Selecting the right roof top tent (RTT) is essential for travelers and overlanding enthusiasts who crave the perfect balance between comfort, durability, and convenience. With a reputation for premium build quality, James Baroud tents have long attracted adventurers willing to invest in top-tier equipment. But do they truly live up to their hype? In this review, I share my in-depth experience with the James Baroud Explorer hard-shell tent, along with insights from other users to help you make an informed decision.
Design & Build Quality
One of the standout features of the James Baroud Explorer is its sleek hard-shell design, which is both aerodynamic and rugged. The tent is crafted from reinforced fiberglass and topped with a UV-protected gel coat, promising durability and weather resistance. Inside, high-density foam mattresses provide a comfortable sleeping surface, while breathable fabric walls are designed to keep occupants cool.
Notable Features:
- Solar-Powered Ventilation Fan: Enhances airflow and prevents condensation.
- 360-Degree Window System: Provides excellent ventilation and panoramic views.
- Automatic Opening System: Gas struts make setup a breeze, requiring minimal effort.
While the initial impressions are promising, long-term durability concerns have surfaced over time.
Comparison of Grand Raid vs. Evasion Models: Which One Should You Choose?
When it comes to high-quality rooftop tents, James Baroud stands as a leader in the market, offering innovative designs that cater to adventurous campers. Here’s a comprehensive look at two of their standout models—the Grand Raid and Evasion—to help you determine which tent is best suited for your outdoor escapades.
Grand Raid Model: The Spacious and Durable Option for Group Adventures
Key Features and Specifications:
- Capacity: Accommodates up to 4 people
- Dimensions: 87” L x 63” W x 39” H (open), 63” L x 87” W x 13” H (closed)
- Weight: 165 pounds
- Materials: Fiberglass shell, coated fabric, and tear-resistant construction
- Special Features:
- Waterproof fabric with breathable construction
- Gear bag for organized storage
- 360° solar-powered ventilation
- Comfortable built-in mattress
Strengths:
- Ample Space: With room for up to four adults, this tent is perfect for family or group outings.
- Weather Resistance: Whether you face heavy rain, strong winds, or extreme temperatures, the Grand Raid is designed to handle it all with ease.
- Durability: The reinforced shell and tear-resistant fabric make this model exceptionally sturdy for rugged terrain and harsh weather.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Weight and Size: At 165 pounds, this tent may be cumbersome to handle for solo travelers or smaller vehicles.
- Price: As a premium option, the Grand Raid’s cost may be prohibitive for budget-conscious buyers.
Best For:
Ideal for extended group camping trips in diverse climates, where durability and spaciousness are top priorities.
Evasion Model: A Compact and Versatile Two-Person Solution
Key Features and Specifications:
- Capacity: Suitable for up to 2 people
- Dimensions: 79” L x 51” W x 39” H (open), 51” L x 79” W x 13” H (closed)
- Weight: 134 pounds
- Materials: UV-coated fiberglass shell, breathable mesh, and waterproof fabric
- Special Features:
- Quick setup in under a minute
- 24-hour solar-powered ventilation
- Comfy foam mattress
- 3 doors with mosquito netting for enhanced ventilation and insect protection
Strengths:
- Easy Setup: The intuitive design allows campers to set up or pack away the tent quickly, perfect for spontaneous adventures.
- Breathable Comfort: Aluminum heat reflection and breathable mesh prevent condensation and ensure comfort even in warmer climates.
- Lightweight Design: Weighing 134 pounds, the Evasion is easier to transport and manage than larger models.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Limited Space: With a capacity for only two people, it may not be suitable for families or larger groups.
- Rectangular Shape: Although cozy, the design may not provide as much headroom as other models for taller users.
Best For:
Perfect for couples, solo travelers, or pet-friendly campers looking for a reliable and versatile tent that fits a wide range of outdoor environments.
Which Tent Should You Choose?
- Grand Raid Model: Choose this if you need a robust, spacious option for group camping or longer trips in unpredictable weather conditions.
- Evasion Model: Opt for the Evasion if you prioritize quick setup, lightweight design, and comfort for shorter trips or solo adventures.
Both models exemplify James Baroud’s commitment to quality and innovation, ensuring campers experience the outdoors without compromising on comfort or reliability. With handcrafted construction in Portugal and a 5-year warranty, these rooftop tents are built for adventure and designed to last.
Setup & Ease of Use
Setting up the James Baroud tent is remarkably straightforward. The gas struts allow the tent to open automatically within seconds after unlatching, making it a popular choice for solo campers. Dismantling is equally swift, making camp transitions hassle-free.
However, issues with latch reliability have been reported. Some users noted that the finish on the latches deteriorated quickly, leading to rust.
Comfort & Ventilation
The built-in solar-powered fan is a thoughtful feature aimed at enhancing comfort by maintaining airflow during warm nights. Initially, the fan operates silently; however, several users, including myself, have experienced a rattling noise developing over time, making restful sleep challenging.
The mattress offers decent support, but extended use may benefit from an additional layer of padding for enhanced comfort.
Weather Resistance
The tent is marketed as being weatherproof and capable of withstanding high winds and heavy rain. While my experience with rain protection was positive, issues such as cracks in the gel coat and fabric pinholes have been reported by many users over time. These defects can compromise the tent’s ability to remain weather-tight.
Long-Term Performance Issues
Despite its premium price, my James Baroud tent exhibited several defects within a few months:
- Latch Rusting: Non-stainless steel latches with a fragile finish led to corrosion.
- Gel Coat Cracks: Visible cracks developed in the protective outer layer.
- Fabric Deterioration: Layers of fabric developed cracks and pinholes, raising concerns about future water resistance.
- Fan Malfunction: The solar fan became noisy and ineffective over time.
These problems were mirrored in experiences shared by other users, highlighting systemic design flaws.
Customer Service & Warranty Experience
James Baroud offers a five-year warranty on their tents, which theoretically provides peace of mind. However, several issues arose during my warranty claim process. The U.S. distributor at the time required extensive DIY repairs, including replacing the fan, hardware, and fabric—an unreasonable expectation for a nearly new tent.
While some customers received full refunds or replacements, others struggled with limited warranty support, especially second-hand owners who were informed that the warranty was non-transferable.
Tips for Navigating Warranty Claims:
- Document all defects thoroughly with photos.
- Maintain detailed communication records with the distributor.
- Explore local consumer protection laws if applicable.
Alternative Roof Top Tent Recommendations
If you’re hesitant about James Baroud tents due to these concerns, consider the following alternatives:
- iKamper Skycamp: Known for its spacious design and robust build.
- Alu-Cab Gen 3.1: A rugged option favored by hardcore overlanders.
- Roofnest Falcon: Combines a low-profile design with durable construction.
Real-World User Testimonials
To provide a balanced view, here are experiences from other James Baroud tent users:
- Barry (2-Year Owner): “I’ve kept my tent outside year-round without experiencing the reported issues.”
- Bede McMahon (Second-Hand Owner): “Warranty is not transferable, and the local dealer was unhelpful with repairs.”
- BringntheRain (Warranty Researcher): “Warranty laws in Europe provide better protections, including free repairs.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How easy is it to set up the James Baroud tent? A: The tent’s automatic opening system makes setup effortless, typically taking less than a minute.
Q: What are common issues with these tents? A: Reported problems include fan noise, rusting hardware, fabric pinholes, and gel coat cracks.
Q: Is the warranty transferable to new owners? A: No, James Baroud’s warranty is non-transferable, which may be a concern for second-hand buyers.
Q: How does the James Baroud tent handle extreme weather? A: While it offers good weather resistance initially, long-term durability issues may impact performance.
Conclusion
James Baroud tents boast impressive features and a premium build, but persistent quality control issues and warranty challenges have raised concerns. If you’re considering a James Baroud RTT, weigh the pros and cons carefully and ensure you’re prepared for potential maintenance. Exploring alternative brands might also be worthwhile for those seeking greater reliability.
By providing a transparent and comprehensive review, this post aims to help adventurers make an informed choice for their next overlanding adventure.