Saturday 23 July 2011

Golite Shangri-La One Person

Sleeps: 1
Weight:  555g
Dimensions:  Approx 250x75cm
Pack Size: 20x10x10cm without poles
RRP:  £125

Review:  The Golite Shangri-La One Person is cross between a tent and a tarp, in that the tent is essentially a flysheet pegged over a groundsheet recepticle (which bears a passing resemblance to a shallow paddling pool).  As a result the tent is very light at just over 500 grams all in, and (as with Golite products) is of sufficient quality to withstand serious adverse weather conditions.  The tent is suitable for taller people, as with decent length of the groundsheet, although the width at one end is getting towards the 'snug' end of the spectrum.  It has a fairly unique shape amongst one-person tents with a ridged pitch, rather than the usual arc-shaped structure, which means that whilst the absolute height is greater the risk of touching the fly-sheet also increases.  The flysheet and groundsheet structure means that the tent can let in the cold, so should be paired with a high-quality sleeping bag in bad weather. The only real negative is the price, at over £100 for a quality flysheet and groundsheet, but for real lightweight camping with quality materials, the Shangri-La should not be overlooked.

Best bits:  Very lightweight, good length, quality product
Worst bits:  Expensive for what is essentially a flysheet, a bit narrow at one end
Alternatives:  The Golite Eden is heavier, but an actual tent with bags of room; the Gelert Solo is a lot cheaper and does the job.

RRP: £125
Where to get it cheaper?:  Click here: £100