The Highlander Refuge One backpacking tent delivers impressive performance without the hefty price tag. This comprehensive review explores its key features and performance in the field, highlighting its affordability and practicality for solo adventurers. Weighing just 2kg, the Refuge One boasts a lightweight design that's easy to pack and carry, making it ideal for those prioritizing both convenience and budget-friendliness on the trail. We delve into its setup, space, weather resistance, and ventilation, ultimately assessing whether it lives up to its promise of affordable performance.This review examines the Refuge One's single-hoop aluminum pole system, its detachable inner tent offering versatility, and its surprisingly spacious interior for a one-person tent. We explore the practicality of its features, including storage pockets, gear storage space, and efficient ventilation. Finally, we conclude with an overall assessment of the Highlander Refuge One's suitability for budget-conscious backpackers seeking a reliable and well-designed shelter for their solo adventures.
Pros And Cons
- Affordable (£130)
- Reliable three-season backpacking design
- Weighs 2kg, easily fits in a backpack
- Waterproof dry bag stuff bag
- Easy setup with one hooped aluminium pole and removable corner poles
- Removable inner tent (can be used as a tarp)
- Adjustable inner tent tension
- Plenty of space inside for a 5'10" person to sit up
- Little sagging when lying down, ample room for gear and two sleeping mats
- Handy mesh pocket and hanging point
- Sizable porch for storing gear and cooking
- Mesh vent and two-way door for ventilation
- Withstood windy weather
- Low profile, aerodynamic, and stable design
- Subtle design helps blend in with environment
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Price and Weight
The Highlander Refuge One tent offers impressive value at just £130. This makes it a very competitive option within the backpacking tent market. Its lightweight design, weighing only 2 kg, ensures easy portability. This makes it ideal for those who prioritize both affordability and convenience on the trail.
Setup and Design
Setting up the Refuge One is remarkably straightforward. The single-hoop aluminum pole system is intuitive, and the additional corner poles provide extra headroom. These corner poles are removable, offering flexibility depending on your needs. Even with the corner poles in place, packing the tent remains effortless.
The inner tent is detachable, allowing you to utilize the flysheet alone for a minimalist approach. This versatile design caters to various backpacking preferences, whether prioritizing weight or full shelter.
Space and Features
Despite its compact design, the Refuge One provides ample space for a single person. At 5'10", the reviewer had sufficient headroom while sitting and minimal sagging while lying down. There's plenty of room for sleeping gear and additional kit.
Useful features include a mesh pocket, a hanging point for clothes, and a sizable porch area for gear storage and even simple cooking. The two-way main door enhances ventilation while maintaining weather protection.
Weather Resistance and Design
The Highlander Refuge One has proven reliable in windy conditions, thanks to its low-profile, aerodynamic design. The robust construction ensures stability in adverse weather. The subtle color scheme and low profile also allow for discreet blending into the environment.
Airflow is managed through a mesh vent and the two-way main door which allows for increased ventilation when needed. The combination of these features provides both protection and breathability.
Overall Conclusion
The Highlander Refuge One is a compelling option for budget-conscious backpackers seeking reliable performance. It balances affordability with a thoughtful design, incorporating features like a simple setup, ample space, and good weather resistance. For solo adventurers looking for a practical and well-designed tent without breaking the bank, the Refuge One is a strong contender.
