and Kinsmen all these other brands including these two are Chinese made. Do you trust the quality? I wouldn't.
I could..but I don’t want one more thing to pack and set up..plus, when I do it right, it doesn’t need it. Last.y, I want to give a review of the tent as it is…but that’s a good solution for someone who doesn’t like the mattress.
Hi Wil,
Thank you for the review and feedbacks. We are working on something awesome with our Limited Edition Stargazer series (Duo and Solo) and a lot of improvements on the interior part of our tent. Here’s to name a few:
-. X raise hinge for additional space (now you will have full use of the 85” sleeping space, you will be able to sleep on both ends)
-. Insulation will be included
-. No more interior clips it will be Velcro
-. Big windows on top by the big opening and by the X hinge.
-. Better Hybrid Mattress
-. Dual Chanel on top
-. More interior space
-. Redesign Main door opening
-. High ceiling and space for the (solo)
-. The most important part, it will still be Lightweight: Solo final product will be 80lbs while Duo will be around 95lbs.
I can't wait to see that stargazer tent. It looks rad.
@@Venture2Roampreordered one of these for my FJ and I am stoked to camp in it this coming summer.
You had me snorting out loud at ‘so it’s good for holding books’ and then again ‘for all the people into feet’. Maybe too many drinks before watching! I’m not even in the RTT market, but just enjoy your vids, so thanks Will. And oooooh those feet 😂
😂😂 so glad you gave it a watch and I could get a few laughs!
Get a lost horizon inflator/deflated pump. It makes the air mattress so much easier. No rolling the mattress to get the air out. It's rechargeable and has a built in light. Light weight and about 3 inches long. Game changer
Great suggestion. Thanks for sharing it!
I got the Inspired Overland Carbon Fiber RTT direct from the OEM manufacturer in China (here in China its sold as the Off-Grid RTT, inspired overland just buy it OEM and sell it in the US/Aus)
took it on a 35 day 10000km round trip across the Gobi desert into the TianShan mountains on the China / Kazakhstan border in September/October... pretty wild how light it is during off roading... and aye the mattress is good... if a pia to get inflated...
But one thing I think you forgot to mention is the lack of venting... we were camping some nights at about 3500m elevation (11500ft), it got pretty cold (5c) and we didn't have a diesel heater only electric blankets (was fine), but we had to keep the windows rolled down a bit for air flow... there is no covered/sheltered ventilation flaps at the top, so without those the condensation was crazy in the cold...
It is one of those tents designed/expected to be used with a heater in winter, with a diesel heater no problem, but without... in winter if any precipitation you are eitheer gonna get soaked from condensation or snow/rain coming in via windows... the back window can be held out via the poles, which sorta provides some shelter from rain if you need airflow, but only if the wind is good for you...
One other things... the carbon fiber for the roof will not last well in the Sun... the factory warned us about this, so we put on a UV PPF sticker on the top.
GREAT Info! I’ve used the ducting ports as vents, but there aren’t screens there. I haven’t seen any issue with UV, but mine stays in the garage unless I’m on a trip, and my trips are only about a week long each time. Really appreciate this comment!!
Very good video, very detailed and detailed explanation of how to make choices
Thank you!
Great comparison! We are doing the rubicon next summer in our 392 and i have been back and forth on what I want to do for sleeping.
I didn’t even notice the carbon fiber tent on my 392 during the Rubicon…but I didn’t like keeping my bedding in the Jeep. Worth it though to have an RTT…I’d do it again.
Love my Inspired Carbon Fiber RTT. For my use, weight savings was the most important issue. I don't mind at all keeping bedding in the jeep. Adds an extra step, but no biggie.
Will, I think you might be confusing density with compression when it comes to foam. High Density foam just means lots of tiny bubbles forming the foam, verses larger air pockets and voids in the foam. IE, the cellular density is high. What you are wishing for is a higher compressive strength foam, That is a factor of the foam material, and less a factor of density. Does that make sense?
Thank you clarifying!
I've tried a couple Inflators for my RTT but the RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless High Volume Power Inflator with the 4AH battery is 3X faster than anything on the market. I modified the cone attachment by shortening and adding a plastic washer to get a better seal.
Great tip!
Hi Will, Thank you so much for sharing this video. I appreciate you.
Right on man. I appreciate you watching and commenting!
Great video! Thanks for sharing. We especially like seeing the Vanultra mounts on the Ironman tent 😳
Oh I’ll be showing those off soon. They are rad.
Another great informative useful video Will. Bravo! Maybe in the future, consider adding your quick thoughts on intermediate options between the two such as the FSR Aspen Lite or the Intrepid Geo. Thanks!
Great suggestion! I’ll try to remember that next time. Makes a lot of sense.
Still rockin the Student Driver magnet ... Nice 👍
I kind of like it.
For the IO carbon fiber tent, I pulled the handle for the top down and put it under one of the latches, holds real tight, minimal to no flapping even in wild wind
On mine, one of the latches isn’t positioned right, so it’s a particular process to get it put back together right. And it doesn’t fully seal even when fully tore down, but haven’t had any issues with that minor gap
Great info, thanks for sharing.
Thanks! Very informative
After seeing the weight on my adventure rack system at 180lbs I am looking at the Inspired carbon fiber. My 1 criteria was that I bolt solar to the top. I did see an upgraded mattress on inspired's web site, that I'm curious about. I realize the tear down is more, but I'm now seeing how much weight I carry. Thank you so much for the review!
I'm sure if you got the rack for the carbon fiber tent you could put a solar panel on it.
Your timing with this episode is great because I am considering a rooftop tent for my 392. But, you didn't make it easy to decide. Both of these tents have qualities that make them very appealing. Don't get me wrong, you did a fantastic job comparing these two tents. I just don't know which one I would choose. I am going to have to think more about it. Thanks for your unbiased review. I trust your opinion because I know you are being straight up honest with us about the products you review regardless of sponsorship or not. As always, I enjoy your content and look forward to the next video.❤❤
Neither of these companies are sponsors. They did send me the tents at no cost, but I didn’t promise them anything, or sign a contract, or anything like that. For me..I want to use as many as I can somI can keep giving valuable info. It’s so hard to buy an RTT because it’s basically an online purchase you can’t see in person..then you can’t return it if you don’t like it.
I wonder how the $899 ironman tent would stack up that they offer. I have a FSR EVO2 tent that is 184 lbs I like it being a more insulated tent, very roomy and easy to set up. I understand the light weight tent for a purpose like the Rubican. Great review and keep up the tent reviews. They are changing so fast every year. I am working on a true electric heat system for mine so I don't have to deal with diesel heaters.
@@fscottgray9784 I love what FSR is doing with their tents right now.
FSR Fabrics are really good right now.
Great comparison video. I have a different brand of budget RTT and I really do like it. It's my first one so I didn't want to go whole hog. Could you do a video on RTT care and upkeep? I had moisture in my tent last time I used it. Probably due to humidity and temp changes here in TX.
Great idea. I'll put that on the list of topics.
I have been eyeballin the ironman ursa over the orion because of the weight, and I am greedy when it comes to being able to sprawl out when I sleep lol haha.
Ya that extra room is soooo nice.
When you close the inspired Carbon are you leaving the all the windows unzipped? I hear a lots of people saying if you leave it unzipped it allows all the air to escape making it smoother to close.
I do keep the windows unzipped most of the time.
What roof rails are you using on your SmartCap on the Gladiator to mount the tent? Also, what roof rack is over the cab? I’m building up a ‘23 Gladiator and have a SmartCap as well, which I love. Thanks.
I used to have Front Runner load bars, but they really aren't strong enough for an RTT...so the ones you see in this video are Rhino Rack Recon Bars. Plenty of strength to hold eve this heavy tent. The rack is from Sherpa. I keep my starlink mini and traction boards up there. It also is where I mounted those Ironman 4X4 lights. The smart cap is great...I just wish it were a little lighter, but it's hard to beat the strength of stainless steel.
I had the v1 Inspired Overland roof top tent for a while. It’s a fantastic tent, but it’s a bit small on the inside and not at all comfortable. For its niche, though, it’s probably the best bang for your buck.
I agree that it’s probably the best in the niche. The inflatable mattress was a big comfort improvement over the V1. But they are small in general.
Now do a Video on what you believe is the best all around tent for the money and what is the best of the best
I think I will do that. Have a few more tents to get use/review before I make that vid though. I think I’ve only done like 7 RTTs so far.
I've been debating on getting a top oak, Galaxy 2.0 or vision XL, but the weight on the vision has me leery, thank you for the video!
I have the Vision (I think, I need to check the name of it). That will be my next review.
@Venture2Roam oh dude I would love to know your thoughts on that!!!!
@ I’m on a trip now…but when I get back I’ll try it out.
@Venture2Roam safe travels!!!!!
It's different for a truck. A truck has the actual bed shell plus the camper. I have been using the Hest sleeping system in my GFC. Whole shell/camper less than 300 lbs. My old fiberglass camper shell weighed more than that.
Ya it’s hard to beat the GFC set up for weight.
Great video as usual. Quick question other the Big 4x4 Ostrich, Alu-cab, Bush and Kinsmen all these other brands including these two are Chinese made. Do you trust the quality? I wouldn't.
This is exactly why I make these vids. I use these tents before I review them..so regardless of where they are made, I can give you real info.
Links for the tents?
INTREPID TENT: geni.us/IntrepidGeo
IRONMAN TENT: geni.us/IronmanRTTs
I wish Inspired overland would sell their tents in Europe. This is by far the greatest tent I've ever seen!
It’s certainly the lightest. Have you called them to see if they can ship international?
Ironman seems a much better choice for me
They frequently run sales that help with the price.
Why don’t you just bring an extra sleeping pad for your lightweight RTT?
I could..but I don’t want one more thing to pack and set up..plus, when I do it right, it doesn’t need it. Last.y, I want to give a review of the tent as it is…but that’s a good solution for someone who doesn’t like the mattress.
@ yeah makes sense.
First!
Hey dude! Hope all is well.