If your outdoors background includes family camping, it’s more than likely you’ll have heard of Outwell tents. The Danish company has a strong background in this sector, especially here in the UK. And that’s also what holds it in particularly good stead with its more recent caravan awning offerings.

Outwell’s mid-range Ripple inflatable awning

There’s a growing portfolio to choose from, with the Ripple 380SA reviewed here part of its Nordic Shore collection (not to be confused with its Nordic Coast models). As well as the 380, there are also 320 and 440 variants, all with that same ‘smiley face’ appearance.

The SA in the name stands for Smart Air, which means single-point inflation.

SA in the name stands for Smart Air, meaning single-point inflation

That’s a good start, meaning you can inflate this awning by attaching the manual pump (newly designed for 2020) at any valve and pump up the whole unit in one go, thanks to the interconnecting beams.

Other than that, you need some 44cm of rail attachment to connect the Ripple.

The single front panel is removable as are the two side panels (something to bear in mind when you’re putting up any awning like this, as it can help having a lot less bulk and weight to contend with).

Metal verandah bar allows you to half-open the side panels

The Ripple certainly boasts a superior main fabric. Outtex HD is a Taslan polyester with a particularly dense weave that makes it akin to polycotton. It’s also highly water-resistant, thanks in part to features such as taped seams.

Metal verandah bar allows you to half-open the side panels

They do like their ‘Systems’ at Outwell – with the Ripple 380SA you get:

Pole-free Seal System, whereby the fabric fits tight against the caravan walls

Height Adjustment System, to help in adjusting levels when pitching on uneven ground

Integrated Advanced Air System, which refers to the beam framework and optimises overall performance, including the standing height.

Add to that tinted windows, zipped curtains, a draught skirt with two storage pockets, clip-on storm straps, two upper vents with internal covers rain protection covers over the side doors, and insect-proof mesh. There are also the usual annexe, carpet and footprint options.

Draught skirt includes two storage pockets handy for shoes and so on

And if you want to continue the Outwell theme, you might also like to investigate the firm’s extensive catalogue of camping gear, too!

If you liked this… READ THESE:

Sunncamp Esteemed Air

Vango Maldives 400

If you’ve enjoyed reading this article, why not get the latest news, reviews and features delivered direct to your door or inbox every month. Take advantage of our brilliant Practical Caravan magazine SUBSCRIBERS’ OFFER and SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER for regular weekly updates on all things caravan related.