by Bill Dragoo
Testing new products is always an exercise in possibilities. With today’s innovations we often learn that in fact there are a few new things under the sun.
At least there are new ways to apply traditional technology and generate better outcomes. Heimplanet’s Cave XL tent with its Inflatable Diamond Grid has our attention.
The inflatable Diamond Grid feels tough, like the shell of a Navy Seal Zodiac inflatable boat.
Five stiff and ergonomic stakes surround each cell of the proven geodesic dome shape, securing it firmly to the ground and providing tether points for the supplied guy wires.
A generous, roll top stuff sack has ample room for the entire tent and no disassembly is required to stow it away. Durable polyester material feels like quality and simple toggles secure each attach point in seconds. We did a practice setup in our yard before embarking on an extended trip out west in a couple of weeks where a more substantial trial will be conducted. German products, German innovation and German quality control have already impressed us with the attention to detail room and robust materials. Weighing in at under 12 lbs this stout shelter sets up quickly after the initial assembly and provides a dry but well ventilated abode for a night, a month or even longer if necessary.
Three and four season models are available.
Susan and I are eager to learn more and to see if this tent is really all it’s cracked up to be. Stick around and we’ll all learn together!
Is there a Motorcycle size version?
The Kirra is smaller but they are all bigger than lightweight backpacking tents. https://en.heimplanet.com/products/zelte-kirra-classic
Bill,
That tent set up is bigger than my whole tent, sleeping bag, inflatable ground pad, and pillow. I’m thinking that’s strictly a 4 wheel off roaders tent.
Agreed. We have ultralight backpacking gear for those times when it’s needed. My camping kit for The Wrong Way Home fit in a small tail bag on the R69s. This tent is much more robust and roomy, more in the class of a Gazelle, Redverse or Oz Tent. We’ve not used it in the wilds yet but it appears two of its best features is super quick deployment and durability. You will never link a pole and it should stand up to wind and abrasion better than most.