The Zpacks Duplex Tent is a highly regarded ultralight shelter designed for minimalist backpackers and thru-hikers. This innovative tent offers an impressive combination of weight, durability, and functionality, making it an attractive option for those seeking to lighten their load without sacrificing comfort.

Design and Features

The Zpacks Duplex Tent boasts a unique design that sets it apart from more traditional tents. Its rectangular shape provides ample space for two occupants, while its tapered ends help to reduce wind resistance. The tent’s fabric is made from Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), a lightweight and incredibly strong material that resists tears and punctures.

One of the standout features of the Zpacks Duplex Tent is its exceptional ventilation. Large mesh panels on either side of the tent ensure excellent airflow, helping to prevent condensation buildup and keep occupants cool during hot summer nights. The tent’s door and windows are also equipped with insect screens, providing protection from biting insects.

Weight and Packed Size

The Zpacks Duplex Tent is incredibly lightweight, weighing in at just 14.6 ounces (412 grams) for the solo version and 22.9 ounces (650 grams) for the two-person model. When packed away, the tent compresses to a remarkably small size of 4 inches x 5 inches (10 cm x 13 cm), making it easy to stow in even the most cramped backpacks.

Stability and Setup

The Zpacks Duplex Tent features a simple and intuitive setup process, requiring only a few stakes and guy lines. The tent’s color-coded clips make it easy to attach the fabric to the poles, while its wind-resistant design ensures stability in gusty conditions. When fully set up, the tent stands at 40 inches (102 cm) tall, providing ample headroom for occupants.

Rain Protection

The Zpacks Duplex Tent is designed to withstand heavy rain and wind, thanks to its waterproof Dyneema fabric and cleverly placed seams. The tent’s rainfly provides excellent coverage, while its adjustable stakes ensure a secure attachment to the ground.

Comparison to Other Ultralight Tents

In comparison to other ultralight tents on the market, the Zpacks Duplex Tent stands out for its exceptional weight-to-space ratio and durability. While it may not be the most spacious tent available, its compact size and lightweight construction make it an excellent choice for backpackers seeking a reliable shelter without sacrificing comfort.

Technical Specifications:

• Weight: 14.6 ounces (412 grams) solo, 22.9 ounces (650 grams) two-person
• Packed Size: 4 inches x 5 inches (10 cm x 13 cm)
• Fabric: Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF)
• Rainfly Material: Waterproof Dyneema fabric
• Stakes: Color-coded clips and wind-resistant stakes
• Vestibule: Two large mesh panels for excellent ventilation
• Window/Door Screens: Insect screens on doors and windows

Conclusion

The Zpacks Duplex Tent is an exceptional ultralight shelter that offers an impressive combination of weight, durability, and functionality. Its unique design, exceptional ventilation, and cleverly placed seams make it an attractive option for backpackers seeking a reliable and comfortable shelter without sacrificing comfort.

While it may not be the most spacious tent available, its compact size and lightweight construction make it an excellent choice for thru-hikers or minimalist backpackers. With its competitive price point of $595 (solo) and $795 (two-person), the Zpacks Duplex Tent is definitely worth considering for those seeking a high-quality ultralight shelter.