But can we make this set up any better? I think so. We could add ‘walls’ (I am thinking on two sides, leaving one side open). This would surely increase the experience, right? With protection from the rain, the sun, not to mention the wind coming in under the Stingray, along with the added extra level of enclosure and privacy, ‘walls’ could only be a benefit, surely? And here at Tentsile, we are always striving to improve the outdoor experience and to increase the usability of our range, so that you guys have the best time out in the wild, and encourage us to do more! So, walls sound good. Walls sound safe. Walls sound like a great way to enhance the Tentsile experience. Yes, please!
It’s not that simple. As is often the case with these things. Although we can see a great many advantages – those listed above, as well as the ability to use the ‘walls’ as stand-alone accessories for use as breakaway shelters, hammock fly sheets, and possibly even being hammocks in themselves! - there is a downside: MASSIVE wind load. At 4x14 feet/1.2x4.2 meters, these walls effectively become sails, catching any sign of wind, and if the wind is strong enough, this could rip loops off, cause pegs to spring out of the ground – perhaps into someone's eye - break hooks, and any other tent-ripping, camper-harming, equipment-damaging effect you can probably conjure up using your own imagination - at which point, stuck out in the middle of nowhere, in pitch darkness, a ruined Tentsile and a stack-load of soaking gear, you start cursing Tentsile with every ounce of disdain you can muster. And it is with this possibility in mind, ‘walls’ become a distinct No Thank You!
And so the question remains: To wall or not to wall? As you can see, it is not an easy answer. On the one hand, we want to up your experience. We want to get you out and up into the trees. We want to show you a new level of outside enjoyment. And to this end, we want to bring new ideas to the fore. But, on the other hand, we need to keep you safe; and we need to maintain standards. And we need to maintain your trust. So it is a difficult decision.
It's hard being a start-up with new ideas. Yes, we have had many successes, and for all your support and wonderful responses to our products we are thankful. But there is a fine line to tread between pioneering innovation and reputation. Quite simply, there are enough people waiting out there for a chance to rip you down without a thought towards how hard you have worked to get to where you are. A fine line. Our job is to walk that line, always ensuring quality, novelty and safety, without compromise. And so we put the question to you: ‘walls’ or no ‘walls’. You help us decide. And we will read your comments and thoughts in the hope that through your engagement we can together make the zero impact outdoor experience the very best it can be!
