The Terra Nova Solar Horizon 2 Tent 2025 is a thoughtfully engineered two-person shelter designed for backpackers, long-distance hikers, and anyone who values space, stability, and sustainability in the wild. New for 2025, this tent builds on Terra Nova’s legacy of producing high-performance gear with a lower environmental footprint. With its inner pitch-first design, recycled materials, and generous interior dimensions, the Solar Horizon 2 aims to strike a balance between livability and packability—without compromising on durability or weather protection.
Design and Build Quality
The Solar Horizon 2 features a two-skin construction with a new inner pitch-first setup. This means the inner tent is pitched first, and the flysheet is added over the top. While this design offers flexibility in dry conditions—allowing the inner to be used alone—it can be less ideal in wet weather, where pitching the inner first may expose it to rain. That said, the setup is straightforward and intuitive, even for solo campers.
The tent is constructed using Terra Nova’s new TriPlex™ triple ripstop flysheet fabric. This material is solution-dyed, PFC-free, and made from recycled fibres, offering impressive eco credentials alongside enhanced durability and UV resistance. The flysheet has a hydrostatic head rating of 3000mm, while the groundsheet boasts 5000mm, ensuring reliable waterproofing in sustained rain.
The tent includes 10 Terra Firma mini pegs and 4 alloy hooks, which are lightweight yet secure. The poles are alloy and come with Terra Nova’s two-year “no quibble” replacement guarantee, adding peace of mind for those venturing into remote areas.
Weight and Packability
Weighing in at 1.9kg packed, the Solar Horizon 2 is not the lightest tent in Terra Nova’s range, but it’s impressively light for a shelter that offers this much space and protection. It packs down to 46cm x 22cm, which is manageable for most rucksacks and bikepacking setups. While ultralight purists may opt for single-skin or trekking pole shelters, the Solar Horizon 2 offers a more comfortable and weather-resistant alternative for those who don’t mind a few extra grams.
The tent is also compatible with Terra Nova’s FASTPACK and PitchLite systems, allowing users to strip down the setup for even lighter configurations. This modularity makes it suitable for a wide range of adventures, from fast-and-light weekend hikes to extended treks in variable conditions.
Interior Space and Livability
One of the standout features of the Solar Horizon 2 is its generous interior. With a length of 224cm and a width of 126cm, it comfortably fits two standard sleeping mats side by side, with room to spare for gear or movement. The peak height of 106cm allows most users to sit up without brushing the ceiling, which is a welcome feature on longer trips or rainy days spent inside.
The tent includes two side-entry doors, each with its own porch area. These porches measure 74cm in length, offering ample space for storing boots, packs, and cooking gear. Having two doors also improves ventilation and makes it easier for two people to enter and exit without disturbing each other.
Inside, the tent feels dark and enclosed, which is great for sleeping in but may feel a bit claustrophobic during extended downtime. However, the dual doors and fly hoods help mitigate this by improving airflow and reducing condensation.
Weather Resistance and Stability
The Solar Horizon 2 is rated as a three-season tent, but its robust construction and thoughtful design make it suitable for shoulder-season use and mild winter conditions. The TriPlex™ flysheet holds its shape well in wind, and the option to add trekking poles for extra reinforcement is a clever touch for exposed campsites.
The tent’s low profile and aerodynamic shape help it shed wind effectively, while the sturdy alloy poles and secure pegging system keep it anchored in rough terrain. Ventilation is good, thanks to the twin doors and fly hoods, which allow air to circulate without letting rain in.
In heavy rain, the tent performs admirably, with no noticeable leaks or pooling. The groundsheet is tough and waterproof, and the seams are well sealed. The only caveat is the inner pitch-first design, which can be a drawback in sudden downpours unless you’re quick and practiced with setup.
Sustainability and Materials
Terra Nova has made a clear commitment to sustainability with the Solar Horizon 2. The tent uses solution-dyed fabrics, which reduce water and energy consumption during production. It’s also PFC-free, avoiding the use of harmful chemicals often found in waterproof coatings.
The flysheet and groundsheet are made from recycled materials, and the tent is manufactured with durability in mind, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Terra Nova’s lifetime guarantee on materials and craftsmanship, along with the two-year pole replacement policy, further supports their sustainable ethos.
For environmentally conscious adventurers, the Solar Horizon 2 offers a rare combination of performance and responsibility, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice quality to reduce your impact.
Ease of Use and Setup
Setting up the Solar Horizon 2 is relatively simple, especially once you’re familiar with the inner pitch-first method. The poles slot easily into colour-coded sleeves, and the flysheet attaches quickly with buckles and clips. The tent can be pitched in under five minutes with practice, making it suitable for solo use.
Packing the tent away is equally straightforward, and the included stuff sack is roomy enough to accommodate the tent without a struggle. The pegs and poles fit neatly into their own compartments, keeping everything organised and easy to access.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Spacious interior with comfortable sleeping area for two
- Dual doors and porches for improved access and ventilation
- Lightweight for its size and features
- Excellent waterproofing and wind resistance
- Sustainable materials: recycled, solution-dyed, and PFC-free
- Modular setup options with FASTPACK and PitchLite compatibility
- Lifetime guarantee and pole replacement policy
Cons
- Inner pitch-first design can be awkward in wet weather
- Slightly heavier than ultralight alternatives
- Dark interior may feel enclosed during extended use
- No dedicated gear loft or internal pockets
Comparison with Similar Tents
| Feature | Terra Nova Solar Horizon 2 | MSR Hubba Hubba NX | Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 1.9kg | 1.72kg | 1.42kg |
| Interior Dimensions | 224cm x 126cm | 213cm x 127cm | 224cm x 132cm |
| Peak Height | 106cm | 100cm | 102cm |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Sustainability | Recycled, PFC-free fabrics | Standard materials | Some recycled components |
| Pitch Method | Inner-first | Unified pitch | Unified pitch |
| Price Range | £625–£730 | £450–£500 | £500–£600 |
While the Solar Horizon 2 is slightly heavier than some competitors, it offers superior sustainability credentials and a more spacious interior. The inner-first pitch method may not suit everyone, but the tent’s overall performance and comfort make it a strong contender in the premium backpacking category.
Final Verdict
The Terra Nova Solar Horizon 2 Tent 2025 is a well-rounded, thoughtfully designed shelter that caters to serious backpackers and environmentally conscious adventurers. Its spacious interior, reliable weather protection, and sustainable materials make it a standout choice for those who value comfort and responsibility on the trail.
While it’s not the lightest tent available, it makes excellent use of its weight, offering features and durability that justify the extra grams. The inner pitch-first design may require some adaptation, but the benefits in dry conditions and modular setup options are worth the learning curve.
For anyone seeking a dependable, eco-friendly two-person tent for three-season use, the Solar Horizon 2 is a compelling option that delivers on its promises.
