23Zero Walkabout 56 2.0 vs Ironman 4x4 Cross 1200 MK2

The 23Zero Walkabout 56 2.0 and the Ironman 4x4 Cross 1200 MK2 are both softshell tents in the same part of the market, which makes them a genuine head-to-head rather than a comparison across categories. 23Zero and Ironman 4x4 take noticeably different approaches to the same problem.

By the numbers, the 23Zero Walkabout 56 2.0 brings 59 kg, 3.46 m² of floor, 112 cm of headroom and sleeps 2. The Ironman 4x4 Cross 1200 MK2 counters with 56 kg, 4.38 m² of floor, 128.02 cm of headroom and sleeps 3.

On weight they are effectively level — 59 kg against 56 kg — so the roof load question resolves the same way for both. Inside, the Cross 1200 MK2 gives 4.38 m² of sleeping floor against 3.46 m², about 27 percent more, and it sleeps 3 to the Walkabout 56 2.0's 2. Headroom separates them further: 128.02 cm in the Cross 1200 MK2 against 112 cm, which is the difference between sitting up to dress and doing it lying down. Their list prices are within a few percent of each other, so price is unlikely to decide this one.

Canvas differs too: ECO13B recycled fabric with Light Suppression Technology (LST) against 420D polyester Oxford fly; 120gsm super-fine insect mesh. Closed, the Walkabout 56 2.0 sits 6.93 cm lower on the roof — 36 cm against 42.93 cm — which is drag you carry on every mile you are not camping.