Having recently taken delivery of the eagerly anticipated Vango Helvellyn 200 (2025 version) from LiGo.co.uk, I can confidently say that Vango has once again delivered a truly robust and thoughtful piece of kit for the serious backpacker and wild camper. This tent, designed for two individuals, continues its legacy as a go to choice for those seeking reliability and performance across various challenging conditions, and the 2025 updates make an already solid offering even better.
First impressions upon unboxing were excellent. The Helvellyn 200 maintains its reputation for being relatively lightweight and compact for a semi geodesic, 3 season (leaning into 4 season capability for milder winters) tent. Packing down neatly, it's a manageable addition to any backpacking setup, leaving ample space for other essentials. Pitching, as expected from Vango's well engineered designs, is remarkably straightforward. The colour coded poles slide effortlessly into their sleeves, and the flysheet pitches first, offering a degree of shelter even before the inner is set up. Once pitched, the semi-geodesic structure, enhanced by Vango's Tension Band System (TBS II®) for additional stability, instils immediate confidence against strong winds and unpredictable weather. It feels incredibly solid and unwavering, a vital reassurance when wild camping on exposed ridges.
The materials used are of typical Vango quality. The ProTex® Eco flysheet, crafted from 70D recycled polyester, not only boasts a formidable 3,000mm hydrostatic head for impressive waterproofing but also aligns with more sustainable manufacturing practices, a commendable step forward. The 70D 6,000mm HH polyester groundsheet provides a reliable barrier against ground moisture, while the robust PowerLite 7001-T6 alloy poles offer a fantastic strength to weight ratio. All seams are factory taped, eliminating a common point of failure in less meticulously constructed tents.
Now, for the standout improvement in this 2025 model, a feature I was particularly glad to see: the newly incorporated two way zipper on the porch door. This seemingly minor detail makes a monumental difference to the tent's liveability and functionality. In previous iterations, the porch door was a single zip affair, meaning if you wanted any meaningful airflow, you had to open the entire door, often exposing the inner tent to the elements or inquisitive wildlife. With the 2025 update, you can now crack open the top of the porch door, creating a high level vent that significantly improves airflow and reduces condensation without compromising privacy or inviting the weather in. This is a game changer for warmer nights, cooking in the porch (with extreme caution and proper ventilation), or simply drying gear. It truly addresses a common gripe among users of earlier models and elevates the overall comfort and practical utility of the Helvellyn 200.
Inside, the inner tent offers adequate space for two, though it's certainly cosy. For solo trips, it's a palace, allowing ample room for gear organisation. For two, meticulous packing and creative use of the porch for backpacks are advisable. The internal pockets are thoughtfully placed for stashing essentials like headtorches, phones, and maps. Ventilation is further aided by mesh panels on the inner door and additional high-level vents, now complemented perfectly by that new two way porch zip. Condensation, a perennial challenge in any single-walled or compact tent, is noticeably better managed in this version thanks to the enhanced airflow options.
My initial test pitch and short overnight trip proved its worth. The tent shed light rain effortlessly, and the improved ventilation kept the interior feeling much fresher than I've experienced in similar two person tents. The ease of packing away, aided by the slightly oversized stuff sack, also adds to the overall positive user experience.
In conclusion, the Vango Helvellyn 200 (2025) from LiGo.co.uk is an outstanding choice for adventurers demanding a reliable, stable, and now significantly more breathable two-person tent. While it retains the robust, bomb proof characteristics that made earlier Helvellyn models so popular, the addition of the two way porch zipper is a truly valuable enhancement that improves ventilation and comfort. It's a tent built to withstand the worst of British weather, offering peace of mind and a surprisingly comfortable haven in the wild. Highly recommended for its durability, ease of use, and the thoughtful improvements Vango continues to bring to their classic designs.
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