TheOutdoorGearReview this had made me decide faster as I'm preparing for hurricane season here on Puerto Rico after the disastrous hurricane that was Maria i have a bushnell bivvy that i beat through almost all 6 ml months without power as the heat was unbearable i have to sleep outside now changing to a better product that im familiarized with as i have many items from Snugpak thanks for always giving your all greetings from the caribbean
Hi Luke! have you ever tried "The Bunker" by Snugpak?? i would love to know your thoughts on that tent for a 2 person camping. Thanks and keep up the good work here, you inspire us all.
Four years of frequent use over widely varying terrain, in all kinds of weather, tactical shelter of choice for many in the military, and though not built specifically to mil spec requirements is pretty much soldier proof. What better testamony to its excellence can there be, especially when you take into account the price.
I used to have one of these when I was in the Canadian Forces. I somehow lost it, I think during a break up. Sometimes I stay awake at night wondering how it's doing. I hope it thinks of me too.
Late to the party but, this video is why i purchased mine. I just got heavy into the backpacking scene this year. And as a 6'1 300lb man, this tent is spacious enough for me with a sleeping pad and my backpack! If i can fit anyone can.
I'm a Paratrooper in the US Army stationed down at Fort Bragg. I used to jump into an exercise and utilize this tent on the drop zone in case we stayed overnight or any length of time. I also went to Korea for a year and used this tent at least 6 or 7 times in the mountains when my platoon did a RETRANS mission. The other times, I used my Stratosphere. I definitely adore these tents and would continue using them until i'm out of the Army and use them in the civilian world. I'll be in the desert for training in 2 months and guess what's coming with me? You guessed it.
I have used this tent a lot - it is pretty well bomb proof if you fully stake it down. It is so low to the ground that it handles even heavy winds great. Leave the stuff sack and repair kit that it comes with at home, and replace the stakes with lighter ones. You can get the weight down to just under 3 lbs that way.
Having used Snugpak products on operations and after military life for the last 20 years, I can say they make some great products and have great customer service especially with the military guys. There are lighter and smaller bits of kit but not as well built as Snugpaks products. A great British company.
I bought one in 2015 for a walk from Konstanz Germany to Nice, France; amazing little tent. It is so stealth that I spent 3 nights in a park in Nice behind a bush, and no one noticed me.
Owned since 2/17/14 and still going strong. Amazing tent, even fairly lightweight when stripped down to trail weight (2.6lbs with only necessary stakes and no stuff sack). In my experience of owning a couple dozen tents, this is about as close to bombproof as I've seen.
I've used mine in the most outrageous rain storm ever, with 80mph winds and severe rain poor, it took the wind like a beast and was bond dry for over 48h, the news said extreme storm coming, so I perched it up on the seaside hill right in the elements as the dark clouds rolled over. The winds picked up and an ominous howl emerged as the wind whipped around the tent, the rain pounded the ionosphere it would crackle like a wrecked ship bashing upon the rocks, I thought to myself "how stupid was this" "no way it can take such a battering" but it did, it did well, it thrived and barley moved in the winds, like a tank amougst a gentle breeze, it waited for it to stop, strong sturdy and stubborn the tent wasnt going anywhere, how lucky I am to poses such a beast. Many adventures to come! No matter the weather!
I used this tent while in Europe for the past 3 years. While hiking in the Alps it held up great in 50mph winds at 7000' due to its low profile and 16 stakes it comes with and with some added help from rocks for extra weight to hold it down. SnugPak says it's rated for 3 seasons. Putting a mylar blanket between the mesh the rain cover and under your sleeping bag will make it a 4 season. At times the temps dropped down to 0 degrees in the Swiss alps but I was nice and toasty inside my tent.
Going on 5 years with the Ionosphere and I absolutely love it! I made a ground sheet out of a heavy duty tarp to protect my OD green Ionosphere and my son's Coyote tan Ionosphere. An 8x4 tarp works perfectly for two tents by cutting down the long side middle and duck taping the cut seams. The only problem we are having with our tents is the cordage inside the poles are starting to loose their tightness and we have lost a few stakes. I will be looking into getting replacement poles or learning how to replace the cordage myself. Other than that, these are the BOMB tents for backpacking while camping -survival/stealth/ bush craft style. It would not be great for hiking trails for long periods of time because of the lack of interior space for gear or for example needing to change clothes in private.. Another note, we always use additional tarps over our Ionosphere when there is a threat of rain because we have been caught in torrential rain with no dry area to pack up our gear. I am a big fan of Aqua-quest tarps! Thanks for the great review!!!!
Great review after long term use, Luke! Thank you. I'm a Snugpak junkie being retired military. Like you, I love gear that is military surplus. Although not surplus per se, Snugpak products look and feel like it. My hammock gear is all Snugpak and for three years I've had NO issues with any of the four items. I'm not a groundhog but I will add the Ionosphere to my equipment for those trips where trees are non-existent.
I bought one of these after seeing your original review, and the review of another British you tuber. It's fantastic, really well ventilated, light, simple and made in Britain! One small gripe is the location of storage pockets, but once in, with my 5'8 frame, there's loads of room so it's not a problem.
Own a ionosphere tent for 6 years great beginners and experts tent only one problem it needs an overhead light stash pocket would highly recommend buying it
I have the snugpak ionosphere the day I got it I set the tent up spent the night In it that night it started raining heavily it did not leak I am pretty impressed with this little tent
You're right, used mine for first time this weekend. All my friends laughed at my 6'0, 190lbs self back up into it. Outside of that, they loved the design and quick setup.
I bought olive ionosphere 2021 winter and took it out in the woods. I liked that it is actually quite spacious and I had enough room for my 45L backpack next to me. Temperature outside was around +2 to +5 °C but comfy inside. It was raining mist during the evening and it was snowing during the night. By the morning I was under 10cm of snow. Of course bivy form is not the best when you expect heavy snow. In this case the good tension of the tent cover is very important. Make sure you shake the snow off before opening the door. Some condensation accumulated in the head area during the night (I would say about 2 mL of water in total). Some amount of condensation which formed on the ceiling eventually fell on my waterproof sleeping bag in the form of fine droplets. This could become an issue when sleeping bag surface is absorbent. This was my first winter camping experience ever so I can't really comment on the condensation.
I'm glad to have found this review, Luke. I placed one of these on a "save for later" list on Amazon. When tent camping I use an $89 Hewolf, a great inexpensive one-man tent made in China; weighs 3.3 pounds and incredible quality. It's not a good tent, however, for stealth camping due to being a dull orange and light grey in color. I use a roll of camo to hide it. Total weight just under 5 pounds with the camo roll. Normally I go with a camo tarp and Snugpack hammock. I love all of my Snugpak gear so now I will add the Ionosphere after seeing your review. At 3.3 pounds this will save me the extra 1.5 pounds. For my 71st birthday I'll be able to test it out in the Mongahela wilderness area. As always your reviews have helped me make wise decisions on gear selections. Mahalo, Bruh! P.S. My Hewolf has a hanging hook from the center and for a night light I found a red glow light you have to twist to activate (at Lowe's) but from outside the tent you cannot see the lighted interior...great for stealth camping. I read at night and don't have to use a headlamp. I may sew a hanging hook in the Ionosphere.
I've got a TCOP also and it's the best low profile tent I've slept in. I'm retired from the army (82nd Abn) and it sure beats those shelter halves they issues us in the 1970's!
Have had my TCOP for about 3 years. Bought it used on eBay. Steven Thomas, you're absolutely correct. This tent beats the snot outta the shelter halves we had in the 101st. :D
That's my tent! It's a very good product for its price! I stayed really nice and dry in torrential downpours during a summer hike in the white mountains of New Hampshire. Overall snugpak is a good company. Very utilitarian and very reasonably priced tents. I also own The Cave which is a 4 person, 4 season tent by the same company.
I bought this tent a couple years ago after watching your video on it. It is a great tent, but it is a bit of pain getting into and out of the thing. But I knew that going in when I bought it. Still though, I do love it. Great follow-up review, Luke! I completely agree with all your points (pros/cons).
Can you/ Have you used the scorpion in the summer time? I live in the Southeast US and wondered about using the scorpion in I needed to in the summer or warmer parts of the year
This tent makes sense for snipers and paratroopers, but other than that I don't see why anyone would want one. Carry an extra 2 lbs for a 2 person tent that has some room. Maybe if your a sheep hunter camping on the side of a mountain it'd be a good safety system if caught out in a storm without being able to hike back to camp. That's what I see it for. Otherwise 2 and person tents are pretty awesome and pretty light these days
I have this guy and I enjoy it! It is small, but not so small I'm suffocating in it. It's been so reliable, that when I drive across country (Buffalo to Las Vegas) I keep this in the "I'm trapped in the middle of nowhere cause my car broke down" bag. It's decent for light winter camping too!
Luke! I own this (based on your review 4 years ago) bought it shortly afterwards. It's been everywhere with me as well. Grand Canyon, Himalayas, Channel Islands, you name it. It honestly looks as good as the day i got it. Amazing reviews on it dude. Thanks again for the solid recommendation 4 years ago. Caleb from Flagstaff
I have a tonne of tents but the Ionosphere is by far the best for all the reasons you say. I use for bikepacking in the UK. Been on 4 trips 2-nighters and a bunch of singles this year. Last week I wildcamped on the Cissbury Ring - it's a 6000yr old hill fort overlooking the South Coast of England. Lightning storm moved in over the sea in the night - dry as a bone inside. Great place to be. This and my Vargo Titanium Hexagon woodstove are the two best bits of kit I have. Thanks for all the interesting posts!
I've had this tent since 2013 used to be my kid's tent. He beat it up along with all the tent stakes. He stopped using the tent, and I will start to use it now. I pulled it out this weekend and looked at the tent and it still looks brand new without any issues. The only problem I see is that the elastic string in the poles is about worn out I had to tighten it up and cut off a bunch of the string, I might just buy some more and replace it if it continues not to work properly. I will replace the stakes this week, and get it ready for a shakedown, going to hike Philmont. I am very pleased with the tent and believe it is one of the best owned by my kid and I have ever had.
Bought myself one about two years ago. Being 6'4 I was worried it would be too small but it fit me, my xl sleeping bag, and even my ruck above my head! Also had plenty of space on the sides for misc items. wet and cold or hot an humid, it takes it like a champ, I love my Ionosphere!
Just purchased one on your recommendation, can't wait to use it. Hope it lasts me 4yrs + I'm british Forces & used Snugpack in the past & like their Stuff. 👌
Great update. I too have a ton of Snugpak gear and its all held up great. I modified the UQ a bit by giving it a primary + secondary suspension and adding end cinches. Doing so makes it much easier to setup and adjust. I modified the TQ by cutting off the "wings" on each side and then user them to make the footbox deeper. As far as the Jungle Blanket goes, i turned one into a 50° 3/4 length UQ that can be used on a regular gathered end hammock as well as my Warbonnet Ridgerunner. I also turned a second Jungle Blanket into a TQ that has a drawstring + velcro footbox so it can be used in blanket mode still as well. To modify the hammock Cocoon , I add a small loop of shockcord prussiked onto my ridgeline to which i use a micro S biner to clip the head end zipper to it. This keeps it up off my face if Im zipped all the way inside it and also gives me some extra room so i can read or watch a movie on my kindle. One last item I slightly modified was the Thermalon sleeping bag liner. I sit it about 3/4 of the way down to give it a TQ shape instead and added a snap so it can be secured behind my neck and shoulders , then cinched closed like most regular topquilts to keep any drafts of cold air out. The rest of my Snugpak gear ; the Patrol Poncho + Poncho Liner , All Weather Shelter, Snuggie Pillow, Jungle Bag and Bivy I haven't modified. Its all held up great the past 4 years. I even use the hammock insulation inside "365" since I switched to a hammock full time about 3 years ago! I have SEVERAL vids on my channel showing all the mods as well as a wet out test i did using the Cocoon and UQ if anyone is interested. I HIGHLY recommend anything from Snugpak..... its all very well made, bombproof and will last for a very long time. ~ Chesapeake
I purchased this tent almost 8 months ago and have only been able ro use it one time since. That 1 time was enough to prove this is a great 1 person option. It will be comming with me on my 2 week motorcycle camping trip commimg soon.
I've been using Snugpak gear for about 3 years now and it's all still going strong like new. I've got the 10×10 all weather shelter, Underquilt, Topquilt, Cocoon, Jungle Blanket, a Jungle Blanket that I turned into a 7/8 length Underquilt, Poncho & Liner and Snuggy pillow. I even modified the UQ and gave it the same kind of suspension as my HG Incubator and the TQ by taking the wings off and using them to deepen the footbox. It's all held up great and I still use all of it even though I have lighter, warmer and more versatile cottage manufactured gear. Snugpak really is an amazing " small" UK based company and I recommend their gear to anyone looking to get into hammocks or bushcraft. Love the vid, I have a few vids on my channel that show the mods I've done to my Snugpak gear if your interested. Keep em coming Luke!
Had mine for about 4+ years now I run an outdoor company,normally Hammock when I can and have a lot of tents available to me up as far as a tentipi Safir 9 This tent gets used more than any of them when I’m ground dwelling. With a tarp, it’s a great bedroom. With a bike, it’s fine and enough to work for most stuff without being a pain to erect. Backpacking, doesn’t weigh much and I trust the build ... really can’t fault it I’m 6 ft 1 and about 114 kg so not small and room is perfect. I can use just a tarp, I can use bivi bags, I can use both but tbh, there isn’t much gain in weight doing that and this is easier and works It’s a bloody good tent
After watching your reviews and seeing you use it in videos I bought one. I absolutely love it. I also have watched several others that I trust on gear reviews they all had the same things to say about it.
I said 16 stakes! LOL! Got that 16 stakes !.. when i was in Afghanistan a couple years back I saw at least a 150 of these piled up with some Army Soldiers!
After watching this video I decided to buy this tent. I bought it and used it last week. I love it because it is lightweight and compact. I could washed it at the campsite.
Many thanks for posting this review, I've been thinking of buying one for stealthy wild camps over here in the UK. A great and thorough review. Thanks again! - Ben (AKA Londoner Outdoors)
Simply a brilliant little tent for the money.....I love mine and have had no issues whatsoever with it in 2 years..... it does exactly what it says on the tin
Having used both single and double wall tents, I'll stick to double wall. I've had so much trouble with condensation and hardly any breathability on single wall tents that I have not had with double walled. Keep up the good reviews and the adventures. I have learned alot from watching your videos, and I think I might have to do some camping out in NC!
I know a sheet of plastic is cheap and works great as a ground sheet. But you could use one of those emergency insulation blankets with a foil reflective surface instead and get some heat retention in colder weather. Just need to find one that is thick enough not to get ripped and large enough.
Nice light weight tent for when the weather isn't looking like it's going to turn bad. I'd not like to be stuck in it for days though. PRO. light, compact and stealthy. Handles wind and rain nicely. Well built. CON. No room to much inside apart from sleeping. Cooking? Forget it. Wet gear... life will get uncomfortable. Not 4 season so will struggle in snow. ( Have a 2 man alpine tent for that weather) My solution is it take a lightweight DD 3x3 tarp as well. Now I have a cozy bedroom and sheltered space for cooking, eating and hanging out. Perfect mix
When I started camping in the BSA I had a frameless US/GI pack and an Army half shelter. I was generally wet and miderable. Best piece of GI gear was my mosquito barre. I was wet and cold, but the bugs weren't an issue. Man would I have killed for this sweet, sweet tent!
I had one of these for many years. Not for military work, but for my leisure adventures. Personally I don't think it would last for long in a military environment. But with that said, I absolutely agree with Luke about all the great benefits of this tent. It's a funny thing about gear, some you love and some you don't, without any logical reason. This is just a simple little budget tent with average spec's. And still I loved mine! Only reason I sold it is that I got married, and needed a tent for two :) Be aware that this tent is "inner-pitch-first". That means that you need to pitch it before the rainstorm hits you. If you pitch it when the rain is already pouring down, the inside tent floor will become wet before you get the fly up. This is nothing wrong. It's a common type of tent design, and you just have to plan around it. Luke knows what he is talking about, this tent is a great shelter for most people in a normal outdoor environment.
I just bought this for my upcoming thru-hike on the AT. Can't wait to try it out. Thanks a lot for the review, it definitely helped to influence my purchase.
I do have the Battlbox version since I have a subscription, and I've used it for several years with no problems. I'm five foot ten inches tall and I carry a lot of military gear ( I'm a retired Marine) including a rifle and load bearing gear, and I fit just fine. Perhaps you could shed some light on what your objections are with the Battlbox version. I don't care who makes it as long as it works.
Thanks for the 4 year update. Tells me a lot about the companies reliability. The design is pretty much identical to my Kelty Microlight Hiker (style 41990008) that I’ve been using since 1992. Looks the same, setup is the same. Only difference is the interior of the Kelty is solid, not mesh.
I bought this tent after seeing your review . I just love it , British made which i like , and by the way you can sit up in it . ( aka. short ) Very light and great for stealth camping and bike packing. Highly recommend this tent.
Thank you for making this video! Been waiting eagerly for it 😉 I still need to buy one of these tents, I have the Snugpak Stratosphere bivi and love it, but sometimes would love the space given in this one yet still keep a low profile for stealth camping.
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I’ve used snugpak on many ops over the last 9 years. They aren’t the lightest on the market, but they’re a good balance between durability and quality. I prefer my snug pack products over my Sea to Summit in rough environments. I’ll be carrying extra weight, but I know my snugpak will hold. I even prefer my snugpak sleeping bags over our issued ones.
Bought the same one a couple years back from Amazon...... used on a 4 day weekend down in the Everglades with rain.... Only issue for my dog and I was entering and exiting. But not really that bad. Condensation, as you said, was an issue, but nothing inside the mesh area. And we did have some pretty heavy showers that weekend. But no issues. Dog is a Shiba Inu.. so no issues for her either. The two stow pockets on each side are actually nice. I think it's time to break it out again. I have a lot of gear from Snugpak. So far.. all work well. To include the jungle bag and a fleece liner. And other items from Snugpak. Love all their stuff. Just wish it was made in the US and not China.
I use a lot of snugpak gear down here in the Everglades. No complaints. But I do use a jungle hammock down here. I have been looking at one on Amazon lately.. Thanks for a good review.
I own one and I must say, that if you take a bot of care while folding, you can pack it really small. Imusually carry the poles on the side of my pack and the tent itself in the bottom bag. And Imtotally agree: nice tent for little money.
I bought the same tent new in 2012 when it first came out and used it on every military excercise I've been on since. Probably have over 200 nights in the tent and it still looks new never had any issues with it. Only downside is I don't think I have the 16 pegs anymore lol.
Luke is absolutely (as usual) on point. I have one, love it and knew it's stats and had no issue with it. I use this with a static v lux with still room at the sides and especially length wise. Space inside is plentiful given its profile and I've never had an issue with it and have always used a ground sheet. I'd recommend it as well. Uses : sea kayak camping and backpacking. I own the bunker as well, super solid with a compromise of a vestibule,again not an issue for me personally.it was more a design preference over the scorpion.
i used it for 5 days last summer on the mississippi headwaters kayak camping and it worked fine. i am planning on taking it all 2300 miles (60-70 days) from lake itasca to the gulf of mexico june, 2019.! hopefully it holds up!
The Jack Wolfskin Gossamer is also a copy. But a realy good. The sticks are DAC aluminium 7001 and the bottom is made out of 150d polyester (with 10.000mm waterproof) so you don`t need a ground sheet. I use it for hiking in the alps so i can say it is stormproof ;)
the ionosphere is the only tent i own. i'm 6'1" and 250lbs, like luke said, we big people do fit, with room to spare. now a days, i'm more of a hammock person w/ the ov mummypod being a thing. but the ionosphere does get used from time to time. one downside, for me at least, is that if it is raining when you're setting it up, the tent, being mostly all bug net, will get wet, so get that rain fly on fast.
KamiyaK, hi I totally agree. To me this is the biggest con of all, I won’t even look at a tent, regardless of how good it is supposed to be, if you have to pitch the inner first, totally unacceptable in this day and age. Sorry rant over!!! Regards from deepest Dorset.
I have never see one that you set up fly first that you can use the inner with out setting up the fly. That being said I would prefer that I be able to use the inner to keep the bugs off me while I sleep, and still be able to see out in all directions. If you know of one that does please share I would love to take a look at it.
Journey Duo another person just pointed this one out and it is looking nice other than the it being a bright orange. That takes any stealth ideas out of it.
I can't think of a model off the top of my head, but there are tents where frame/poles of the free standing tent can be assembled and attached to the footprint along with the rainfly first. The body of the tent can be put up afterwards. Essentially the body of the tent hooks onto the frame poles, and clips into the corners of the fly. I'll see of I can find a model and link it to ya.
ALPS Mountaineering Lynx is the one my friend uses. He says the footprint is sold separately from the tent. And in order for you to set up the rain fly up first, the footprint is required. You can put the tent portion in afterward. Or as he likes it, not tent body at all. Here are the amazon links I've searched up. The 1st one is the tent, the 2nd link's the footprint: amazon.com/dp/B00BMKD1DU/ amazon.com/dp/B009WH186C/ If I remember correctly, Kelty also sells a similar one. Hope it helps a bit :)
Kinda heavy and big pack size for such a small tent/bivy - but i guess this means it has strong materials, so i guess this may be a reasonable choice for preppers who want something reliable that will last for years after society breaks down... The colors and low profile makes it good for hiding for anything from zombies to Russians, and the small footprint gives a reasonable amount of freedom in where to put up the tent. For normal situations, id still prefer a much more lightweight tent, or at least one that is high enough that i can sit up straight in it... I have my 2 favorite shelters, which are the Zpacks Duplex, and the Hilleberg Bivanorak. Both are very lightweight, and suitable for different terrain and weather - and as the Bivanorak can be used both as a kind of "bivy" (without any of the limiting and "claustrophobic" elements you get with conventional bivys) and as a pretty nice set of raingear, im totally fine with bringing both shelters in my backpack (combined weight is 1,1kg, which is more than reasonable for 2 shelters + raingear). The Duplex is of course great for rain, but the Bivanorak allows me to set up camp right on a somewhat narrow trail. Both shelters have their own advantages, and i find both options about equally enjoyable to use, but in their own ways.
One of the best bivi style tents around. Durable for the weight and all you need for sleeping out of the elements outdoors. Definitely recommend if you don't mind the reduced internal area; great product!
Love my Ionosphere. Just picked up a ground sheet from DD Hammocks, the " Magic Carpet XL" , to use with it, my Stratosphere, Backwoods Bungalow 2.0 and all my hammocks.
Still loving mine after 2 1/2 years. Goes everywhere with me on the back of my motorcycle. It's light weight makes it an ideal companion. I use mine with a down bag and an Exped Synmat for a lightweight system. I usually camp solo so this is great for just me. I'd love if Snugpak had put a loop inside in the head end for hanging a small light but that's a small niggle.
After seeing your review in 2013, I bought this tent as a beginning backpacker. It has been very good for all the reasons you listed in your reviews. I'm 6'4" and have enough room for my gear. I haven't had it out in a rain storm and wonder if the lack of vestibule would be a negative along with not being able to sit up while inside. Otherwise, it's a very good piece of gear!
I see if as more of an emergency tent for hunters who unexpectedly have to spend a night out in minus 20 or a brutal rainstorm traps them on the side of a mountain. Not sure why anyone would deliberately want to spend a night in a bivy. A 2 or 3 person tent with vestibule would get you the most enjoyable use I think
Good review. I am personally so done with "unboxing" vids. Get some mini groundhog stakes and be done with it. Since it is not freestanding, the stakes become even more important.
Would you still recommend this considering the questionable quality control over the recent years? I also had been looking at a Catoma Wolverine EBNS which I’ve had some experience using in the Corps. The thing that attracts me to the ionosphere is that its just that bit shorter, especially with the rainfly on when compared to the Catoma.
I'm 6'2" 280 it's cozy lol. And little work to get in and out, but I have had mine for a few years and no problems with it. I do overnights in the mountains near me. I use it in cooler weather, it's not a 4 season tent but under 40* I sleep on the ground. Otherwise I'm in a hammock.
Snugpac so very nearly got this design right. If they made the flysheet long enough to go right to the ground and also slightly longer at the front to make a small vestibule where both sides open, made it free standing with inner and outer as one (for pitching in foul weather) and finally some paracord in the inner ceiling to hang things from. Then it would be ideal.
Snugpak still putting out awesome products it’s worth taking a look at their hammock caccoon system it’s a superb product among other stuff they do their outdoor clothing is superb too.
Exo mountain gear 5500 pack fits perfectly at the head end for a pillow. I'm 6'2" and have plenty of room. You can cut a lot of weight by changing stakes and stuff sack and not taking as many stakes. I think its around 2.8 pounds now.
4+ years and it's still going strong?
That's money well spent! - Luke
TheOutdoorGearReview this had made me decide faster as I'm preparing for hurricane season here on Puerto Rico after the disastrous hurricane that was Maria i have a bushnell bivvy that i beat through almost all 6 ml months without power as the heat was unbearable i have to sleep outside now changing to a better product that im familiarized with as i have many items from Snugpak thanks for always giving your all greetings from the caribbean
TheOutdoorGearReview either you own stock or are getting commission
Hi Luke! have you ever tried "The Bunker" by Snugpak?? i would love to know your thoughts on that tent for a 2 person camping.
Thanks and keep up the good work here, you inspire us all.
Four years of frequent use over widely varying terrain, in all kinds of weather, tactical shelter of choice for many in the military, and though not built specifically to mil spec requirements is pretty much soldier proof. What better testamony to its excellence can there be, especially when you take into account the price.
I've used this for 3 months straight, backpacking through south korea. Apart from some slight condensation it worked great
I used to have one of these when I was in the Canadian Forces. I somehow lost it, I think during a break up. Sometimes I stay awake at night wondering how it's doing. I hope it thinks of me too.
🤣🤣😂
It does brother. It does.
Loool
Lmao
It misses you don’t worry
Late to the party but, this video is why i purchased mine. I just got heavy into the backpacking scene this year. And as a 6'1 300lb man, this tent is spacious enough for me with a sleeping pad and my backpack! If i can fit anyone can.
I used some shoe goo to cement 3-4” of 550 cord to the inner peak. I hang a light on that & it’s been holding strong for years. 🇺🇸
Comments like these are gold 🙏🏻🔱
Outdoor Outpost Glad to help! Love the tent! 🇺🇸
I'm a Paratrooper in the US Army stationed down at Fort Bragg. I used to jump into an exercise and utilize this tent on the drop zone in case we stayed overnight or any length of time. I also went to Korea for a year and used this tent at least 6 or 7 times in the mountains when my platoon did a RETRANS mission. The other times, I used my Stratosphere. I definitely adore these tents and would continue using them until i'm out of the Army and use them in the civilian world. I'll be in the desert for training in 2 months and guess what's coming with me? You guessed it.
Great to hear your Ionosphere is still going strong. I've never to date had any problems with any Snugpak gear. Take care Luke.
I have used this tent a lot - it is pretty well bomb proof if you fully stake it down. It is so low to the ground that it handles even heavy winds great. Leave the stuff sack and repair kit that it comes with at home, and replace the stakes with lighter ones. You can get the weight down to just under 3 lbs that way.
Having used Snugpak products on operations and after military life for the last 20 years, I can say they make some great products and have great customer service especially with the military guys. There are lighter and smaller bits of kit but not as well built as Snugpaks products. A great British company.
Who cares u were in the army big deal get a proper job next time
March 6, 2019---Let me guess....you nor any member of your family have ever served in the military. And Trump is not your President either?
"Get a real job like me, working at Starbucks" -Jimi Barker
jimi barker spoken like a true cowardly, self entitled prick
@@oldbaldfatman2766 They've never worked a day either.
March 6, 2019---Thanks for the review. You're the ONLY one who actually states how long it takes to assemble it.
I bought one in 2015 for a walk from Konstanz Germany to Nice, France; amazing little tent. It is so stealth that I spent 3 nights in a park in Nice behind a bush, and no one noticed me.
That’s epic.
I just bought one of my own. I hope it serves me well.
Was waiting for a long term review before pulling the trigger but sounds like money will be well spent. Thank you.
It's a great tent Nic, it should treat you right. - Luke
@@TheOutdoorGearReview
Can you review the European motorcycle tent?
It’s called Goose by Wingman of the Road.
Owned since 2/17/14 and still going strong. Amazing tent, even fairly lightweight when stripped down to trail weight (2.6lbs with only necessary stakes and no stuff sack). In my experience of owning a couple dozen tents, this is about as close to bombproof as I've seen.
I've used mine in the most outrageous rain storm ever, with 80mph winds and severe rain poor, it took the wind like a beast and was bond dry for over 48h, the news said extreme storm coming, so I perched it up on the seaside hill right in the elements as the dark clouds rolled over. The winds picked up and an ominous howl emerged as the wind whipped around the tent, the rain pounded the ionosphere it would crackle like a wrecked ship bashing upon the rocks, I thought to myself "how stupid was this" "no way it can take such a battering" but it did, it did well, it thrived and barley moved in the winds, like a tank amougst a gentle breeze, it waited for it to stop, strong sturdy and stubborn the tent wasnt going anywhere, how lucky I am to poses such a beast. Many adventures to come! No matter the weather!
C'mon
I used this tent while in Europe for the past 3 years. While hiking in the Alps it held up great in 50mph winds at 7000' due to its low profile and 16 stakes it comes with and with some added help from rocks for extra weight to hold it down. SnugPak says it's rated for 3 seasons. Putting a mylar blanket between the mesh the rain cover and under your sleeping bag will make it a 4 season. At times the temps dropped down to 0 degrees in the Swiss alps but I was nice and toasty inside my tent.
0 degrees Celsius ? It’s not fourth season 😉
@@barrybookmaker7433 That’s what I’m thinking. The Swiss Alps, get colder than freezing.
Going on 5 years with the Ionosphere and I absolutely love it! I made a ground sheet out of a heavy duty tarp to protect my OD green Ionosphere and my son's Coyote tan Ionosphere. An 8x4 tarp works perfectly for two tents by cutting down the long side middle and duck taping the cut seams. The only problem we are having with our tents is the cordage inside the poles are starting to loose their tightness and we have lost a few stakes. I will be looking into getting replacement poles or learning how to replace the cordage myself. Other than that, these are the BOMB tents for backpacking while camping -survival/stealth/ bush craft style. It would not be great for hiking trails for long periods of time because of the lack of interior space for gear or for example needing to change clothes in private.. Another note, we always use additional tarps over our Ionosphere when there is a threat of rain because we have been caught in torrential rain with no dry area to pack up our gear. I am a big fan of Aqua-quest tarps! Thanks for the great review!!!!
Great review after long term use, Luke! Thank you. I'm a Snugpak junkie being retired military. Like you, I love gear that is military surplus. Although not surplus per se, Snugpak products look and feel like it. My hammock gear is all Snugpak and for three years I've had NO issues with any of the four items. I'm not a groundhog but I will add the Ionosphere to my equipment for those trips where trees are non-existent.
I bought one of these after seeing your original review, and the review of another British you tuber. It's fantastic, really well ventilated, light, simple and made in Britain! One small gripe is the location of storage pockets, but once in, with my 5'8 frame, there's loads of room so it's not a problem.
Own a ionosphere tent for 6 years great beginners and experts tent only one problem it needs an overhead light stash pocket would highly recommend buying it
I have the snugpak ionosphere the day I got it I set the tent up spent the night In it that night it started raining heavily it did not leak I am pretty impressed with this little tent
You're right, used mine for first time this weekend. All my friends laughed at my 6'0, 190lbs self back up into it. Outside of that, they loved the design and quick setup.
I bought olive ionosphere 2021 winter and took it out in the woods. I liked that it is actually quite spacious and I had enough room for my 45L backpack next to me. Temperature outside was around +2 to +5 °C but comfy inside. It was raining mist during the evening and it was snowing during the night. By the morning I was under 10cm of snow. Of course bivy form is not the best when you expect heavy snow. In this case the good tension of the tent cover is very important. Make sure you shake the snow off before opening the door. Some condensation accumulated in the head area during the night (I would say about 2 mL of water in total). Some amount of condensation which formed on the ceiling eventually fell on my waterproof sleeping bag in the form of fine droplets. This could become an issue when sleeping bag surface is absorbent. This was my first winter camping experience ever so I can't really comment on the condensation.
I'm glad to have found this review, Luke. I placed one of these on a "save for later" list on Amazon. When tent camping I use an $89 Hewolf, a great inexpensive one-man tent made in China; weighs 3.3 pounds and incredible quality. It's not a good tent, however, for stealth camping due to being a dull orange and light grey in color. I use a roll of camo to hide it. Total weight just under 5 pounds with the camo roll. Normally I go with a camo tarp and Snugpack hammock. I love all of my Snugpak gear so now I will add the Ionosphere after seeing your review. At 3.3 pounds this will save me the extra 1.5 pounds. For my 71st birthday I'll be able to test it out in the Mongahela wilderness area. As always your reviews have helped me make wise decisions on gear selections. Mahalo, Bruh! P.S. My Hewolf has a hanging hook from the center and for a night light I found a red glow light you have to twist to activate (at Lowe's) but from outside the tent you cannot see the lighted interior...great for stealth camping. I read at night and don't have to use a headlamp. I may sew a hanging hook in the Ionosphere.
I just slept through a heavy rainstorm in my 6+yr old Eureka TCOP. Same tent I reviewed over 6yrs ago, and it still does not leak.
I've got a TCOP also and it's the best low profile tent I've slept in. I'm retired from the army (82nd Abn) and it sure beats those shelter halves they issues us in the 1970's!
Have had my TCOP for about 3 years. Bought it used on eBay. Steven Thomas, you're absolutely correct. This tent beats the snot outta the shelter halves we had in the 101st. :D
Steven Thomas Hated the shelter halves lol. Thank you Lord for technology!
That's my tent! It's a very good product for its price! I stayed really nice and dry in torrential downpours during a summer hike in the white mountains of New Hampshire.
Overall snugpak is a good company. Very utilitarian and very reasonably priced tents.
I also own The Cave which is a 4 person, 4 season tent by the same company.
I bought this tent a couple years ago after watching your video on it. It is a great tent, but it is a bit of pain getting into and out of the thing. But I knew that going in when I bought it. Still though, I do love it. Great follow-up review, Luke! I completely agree with all your points (pros/cons).
hokieskrb I did the same! And agree it is a pain to get out of !
I love my Scorpion-3, its perfect for 2 people. I also like how dark it is when its closed up, makes sleeping in easy ^^
Can you/ Have you used the scorpion in the summer time? I live in the Southeast US and wondered about using the scorpion in I needed to in the summer or warmer parts of the year
I just got one yesterday and tested it out last night in the rain.
This tent is the real deal. 9/10.
I’m glad you do these videos, you’ve sold me on it 100x over, I also just want to thank you for what you do
This tent makes sense for snipers and paratroopers, but other than that I don't see why anyone would want one. Carry an extra 2 lbs for a 2 person tent that has some room. Maybe if your a sheep hunter camping on the side of a mountain it'd be a good safety system if caught out in a storm without being able to hike back to camp. That's what I see it for. Otherwise 2 and person tents are pretty awesome and pretty light these days
I bought my ionosphere because of your review a few years ago and I absolutely love it. Thanks for the recommendation.. I use this tent all the time!
I have this guy and I enjoy it! It is small, but not so small I'm suffocating in it. It's been so reliable, that when I drive across country (Buffalo to Las Vegas) I keep this in the "I'm trapped in the middle of nowhere cause my car broke down" bag. It's decent for light winter camping too!
Luke! I own this (based on your review 4 years ago) bought it shortly afterwards. It's been everywhere with me as well. Grand Canyon, Himalayas, Channel Islands, you name it. It honestly looks as good as the day i got it. Amazing reviews on it dude. Thanks again for the solid recommendation 4 years ago. Caleb from Flagstaff
I have a tonne of tents but the Ionosphere is by far the best for all the reasons you say.
I use for bikepacking in the UK. Been on 4 trips 2-nighters and a bunch of singles this year. Last week I wildcamped on the Cissbury Ring - it's a 6000yr old hill fort overlooking the South Coast of England. Lightning storm moved in over the sea in the night - dry as a bone inside. Great place to be. This and my Vargo Titanium Hexagon woodstove are the two best bits of kit I have.
Thanks for all the interesting posts!
I've had this tent since 2013 used to be my kid's tent. He beat it up along with all the tent stakes. He stopped using the tent, and I will start to use it now. I pulled it out this weekend and looked at the tent and it still looks brand new without any issues. The only problem I see is that the elastic string in the poles is about worn out I had to tighten it up and cut off a bunch of the string, I might just buy some more and replace it if it continues not to work properly. I will replace the stakes this week, and get it ready for a shakedown, going to hike Philmont. I am very pleased with the tent and believe it is one of the best owned by my kid and I have ever had.
Bought myself one about two years ago. Being 6'4 I was worried it would be too small but it fit me, my xl sleeping bag, and even my ruck above my head! Also had plenty of space on the sides for misc items. wet and cold or hot an humid, it takes it like a champ, I love my Ionosphere!
- This tent
- Klymit static v
- Snugpak special forces 1 sleeping bag
- OD green SOL escape bivvy
Try it and you will never look back.
Just purchased one on your recommendation, can't wait to use it. Hope it lasts me 4yrs + I'm british Forces & used Snugpack in the past & like their Stuff. 👌
Just picked one up and can't wait to test it out on the AT next week. Thanks for the great info Luke!
Too claustrophobic for me but thank you for the excellent long term review, we need more like it from youtube.
Great update. I too have a ton of Snugpak gear and its all held up great. I modified the UQ a bit by giving it a primary + secondary suspension and adding end cinches. Doing so makes it much easier to setup and adjust. I modified the TQ by cutting off the "wings" on each side and then user them to make the footbox deeper. As far as the Jungle Blanket goes, i turned one into a 50° 3/4 length UQ that can be used on a regular gathered end hammock as well as my Warbonnet Ridgerunner. I also turned a second Jungle Blanket into a TQ that has a drawstring + velcro footbox so it can be used in blanket mode still as well. To modify the hammock Cocoon , I add a small loop of shockcord prussiked onto my ridgeline to which i use a micro S biner to clip the head end zipper to it. This keeps it up off my face if Im zipped all the way inside it and also gives me some extra room so i can read or watch a movie on my kindle. One last item I slightly modified was the Thermalon sleeping bag liner. I sit it about 3/4 of the way down to give it a TQ shape instead and added a snap so it can be secured behind my neck and shoulders , then cinched closed like most regular topquilts to keep any drafts of cold air out. The rest of my Snugpak gear ; the Patrol Poncho + Poncho Liner , All Weather Shelter, Snuggie Pillow, Jungle Bag and Bivy I haven't modified. Its all held up great the past 4 years. I even use the hammock insulation inside "365" since I switched to a hammock full time about 3 years ago! I have SEVERAL vids on my channel showing all the mods as well as a wet out test i did using the Cocoon and UQ if anyone is interested. I HIGHLY recommend anything from Snugpak..... its all very well made, bombproof and will last for a very long time. ~ Chesapeake
I purchased this tent almost 8 months ago and have only been able ro use it one time since. That 1 time was enough to prove this is a great 1 person option. It will be comming with me on my 2 week motorcycle camping trip commimg soon.
I've been using Snugpak gear for about 3 years now and it's all still going strong like new. I've got the 10×10 all weather shelter, Underquilt, Topquilt, Cocoon, Jungle Blanket, a Jungle Blanket that I turned into a 7/8 length Underquilt, Poncho & Liner and Snuggy pillow. I even modified the UQ and gave it the same kind of suspension as my HG Incubator and the TQ by taking the wings off and using them to deepen the footbox. It's all held up great and I still use all of it even though I have lighter, warmer and more versatile cottage manufactured gear. Snugpak really is an amazing " small" UK based company and I recommend their gear to anyone looking to get into hammocks or bushcraft. Love the vid, I have a few vids on my channel that show the mods I've done to my Snugpak gear if your interested. Keep em coming Luke!
The jungle blanket is a great piece of kit, well recommended.
Had mine for about 4+ years now
I run an outdoor company,normally Hammock when I can and have a lot of tents available to me up as far as a tentipi Safir 9
This tent gets used more than any of them when I’m ground dwelling. With a tarp, it’s a great bedroom. With a bike, it’s fine and enough to work for most stuff without being a pain to erect. Backpacking, doesn’t weigh much and I trust the build ... really can’t fault it
I’m 6 ft 1 and about 114 kg so not small and room is perfect.
I can use just a tarp, I can use bivi bags, I can use both but tbh, there isn’t much gain in weight doing that and this is easier and works
It’s a bloody good tent
I have had a Coleman for over 10yrs and it's still great. Strength and Honour.
After watching your reviews and seeing you use it in videos I bought one. I absolutely love it. I also have watched several others that I trust on gear reviews they all had the same things to say about it.
I said 16 stakes! LOL! Got that 16 stakes !.. when i was in Afghanistan a couple years back I saw at least a 150 of these piled up with some Army Soldiers!
..There are 4 LIGHTS, FOUR! take on that?
After watching this video I decided to buy this tent. I bought it and used it last week. I love it because it is lightweight and compact. I could washed it at the campsite.
Many thanks for posting this review, I've been thinking of buying one for stealthy wild camps over here in the UK. A great and thorough review. Thanks again! - Ben (AKA Londoner Outdoors)
Simply a brilliant little tent for the money.....I love mine and have had no issues whatsoever with it in 2 years..... it does exactly what it says on the tin
Having used both single and double wall tents, I'll stick to double wall. I've had so much trouble with condensation and hardly any breathability on single wall tents that I have not had with double walled.
Keep up the good reviews and the adventures. I have learned alot from watching your videos, and I think I might have to do some camping out in NC!
Watched your review and purchased about two years ago. No problems. Love it.
I know a sheet of plastic is cheap and works great as a ground sheet. But you could use one of those emergency insulation blankets with a foil reflective surface instead and get some heat retention in colder weather. Just need to find one that is thick enough not to get ripped and large enough.
Nice light weight tent for when the weather isn't looking like it's going to turn bad. I'd not like to be stuck in it for days though.
PRO.
light, compact and stealthy. Handles wind and rain nicely.
Well built.
CON.
No room to much inside apart from sleeping. Cooking? Forget it.
Wet gear... life will get uncomfortable.
Not 4 season so will struggle in snow. ( Have a 2 man alpine tent for that weather)
My solution is it take a lightweight DD 3x3 tarp as well. Now I have a cozy bedroom and sheltered space for cooking, eating and hanging out. Perfect mix
When I started camping in the BSA I had a frameless US/GI pack and an Army half shelter. I was generally wet and miderable. Best piece of GI gear was my mosquito barre. I was wet and cold, but the bugs weren't an issue. Man would I have killed for this sweet, sweet tent!
Hey Luke , I hope you and your family are well and staying safe. Been thinking about purchasing this tent thank you brother
Hey Luke !! They are coming out with a ground sheet later this year !!!! Possibly November !!!!
I have the Jack Wolfskin Gossomer version of this tent I love it to bits.
Great Review. Love Snugpak from my time in the British Army.
Is it standard issue?
I had one of these for many years. Not for military work, but for my leisure adventures. Personally I don't think it would last
for long in a military environment. But with that said, I absolutely agree with Luke about all the great benefits of this tent.
It's a funny thing about gear, some you love and some you don't, without any logical reason. This is just a simple little budget
tent with average spec's. And still I loved mine! Only reason I sold it is that I got married, and needed a tent for two :)
Be aware that this tent is "inner-pitch-first". That means that you need to pitch it before the rainstorm hits you.
If you pitch it when the rain is already pouring down, the inside tent floor will become wet before you get the fly up.
This is nothing wrong. It's a common type of tent design, and you just have to plan around it.
Luke knows what he is talking about, this tent is a great shelter for most people in a normal outdoor environment.
I just bought this for my upcoming thru-hike on the AT. Can't wait to try it out. Thanks a lot for the review, it definitely helped to influence my purchase.
I do have the Battlbox version since I have a subscription, and I've used it for several years with no problems. I'm five foot ten inches tall and I carry a lot of military gear ( I'm a retired Marine) including a rifle and load bearing gear, and I fit just fine. Perhaps you could shed some light on what your objections are with the Battlbox version. I don't care who makes it as long as it works.
Thanks for the 4 year update. Tells me a lot about the companies reliability.
The design is pretty much identical to my Kelty Microlight Hiker (style 41990008) that I’ve been using since 1992. Looks the same, setup is the same. Only difference is the interior of the Kelty is solid, not mesh.
I bought this tent after seeing your review . I just love it , British made which i like , and by the way you can sit up in it . ( aka. short ) Very light and great for stealth camping and bike packing. Highly recommend this tent.
Thank you for making this video! Been waiting eagerly for it 😉
I still need to buy one of these tents, I have the Snugpak Stratosphere bivi and love it, but sometimes would love the space given in this one yet still keep a low profile for stealth camping.
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I’ve used snugpak on many ops over the last 9 years. They aren’t the lightest on the market, but they’re a good balance between durability and quality. I prefer my snug pack products over my Sea to Summit in rough environments. I’ll be carrying extra weight, but I know my snugpak will hold. I even prefer my snugpak sleeping bags over our issued ones.
Bought the same one a couple years back from Amazon...... used on a 4 day weekend down in the Everglades with rain.... Only issue for my dog and I was entering and exiting. But not really that bad. Condensation, as you said, was an issue, but nothing inside the mesh area. And we did have some pretty heavy showers that weekend. But no issues. Dog is a Shiba Inu.. so no issues for her either. The two stow pockets on each side are actually nice. I think it's time to break it out again. I have a lot of gear from Snugpak. So far.. all work well. To include the jungle bag and a fleece liner. And other items from Snugpak. Love all their stuff. Just wish it was made in the US and not China.
You will not go wrong purchasing this product. It's top notch.
I'm sold! I was wavering between this and a less expensive knock off, but I don't see any four years on videos for any of them.
, great just purchased one , trying it out in the peak district uk great tent reviews and very honest thank you paul from Sheffield uk
WOW...$140 for the green...2 yrs ago I paid $80 for my brand new green Snugpak...I got really lucky...and it is a very good tent/bivy.
I use a lot of snugpak gear down here in the Everglades. No complaints. But I do use a jungle hammock down here. I have been looking at one on Amazon lately.. Thanks for a good review.
Got one years ago. I don't regret buying it.
I own one and I must say, that if you take a bot of care while folding, you can pack it really small. Imusually carry the poles on the side of my pack and the tent itself in the bottom bag. And Imtotally agree: nice tent for little money.
I got one of these badboys. I love mine, and haven't had any problems either. I really wish they sold a camo version though. 👍🏻
They do now!
it looks pretty tempting tbh, cheers for the heads up 👍🏻
Thanks for the great review. One of the best on this product.
Good tip, too, to use the impermeable groundsheet to help extend its life.
I bought the same tent new in 2012 when it first came out and used it on every military excercise I've been on since. Probably have over 200 nights in the tent and it still looks new never had any issues with it. Only downside is I don't think I have the 16 pegs anymore lol.
Luke is absolutely (as usual) on point. I have one, love it and knew it's stats and had no issue with it. I use this with a static v lux with still room at the sides and especially length wise. Space inside is plentiful given its profile and I've never had an issue with it and have always used a ground sheet. I'd recommend it as well. Uses : sea kayak camping and backpacking. I own the bunker as well, super solid with a compromise of a vestibule,again not an issue for me personally.it was more a design preference over the scorpion.
i used it for 5 days last summer on the mississippi headwaters kayak camping and it worked fine. i am planning on taking it all 2300 miles (60-70 days) from lake itasca to the gulf of mexico june, 2019.! hopefully it holds up!
The Jack Wolfskin Gossamer is also a copy. But a realy good. The sticks are DAC aluminium 7001 and the bottom is made out of 150d polyester (with 10.000mm waterproof) so you don`t need a ground sheet. I use it for hiking in the alps so i can say it is stormproof ;)
the ionosphere is the only tent i own. i'm 6'1" and 250lbs, like luke said, we big people do fit, with room to spare. now a days, i'm more of a hammock person w/ the ov mummypod being a thing. but the ionosphere does get used from time to time. one downside, for me at least, is that if it is raining when you're setting it up, the tent, being mostly all bug net, will get wet, so get that rain fly on fast.
KamiyaK, hi I totally agree. To me this is the biggest con of all, I won’t even look at a tent, regardless of how good it is supposed to be, if you have to pitch the inner first, totally unacceptable in this day and age. Sorry rant over!!! Regards from deepest Dorset.
I have never see one that you set up fly first that you can use the inner with out setting up the fly. That being said I would prefer that I be able to use the inner to keep the bugs off me while I sleep, and still be able to see out in all directions. If you know of one that does please share I would love to take a look at it.
Journey Duo another person just pointed this one out and it is looking nice other than the it being a bright orange. That takes any stealth ideas out of it.
I can't think of a model off the top of my head, but there are tents where frame/poles of the free standing tent can be assembled and attached to the footprint along with the rainfly first. The body of the tent can be put up afterwards. Essentially the body of the tent hooks onto the frame poles, and clips into the corners of the fly. I'll see of I can find a model and link it to ya.
ALPS Mountaineering Lynx is the one my friend uses. He says the footprint is sold separately from the tent. And in order for you to set up the rain fly up first, the footprint is required. You can put the tent portion in afterward. Or as he likes it, not tent body at all.
Here are the amazon links I've searched up. The 1st one is the tent, the 2nd link's the footprint:
amazon.com/dp/B00BMKD1DU/
amazon.com/dp/B009WH186C/
If I remember correctly, Kelty also sells a similar one. Hope it helps a bit :)
Kinda heavy and big pack size for such a small tent/bivy - but i guess this means it has strong materials, so i guess this may be a reasonable choice for preppers who want something reliable that will last for years after society breaks down... The colors and low profile makes it good for hiding for anything from zombies to Russians, and the small footprint gives a reasonable amount of freedom in where to put up the tent. For normal situations, id still prefer a much more lightweight tent, or at least one that is high enough that i can sit up straight in it... I have my 2 favorite shelters, which are the Zpacks Duplex, and the Hilleberg Bivanorak. Both are very lightweight, and suitable for different terrain and weather - and as the Bivanorak can be used both as a kind of "bivy" (without any of the limiting and "claustrophobic" elements you get with conventional bivys) and as a pretty nice set of raingear, im totally fine with bringing both shelters in my backpack (combined weight is 1,1kg, which is more than reasonable for 2 shelters + raingear). The Duplex is of course great for rain, but the Bivanorak allows me to set up camp right on a somewhat narrow trail. Both shelters have their own advantages, and i find both options about equally enjoyable to use, but in their own ways.
One of the best bivi style tents around. Durable for the weight and all you need for sleeping out of the elements outdoors. Definitely recommend if you don't mind the reduced internal area; great product!
Love my Ionosphere. Just picked up a ground sheet from DD Hammocks, the " Magic Carpet XL" , to use with it, my Stratosphere, Backwoods Bungalow 2.0 and all my hammocks.
thanks, I am HUGE fan of their jungle blanket, gonna have to get one of these too.
the jungle bag is better than the blanket. it will unzip into a blanket but its a sleeping bag and has a built in bug net for your face
I just ordered this tent off the back of your review
Snugpack makes top notch gear that you can depend on!
I plan on getting me one real soon. Thanks Luke and keep up the great work!
Still loving mine after 2 1/2 years. Goes everywhere with me on the back of my motorcycle. It's light weight makes it an ideal companion. I use mine with a down bag and an Exped Synmat for a lightweight system. I usually camp solo so this is great for just me.
I'd love if Snugpak had put a loop inside in the head end for hanging a small light but that's a small niggle.
After seeing your review in 2013, I bought this tent as a beginning backpacker. It has been very good for all the reasons you listed in your reviews. I'm 6'4" and have enough room for my gear. I haven't had it out in a rain storm and wonder if the lack of vestibule would be a negative along with not being able to sit up while inside. Otherwise, it's a very good piece of gear!
I see if as more of an emergency tent for hunters who unexpectedly have to spend a night out in minus 20 or a brutal rainstorm traps them on the side of a mountain. Not sure why anyone would deliberately want to spend a night in a bivy. A 2 or 3 person tent with vestibule would get you the most enjoyable use I think
Good review. I am personally so done with "unboxing" vids. Get some mini groundhog stakes and be done with it. Since it is not freestanding, the stakes become even more important.
Would you still recommend this considering the questionable quality control over the recent years? I also had been looking at a Catoma Wolverine EBNS which I’ve had some experience using in the Corps. The thing that attracts me to the ionosphere is that its just that bit shorter, especially with the rainfly on when compared to the Catoma.
I was thinking about hunting with this and your review makes me feel much better about that decision
As a 6’2” 200 lb guy I appreciate the 4 year review of this tent. I was curious as how the tent would be a for a person my size.
I'm 6'2" 280 it's cozy lol. And little work to get in and out, but I have had mine for a few years and no problems with it. I do overnights in the mountains near me. I use it in cooler weather, it's not a 4 season tent but under 40* I sleep on the ground. Otherwise I'm in a hammock.
Rich E Rich thanks I appreciate the information.
Fantastic review video!
Now this is a review! Thanks a lot!
02:28 The fly is NYLON 210T, not polyester 210T...according to the Snugpak website
Snugpac so very nearly got this design right. If they made the flysheet long enough to go right to the ground and also slightly longer at the front to make a small vestibule where both sides open, made it free standing with inner and outer as one (for pitching in foul weather) and finally some paracord in the inner ceiling to hang things from. Then it would be ideal.
I love mine, my own comment is to do with the tent pegs: they have sharp edges, I have cut my fingers almost every time I’ve used my Ionosphere.
Best thing to get the pegs out is a coin. I use a 2p coin; in the US I suppose a nickel would be about the right size.
Snugpak still putting out awesome products it’s worth taking a look at their hammock caccoon system it’s a superb product among other stuff they do their outdoor clothing is superb too.
Exo mountain gear 5500 pack fits perfectly at the head end for a pillow. I'm 6'2" and have plenty of room. You can cut a lot of weight by changing stakes and stuff sack and not taking as many stakes. I think its around 2.8 pounds now.