Frequently asked questions
- withstands a lot of wind from all directions
- freestanding
- good roof height
- small vestibule
- can be difficult to pitch
- heavier than a tunnel tent
- low weight
- large vestibule
- quick and easy to pitch
- must be well staked out against the weather
- not freestanding
- lower roof height
- protects against damage and lengthens the life of the tent
- is more comfortable and prevents damp from getting in the tent
- minimizes condensation in the tent
What’s the difference between Pro, Superlight, Trek and X-Trem tents?
The tents are made of different materials and meet different needs.
SUPERLIGHT is a 3-season tent: Very light, small packing volume and robust materials.
PRO is a 4-season tent (year-round tent): Very robust, our most versatile tent.
X-TREM is adapted for expeditions and winter use.
TREK is a cheaper 3-season tent and is designed for easier use, for example on campsites.
What is a dome tent?
A dome tent has crossing tent poles.
Advantages
Disadvantages
For example: Reinsfjell Pro 2
Read more here!
What is a tunnel tent?
A tunnel tent has parallel tent poles.
Advantages
Disadvantages
For example: Lofoten Superlight 2 Camp
Read more here!
What does 3-season and 4-season tent mean?
A 3-season tent is designed primarily to be used in spring, summer and autumn. This means that the material is not designed to withstand snow, ice and extreme weather.
Our Superlight tents have the least possible weight and packing volume.
A 4-season tent is designed to be used all year round. Our PRO tents are extremely robust and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
The PRO tents are the perfect compromise between weight, packing volume and robustness.
For a winter hike in the mountains, we recommend an X-Trem tent that can withstand snow, ice and strong winds. Storm flaps and reinforced guy rope points make the X-Trem tents suitable for the toughest of expeditions.
How do I choose the right tent for me?
The most important questions are: When, where and how are you going to use your tent?
You need to consider the season (weather), size (how many people), weight and how robust your tent needs to be.
Here are some examples:
1: Hiking in summer, low weight is important, 3 people
--> Lofoten Superlight 3 Camp
2: Hiking all year round, 2 people, tent must be freestanding
--> Reinsfjell 2 Pro
3: Winter expeditions, 3 people, use with a sled bag, easy to pitch
--> Spitsbergen X-Trem 4 Camp
What materials do you use in your tents?
We use nylon or polyester for the tent cloth and aluminum for our poles.
The choice of materials is essential to the product’s performance and service life.
Read more here!
Why should I use a footprint?
A footprint:
You can find all footprints here.
What does the weight stated on my tent include?
The net weight stated on the tent includes the outer tent, inner tent, poles, repair splints and sleeves, and pegs.
Can Helsport repair damage to my tent?
Yes. Service and repairs are a fundamental part of our thinking.
We can repair all sorts of damage. For example, rips, broken zippers, guy ropes, peg loops and much more.
Our sewing department in Ranheim (Trondheim) can repair your products and help you with spares.
Read more here!
Tent
What is the difference between a dome tent and tunnel tent?
If weight and space are important to you, you should choose a tunnel tent (For example Lofoten Superlight 3 Camp)
If you want a sturdy tent that you can put up anywhere, and you're not so bothered about a flysheet and the weight, choose a dome tent.
(For example Reinsfjell Pro 2)
See Alexsander Gamme for an explanation of the differences here.
What does water column mean?
Water column is a term used to indicate how much water pressure our materials can handle before the water penetrates the material.
800 mm water column is considered waterproof according to international standard EN 343. The higher the water column, the better the waterproofness.
We use different water columns (minimum 2000 mm) for different types of tents, which are adapted to different areas of use and situations. All our tents are 100% waterproof.
Read more about materials here.
Read more about stitching, tear strength and waterproofness here.
How do I store my tent?
Treat your tent well on hikes, clean, dry, repair and store it in a dry, dark and cool place.
How do I maintain my tent?
Treat your tent well on hikes, clean, dry, repair and store it in a dry, dark and cool place.
Read more about all our tips here.
How do I find the right footprint for my tent?
Using our search function, search by footprint followed by the product name.
For example: Footprint Lofoten Superlight 2 Camp
How can I reduce condensation in my tent?
Ventilate well, use the vents and air it by opening the tent.
Use a footprint, as a lot of damp comes from the ground.
If you cook dinner in your tent, use a lid to stop lots of steam escaping while cooking.
As far as possible, avoid bringing snow or wet clothing into the tent, as they can cause condensation.
Read more here!
How can I clean my tent?
Pitch the tent and wipe it down with a cloth or sponge and lukewarm water.
Don't use soap and don't put the tent in the washing machine.
Read more here.
Can I impregnate my tent?
Trek tents and our lavvus can be re-impregnated.
Superlight, Pro and X-Trem cannot be re-impregnated.
Read more here.
Are all Helsport tents fire retardant?
No, not all of our tents are fire retardant.
Only trek tents and lavvus are fire retardant.
Read more here.
Can you explain more about sewing methods, tear strength and waterproofness?
Making good tent fabrics is a challenge, since it involves so many different factors working optimally together.
That’s why we recommend you read more here.
How does ventilation work in tents?
The ventilation system reduces condensation, improves the indoor climate and increases sleeping comfort.
Open the flaps at each end of the tent to ensure an even supply of fresh air/oxygen (taking into account safety and sleeping conditions), at the same time allowing any condensation to escape from the tent.
Read more here.
How do I find the right tent poles for my tent?
You can search for your tent and the right tent poles here.
Basecamp
- intended for hiking and outdoor activities
- easy to put up and easy to take down
- held up by a centrally placed central pole (with the exception of Varanger Dome and Valhall)
- good headroom, very spacious and comfortable
- allows use of a wood-burning stove, either wood burner or fire
- easy to pitch
- relatively heavy
- large packing volume
- can't cope with as much wind and snow as small tents
- 3 people, a lot of equipment: Varanger 4-6
- 4 people, enormous amount of equipment, use of wood-burning stove: Varanger 8-10
- 6 people, small amount of equipment, comfort not important: Varanger 4-6
- 8 people, lots of equipment, comfort is important: Varanger 12-14
- The separate groundsheet (optional accessory) has an opening to allow the stove to stand on the ground.
- If you want to use an inner tent as well, we recommend a separate inner tent and separate groundsheet.
- Inner tents with sewn-in groundsheets can't be opened, so mustn't be used with a stove.
What is a lavvu?
A lavvu is a conical tent, originally a Sami tent and resembles a tipi tent.
Our lavvus are:
Plenty of space and standing height in the morning and a fireplace in the middle to ensure well-being and warmth.
Read more here.
What are the pros and cons of lavvus?
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
How many people can fit in a lavvu?
Our lavvus come in different sizes, adapted for groups of between 4-14 people.
Read more here.
How do I choose the right size lavvu?
You need to think about how many people will be on the trip.
If you have a lot of equipment, you need to factor in some extra space in your lavvu.
For example:
What lavvus does Helsport have and how do I choose the right lavvu?
Varanger and Varanger Camp are our most versatile lavvus. It’s our standard lavvu.
Additional accessories: Groundsheet, inner tent, inner tent with sewn-in groundsheet.
Available in sizes 4-6, 8-10 and 12-14.
Finnmark 6-8 is a lavvu developed for hard use and extreme conditions.
It’s our extreme lavvu. Comes with inner tent with sewn-in groundsheet.
Available in sizes 6-8.
Pasvik is a slightly simpler and lighter lavvu (less robust) for when you're carrying the lavvu over longer distances.
Additional accessories: Groundsheet
Available in sizes 4-6, 6-8 and 10-12.
Varanger Dome is a hybrid of a lavvu and tent.
It’s a freestanding dome tent that’s easy to pitch on any terrain.
Available in sizes 4-6 and 8-10.
Read more here.
How do you use a stove in a lavvu?
All our lavvus are made from flame retardant material.
You can use either our own wood-burning stove, tipi wood burner or fire.
You can read more about the advantages of each of them here.
Is it safe to use a wood-burning stove together with the inner tent and groundsheet?
Yes, it’s safe as long as the stove is on the ground.
Our Finnmark 6-8 comes with a special inner tent with a sewn-in groundsheet that has an opening for the stove.
Read more having a fire in a lavvu here.
Is it safe to light a fire in a lavvu?
Yes, and it’s really cozy. You must, of course, be careful and build the fire as small as possible.
The flame retardant material in the lavvus is very good, but don't build a bonfire in the tent!
The stove is, however, the most optimal heat source in the lavvu.
Read more having a fire in a lavvu here.
What materials are used in your lavvu?
We use Polyester Ripstop.
Helsport Rainguard® Fr:
The flysheet is flame retardant and has a water column of 3000 mm.
Helsport Rainguard® FR Floor:
The groundsheet (optional accessory) is flame retardant and has a water column of 5000 mm.
Read more here.
How do you pitch a lavvu?
There are two methods:
In a group:
One person holds the pole upright inside the tent while the others put the pegs in.
On your own:
Put the pegs in first, then climb in with the pole and erect the tent.
In both cases, it is important that the pegs are put in diagonally. Don't tighten the pegs too much at first. Tighten them once the tent is sturdy.
Does Helsport have accessories, inner tents and groundsheets for the lavvu?
Yes, we do.
They include: Inner tent, groundsheet, top cap, wood-burning stove, burner, drying rack, spare poles.
Check out “Recommended accessories” on the product page or search for it using our search function.
For example, accessories for Varanger 4-6:
How can I find the right footprint/groundsheet for my lavvu?
We have a groundsheet for our Varanger and Passvik lavvus.
You can find them under “Recommended accessories” on the product page.
You can also search by the name of the groundsheet.
Varanger Lavvo floor 4-6: Fits all Varanger 4-6
Varanger Lavvo floor 8-10: Fits all Varanger 8-10
Varanger Lavvo floor 12-14: Fits all Varanger 12-14
The same applies to Pasvik Floor (4-6, 6-8 and 10-12)
Finnmark 6-8 comes with inner tent + groundsheet.
Tarp
- Tarp
- Additional guy ropes
- Tent pegs
- A rope between 3-6 meters long and thickness of 2-4 mm
- At least two trees or two straight poles
- Tarp
- Additional guy ropes
- Pegs
- A rope between 3-6 meters long and thickness of 2-4 mm
- At least two trees or two straight poles
What is a tarp?
A tarp is a type of tarpaulin. It provides good protection against rain and sun, as well as against wind and snow.
A tarp is the simplest wilderness home. It can be pitched quickly, so you don't have to take a tent with you.
They can be used for anything from a simple slide in the rain to somewhere to sleep for a few nights.
For example: Bitihorn Superlight Tarp
What materials are used in your tarp?
We use nylon or polyester. The choice of materials is essential to the product’s performance and service life.
Bitihorn Superlight Tarp: HELSPORT RAINGUARD® SUPERLIGHT, Water column 2000 mm
Bitihorn Pro Tarp: HELSPORT RAINGUARD® PRO, Water column 3000 mm
Bitihorn X-Trem Tarp: HELSPORT RAINGUARD® PRO, Water column 3000 mm
Bitihorn Trek Tarp: HELSPORT RAINGUARD® FR, Water column 3000 mm
Read more here.
How do I use a tarp?
The optimal tarp kit looks like this:
You can use our Bitihorn Tarp in many different ways.
Shelter: You can make a lean-to shelter with plenty of headroom under the roof.
Roof: Use the tarp as an extra roof over the tent
Pitched roof: Or raise the tarp up like a pitched roof and you’ll have a roof if you’re sleeping out in nature.
Screen: Use the tarp as a screen against the sun or wind
How can I hang a tarp up?
The optimal tarp kit looks like this:
You can use our Bitihorn Tarp as a lean-to shelter, roof, pitched roof or screen.
What’s the difference between Pro, Superlight, Trek and X-Trem tarp?
Our tarps are made of different materials and meet different needs.
SUPERLIGHT is very light, has a small packing volume and robust material
PRO is very robust and our most versatile tent tarp
X-TREM is adapted for expeditions and winter use
TREK is a simple tarp with a large packing volume. Good for using on campsites
Read more about materials here!
How do I attach the tarp?
Our tarps come with guy ropes and strong guy rope points.
With some creative use of trees and other natural elements, there are numerous ways you can pitch the tarp.
Mountain poncho
- Polyester PU
- Water column 5000 mm
- Polyester PU
- Water column 5000 mm
- Nylon Ripstop inner fabric
- Thermoguard 6000 insulation (1 x 210 gr)
- Polyester PU
- Water column 5000 mm
- Nylon Ripstop inner fabric
- Thermoguard 6000 insulation (1 x 160 gr)
How do you use the mountain poncho?
It's a very versatile multi-functional product for hunting and outdoor pursuits.
The mountain poncho comes with a hood and sleeves that are detachable with a zipper.
Our mountain poncho can be used as a sleeping bag, windbreaker, screen, poncho, hunting tree stand, and more.
What materials are used in your mountain poncho?
We use sturdy, waterproof tent fabric with an aluminum cover to reflect the heat.
Fjellduk Pro:
Fjellduk X-Trem:
Fjellduk Trek XT:
How do I choose the right mountain poncho?
Fjellduk Pro: Our lightest mountain poncho. It has no insulation and is made of robust material. Suitable for hiking from spring to autumn.
Fjellduk X-Trem: Our warmest mountain poncho (210 g fiber) and suitable for hiking in winter or on cold days in the mountains.
Fjellduk Trek XT: Very versatile and warm mountain poncho (160 g fiber). A good compromise between Pro and X-Trem.
Sleeping bags
- T-COMF: The green zone is called the comfort zone and within this temperature range most people can sleep comfortably in their sleeping bag.
- T-LIM: The yellow zone is called the transition zone from comfort to risk. In this zone, a lot of people can sleep comfortably, but some will start to freeze.
- T-EXT: The red zone is the risk zone and is defined as a zone in which a person can experience severe cold and be at risk of hypothermia (dangerously low body temperature). For example, an average woman can withstand a maximum of six hours in this zone.
How do I find the right size sleeping bag for me?
Our sleeping bags are designed for maximum heat within the stated temperature range.
New sleeping bags can therefore feel a bit tight compared to a duvet that we are used to sleeping in.
If you’re willing to sacrifice a bit of warmth for comfort, there’s no harm in going up a size, and conversely, if you're willing to sacrifice a little comfort for warmth, you can go for a smaller sleeping bag.
If you're of a rather broad build, we also recommend going a size up, or choosing a lady's sleeping bag, as these are slightly roomier around the upper body.
Follow our size recommendations (height/width):
Can I wash my sleeping bag?
Yes, you can wash your sleeping bag.
We also recommend using a sleeping bag liner to protect the sleeping bag against sweat and dirt. The sleeping bag liner is more durable and can be washed frequently.
Read more here: Caring for your sleeping bag!
What does comfort temperature (T-COMF), T-LIM and T-EXT mean?
What temperature sleeping bag should I choose?
It depends on your needs. Where and when are you going to use the sleeping bag?
General rule: The outdoor temperature should not be lower than the comfort temperature T-COMF stated on the sleeping bag
T-COMF 5: In summer / Rago Spring Lady
T-COMF 0: From spring to autumn / Rago
T-COMF -10: In winter / Rago Winter
T-COMF -16: In winter and expeditions / Rago X-Trem
T-COMF below -20: Expeditions / Spitsbergen
Read more here!
Should I choose a fiber or down sleeping bag?
This is often down to taste and comfort, but if you want the lowest possible weight, you should choose down. Down insulates better than fibers of the same weight, but it doesn't cope with moisture as well as fiber sleeping bags.
For example Rago
Fiber bags insulate better than down bags if they get wet. If you’re going hiking in a humid climate, fiber is the right choice.
For example Alta Superlight
Read more here!
What is the European temperature recommendation EN 13537?
This is a standard for how sleeping bags are tested and labeled, so that you can compare sleeping bags from different manufacturers easily.
My sleeping bag zipper is broken, can it be repaired?
Yes, it's possible.
When we're sent sleeping bags with a “broken” zipper, in 99% of cases it's just the slider that's worn out. If you replace it, it will be as good as new.
Here you can read more about our service department.
How do I pack my sleeping bag for a trip?
Stuffing it in is right!
We recommend that you always stuff your sleeping bag into the compression sack, instead of rolling it. This is the same whether you have a fiber or down bag.
How do I store my sleeping bag?
Where does the down you use come from?
All Helsport sleeping bags only use down certified to RDS – Responsible Down Standard.
To learn more about RDS, visit responsibledown.org.
Liners
Why do I need a sleeping bag liner?
A sleeping bag liner is a comfortable inner bag for sleeping bags or for use with duvets.
One of the main advantages is that it protects against wear and makes cleaning the sleeping bag easier.
Read more here!
What's the difference between the various sleeping bag liners?
We divide the sleeping bag liners into two shapes depending on how you use it:
Sleeping bag liner for sleeping bags (mummy-shaped)
Sleeping bag liner for duvets and pillows (rectangular)
What materials are Helsport sleeping bag liners made of?
We use three different materials:
Thermolite: Comfort and mobility
Silk: Low weight
Cotton: Very durable
Read more here.
What type of sleeping bag liner should I choose?
The material you find most comfortable is up to you.
The main differences are:
Thermolite: Comfort and mobility
Silk: Low weight
Cotton: Very durable
We divide the sleeping bag liners into two shapes.
Sleeping bag liner for sleeping bags Mummy-shaped
Sleeping bag liner for duvets and pillows Rectangular
Read more here!
Service and repairs
Can Helsport repair my tent?
Yes, repairs are a fundamental part of our thinking. We can repair all sorts of damage to your tent. Examples include rips, broken zippers, guy ropes, peg loops and much more.
Our sewing department in Ranheim (Trondheim) can repair your tent and help you with spares.
Read more here!
What guarantees does Helsport have?
We have a service guarantee, spare parts warranty and product warranty for 5 years.
Read more here!
What spare parts does Helsport have?
We stock, for example, repair equipment (fabric and sewing thread) and spares such as zippers, bungees, pole cups, hooks, clips, guy ropes, tent poles and much more.
If your Helsport product is damaged, we will always do our best to repair it.
Read more about our service department here!
How do I change the bungee cord in my tent poles?
First, release the pole cap from the tent pole. Then detach the bungee cord from the pole cap and pull the cord out the tent pole.
Attach new cord to the pole cap and thread the cord through all the pole sections. The bungee cord should be 20% shorter than the tent pole.
Follow the instructions in this video and you'll easily be able to change the cord yourself.
If you need new bungees, they can be purchased here.
How do I find new poles for my tent?
You can search for your tent model here to find new poles for your tent.
Pole overview!
How can I repair minor damage to seams?
It is never easy to assess damage and problems with the seams.
For minor damage, you can use Stormsure to make seams and small holes waterproof again. Stormsure is a very strong adhesive that keeps it flexibility and doesn't break. We use it to repair minor damage and seams.
You can find Stormsure online.
If you have any other problems or major problems with the seams, please contact us and fill out the contact form. Remember to attach pictures of the damage.
Contact us
How can I repair the zipper on my tent?
If the zipper on your tent is broken, you will need to send it us to repair.
Please send us your request with pictures here!
I’ve got a rip in my tent, can you send me extra fabric?
You can find Repair Kits to repair the rip yourself here.
You can find a video called “How to repair a torn flysheet" here.
If you have major problems with your tent, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Remember to attach pictures of the damage.
How do I send in a product for repair?
To have your tent or sleeping bag repaired, please fill in the contact form and attach pictures of the damage.
We will contact you as soon as possible after receiving your request. You can find the contact form and up-to-date information about our Service Center here.
How do I repair a product myself?
We have compiled some of the most common repairs we're sent on some simple DIY videos.
The zipper on my sleeping bag is broken, can it be replaced?
Yes, it's possible.
When we're sent sleeping bags with a “broken” zipper, in 99% of cases it's just the slider that's worn out. If you replace it, it will be as good as new.
Here you can read more about our service department.
What is the cost of repairing a product?
We will soon have an updated price list.
Read more here.
I want to make a complaint about a product – how do I go about it?
To make a complaint about a product, follow the instructions here.
Delivery and returns
How long does delivery take?
Our aim is to deliver the products as quickly as possible within 1-4 days, depending on where you live.
Currently, we only offer delivery to addresses in Norway and Sweden. We don't deliver to Svalbard.
Read more here.
What does delivery cost?
Shipping costs NOK 79. If your order is over NOK 750, we pay for shipping.
You can find up-to-date information on delivery and returns here
Where do you deliver?
We deliver to Norway, Sweden, and all countries with euro currency.
We don't deliver to Svalbard.
Read more about Delivery and Returns!
How can I track my order?
When you order an item from us, we will notify you by email when your order leaves our warehouse and is on its way to you.
This email includes a tracking number from PostNord, so that you can follow the item from when it is sent until it is ready for collection at the pick-up point.
If you register your phone number when placing an order, you will also receive a tracking number, so that you can check the status of your consignment at any time.
You will be sent a pick-up code when the item has arrived. Bring this to the pick-up point when you collect the item.
I've bought an item from the webshop, but I don't have a tracking number. How do I get it?
When you order with us, you will receive confirmation by email when the item(s) leaves our warehouse. You can find your tracking number in this email.
If you haven't received the email, please check your spam filter.
Please contact us if you need help.
How do I exchange or return an item?
If you want to exchange an item, you need to return the item and place a new order in the webshop for the item you want.
Read more here.
I've received the wrong product. What should I do?
Please contact us if you have received the wrong product from us.
Contact us here.
I've received a damaged product from you. What should I do?
Please contact us if you think there is something wrong with an item you have received.
Contact us here.
Do I have the right to change my mind?
Yes, you do. Under the Cancellation Act, you have the right to cancel for a period of 14 days from the date you receive the item.
Follow the instructions here.
Do I have to pay shipping if I return an order?
Returns to us are free of charge.
However, the shipping costs you paid at the time of purchase will not be refunded if your order is below the free shipping limit of NOK 750.
Read more here.
How long does it take for the money to reach my account once I have returned an order?
Once we have received and registered your return, you will receive your refund within 7-12 working days.
Remember that you must opt to pay later in the Klarna app or on their website to avoid getting a reminder fee.
Read more here.
There's an item missing from my order. What should I do?
Please contact us if there's an item missing from your order.
Contact us here.
Can I change my order?
Unfortunately, we cannot cancel or change orders because the order information is forwarded quickly to many different internal systems.
Please use the return option. This is the easiest and fastest solution.
You can find more information on returns here.
Can I cancel my order?
Unfortunately, we cannot cancel or change orders because the order information is forwarded quickly to many different internal systems.
Please use the return option. This is the easiest and fastest solution.
You can find more information on returns here.
Can I change the delivery address on my order?
If you would like to change the delivery address on your order, please contact us.