Gear Scout: Eezi-Awn Releases New Stealth Hard Shell RTT

Few things are as intertwined with the pursuit of overlanding as the roof top tent. Over the last few years we’ve witnessed an unprecedented increase in the number of tents available to the consumer, and while there are undeniably more options, I wouldn’t consider many of them better options. It seems most new entries into the space have tried to hang their hat on value, that slippery slope that often leads to––disastrously cheap.

There are legendary players in the category like Eezi-Awn who have never been tempted to fight for the bottom dollar, a place where products and consumer expectations go to die. They have always placed quality at the top of their priority list. It’s the directive that has made them industry leaders for decades. Their new Stealth hard shell roof top tent follows their company mission with an uncompromising shelter aimed at the most demanding travelers.

Built with an aluminum body, the Stealth was created to offer users with a comfortable and durable sleeping enclosure which could be deployed quickly with minimal effort. The upper shell was shaped with strategically placed angular lines to provide structural reinforcement while allowing extra internal space for bedding when closed, and added headroom when deployed.

Another unique design element is the XKLUSIV aluminum ladder which stows outside the tent and slides into a receiver sleeve within the lower shell. I’ve never liked plopping a dirty ladder on top of my bed, even within a protective cover, so that right away wins points with me. Dual access doors on either side and a large window/door at the back provide multiple entry/exit options and the large awning is quickly set up and should offer sufficient shade over the rear mesh panel.

Aluminum rooftop tents are nothing new, but most of them look more like a shiny sarcophagus than a humble abode. The Stealth’s sleek lines will compliment the shape of most vehicles whether it’s a boxy Defender or a modern SUV. The powered-coated matte black finish will resist scratching and fading for a lifetime.

Although hard shell tents will always be slightly smaller than soft-walled folding tents, the Stealth still affords room for a 3.5-inch thick mattress with an 84-inch overall length. At 52-inches wide it has ample space for two sleepers.

As new as the Stealth is to the market, we have not had time to fully put it to use in the field, but we were lucky enough to get an early sample and a full evaluation is forthcoming. It’s an exciting addition to an otherwise stagnant sector of the rooftop tent market. -CN

For more information visit epuipt1.com and their Eezi-Awn Stealth product page.