A new rooftop tent from South African builder Eezi-Awn called the Stealth is a high-end evolution of the hard-shell niche.
Hard shell roof-top tents (RTT) are trending among established brands. In the past five years, the roof-top tent market has exploded, and within that boom, niches like hard shells.
Along with easier deployment and increased packability, hard shells are also more aerodynamic, fuel-efficient, and tend to be quieter in windy conditions when deployed. That said, they are certainly pricey and take up a lot of real estate atop your vehicle.
The latest entry to the hard-shell RTT market is the Eezi-Awn Stealth. It brings the legendary South African Eezi-Awn build quality to the hard-shell world in an eye-catching, durable, and unique package. The company has been making RTTs for more than 30 years, and its tents have been proven around the globe in the harshest conditions.
What really sets the Eezi-Awn Stealth apart from the competition is the unique aerodynamic shape and South African build quality. The integrated ladder and bedding storage features are rarely found in other hard-shell RTT models.
Quality South African Rooftop Tent
The outer shell is constructed of lightweight aluminum and powder coated in matte black for durability. The tent walls are made of a durable rip-stop canvas, which has been proven over time and around the globe in other Eezi-Awn tents. YKK zippers are used throughout.
The Stealth comfortably sleeps two adults on its integrated 84”-long, 52”-wide and 3.5”-thick quilted mattress. Additional insulation in the floor and roof are also sure to keep you comfortable, no matter the weather outside.
Setup and breakdown of the Stealth is easy and much faster than a traditional RTT. Small latches at each corner of the tent release and gas struts assist in opening the lightweight aluminum roof. Conveniently placed handles make pulling the tent back down easy, while quick-release bungee cords pull the canvas walls in, for hassle-free packing.
Unique Roof Top Tent Shape
The unique shape and construction of the Stealth offer up great storage not found in other hard shells. The roof shape allows interior room when packed away to store bedding within the tent. A custom-designed ladder slides out from the tent’s integrated storage.
While the Stealth is an impressive product, it does lack a few features you might expect in a quality RTT at this price point. It does not offer power ports, lighting, or any internal storage pockets, standard on many RTTs today.
The Stealth takes up the entire roof rack area of most vehicles. But it’s designed in such a way that adding load bars onto its roof should be possible. This will make carrying bikes, kayaks, and skis a non-issue.
It’s also a very heavy tent at 220 lbs. Those interested in the model should plan some research around mounting options. Expect the heavy load, high on a vehicle, to affect handling and performance. And obviously, multiple people will be needed to mount or dismount the tent.
Equipt Expedition Outfitters, an industry leader in high-quality overland vehicle equipment, is the exclusive U.S. distributor of Eezi-Awn. You can find more details and purchase information on the Stealth RTT here.
Eezi-Awn Stealth RTT