Originally designed for cycling and backpacking, I bought this particular model for its durability, weight, and price. Tried and tested in two opposite terrains and has been in use for the past 5 years, no doubt I'm still in love with it! Been in the market for so long yet still a favorite of many, read this long overdue review of my first and best tent so far, the Naturehike Cycling Ultralight Tent!
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post and I bought my tent back in 2018 using my own money from Thrilling Trails Cebu.
Brand: Naturehike
A Chinese outdoor brand, Naturehike entered the outdoor industry back in the early 2010s. The brand took the world by storm before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. With a wide range of options and product lines, Naturehike has been producing competitive and durable tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, and even camping gear. Not only has the brand become accessible to different countries, but Naturehike is a game-changer by becoming one of the most affordable outdoor brands today.
To learn more about Naturehike and its products, check the OFFICIAL NATUREHIKE WEBSITE.
Product: Cycling Ultralight Tent (One-Person Tent))
Claimed to withstand 3-4 seasons, the Naturehike Cycling Ultralight Tent is a free-standing tent with a waterproof index of PU4000mm/PU3000mm". It is said to be 'strong enough to prevent rain from leaking into a tent in a hurricane-force storm' according to Naturehike. Together with the aluminum poles, pegs and wind ropes, mat or ground sheet, tent, and fly sheet, it only weighs a total of 1.65 kilograms making it an ultralight tent.
As of 2024, this particular model is not showing on Naturehike's official website anymore. However, the Cloud Trek Bikepacking Tent looks 100% similar and it could be the same model but got rebranded.
Tent Review:
Material Durability
Initially used in the rugged terrain of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates, I was skeptical about it. Not that I have trust issues with the product but I know how unforgiving Ras Al Khaimah is. Ripped pants and shoes' soles giving up during our hike is a normal scenario and I know thin fabrics don't last here.
Surprisingly, I learned about the essence of its nylon-coated silicone fabric. I'm impressed with how the fabric withstands the terrain (even the thorny bushes and branches) so far. But then, I did not intentionally try to slit the fabric with a rock so I can't tell. After five years of minimal usage, there's not a single tear on it. Neither on the ground sheet, the tent, or the fly sheet. Even the mesh part of the inner tent is still in its original condition.
However, the part where the Polypropylene handle of the outer bag got torn. And I have zero clue how it happened. The tent was borrowed from me and when it was returned, surprise bitch! *sobs quietly*
Design & Color
Unlike others who were bothered by its bright orange color, I loved it! It stands out and it's exactly how I liked it. It is also slim and easy to spot from afar. The usage of bright colors in apparel or gears are still an ongoing debate and I'll stay away from that topic. I like bright colors lately, period.
Capacity, Setting Up & Waterproofing
I'm a short Asian (165 cm / 5โฒ 5โณ) and so I find the room of the tent spacious. There's still quite an extra space at my feet, but if you're taller, you'd probably find the room cramped for you. Two slim people can also fit inside but without any backpacks. I have not tried it (two people) and I don't want either (sorry I need my personal space lol).
My usual position is to take the inner side while my Osprey Renn 50 or my Osprey Ace 50 lies next to me (next to the door). This setup works well and I'm happy to have enough space for me, my backpack, and my stuff.
Free-standing designs are now a norm for a reason, they make our lives easier. As a solo hiker who joins a group (usually but not all the time), I don't like owing others a favor when it comes to setting up stuff. This tent comes in handy as I can easily set it up by myself without the help of others.
When it comes to waterproofing, my Naturehike Cycling Ultralight Tent has been only exposed to rainforest and light to moderate rain so far (thank God!). No heavy storms nor hurricanes either, but I can attest that no rain/moisture/dew has seeped so far.
Final Verdict:
With a fraction of price compared to competitors (like MSR), the Naturehike Cycling Ultralight Tent is absolutely a steal. No compromise on whatsoever and you're not splurging your money either. Instead of buying an expensive one from a Western brand, I took this and I was able to maximize my budget and buy other gears. In return, I was able to buy a sleeping bag, mattress and a lightweight camping chair too and they are all from Naturehike.
It's a great buy with a practical value and lightweight enough which makes it perfect for a multi-day hike. With proper care and usage, it is durable enough to last for years too. Whether you are a seasoned camper/hiker or a total newbie, if you're looking for a tent, Naturehike Cycling Ultralight Tent (and this review) could be the answer! That's all folks ciao!
