User Review: Terra Nova Super Quasar

Bought to replace 13-year-old Quasar. Must have spent a year in total in the original tent, never leaked and withstood storms in Scotland, Norway and Alps. I've had the Super Quasar for about six months now:

1. Quality excellent, best fabrics, heavy but stormproof.

2. Slightly bigger than Quasar but heavy, 3 people and gear a squeeze - don't try it unless you have to.

3. Groundsheet seems lightweight compared to original neoprene coated nylon so bought groundsheet protector -- more hassle and weight.

4. The Super Quasar inner shape makes the porches smaller -- harder to cook without burning the thing down. When the door is more than slightly open at top, rain drips onto inner -- design fault?

5. Mesh pole sleeves stop that annoying drip of condensation I used to get at the top (better ventilation).

6. I've heard of problems with new style zips but have had no trouble personally.

Heavy, stormproof, the best materials, good customer service. You know it won't blow down or leak but then a Quasar won't either. Appears to have become the new darling of campsite posers. These people seem to be reproducing at a great rate in their Super Quasars and are another reason to avoid campsites and head for the hills. Perhaps Terra Nova could impregnate the tents with contraceptive to stop this menace.

With hindsight, I should have got the plain Quasar: lighter, bigger porches and strong enough. Tried a few tents over the years and for bad North European weather, Terra Nova are the best.