The Belgians, again. If you think the usual way of doing things is boring, look at this tent as an example of a mindset out of the box in the heart of Europe.

This unusual tent shaped like a traditional A-tent, almost stands on its own like a dome tent, and has a vestibule like tunnel tents usually have. Does it combine the best of all worlds? Not necessarily. Maybe they had their reasons or someone spiked the drinks of the design committee, who knows.

Features

The core of the tent is the inner tent which is pitched on two aluminum poles. One is taller than the other to give more space near the entrance. Instead of having to pull a ridgeline taut, there's a third tube from one tip to another. Put five pegs in the ground to tighten the fabric and the tent stands in its simplest form, offering a comfy shelter from insects, light and cool breezes.

The fabric is rather dense so if you have a habit of waking up in a brightly lit tent, you'll like this one. The tent floor is a similar material to plastic tarps and Ikea bags: waterproof, fairly light, and very durable.

The flysheet is made from ripstop nylon with a Jigsaw camo pattern. It used to be waterproof for sure but is likely to require some maintenance such as sewing, taping, and treating with waterproofers, if you're after perfect waterproofness.

The aluminum pegs have a reinforcement ridge and width which makes them suitable for soft and sandy soil. Pitching the tent involves no knots, all attachment points have ready-made elastic loops. The elastics are worn with age but easily replaced thanks to the snap-fastening tab closures on the tent.

Dimensions and weight

The tent with all its accessories has some weight to it, about 4.6 kg or 10 pounds. However, weight can be saved by omitting things you perhaps don't need or making a switcheroo with lighter weight options.

• Inner tent and floor: 1.9 kg (4.2 lbs)
• Flysheet: 1 kg (2.2 lbs)
• Poles: 0.73 kg (1.6 lbs)
• Stakes (25 pcs): 1 kg (2.2 lbs)

• Living space:
• 220 x 130 cm / 86.5" x 51" floor
• 115 to 75 cm / 45.5" to 29.5" top ridge
• 90 cm / 35.5" long vestibule with 125 cm / 49" sides

Belgian army surplus

These have been used by soldiers in the field. Stakes may need some straightening, elastics may be worn and you should also prepare to sew and tape some holes in the fabrics.

The rough condition reflects hard use rather than a flimsy item. If you're prepared to make some fixes, this tent will prove to be a solid companion on your trips for a long time to come.