The German podcast of “Outdoor Spirit” featured the Modular Shelter System in their July 2014 recording. Rene Saathoff and his friend Robert Link were introducing the system to its listeners and discussed various uses. We have already fulfilled their request for illustrations showing sleeping capacities for different shelters. The shelter is featured in the podcast between 09:13 and 19:45 mins. Thanks to Robert and Rene for an inspiring report!
Shelter Capacity: Specifications Updated
We had lots of people asking us for more information about how many people fit into each type of closed shelter. So to help clarify things, we’ve added a shelter capacity illustration to each shelter specification, so you can see how a sleeping adult fits within the shelter.
For sleeping capacity, we follow the ISO 5912 standard. The capacity is as many standard sized “sleeping adult” profiles fit into the interior of the tent. Although this standardised method makes a lot of sense, it does still need a bit of interpretation:
In small shelters – especially a polygonal shelter with a central pole – there can be significant left-over space, for backpack, dinner, board-games, whatever. So the stated capacity can be quite a comfortable and practical scenario.
In large shelters, it is easier to “sardine” in many sleeping people. The proportion of left over space can be rather small. So the stated shelter capacity might be an “emergency” capacity, rather than something you’d want to plan for.
In any case, it makes sense to look at the pictures, and also check some of the other details like the sitting area, to see what will be the best shelter for your next trip.
Adventure Travel Magazine: “Intriguing”
The July 2014 issue of Adventure Travel Magazine features the Modular Shelter System from The Theory Works®. They comment:
This piece of kit really is the dog’s danglies when it comes to customisable shelters, and while the pack size will depend on the number of elements you use, we found that fitting the elements for a closed, two-man shelter in our rucksack was easy.
Trekking Magazin (Germany) feature Modular Shelter System
In the May-June 2014 issue of Trekking Magazin, The Theory Works® appears in the Ausrüstung (equipment) section. They say:
The modular System allows users to create their individual shelter. Single or multiple elements can, in combination with trekking poles, be used as a tarp or function as a tipi for up to six people. Integrated sidewalls provide extra interior space. In bad weather conditions, the walls can be folded down to allow better weather protection.
Modular Shelter System in Scottish Mountaineer Magazine
The Theory Works® appears in the Gear News section of the Scottish Mountaineer, on page 73. Describing the Modular Shelter System, they note:
The system consists of a selection of components that can be assembled to form an easy-to-pitch wind break, a semi enclosed weather shelter, or a single walled tent, using two connected adjustable trekking poles as a centre pole.
A wide variety of sizes and heights are possible when pitching an open shelter. A closed shelter can vary from 3.4m2 to 8.7m2, sleeping up to six people. The integrated sidewalls maximise useable internal space, or they can be laid flat and used as snow flaps or sod cloths. Full storm flaps, side vents, adjustable peak ventilation and guy lines are included.
BMC Summit Magazine features The Theory Works®
The latest issue of the BMC Summit Magazine features a giveaway offer on page 18. The feature includes picture of a 6:R shelter, with the sidewalls partly raised for ventilation. They say:
New from The Theory Works is a re-imagining of what an outdoor shelter could be. Taking the basic architectural units of a roof and a wall, they’ve created an integrated, modular shelter system that allows you to create different shelters for different occasions. Doing a wet day walk? Throw a few components of the system in your bag and set up a roof with a view. Going wild camping with six people? Build a cooking shelter or even a whole dining room. With a wide range of components and the ability to upgrade over time, the Shelter System looks a good fit for backpacking enthusiasts and groups.
The Theory Works® Shop is here!
Well, the website has been public for a while, but without a shop. Behind the scenes we have been toiling away, trying to get everything in place for a fully featured web shop. And here it is!
Now that The Theory Works® shop is here, We have plenty more content to add, about the products, information about the shelters, instructions, and support articles. So feel free to stop by regularly and see what’s new.
