When I first started testing tents from RBM Outdoors, they were still operating under the name Russian Bear Tent. Back then, the first two models I got my hands on were the UP-5 and the Pentagon tent…
These tents quickly stood out to me, and the UP-5, in particular, has remained one of my all-time favorites for its durability, spacious design, and all-season capabilities. As I’m writing this article, I don’t see the Pentagon tent listed anywhere on their website, so I’m going to assume this tent was retired. Back on the UP-5, testing that tent was my first real taste of the company’s engineering, and I’ve followed their product line closely ever since.
As someone who has tested dozens of tents over the years, I’ve come to appreciate how a well-built tent can completely change your camping experience. There’s something about knowing your shelter can handle anything nature throws your way—from blistering cold to heavy winds—and Russian Bear Tent, now RBM Outdoors, has consistently delivered on that front. When they rebranded to RBM Outdoors, I had the opportunity to test their Panda Medium and Large Inflatable tents, and finally their flagship Hexagon model.
Each tent I’ve tested from this company has offered something unique, whether it’s the incredibly quick setup time of the UP-5 (or Hexagon for that matter) or the unmatched durability and spacious interior of the Hexagon. And despite the rebranding, one thing that hasn’t changed is the exceptional build quality and attention to detail. RBM Outdoors continues to set itself apart from the competition with tents that are as reliable as they are innovative.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the tents I’ve personally tested, breaking down key specs, features, and what I like (and don’t like) about each model. Whether you’re camping in harsh winter conditions or looking for a tent that’s quick to set up, these tents have something to offer. And while they’re not the cheapest on the market (just giving you a heads up now), if you’re like me and value quality, durability, and a tent you can rely on in extreme weather, RBM Outdoors should be high on your list. Let’s dive into the first tent…
Table of Contents
- RBM Outdoors UP-5 4 Season Tent
- RBM Outdoors Hexagon Tent
- RBM Outdoors Panda Medium Tent
- RBM Outdoors Panda Large Tent
- Are You Ready for an RBM Outdoors Journey?
RBM Outdoors UP-5 4 Season Tent
The RBM Outdoors UP-5 tent, which I first tested under the brand name Russian Bear Tent, has consistently impressed me over the years. My experiences with this tent have ranged from freezing temperatures in Big Bear and Mt. Whitney to scorching heat in the deserts of Arizona and California, and the UP-5 has proven its durability and versatility in all those conditions. The tent is truly a work of art and has stood its ground in winds that would collapse lesser tents—though it finally gave in to gusts over 60 mph.
Specs:
- Seasons: 4 Season
- Dimensions: 173″L x 173″W x 71″H
- Weight: 69 Pounds
- Floor Width: 173 Inches
- Occupancy: 6 Person
- Shape: Round
- Water Resistance Technology: 2000 Mm
Recommended Uses:
- Traveling
- Camping & Hiking
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Bushcraft
What sets the UP-5 apart is how easy it is to set up, despite its size. The umbrella-like mechanism allows you to have the tent fully pitched in just a couple of minutes, a feature that makes it highly practical, especially when you’re racing against bad weather. The aviation-grade aluminum frame contributes to its lightweight yet robust structure, which is crucial for handling extreme conditions. The double-wall insulation is another significant feature, as it creates an air buffer that retains heat during the cold and helps keep things cool in hotter climates. I’ve used both the RBM Outdoor Medium wood stove and a 4kW Planar diesel heater inside the tent, with the latter offering a “set it and forget it” convenience for maintaining warmth during frigid trips.
From what others are saying online, many users echo my sentiments. The UP-5 is praised for its rapid setup and strong performance in all seasons. Reviewers have highlighted how the double-layer insulation minimizes condensation and ensures warmth even in subzero temperatures. Some have reported temperatures inside the tent being over 80°F while it was -22°F outside—an impressive feat for any tent. On that note, I will say it’s actually easy to get high temperatures inside when using the wood stove. Just a friendly word of caution. The built-in stove jack and detachable waterproof floor also make this tent highly adaptable for various uses, including winter camping, fishing, and off-grid adventures.
However, like any product, the UP-5 has a few areas where it could improve. One common critique, which I share, is the size of the windows—they’re a bit too small, limiting ventilation and views. The strength required to pop the roof up might also be a challenge for some, and care should be taken not to pinch your fingers during setup. Additionally, while I don’t mind the camo exterior, it would be nice to see some color options for those who prefer a less tactical look.
Despite these minor points, the UP-5 remains an incredibly well-built tent, providing a high level of comfort and security in even the harshest environments. Its combination of durability, ease of use, and thermal efficiency makes it a fantastic choice for anyone who values quality and is willing to invest in a long-lasting, all-season shelter.
If you’re serious about year-round camping and need a tent that can stand up to just about anything, the UP-5 is a solid investment.
Read More: Russian Bear UP-5 Tent Review
RBM Outdoors Hexagon Tent
The RBM Outdoors Hexagon Tent is by far my favorite tent in their lineup, and for good reason. You get all the thermal benefits of the UP-5, but in a tent that offers a much larger and more usable space. Unlike the dome-shaped design of the UP-5, the walls of the Hexagon are not curved, which allows you to place gear like cots and storage much closer to the edges, maximizing the floor space. This design is ideal for anyone who likes to stay organized or just needs extra room, making it perfect for long-term camping setups or larger groups.
Specs:
- Seasons: 4 Season
- Dimensions: 154″L x 154″W x 83″H
- Weight: 46 Kilograms (101 lbs)
- Floor Width: 154 Inches
- Occupancy: 9 Person
- Shape: Hexagonal
- Water Resistance Technology: 2000 Mm
Recommended Uses:
- Travelling
- Camping & Hiking
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Bushcraft
One of the standout features of this tent is just how spacious it feels. At 6 feet tall, I can walk comfortably throughout the entire tent without having to crouch. This headroom is a massive plus when you’re spending extended time inside, especially in winter months when outdoor activity might be limited. Additionally, the tent is loaded with interior storage options, including pockets all around the walls, making it easy to stow away gear and keep things tidy.
Setting up the Hexagon is slightly different from the UP-5. With the UP-5, you pop the roof up first and then kick out the walls. The Hexagon, on the other hand, requires you to pull out the walls first by walking around and popping them into place. Once the walls are fully extended, you step inside and pop up the roof. This process is straightforward but may require a bit of muscle, especially if you’re doing it solo.
One of the major advantages of the Hexagon is its ventilation and access points. Unlike the UP-5, which has smaller windows, the Hexagon boasts five large windows and three doors. This is a game-changer in terms of airflow and light, especially in warmer climates. One of the walls even unzips and swings up, converting into an awning, which not only adds ventilation but also creates a shaded area outside the tent—ideal for relaxing or cooking.
Like the UP-5, the Hexagon comes equipped with a stove jack, which is perfectly positioned for using an internal stove for heating. I’ve used both the RBM Outdoors Medium Wood Stove and my 4kW Planar portable diesel heater in this tent. While both methods work exceptionally well, I often prefer the diesel heater for the simple “set it and forget it” functionality, allowing me to maintain a comfortable temperature all night without having to tend to a fire.
As much as I love this tent, there are a couple of drawbacks that may affect some users. For one, the packed size of the Hexagon is nearly 90 inches long, which can make transport a bit tricky. It also weighs close to 100 pounds, so it’s not exactly the most portable option if you’re looking for something lightweight. For me, this isn’t a dealbreaker—I just strap it to the roof of my Jeep Gladiator—but it’s something to keep in mind, especially if you have a smaller vehicle.
Overall, the RBM Outdoors Hexagon Tent is a masterpiece of engineering and design. It’s incredibly spacious, well-insulated, and sturdy enough to withstand a range of extreme weather conditions. Whether you’re setting up camp for a week in the snow or heading to a desert location, this tent delivers on every front. Sure, it’s a bit heavy and bulky, but the trade-off is well worth it for the comfort, space, and durability you get in return. If you’re serious about your camping and want a tent that’s built to last, this one should definitely be on your shortlist.
Read More: Best Ground Tents of 2024
RBM Outdoors Panda Medium Tent
The RBM Outdoors Panda Medium is a highly innovative yet simple inflatable tent designed for campers who prioritize ease of setup and weather resistance without sacrificing durability. Not to mention is the most budget friendly option on this list…
Unlike traditional pole tents, the Panda Medium uses an inflatable frame, which makes setting up camp incredibly fast and simple. With just a few pumps (more like a few minutes), the tent is fully up and ready to go, taking much of the hassle out of pitching a tent, especially when conditions are less than ideal.
Specs:
- Seasons: 4 Season
- Dimensions: 118″L x 87″W x 87″H
- Weight: 36 Kilograms (79 lbs)
- Floor Width: 118 Inches
- Occupancy: 4 Person
- Shape: Rectangular
- Waterproof
- Inflatable design for easy setup
Recommended Uses:
- Camping
- Hiking
I’ve had the opportunity to test this tent in a variety of environments, and its performance continues to impress. The inflatable design not only speeds up the setup process but also makes the tent surprisingly resilient in harsh weather. The tent comes with a manual hand pump, however if you want to level up your game, pony up on an electric pump. Strong winds that might bend or break poles in traditional tents are less of a concern here since the air beams flex and absorb the pressure rather than snap. The Panda Medium comfortably accommodates up to four people, making it perfect for solo campers who like extra space or for small groups.
One of the tent’s biggest strengths is its weather resistance. The durable materials used in the tent’s construction keep it dry and secure even in heavy rain or snow with use of the provided rain fly. The Panda Medium does not feature the double-wall design seen in RBM’s hub-style tents, but it still provides excellent insulation, particularly when used with a wood stove or portable heater. The stove jack built into the tent makes it easy to add a heating element for winter camping, which turns the Panda Medium into a cozy, comfortable space even in freezing conditions.
While the inflatable frame is a standout feature, the tent still retains the ruggedness that RBM Outdoors is known for. The exterior fabric is tough and weatherproof, providing plenty of protection from the elements. However, because it is not a double-wall tent, you might notice a bit more condensation inside compared to models like the UP-5 or Hexagon, though this is fairly common with single-wall designs.
In terms of cons for this tent, I have nothing. The original Panda Medium had a whole list of items I didn’t care for. With this updated version, they raised the bar high.
Overall, the Panda Medium is a solid choice for anyone looking for a lightweight, portable, and easy-to-set-up tent that can handle a range of weather conditions. Its compact size and simple setup make it an excellent option for overlanders and solo campers alike.
Read More: Inflatable Camp Tent Reviews: Four Reliable Choices for Overlanders
RBM Outdoors Panda Large Tent
The RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent takes all the great features of the Panda Medium and scales them up to accommodate larger groups or families. Like its smaller counterpart, the Panda Large uses an inflatable frame instead of traditional poles, which makes setting it up a breeze. Despite its larger size, this tent can be fully erected in minutes, thanks to the same simple inflation system used in the medium model.
Specs:
- Seasons: 4 Season
- Dimensions: 118″L x 159″W x 87″H
- Weight: 51 Kilograms (112 lbs)
- Floor Width: 3 Meters (118 inches)
- Occupancy: 6 Person
- Shape: Rectangular
- Water Resistance Technology: 1500 Mm
- Inflatable design for fast setup
- Waterproof
Recommended Uses:
- Camping
- Hiking
With room for up to six people, the Panda Large is perfect for families or groups of friends who want plenty of space without the hassle of a complicated setup. The inflatable beams are not only easy to use but also highly durable, giving the tent the ability to withstand high winds and heavy snow without the risk of poles snapping. In my experience, the tent has handled harsh conditions exceptionally well, including heavy rain and strong winds, making it a reliable option for all-season camping.
One of the major advantages of the Panda Large is its spacious interior. The extra room allows for more gear storage, comfortable sleeping arrangements, and the ability to move around freely. The tent’s height is also a bonus, as it provides enough headroom for standing, which is especially important when you’re camping for extended periods. The built-in stove jack makes heating the tent easy, and it works great with both wood stoves and portable heaters, creating a warm, comfortable space even in extreme cold.
The Panda Large uses high-quality, weather-resistant materials throughout, ensuring that it stands up to rough weather and frequent use. The inflatable design also means fewer parts to break or lose, which is a big plus if you’re camping in remote areas. The tent’s exterior is durable and tough, though it doesn’t have the same double-wall insulation as other RBM models like the Hexagon or UP-5. That said, the thickness of the canvas material helps retain warmth and provides decent protection from the cold.
Despite all its positives, the Panda Large does have a couple of drawbacks. The tent is heavier and bulkier than the medium version, which can make transporting it a bit more challenging. Lastly around the doors, while you can close the tent up with the zippers, airflow from heavy winds can still sneak in as outer doors do not zip up along the bottom edge.
For anyone who needs a spacious, easy-to-set-up tent that can handle a variety of weather conditions, the Panda Large Inflatable Tent is an excellent choice. Its durability, ease of use, and ability to house a larger group make it a fantastic option for extended camping trips or overland adventures.
Read More: RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent Review
Are You Ready for an RBM Outdoors Journey?
So, there you have it! A complete rundown of my RBM Outdoors journey. The question is…are you ready for your own adventure?
RBM Outdoors doesn’t just offer high-quality tents; as you’ve seen here, there are tents in their lineup for just about every purpose, budget, and group size. Whether you need a small, budget-friendly tent, a huge family-sized tent, or something in between, RBM Outdoors has your back.
Overlanding trips can be a lot of fun, and while gear isn’t the only thing to consider, getting the right tent can either make your trips more fun and comfortable or make them a bit of a nightmare. As I’ve said, my RBM Outdoors experiences have been fantastic. I can’t recommend these tents highly enough for your next adventure!