in search for a better tent.

[il padrone]

I used to lust after the Macpac Minaret. Friends had them as a single person tent. Then I heard about ventilation issues (only one entry). Eventually I bought a Wilderness Equipment Second Arrow - very good tent and high quality even though made in Vietnam. I got it for a bit less than what a Minaret would have cost - about $200 less in a store members' sale night. It has great ventilation through the wide tunnel entrances and roof vent. It weighs about 2.6kgs.

I still have the Second Arrow, but after viewing another friend's tent I bought the Exped Vela 1 from Moontrail (almost in your backyard Danneaux), for less than half what Macpac price their Minaret tent at. The Vela 1 is a wonderful tent, everything I want, roomy for one, lightweight, and very spacious gear stowage. I lived in it for 9 weeks back in 2010 on my Melbourne to Oodnadatta tour. It can get warm in summer conditions but has a unique fly system to cool things off quickly. Weight is just 1.8kgs.



Really quick to pitch and pull down as well  

[Philb]

I agree Macpac are going on reputation a bit as they once made good gear. I still use my Eureka Hike'N'Bike. Had it for about 15 years and basic tent design hasn't changed that much, except I can't cook in it and breath at the same time!