As camping season draws closer, the demand for rooftop tents (RTTs) also spikes. Some people prefer RTTs over ground tents for enhanced comfort and superior airflow, while others choose RTTs for quick, effortless setup. Whatever the reason, the truth is that RTTs have garnered quite a bit of limelight in the past two years, and it seems bigger brands have taken notice, too.
Thule, a popular Swedish brand renowned for its premium car-top carrying solutions, recently launched the Widesky. This two-person hardshell rooftop tent pushes the boundaries of what overlanders can expect from a vehicle-mounted shelter.
First reported by Gear Patrol, Thule Widesky is tailor-made for those who want comfort and freedom without compromise. To put that in context, most rooftop tents focus on durability, safety, and space. Contrary to popular belief, the Widesky rooftop tent marks comfort as its main USP. This is evident in Widesky’s convertible interior.
Rather than serving merely as elevated sleeping quarters, the Widesky interior features a futon-like mattress with a support system that can transform the bed into a sofa-like area. “The mattress converts into a supportive backrest, creating a sofa-like seating area inside the tent,” the brand states.
Relaxing inside, you are graced with panoramic views of the surrounding nature, courtesy of large doors. The doors and windows offer exceptional ventilation and sweeping views, while integrated dimmable LED lights with USB connectivity light the space at night.
Beyond basic features, the Widesky is packed with thoughtful details, such as an insulated felt ceiling and four internal mesh pockets to house your favourite EDC items. The tent includes a ladder that can be mounted on any side and stored in a versatile multi-use bag.
The Widesky features a lightweight aluminum hardshell body equipped with telescopic poles. This design allows the unit to transition from a closed position to a full-size wedge-shaped tent simply by undoing four secure latches.
The brand highlights that the entire unit sets up and folds down in just seconds, noting, “Simply release the buckles and open. No fabric to tuck in. Less time setting up, more time enjoying where you are.”
Also Read: Sky Rover RTT is Top-Flight Choice for Your Next Camping Feat
From a technical standpoint, this is possible thanks to a gas-assisted opening mechanism and simple pull-down straps, which “let you pitch or pack the tent in seconds.” The brand further details, “The aluminum shell and honeycomb base provide strength and weather protection, while the rugged recycled fabric stands up to changing conditions. The result is a premium hardshell rooftop tent that combines durability with everyday ease of use.”
Weighing less than 150lbs and measuring 7.9 inches high when packed, the Widesky is compatible with most roof rack systems and a wide variety of vehicles, from SUVs and pickup trucks to standard passenger cars. The tent is priced at $4,000, which is three times the cost of the Trailpeak rooftop four-season tent and almost double the price of the Snowpeak field rise rooftop tent, but the two don’t promise rooftop lounging as Widesky does.
