For camping enthusiasts and overlanders looking for the perfect rooftop tent, Freespirit Recreation’s Nova Hybrid stands out as a premium option. Designed with a hybrid construction that combines the benefits of both softshell and hardshell RTTs, this model promises to elevate your outdoor experiences. From its quick setup to thoughtful comfort features, this one is packed with innovation.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from its design and ease of setup to its comfort and functionality, helping you decide if this is the right tent for your next adventure.
Table Of Contents
Unboxing & Setup
Setting up a rooftop tent can be a time-consuming and physically demanding task, especially with models that require the installation of tension rods or the setup of poles. The Nova Hybrid changes the game with its smart, cable-supported design. Upon unboxing, you’ll immediately notice how compact it is when closed. This is great for anyone concerned about vehicle clearance or wind resistance during travel.
For the most low-profile setup, I’ve got mine mounting on my DRT Lo-Pro Bedbars.
When it’s time to set up, the cable support system is incredibly intuitive. It unfolds easily with a simple pull and deployment. The entire process takes less than a minute to fully expand and get you ready for the night. The design eliminates the need for additional poles or tension rods, which are typically found in others in this category. This system is a major convenience for campers who prefer to spend more time exploring than wrestling with complicated setup processes.
Design & Build Quality
The first thing that stands out when you see this tent is its sleek, modern design. It features a hardtop made from honeycomb aluminum, offering excellent durability while maintaining a relatively light weight. This hard shell serves not only as protection against the elements but also contributes to the compact storage when closed.
The materials used in construction are designed for long-term use, featuring a reinforced slatted floor that provides extra strength and protection. The weather-resistant fabric ensures you stay dry and comfortable in a variety of conditions. Whether you’re facing a light drizzle or heavier rain, this tent is designed to keep you dry and secure.
Size
What really sets the Nova Hybrid apart from traditional softshell tents is its hybrid fold-out mechanism. Upon deployment, the tent expands to create a surprisingly large and comfortable sleeping area.
Despite its sleek appearance, it’s surprisingly spacious once deployed. With interior dimensions of 49 ¼” W x 78″ L x 43 ¼” H, it provides ample space for two adults and maybe even accommodates a third person (like a small child) if necessary. While it’s ideal for couples or small families, the build quality ensures that it can handle more weight without compromising on durability.
Features
Features & Specs
- Sleeps 1-2 people
- Integrated diesel heater / AC ports
- Built-in rainfly
- Signature FSR blackout design
- Built-in dual LED dimmable light strips
- 100% waterproof tri-layer technology
- Cable support system
- Adjustable comfort AirCore mattress
- Crossbars to help carry extra gear to camp
A standout feature is its insulation, which provides both temperature regulation and complete blackout when needed. The insulated fabric helps keep the tent cool during hot days and warm during chilly nights, making it suitable for a variety of climates. This feature is particularly useful for those who camp in diverse environments and want a tent that adapts to changing weather conditions.
Perhaps one of the most appreciated aspects of the insulation is its ability to create a full blackout. If you’re someone who likes to sleep in past sunrise or take an afternoon nap, the blackout insulation ensures that the inside remains dark, even in the brightest of environments. This level of comfort and versatility is rare in rooftop tents, and what sets the Nova apart from the competition.
Unmatched Comfort
Rooftop tents aren’t typically known for their luxurious comfort, but the Nova Hybrid breaks that stereotype with its AirCore mattress. Freespirit Recreation includes this self-inflating AirCore mattress that provides adjustable firmness. For many, the standard foam pads are hard and uncomfortable, but the AirCore provides excellent support and comfort, ensuring a restful night’s sleep even after a long day of hiking or off-roading.
The mattress inflates quickly, and the ability to adjust the firmness is a huge bonus, allowing you to tailor the sleep experience to your preferences. Whether you like a firmer mattress or a softer one, the AirCore ensures that you’ll have a comfortable sleep in a way that other rooftop tents often fail to deliver.
360-Degree Views
One of the most pleasant surprises is the 360-degree view. The tent boasts a wide array of large windows that provide panoramic views of your surroundings. Whether you’re waking up to a mountain vista, watching wildlife pass by, or just enjoying a clear night sky, the views from inside the tent are unparalleled.
The windows themselves are designed with both comfort and practicality in mind. They are made with high-quality mesh that offers both ventilation and protection from insects. The increased airflow and visibility make the interior feel much larger and more open, creating a truly immersive outdoor experience. If you’re someone who values a connection to nature while camping, this window design is sure to impress.
Integrated Lighting
Nighttime in a rooftop tent doesn’t have to be a struggle to find your flashlight or rummage through your gear. The tent comes equipped with built-in LED light strips, providing a soft, ambient glow to the interior. These dimmable lights are perfect for reading, cooking, or just relaxing after dark. The built-in lighting eliminates the need for bulky lanterns or flashlights, streamlining your camping setup and making nighttime activities much more convenient.
The LED strips are strategically placed to offer ample illumination without overpowering the space, allowing you to create the perfect mood inside. Whether you need a little extra light for cooking dinner or want some subtle lighting while winding down, you’re covered.
Final Thoughts
This RTT is a premium choice for anyone looking to elevate their camping or overlanding experience. From its quick and easy setup to its thoughtful features, such as the killer mattress, blackout insulation, and built-in LED lights, it offers a level of convenience and comfort that’s hard to beat.
While it’s a higher-end option in terms of price, its durability, spaciousness, and innovative features make it well worth the investment for those who are serious about their outdoor adventures. For anyone looking to maximize their comfort while exploring the outdoors, the Nova Hybrid Rooftop Tent is a solid choice.
