Ridgedome Swag

Updated RidgeDome

Picked up a Ridgedome swag from snowys last week. There are some differences from the product information: The SWAG is level across all 3 hoops (ie same size hoop) and does not slope towards the feet as shown in *some* photos. Therefore the dimensions shown are not 100% correct. There is no boot mat near the entry as shown on some photos/diagrams. The swag I received was NOT uniquely identified with a serial number The repair sleeve for the alloy poles was missing. ***NO storage bag is included.*** No Instructions/manuals were included. Although there was no instructions, setup was relatively simple and straightforward. After unrolling I assembled and inserted all 3 poles. I then secured the outer poles to the pins to form the hoops whilst laid flat. The extendable ridge pole was inserted throught the middle grommet and the swag errected. The middle pole was then secured to the pins. And finally I clipped the swag to the poles and adjusted. The SWAG is extremely roomy and accommodates my big build (6'4") comfortably. As the SWAG is the same size lengthwise, it is very easy to sleep either end. A 70mm mattress is included. Two pockets for mobiles etc have been included at the foot end (with the weather cover). There is a loop at the head end with plastic ring (I assume for hanging a small light) The windows either side of the feet end are zipped down either side. They are not fully zipped (ie across bottom) to allow some minor ventalation for condensation, but provide better weather proofing over velcro in other models. The head end fly can be zipped down for a third entry or to close the canvan from inside the swag. Although not shown in the photos, the ridgepole is extensable using a quick release catch. Given the premium nature of the swag it is very disappointing a storage bag is not included. Irrespective of the minor issues, I would highly recommend the Ridgedome swag. I would rate 5 star if this was provided with a storage bag consistent with other Darche models.

Response 06/05/19:

Hi Laine, Thank you for updating the images. That's correct, I was referring to other Darche Models (Dusk to Dawn/Dirty Dee) including a heavy-duty canvas bag out of the box, not that there was one missing. Buyers may need to factor this is additional cost when comparing swags. Cheers, John

Response from May 06 2019

G'day John,

Thanks for sharing your review - we've updated a couple of images to reflect the new design, thanks for point this out to us. I've had a look to see if we've listed the Ridgedome to have a free bag but unable to find anything along those lines... unless you were referring to Darche including a bag with all other swags in their range?

Thanks again.

Cheers, Laine

Raising the Stakes

On this trip I am trying out the Darche XL100 stretcher with my Ridgedome King Single swag (best swag I have ever bought). I wanted to see if the set up and pack up of the swag could be done without getting down and dirty, if my sleep improved and if I was more comfortable. Don’t get me wrong, I love sleeping on the ground and the comfort the 70mm mattress provides as well as the speed of set up and pack up, but sometimes a change is as good as a holiday (which reminds me I need a holiday). So far I have used this set up three nights and I am happy with what I was looking for. The XL100 is simple to erect and pack up and the Ridgedome swag fits perfectly lengthways and hangs over 5mm each side, perfect if it rains as the water runs off instead of pooling on the stretcher. The comfort is fairly good with no side to side movement and only a little amount of movement end to end. It is a “softer” sleep but I do tend to always end up in the middle as the stretcher dips. I am able to roll up my swag on the stretcher so that saves my back and my knees. It will be interesting to see how much the stretcher material stretches over time and also the strength of the seams. I will keep you posted. Glenn Marshall Travel Writer, Photographer, Adventurer https://4wdadventureoz.com/blog 

Darche Ridgedome - Best swag ever!

What a beast!

Ridgedome swag is great