Like the idea of a soft-shell’s smaller footprint but want the stability and ease-of-use of a hardshell? Now you can have both with Roof Space’s new “fusion category” roof top tent.
The design opens wide to create a huge living space, just like a soft-shell rooftop tent. But it folds shut into a hardshell case that doubles as a structural floor when open, making it easy to use and travel with.
Hardshell tents are great because they pop open quickly and easily, versus soft-shell models that can take up to 15 minutes to fully close, tuck, secure, and cover.
But, because soft-shell tents typically fold open to double the size, they usually offer more space and don’t take up your entire roof.
The Roof Space 2 combines the best features of both, and makes it really strong. The steel hinges and full 5052 aluminum case rest on each other when opened.
And as it opens, a trussed steel cable and pole structure (shown in video) built into the tent creates a suspension bridge-like system.
Combined, those support the tent and up to 600 lbs of people and gear without needing legs or a ladder underneath to hold it up.
You’ll still want a ladder to get in, but if you felt so inclined, you could pull it up into the tent with you at bedtime.
The open half of the tent shell zips in and out to create “Panorama Mode”, letting you use it as an open-air lounge, too.
It’s super easy to open, requiring just 6lbs of force to open and close thanks to gas struts assisting your effort…and keeping it from falling open (or closed) if your hand slips off the guide pole. And it sets up in under 30 seconds, and closes in under 60.
Roof Space 2 specs & pricing
While not ultralight, it’s reasonable at a claimed 147lbs including tent material and mattress. Full specs are:
- Dimensions (open): 98″ L x 59″ W x 51″ H
- Dimension (closed): 61.5″ L x 53.5″ x 9.4″ H
- Mattress: 80.7″ x 53.1″
- Weight: 147lbs (exc. ladder)
- Price: $3,499
Opened up, there’s 12″ of free space at the foot of the mattress, perfect for shoes, clothes, snacks, etc. They say it easily sleeps two adults plus a small companion (kid, dog, body pillow…)
It’s also 90% recyclable, free from hard-to-recycle materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, and ABS plastic. And all critical parts are repairable or replaceable.
Price includes the tent, foam mattress, anti-condensation mat, 102″ telescoping ladder, gear bag, and 4x roof mounting brackets.
Additional accessories include an awning, enclosed base annex, extended open-air base annex, and more. They also make an L-Track kit you can bolt into the top (drilling & riveting required) to add your own accessories to the top.
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