Hilleberg Akto Review

Overview

Hilleberg is a family-run tent manufacturer that was started in Sweden over 40 years ago when a talented seamstress married an avid outdoorsman who was frustrated that the only camping tents on the market had to be pitched before they could be covered with a rainfly. Together, the Hillebergs developed the first commercial tent to have the inner and outer tent linked so they could be pitched simultaneously, and the company achieved immediate success. The revolutionary design not only expedites the set up process and gives the tent more stability, but the detachable outer tent also gives campers the option of pitching the outer tent first in wet conditions to keep the inner tent dry.

One of Hilleberg's most successful all-season solo tents with this design is the Akto tent. It was introduced in 1995 and has since become essential gear for the solo traveler on extended trips who needs a mobile campsite. One of the lightest tents on the market, the Akto has a single pole tunnel construction and a detachable outer fly made from exceptionally durable Kerlon 1200 fabric. While the Akto isn't meant for use in extreme conditions or above the tree line, Hilleberg claims that it has been used on extended polar expeditions and stood up to severe weather. It performs well in all-seasons because the Kerlon 1200 outer fly provides excellent protection from the elements, the inner tent fabric is highly breathable and the adjustable ventilation system combats internal condensation and allows you to regulate temperature. In terms of space, the inner tent is comfortably large for sleeping and storing gear, and, despite the triangle roof design, you won't feel claustrophobic lying down because Hilleberg incorporated sturdy fiberglass rods in the corners of the outer tent to provide extra height around your head. For additional space, the Akto also has a vestibule alongside the inner tent that is large enough to store your gear or even cook in if you want protection from wind/rain. On longer trips, you'll be happy to have a comfortable shelter that is only slightly heavier than a bivy and small enough to fit in the side pocket of your pack.

You can purchase the Hilleberg Akto Tent from Hilleberg.com or other online retailers like Moontrail.com for about $465.

Product Report Card Grade

We give Hilleberg’s Akto an A- because it is a lightweight, durable and comfortable tent that can withstand almost any weather conditions. We also like that its linked inner-outer tent design means you can pitch it in 2-3 minutes and won’t get the inner tent wet if it is raining or snowing. We deducted a few points because it is pretty expensive and some customers reported issues with condensation inside the tent.