MSR Hubba HP 1 Man Tent First Impressions

Have just taken delivery of a shiny new MSR Hubba HP so here are the reasons I made this choice and my first impressions.

Having been looking for a tent for long cycle tour next year my main criteria were, ease of pitching, lightweight, twin skin, robust enough to survive at least a few months on the road and preferably free standing. Hubbas are often recommended for these purposes.

Ease of pitching - Generally I prefer a tent which pitches outer first as this makes life so much easier when it's raining. My trusty Vaude Spider, much like a the current taurus, is fantastic in this respect. The hubba pitches inner first although this is a pretty quick process. The singular pole system is quite a clever means of creating a freestanding tent with only one pole connection. Essentially a long central pole with twin prongs at each end and in the middle, all interconnected with elastic.

Quality - Intitial impressions are good. Welded strong points at the corners of the fly look robust and all general finish is to a high standard. A waterproof zip on the fly is chosen in preference to a storm flap and time will tell if this is as effective as the simpler but slightly heavier flap. The inner is a pretty soft and silky fabric which is very light and looks to offer good ventilation for a non mesh. Mesh ventilation panels are in the apex of the roof and side walls. Pegs seem light and fairly robust although will probably swap them for my Vaude pegs which are just as light and with a broader V shaper will hold better in softer ground.

Weight - At 1.3kg this is a pretty lightweight tent considering the twin skins and a usable vestibule. There aren't many lighter that fit this criteria without some compromise in robustness and consequently more suited to mountain marathons than long trips.

So overall initial impressions seem good but will report when has been put through the paces. Now real criticisms, would prefer a green to yellow colour for more subtle camping! Also the pegs seem fine but as I say I prefer the uber strong alloy v type peg,