The Annex for the ARB Simpson III Rooftop tent is a fantastic addition. It provides an area under the tent platform that is protected from both the bugs and the elements. I’ll let the photos do most of the talking for this review.
The Annex setup in the field
The ARB Simpson II Annex setup for the review
The annex is mounted to the tent platform by sliding the edges into a channel in the platform edge for the back and both sides. The section under the awning by the ladder zips in with a large durable zipper.
Shows the Annex fitting into the channel in the tent platform
Closeup of the center platform joint with the annex to the left
Showing where the annex continues under the awning with the zipper
Annex installed with the tent fly fabric pulled into place over the zipper
Showing the annex connected to the platform from the inside
The Simpson III Annex does not have a floor which I like. This is an area that will have lots of traffic and the floor would be hard to keep clean. The blue flaps can be folded in or out at the base. Camping in one location with high wind I have the flaps folded out and staked down which helps keep wind out of the annex. We use our rear FJ rubber mat as a floor mat under the ladder.
The heavy duty blue flaps can be turned in or out
The ladder just inside the door
The annex mounting system provides a system that is very durable and allows the sides to be drawn tight by the stakes.
The back corner looks very clean from the inside
If the tent is mounted so it folds off the back of an SUV there is a zipper opening in the back that allows access to the truck. For us it provides access to the trailer. I am considering setting up this area of the trailer as a kitchen.
Access to the trailer through the back of the annex
Dry access to the tent in a driving rain storm is the one of the best benefits of the ARB annex design with the ladder being inside.
Looking up into the awning over the ladder
ARB Again has given thought to the construction details.
Corner tie-down strap
Showing the back corner - 2 straps so the side can be unzipped
Grommets in the flap are reinforced
Shows the double stitching and reinforcement at the bas of the zipper
Summary:
- The annex does not take up much additional storage space and when setup provides a large usable space under the tent.
- After a few practice runs the annex can be setup in under 10 minutes.
- The construction is high quality and should last for years.
- I did find the t-straps that hold the door open when rolled up to be a little short and a struggle to use. With gloved hands they would be close to impossible.
- The stuff sack could be about 2 inches bigger. From the factory the annex fits fine but in the field it is a challenge to roll it up small enough to fit back in the bag.
- As with the tent, the annex is really sized for two people and will get crowded with any more.
If you get the ARB Simpson III rooftop tent the annex is well work the additional $260.00.
ARB Simpson III Rooftop Tent Installation
ARB Simpson III Rooftop Tent Setup
ARB Simpson III Rooftop Tent Detailed Review
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