Wild Country

★★★1/2 Zephyros 2 Compact

£220

1.85kg

unit pitching, two doors, cost

small for two

Pitching: unit

Flysheet: Stormtex P4000 PU polyester, 4000mm hydrostatic head

Inner: nylon

Groundsheet: Aqua Stop polyester, 5000mm hydrostatic head

Poles: main 8.5mm 7001 T6 alloy Superflex, ends glass-fibre

Pegs: 10 x 15cm V

Porches: 1, 2 doors

Inner dimensions: 230x118/100cm, peak height 92cm terra-nova.co.uk

The Zephyros 2 Compact has the same basic design as the Terra Nova Laser Compact All Season 2. The main difference is in the materials (which aren’t as heavy-duty, so the Zephyros is designed as a three-season tent rather than a four-season tent) and also the cost (which is less than half that of the Laser). There’s little difference in the weight either.

Whilst less specified than the Laser’s, the fabrics have higher hydrostatic heads than many of the other tents and seem quite tough. The main pole is a bit lighter and the short end poles are fibreglass rather than alloy. There’s only guyline at each end rather than three too.

The construction is just as good, though, and I can see no reason why the Zephyros won’t last well.

The Zephyros pitches as a unit and can be erected quickly. Whilst it’s a little larger inside than the Laser 2 it’s still a tight fit for two. Two mats overlap at each end and there’s little headroom except in the centre, and even there my head presses against the fabric. For two friendly people who aren’t very tall it might be okay for a short trip, but overall I’d say this is better as a solo tent.

Like the Laser the Zephyros one porch but two doors. The porch isn’t that deep, but the inner can be pulled back to give more room if necessary.