Thoughts on Terra Nova Helios 2? (vs Zephyro in particular)

Tim Sharpe

06/06/2012 at 12:32

Hi all

Having signed up to do a multi-stop hike later this year I need a lighter tent - a 2 man so that I can use it to take one of the little 'uns out too on other trips.

After spending hours and hours working out which tent to get I'm down to either of these:

Terra Nova Heilos 2
Wild Country Zephyros 2
Robens Mythos Duo

(The Robens is in there because the Cotswold price looks good.)

Some great threads on the Zephyros, so I feel like it would be a reasonably safe bet.

However for not much more money the Helios 2 looks bigger inside, with a bigger porch but a smaller packed size. The construction also looks like a better bet for inclement conditions.

Can't find too many reviews on the Helios 2, so thoughts would be very much appreciated.

According to the current Mrs S, these represent the upper limit of my spending allowance!

Montgomery Wick

06/06/2012 at 13:53

The Mythos is smaller than it looks on paper, and the pole grommets are fiddly plastic things.

http://www.robens.de/imagecache/Robens/Telte,%20tarps%20og%20l%E6sk%E6rme/Telte/Xtra%20Lite/130001_101_MythosDuo_Rob11.tif_61.jpg

I was interested in them - until I got to play with one. If you're not tall it'd be OK at that price, though.

The other two tents - I much prefer side entry porches, so it's lying alongside you rather than at your head (or feet) - easier to get in/out, cooking, etc.

geekinthesticks

06/06/2012 at 14:41

I am very happy with my Zephyros 2. However, for two it's very crowded. I have taken my 12yr old daughter out in it a few times. It's fine for an overnighter, but not for an extended trip. Also as it only bas a single side entrance someone has to scramble over the other person to get in/out.

If you are tall (I am 6ft 2"), you can't sit up properly. Not much of a problem for me, as I just use it for sleeping. However, I wouldn't want to spend a couple of wet days confined inside.

Tim Sharpe

06/06/2012 at 15:58

Ah, yes, those grommets do look fiddly - probably not ideal with cold, wet hands. I do like the Roben but I'm getting nothing over the Helios 2 in terms of space.

I too prefer the side opening and with my height being a totally average 5'11" I think I'd be able to scrape sitting up in either of the others.

Everyone seems happy with the Zephyros...

Tim Sharpe

06/06/2012 at 16:45

Had a quick online chat with TN.

The Helios 2:

1. Is brand new - hence no reviews etc. Will be available online any day now.

2. Free standing but with guys if there's a bit more stability required.

3. Uses poles and other components from the existing range - my first concern on hearing it was new was that spares would be a problem in the future.

More food for thought!

paul baggett

06/06/2012 at 16:46

well the zephyros 2 is £89.99 with free delivery from field and trek at the minute, maybe that will sway you if nothing else lol.

Tim Sharpe

06/06/2012 at 22:31

Indeed. Pulling the trigger on that now.

Neville Guibarra

06/06/2012 at 22:59

Tim,

The Heilos 2 looks like a budget version of the Solar Comp 2 which I have. It's got reasonable floor space, would be OK for 1 adult plus a child, but you might find headroom a bit tight.
There's a full review on Terry Abraham's site
http://terrybnd.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/terra-nova-solar-competition-2-tent.html#more

Edited: 06/06/2012 at 23:00

Tim Sharpe

07/06/2012 at 10:42

That's a great link Neville, much appreciated - some great blogs out there I'm just finding out about really.

Decision made last night to go with the Zephyros 2 at £90 from F&T. Thought it would do the job (well, for now - you can never have enough tents) and it was a great price. Ordered it last night...

Then, this morning I note it's back up to £120, so good timing.

I do think the Helios 2 is a great idea and might well be an option in the future.

Gwersylla Cnau

03/12/2012 at 00:05

I'm having exactly the same dillema just the 3 I'm considering are the Helios, Zephyros and Duolite.

How did you get on with the Zephyros with you and the little 'un? because thats what I would be using it for.

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