RTT - T-top or open end

[Steel_City_X]

All,

For those who have compared different RTT's, what are comments/strength's/weaknesses of the T-top vs open end versions.

I can see the weather (rain) benefit of the T-top, but does that minimize ventilation of the tent in warm weather.

The differences in annex usage, space for cot or pad could be a benefit of the T-top design.

 

[swanyo]

The T-top has advantages for dressing, weather, and late night bathroom visits. My wife and daughters appreciate the comforts even more than I, and travel more with me now. You still have ventilation from the other 3 windows so that has not been a problem, plus it is easier for me to set up a tent heater if needed without losing sleeping space. I have spent many nights when the weather was bad with the girls upstairs sleeping, me and the dog down below watching the storm with a cocktail. Everybody happy!

 

[mor4wd]

What is meant by 't-top and 'open end' tents?

 

[KG6BWS]

What is meant by 't-top and 'open end' tents?

x2.

 

[swanyo]

The T-top allows for a room underneath.

This example is from the adventure trailer website.

 

[Steel_City_X]

The T-top RTT has a horizontal entry from below with fabric extended to cover the ladder.

Open end - my term - is the standard style for many different styles and brands. Swanyo hit is right, I was trying to determine if the added space below the tent was advantageous. The potty break and privacy is a concern.

I am trying to decide if I should pull the trigger on the ARB Simpson II RTT and annex. Some comments about the quality of construction and details have been made previously. Then I saw that the ver III of the tent is expected. It appears to address a number of concerns with the ver II. I saw a series of detailed photo's by someone on flicker. There were some real quality issues that we very visible.

I don't mind that the ver II requires the guide lines. I like the added space above the ladder, created by an extra brace, that the ver II has, rather than the single slop that others have.