The Absolute LIGHTEST Tents You Can Buy

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

Check out Garage Grown Gear: geni.us/m2tzeVo Plex Solo: geni.us/ahG1KjD SMD Lunar Solo: geni.us/QFJZ Lanshan 1 Pro: geni.us/i6ps X-Mid 1 Pro: geni.us/AHiFfF The One: geni.us/Mix2 Fortius Tent: geni.us/xaEGs

[@chmduquesne]

As a EU viewer, I highly appreciate that you write the values in metric units on screen when you are saying the imperial number. I think this a very elegant way to speak to all audiences without breaking your flow. More KZbinrs should do that

[@affalaffaa]

Handy for Canadian viewers as well as they use metric.

[@Ryan-yi5ro]

​@@affalaffaa The entire world is.

[@OutOffMedia]

I always freak up when someone is saying that is frezzing at 20° ;)

[@guillaumekeulen219]

Imperial is different then US! Google it! This mistake let my uncle Joseph crash in the Java Sea! He bailed out safely!

[@capedmarauder2055]

Completely agree. Very grateful to have such good content. Equally, it is essentially Imperial for the US and metric for the rest of the world. So, anyone broadcasting to the world better include metric!

[@Senki207]

With how many gear reviews are bringing up this point, I'll have to bring up a counterpoint: buying from "cottage companies" mainly because you're supporting the brand feels a bit... ivory tower(ish) to me. I'm not saying that Zpacks and the rest don't make absolutely amazing products, they do, but for most of us, our gear is just something that allows us to do what we love, hike, explore and have adventures. There's nothing wrong with buying the cheapest gear (that still does the job right) and spending the rest of the money on amazing trips. If you have surplus money and you want to support local companies (though US companies aren't "local" to most of the world), it's okay, but the main point of hiking gear is to allow you to practice your hobby. If I had to choose between a $500 tent and a five day trip or a $180 tent and a twelve day trip, I'm always choosing the latter. The video description about the Lanshan tent is mostly an advertisement about buying from small companies instead of a description of the tent. I've owned a Lanshan 2, and honestly it's done its job perfectly and the equivalent of the $300 I saved by not ordering a Zpacks Duplex allowed me to go on a lot more trips. I encourage everyone to consider what they need the gear for and how they're going to use it before considering the "ethical" implications of buying said gear.

[@lorenzoalcantara5636]

Have used the X-Mid Pro 2 on two through hikes after a couple of years of the MSR Hubba Hubba and about 30 years (and multiple patches and re-urethaning and seam sealing) of an MEC Snowfield 2 person Expedition. The transition from about 3.5 kg to 1.4 kg now about 500g with the Durston XMid Pro 2P is amazing! Less weight and less volume for my ageing body to carry. Dan Durston is knocking it out of the park with his designs.

[@donb6070]

Lunar Solo has served me well on trips through the Cascades, and kayak trips in Montana. Being 6'3", I am quite comfortable inside the Solo. Having room for my backpack is great, too, allowing me to change into day clothes and access early morning coffee brewing gear without the need to go outside if the morning is drizzly.

[@AdventureswithWillem]

Very underrated tent

[@rono.3692]

I agree! I am also 6'3" and love my Lunar Solo. I now backpack with my Tarptent Aeon Li and I admit to secretly wishing for the Lunar Solo's floor space. If SMD could make it from DCF, I would classify it as Best Tent Ever!

[@jeffhartman5166]

Durston X-mid (non-pro). Best combination of price, features, space, and weight. $240 for a tent that has 2 vestibules, comes seam sealed, fits wide sleeping pads, well ventilated, and weighs only 28 oz. Best value double walled tent on the market.

[@Mysteri0usB]

The fact that this tent isn't talked about more by backpacking youtubers who only highlight the flagship models is a bit dissapointing

[@Cdubb89]

I 100% agree. I think for some purposes it’s better than the pro, being double walled.

[@nils_6542]

such a shame it costs almost 500 to get it shipped to europe.

[@cyrilhaessig27]

You are right, it is an amazing product. Shame that over here in Europe it is nearly twice the price by the time you add tax/import duty. If I lived in the US I would have bought one ages ago.

[@bananarama3624]

@@Mysteri0usB Really?? I have ONLY heard comparisons between Durston and Zpacks for most videos?? Most of the big backpacking KZbinrs only compare trekking pole tents from US brands and barely ever try any European or Australian or New Zealand brands which is more inconvenient for people who aren't from the US and it costs a lot for them to ship it over

[@memathews]

The SMD Gatewood Cape works for me and my 6'3" height. It's essentially a wearable Lunar Solo poncho with the same tent length, but three inches less taller (45") and 13inches narrower (66"), and no bug net or floor. I add a 2S2 bug net (3 oz) clipped to the top and 4 square corners, which makes a total package weight of 16 oz with a light ground cloth. The vestibule uses the same zipper style opening that is so convenient and spacious. But I don't think you can go wrong with any of these, all these tents look great and weigh so little.

[@briananderson3668]

The Durston x- mid tent served me well this week. The tent did well in 4 plus inches of wet snow, heavy winds, heavy rain during a trip earlier this week in Southern Utah.

[@TheFraziers]

I'll add my personal favorite which is the Tarptent Aeon. It's made of DCF, weighs only 17 ounces, and has great interior room and storm worthiness thanks to the carbon struts it has in two corners. It also requires the least number of stakes of any similar tent I can think of.

[@DanDeLeeuw989]

I just picked one up about a month ago and pitched it in my backyard... I don't have all the experience that these KZbinrs do, but it's an absolutely amazing tent with awesome ventilation, low weight, and plenty of useable room! Can't wait to take it out in the back country this spring!

[@boogada]

I also love my Aeon. Its definitely absent from this list.

[@HomeyD.Clause]

Tarptent Aeon Li - Dyneema (DCF), USA made, six stake setup, functional rain fly, adjustable vents/air flow, adjustable splash guards, 19.3 oz / 548 g (with apex guyline, stakes, struts, and bags). Been using it for two years. Tarptent Aeon Li FTW.

[@CBne1997]

@@HomeyD.Clause Tarptent’s are not made in the US. The only UL tents I know that are made in the US are Zpacks and MLD. HMG moved their manufacturing to Mexico recently.

[@anselmocat]

Aeon is a great tent but needs 6 stakes to set up properly. If you had to decide between it and the DD Xmid pro 1 it would be a very tough decision, but the DD may sneak it on internal and vestibule space as well as being easier to set up. Have both, speaking from experience 😂

[@debspieltube]

Lunar Solo! Used it for two seasons. Light and roomy! Like all single wall tents condensation is an issue, especially if it rains, but expected. I live in Utah so this usually is not a problem.

[@bootmender]

Back when I was young and doing a lot of hiking mostly in the winter I used North face. I have been in the Alps, to the base camp of Everest, the Appalachian Trail twice. Now in my 70’s it’s over-landing in my 4x4 van. Colin Fletcher was my mentor.

[@bootmender]

Another Explorer I look up to is Todd Carmichael; He is the first American to complete a solo trek across Antarctica to the South Pole, on foot with no assistance, capturing the World Speed Record with a total travel time of 39 days, 7 hours and 49 minutes.

[@sidneymoon8586]

My favorite is the Tarptent Notch Li, which is unique in having two doors, lots of vestibule space, and the option to add more wind protection to the interior, making it warmer in cold or windy weather. It also the only tent I’ve found that can be set up with my extremely lightweight 110cm poles. It’s only disadvantage is that it is harder to pack inside a pack because of it’s packed length.

[@TheAdventureGeek]

2nd the NotchLi

[@Justin-tb2qk]

I never heard of this...thanks looks really good tent. ​@@TheAdventureGeek

[@BananaBabys]

I had a notch. I prefer the aeon li but both are great. For different reasons.

[@evanshaw17]

Love your knowledge perspective and ability to empathize with all different types of outdoor people. Keep up the good work. I have the gossamer gear tent. If below treeline it’s superbe if one hikes eats sleeps and up early. Bug protection is a must. It’s great

[@charitallman5742]

After much thought I bought the SMD Lunar Solo. I'm 6ft 3inches tall and love the space (I keep my gear inside) and headroom to sit up and cook in the vestibule. Been on some great treks together!

[@envman67]

I just ordered the Durston X-Mid 2 for just $300. By far the BEST tent for the money. It can handle 40-60 mph winds, heavy snow, torrential rain with ease. It weighs just around 35ozs and it’s around $400 cheaper than the XMid pro version.

[@jeffrubin8570]

I have Lunar Solo and think its a great choice. The sil-poly material absorbs much less water than sil-nylon, so when you pack up in the morning you’re not carrying all that water weight. Easy to set up. Good price. Plenty of room for your gear. Mine weighs in at 29 ounces with stakes and a Sea to Summit dry bag. Packs down small.

[@ChristianPaulPhotography]

For going solo, for the weight and ease of pitch, as well as unique places you can pitch it I have the Lunar Solo. I’m on my third season with mine and I even did the Uinta Highline Trail with mine. I only hike with one pole so the other two pole tents on your list just have no value to me. Six Moon did seam seal mine but I went over it myself, including adding silicone dots on the floor to keep my pad from moving around. It’s held up to heavy rain, hail, frost, high winds, and still is a joy to pack with me. This is a great overview of all these tents. But for single pole hikers like me, the Lunar Solo is the obvious choice.

[@stevemullin1195]

I have the Plex solo tent which i plan to use when I go bike touring. Planning on doing the PCBR in July so it should be dry during that month so condensation should be minimal.

[@danielwehner1876]

I started with the Lan Shan. The sagging is really annoying, especially because you need the tension for a proper pitch. Switched to the SMD Lunar Solo and fell in love instantly. Soo much room and the quality is great! I wish I knew before, I could have saved the money for the first try. I also was thinking about the Zpacks, but I couldn’t bring myself to spend that much money on a tent.

[@jonathankobbe6073]

currently thinking of getting the lunar solo as an upgrade for my lanshan as well. Are you still as happy with your lunar? And do you use it without a groundsheet? 40d poly is right on the edge of what i feel like im comfortable using without a groundsheet, especially since the tent isnt super cheap.

[@Rando-user-zm1fx]

I'm just the opposite. I started with the lunar solo. I've had it for multiple years and spent at least 100 nights in it. I've never liked how crappy it pitches and the ridiculously slippery floor. For the same price I bought a lanshan 1 and 2 double wall version. Now this is how it should be. Finally happy with trekking pole tents. Pitch is fantastically. Unbeatable deal. Factory seam taped, extra guy lines and stakes included. Easily replaceable inner if your dog wrecks it😅.

[@Rando-user-zm1fx]

​@@jonathankobbe6073I would stay with the lanshan.

[@mr.perfect5303]

Great Great video! I have the lunar solo. Mostly because I am 6'3" and the other tents just don't have the room I need. And the price is great. The tent is still super light, and I think polyester is the perfect tent material. It's heavier than dyneema but more durable and significantly cheaper. Plus I just love the 6MD folks. They want you to be able to bring your dog and that is just very endearing to me, not to mention they really do make a great product that they totally stand behind.

[@brianmcmurdie]

I’ve been using the Lanshan 2 for 2 years and about 30 nights. I’m done with nylon. I’m looking at the Lunar Solo. I love the roomy space, not having to tighten the tie-outs constantly (because of sagging) and the price is pretty good.

[@Kevinschart]

i've been using my durston since 2020 (sil/poly). Before that, I had a cheap nylon tent from amazon. it's great not having to get out in the middle of a rain storm to tighten lines

[@elr05]

I

[@OutOffMedia]

Nylon is problematic in hiking in the rain or wet area and there is no time to dry the tent when packing. The nylon-made tent is lighter than polyester, but in the real situation when wet it became significantly heavier. When we check old tent-making brands with 50 or even 100 years of legacy their flagship tents are still made of polyester variants - sure with the reason.

[@jamesthornton3339]

The lunar solo is a great tent. I've had mine for two years. Now if I could find a sleeping pad as comfortable as my hammock.

[@martinapolamova540]

@@jamesthornton3339 Whatś your point of view on condensation with Lunar Solo? Does the water drops on you somethimes?

[@TheOlsonOutfit]

I really appreciate that this video has all these tents side by side. I think the extra room of the Six Moons Design Lunar Solo make it the one for me.

[@bigriver47]

I chose the plex solo and I have had no problems with this tent. DCF does not breath and I used it in New Mexico and Southern San Juans on the CDT. It rained almost every day and for a few days almost all day, after 4 days it was as wet in the tent as outside with condensation the main culprit. Also, to fully exploit the space in the Plex solo you will need 10! tent stakes. I recommend a beefy one to anchor the trekking pole, and a bunch of shepherd's crooks for the other points. I camped above 12000 feet in a thunderstorm and this tent was gold with hail, high winds and rain, rain, rain. Weighs less than a pound. Dump your tarp and get one of these, easily my most expensive piece of gear, worth every nickel.

[@nopeninja8883]

Thank you for educating people on cost vs employee support

[@Arthur-Silva]

I own a 6 moon design solo, it’s an incredible product, I hiked the first 265 miles of the PCT and this little tent performed incredibly well in Santa Ana winds conditions!

[@AdamHunt-g4y]

I’ve been using the Six Moon Solo Luna for several years now and for an inexpensive tent it has a lot of pluses. The Solo Luna easily accommodates my 6’4” frame and my backpack. While the headspace isn’t stellar while sitting up, it can be slightly increased for sleeping by using the additional guides and use a trekking pole and a stake increase you head or foot room. Pros; reasonably priced, moderate weight, relatively easy setup but I recommend practicing putting it up a few times before your first time out with it, remarkable little condensation even below freezing. Cons; I wish there were some interior loops to hang lights or laundry in the interior. Getting a perfect pitch is a challenge. Getting in and out can be tricky. The hardware for the vestibule’s guideline looks flimsy and I’d hate to try to replace the hook in the field. As mentioned the tent doesn’t come sealed but you can pay Six Moon to do it or, like me, you can do it yourself. Granted, my seem sealed looks as if I were drunk when I did it and I had to go back to do it a second time. I’d also recommend using a ground cloth. Six Moon sells a poly cro two part ground cloth that weighs practically nothing but it’s a bit of a wrestling match but you could also use a sheet as a rain skirt so there’s that. Or, you could use a sheet of Tyvex, it’s slightly heavier but you loose the ability to use it as a rain skirt.

[@pharrigan-hikes]

I have the 2 person outdoor vitals tent and enjoy it a lot for use by myself. It being my first trekking pole tent; I don't have anything to compare it to except the old Coleman tents I used to lug. So in that respect, I love it for being so light and easy to set up.

[@louspeed1]

If I wanted (or had the resources) to drop $600 on a tent, I would choose the Durston. I recently purchased the silpoly version which is really impressive in its design. Can't wait to get out on a trip this spring!

[@seanoconnell6735]

Exactly!.......which is what I did. I have the original X-mid 1P tent that I bought about 3 years ago, or maybe 4? Anyway, GREAT design, but I wanted a bit more space, so when the original run of the X-mid Pro 2 was advertised, I was lucky to get an order. Expensive, yes, but I just couldn't resist. Fantastic tents and they are probably all I will need the rest of my life.

[@rachelbrain]

I love my X-Mid 2p v2, so if I decided to go lighter, I'd definitely pick up the X-Mid Pro. I'm sure it'd be worth the investment for longer trips.

[@matthewfurst1577]

Always enjoy your videos, another great one. Thanks. I own a Durston x-mid 1p not the pro and also the lanshan 1 pro. I love them both, but if I could have just one tent it would be the Durston pro 1p. Thanks again

[@christopherbeach416]

I have the SMD LS. I love it!! We are a family of 5 so I am always on a budget and for my solo trips this is my go too!! Of course if I ever "hit it big" I'll upgrade to a dynema tent. But that's for future me to worry about lol.

[@stevenreeves1394]

Love your videos thank you. THe Lanshan 1 Pro is great for entry level campers. Adult Scout Leaders headed on a high adventure trek, for instance, to Philmont, often do not have the funds to buy more expensive tents and frankly may not use the tent much more than their one major trek. I always recommend it as a great first tent. If they keep backpacking then it makes sense to refine their gear, start to really think about $ and grams and the community. My point is - don't discount the Lanshan 1. Its a great starter shelter and will help introduce more people to the hobby we all love. Thanks again for your thoughtful and insightful content.

[@Rando-user-zm1fx]

I started with the lunar solo and now I have the landshan non pro, and I finally am enjoying a trekking pole tents. The lunar solo is the most overrated tent imo, and I've had mine for 3 or 4 years. It just actually sucks.

[@markheming3507]

I’ve been a sixmoons guy for several years…. Best bang for the buck I’m not afraid of a few bugs, so I have been using Deschutes tarp for years and love it. It is a great way to drop the weight but still have a awesome shelter

[@fje00]

I went with Zpacks Altaplex a couple years ago, and love it. At 6’3” I need that extra length, and it has some extra width which is nice. Vestibule is pretty decent also. Pricey but worth it.

[@eep803]

A shame not to see any of the Tarptent 1 person tents in this line up. They have a great selection of designs under just one brand, the Aeon to match the plex solo, the Notch li to match the gossamer gear, the Stratospire li to match the durston. Not exactly the same as each, but pretty comparable.

[@mr.perfect5303]

Agree, they make great tents. The Pro trail Li is an excellent design. So are their rainbow tents. They're just a tad too small for me 😢

[@gabbette999]

& I just got home from using their DiPole Li 1p and it was AWESOME!!!

[@CexCells]

Love my Notch!!

[@PeteBraginton]

I really like my Notch Li. That Di pole looks sweet tho!!

[@emmanuelprocyk7029]

yep. Aeon Li 543g, lots of room, superb design, 569 USD. I just love it!

[@johnmccarron]

I'M from Scotland and I found the Six moon Lunar Solo years ago,I've had other tents, but keep coming back to Lunar Solo, good weight,tough tent it's I think is hard to beat, a go anywhere tent, only thing that annoyed me was condensation but I got over that I think its a long lasting good tent in all conditions.

[@bmwohl]

Nice summary. This is my tenth season using a Zpacks Duplex, the same Duplex for solo or solo plus dog. I could not be happier. And I've been searching for the perfect tent since I started backpacking in 1957.

[@johnhutchison2268]

I am based in Scotland and my first choice is the duplex for solo tracking. It keeps me dry in the worst of Scottish weather and at 22 oz is relatively light

[@tonyking313]

X-mid (if funds allow the pro) I need to get get a new tent for the summer. I spend a lot of time above tree line on ridges and the fact that you can get away with only 4 stakes is nice. Its really hard to set up a tent in the dark or in the rain with a ton of rocks in the ground. I need it to shed light snow, even in summer it could happen. I need a vestibule.

[@LMay64]

I have the plex solo, a duplex and an older model of a SMD dcf tent. I especially like my Tarptent Notch Li, which is a super nice alternative considering it's dcf , double wall and very easy to set up. Their most recent addition to the Tarptent line, the Dipole Li, is a very nice tent at a pretty hefty price. I will most likely eventually try the Durston DCF tent because of its amazing innovation. I just need to save up a few more bucks!

[@Jhollowed25]

Yea that's one thing that I surprised he didn't mention. I think the Xmid 1P is the only tent in this video that is double-wall, and yet it's still one of the lightest

[@at19pct21]

@@Jhollowed25 XMid Pro 1P is single-wall, DCF canopy, silnylon floor. XMid non-Pro 1P is double-wall, sil-poly, and is heavier than the semi-freestanding Nemo Hornet 1P (but also larger and cheaper).

[@milesb4231]

This is for backpackers who MUST carry a pole for these tents. What's the lightest tent with POLES INCLUDED that can withstand 30mph gusts?

[@donterres5315]

I really loved my Tarp tent notch Li. light, easy set up, bomb proof, expensive, durable. Good size interior.

[@danielcluley870]

X-mid Pro 1 is the best design I have ever used. You can tell it was made by somebody who actually does multi-day, long distance hikes. Fantastic tent.

[@renaecummings8068]

Lunar solo. At 26 oz which is still pretty light, you get TONS of room. No issues with pad widths, headroom, etc. if you want to keep all gear inside there is plenty of room. The door doesn’t flop down like zpacks, and the lunar solo usually goes on sale at certain points of the year making it possible to get for $200. Also, it packs down smaller than DCF tents do. If I could have any tent it would probably be the Durston pro 2. The 2 would be super roomy but super expensive, but also take up a bigger footprint and not pack down as small. No….🤔 I think the Lunar Solo is still the winner.

[@NikhilShahi]

Yeah I agree. I have the X-Mid 2 solid but am eyeing the X-Mid 2 pro also for longer trips. Dan did mention that he might make a hybrid DCF tent eventually (late next year) - so I might hold out for that.

[@LooseChili]

I use a Lanshan 1 and love it. My first night out in it there were 35-45mph sustained winds with gusts up to 60 mph while on a section of the NCT a few hundred feet from the Lake Superior shoreline in late September. Needless to say, it’s an absolute tank in high winds!

[@japoc]

Jesus that’s one hell of a trekking pole. What trekking pole were you using to pitch it? Because I’ve seen videos on KZbin of people testing it with wind speeds less than that, and their trekking pole was bent after.

[@LooseChili]

@@japoc Ozark Trail aluminum pole. Trust me, I was expecting worst but it held up all night. I however didn’t sleep at all so the next day wasn’t the best lol

[@japoc]

@@LooseChili Thanks! Have you ever had to pitch the Lanshan 1 with rocks only? No earth, just rocks. I'll be hiking with the Lanshan 1 for the first time soon, and there will be a section with rocks only... I'm wondering if that's actually possible, or if I need to find an alternative. Thoughts?

[@bobpadrick7718]

Tarptent ProTrail Li for me. Pitches in about a minute. Roomy width. Head room at the head of the tent (over your head) so it's not in your face all night, instead of in the middle of the tent (over your junk) where you (or at least I) don't need all that much clearance. Useable vestibule. Dyneema. 4 stakes. (5 stakes in high wind.) If you don't use trekking poles, they sell poles that are whisper light. It's a flippin' great tent!

[@schnickschnack2090]

yes 👍

[@jsbaker2795]

I've been using the Six moons Deschutes+ for many years now , has no floor , and just a bug net "skirt" that runs around the outer perimeter at 16oz it has served well with heavy use Has worked great with my dog when needed (no worries about him puncturing the floor) A simple piece of tyvek or sil poly has done the trick without fail A bonus for me its not possible to get pooling water in a tent with a detached floor Condensation will be on the inside regardless of what you do and it dripping to the bottom around the perimeter and being able to shed away is much more preferable to little ponds collecting in all those other impermeable built in floors. Alot cheaper whenever it's time to eventually replace it too.

[@matthewborthwick8710]

I've got a lanshan pro 2 as I live in the UK and shipping from America to UK costs a fortune. I've really had no problem with it and it's perfect for my needs. Seam seal took me a total of 45 mins and 6 hours to dry

[@ropersix]

I have the Lunar Solo, and have used it for about a dozen nights out backpacking. I like so much about it, but its one huge drawback is the total "footprint"--ie, the space required to pitch it, which includes the guys lines, and especially the main front one. A couple of times I just couldn't fit it all into a space, and had to move to a less desirable spot (after spending time trying to make it work in the first one). The X-Mid Pro One (and the regular Pro) looks like the smallest footprint among the bunch here, but I really wish reviews would include the actual space needed to pitch the tents. The specs only ever mention the floor size, which isn't very helpful with the single wall trekking pole tents.

[@Mike-vd2qt]

Tarptent Protrail model, 24oz or 680g, $239. These are super easy to set-up, rain and storm worthy, and very well made. All the stitching, seams, and zipper are durable. Plus, you can set it up in the rain and it stays dry inside.

[@MCMPNed68]

The Durston X-Mid Pro I've been eyeing for the last year and half now!

[@LUCKY_LARRY]

I recently used a Lunar Solo for about 500 miles and loved it. I now have nearly 1000 miles on a Tarptent ProTrail Li. I see this as a good time to splurge on a DCF tent. I don't see any lighter, stronger, more advanced materials coming down the pike any time soon. With these new tents, I can carry along some liveable space for less weight than the ol' tarp and bivy. It's a good time for tents. Just be sure you practice a good pitch before you go out. Nothing worse than a saggy, floppy tent pitch.

[@nickday7381]

I own the lunar solo and love it i also now own the X Mid 1 Solid for the colder months in northern UK. Not used as much but starting to really like it. Hopefully the love will blossom. 😂

[@hugoschmitt9208]

Hey there, thanks a lot for your video ! I'm kind of a weight weenie but I discovered over the years that I hate single wall tents. In your opinion, what are the lightest double wall 1 person tents ? Notch li ? Thanks 😊

[@travellingDAS]

Great review! Durston all the way for me, I’ve had the v1, the v2 and the solid 1P, they are solid tents and so easy to pitch. Time to move on up to the pro 2P as my only criticism left is needing a bigger tub. I love my Hilleberg Nallo 2 GT when I car camp and I’d have the Soulo or Akto for gnarly winters in the mountains but for multi-day 3 season trekking Dan’s designs are tough to beat imho.

[@steemteem4437]

I use the lanshan 2. It's fantastic. My only complaint is that the rain fly is so slippery and packing it up can be a little frustrating. In my opinion it could be much worse so, that's a great issue to have with a pretty cheap, light, and roomy trekking pole tent.

[@DerekMellottphoto]

I got my Lanshan 2 for $25 CDN at an Amazon returns place, I'll deal with the minor negatives for that price

[@robd.9481]

Thanks for the comparison video. I wish their were more comparison type videos done. Which would I choose? I think I'm going with the Protrail Li for my AT thru hike coming up. I like the simplicity of design and setup, the wide entrance, and the ventilation. Also I like the quality from TT and that it's American made. I wish Henry made it a few inches taller.

[@chrisfarmer1430]

I think it's the Xmid for me. I have used the Tarptent Double rainbow for some time but just purchased the X-mid 2 V2 which now has a 52" wide floor. To clarify, I did not purchase the pro version (the floor width in the pro is slightly narrower as his video describes). I don't mind a little extra weight and the materials and features really match a lot of the things I've looked for in a tent for a long time. Just didn't want to mislead anyone.

[@glenndorsey9068]

Six moon design lunar solo is my tent of choice. I just don’t see the expense of exotic material for tent or pack although if I were a thru hiker, maybe. . . Lunar solo is a wonderful tent for my dog and me on 2-3 day trips here in Southwest Va mountains, although when condensation conditions are right I prefer my double wall Sea to Summit Alto 2 person (also a roomy tent). I enjoyed your quick lowdown on these tents. Glad to see the one I picked several years ago is still the one I would probably pick.

[@Earthpet711]

If I could pick, I would take the X-mid pro 1 for sure. That thing is made with love and Dan is the man!

[@Norcalhighker]

Been out in my Xmid pro1 a couple times now. My absolute favorite tent. Not a single thing I could think to improve

[@OutOffMedia]

Good explanation and I understood the point. In my point of view; a tent is essential gear when spending nights outdoors. The priority of the tent is to protect, it not only from bugs or rain but also wind, and being robust is not a bad idea (being on a thorough hike for two months and setting tent up and down each day takes some price on the material), so the difference of half a kilo (half a liter of water) when the heavier tent protects fully is trivial. Long story short, my current expedition tent 2P tent with a "full bag" weight (pegs, poles, groundsheet, ropes...) is 1400 g but is with wind gust test up to 200 km/h and 4000 mm water resistance... European brand with a high reputation and the price of only 340€.

[@dimml0r]

have the plex solo. what i miss with all of these tents is a vent on the highest point. that should be doable without massive weight increse and it helps to steam some of that moisture out during the night.

[@wanderfux]

Thank you for the great video. If I can’t sleep under the stars or the trip is longer and therefore unpredictable I bring my zPacks Duplex. Simply because I do not want to own two tents. May not an UL mindset but want to keep my life minimal.

[@quakingleaf]

I’ve owned most of these and now have a Tarptent Dipole 2 Li. It’s my favorite ul tent of all time.

[@DubTDub]

I have not backpacked yet, but taking notes on most everything you talk about. I’m hiking Mt Whitney for the first time this year, and booked the overnight option. Since I haven’t backpacked before, like most, I have no idea where to start. I just purchased a backpack, a traditional style, and I would like some lightweight tents, and sleeping items. Really appreciate all of the videos, and feedback. These are awesome!

[@MyLifeOutdoors]

I’ve never hiked Whitney but I believe you won’t find much soil up there. As such a freestanding tent may suit you better than any of these. Not that it can’t be done, just with your first time a trekking pole tent on solid granite would be discouraging.

[@DubTDub]

@@MyLifeOutdoors oh yes, good call! Thank you for pointing that out. As a newbie, it’s easy to overlook the simple things. Terrain for instance… Thank you again!

[@DubTDub]

@@MyLifeOutdoors Steven, I did some research since last we chatted. I had a friend tell me the rock on Whitney is so heavily travelled, that pitching a tent with stakes is possible. However, the wind conditions can be very extreme at the more exposed areas towards the top. Do you have a tent recommendation, and/or a tent video on which can remain standing in higher winds? Thank you again!

[@pecezeta865]

​@@DubTDub i think you could also ask for advice to the people of the company you have booked your trip.

[@DubTDub]

@@pecezeta865 Yes! Thank you! I think ultimately for me, it’s just getting out there. I haven’t camped in about 20 years, and I’m turning my hiking hobby slowly over into backpacking. I just need to do real homework, in the back country. ☺️

[@Suncity4]

Wow, not a Tarptent mention. Like the Aeon Li at 17 ozs without steaks or a Notch Li which has 2 doors and is an inner and outer 2 piece tent at 20 ozs without stakes. Henry makes wonderful quality products and a long line up of 1P tents like a Rainbow Li at 22 ozs that can be pitched on slick rock with trecking poles. I’ve used or have a lot of the tents you showed but nobody makes as many light 1P options as Tarptent.

[@j3hikes444]

durston for the win

[@James-stone]

I like the X-Mid1 Pro, but love the MLD Trailstar for use in the UK. Having the extra space undercover is so valuable in the rain. I can sit out in it, cook in it, dry kit out in it.

[@jeffstone28]

I'm probably going to get a Lunar Solo this year for a specific reason: it only needs one trekking pole. I like to have a trekking pole available to me me for hiking down sometimes gnarly little trails to a water source. With the Lunar Solo, I can set it up when arriving at camp and hike to the water source at my "leisure."

[@PhilAndersonOutside]

Great plug for cottage companies. I actually work for REI, and everyone I know both loves and applauds these small businesses. Having said that, there are brands on Garage Grown Gear that are not what most of us would term true cottage companies. Several brands you see on there may be based in the US, and employ people in the US, but many of them still have gear manufactured in China. I'll let you do your own research, and use your own judgement from there.

[@mikesalasek3603]

I resently purchased an X-Mid 1 Pro and I am very impressed. Duel doors on a one person tent, seriously awesome. I can't wait to use it.

[@andreafrau9459]

Ciao! Grazie per la recensione, molto utile! hai avuto modo di testarla con forte vento? come si è comportata?

[@MrDistill]

I have the six moons design. I use it mostly for bike packing. In the bike packing area pack volume is more important to me than weight to me. It stuffs down way smaller than the $700. Offerings

[@TheFleetcaptain210]

I have the Durston Xmid2 Pro and the Zpacks Altaplex and really like the both of them. While both are a bit heavier than your selection, they are worth the extra weight. The Altaplex gives me the headroom and smaller footprint when I am heading into rugged terrain, and the Durston provides the space I like for 1 person on longer canoe trips. Any of these tents mentioned are great for canoe tripping. Light weight for portaging and easy setup are what I am looking for as major features. Personally, I do like Dyneema as the material for my tents.

[@dougmiller4567]

Amazingly detailed and succinct overview of these great tents, I learned a lot and I spend most of my free time researching gear... Despite all this I'll stick withy nano hammock and invest in a lightweight tarp when I need to get my weight way down. 11.6 ounces for the hammock with hummingbird straps, and another 7 to 12 ounces for the tarp and your at 18.6 to 23.6 ounces for comfort off the ground

[@chadbrow]

Durston, of course.

[@williamrobinson4265]

REALLY COOL DROP ON GARAGE GROWN GEAR thanks so much for sharing - I went and checked out immediately - incredible project - worth plugging more!

[@JackKlumpass]

Love that clip of the factory. I’m glad my money goes to support endeavours of small companies😅

[@ronman33]

I'd recommend the River Country Products One Person Trekking Pole Tent, Ultralight Backpacking Tent. Same style as these and it has taped seams. Has been around for a few years and has been a proven tent. Plenty of reviews and vids out there. True, it's 40oz; but that weight includes the lines and stakes that come with it. Also, it's $60, which I believe is much lower than the ones here. I've used mine about 16 times over the last few years and have had no issues. I'm in the NW, so you know it's been in the wind and rain.

[@craigsmith9541]

Really appreciated this video. EXCELLENT COMMENTS from other viewers and their experience. Thank You!

[@lorcan-luke]

I took the Gossamer Gear The One out on the PCT last year. Overall a great tent, but it was super noisy on windy nights. You need to get an absolutely perfect pitch to stop the none-door side from flapping around. Though my 25" wide, regular length pad fit in it! It was snug, but it did fit!

[@intothefoxhole7985]

The lunar solo is a good option when compared to the lanshan. When in such a small tent while facing condesation, it could have a strong advantage with its lack of stretch. I would like to try this one out, or possibly the plex solo, because of the single pole design. Since i dont hike with a pole less is more for a tent. Also, single pole tents shed wind very well.

[@donniebel]

I’m going with none of these. Upgraded to the Tarptent Dipole1- very happy with it. Granted it’s pricey but it has several features that set it apart from this lineup such as unparalleled interior space and ventilation which I feel puts it ahead of the X mid (my second choice). It appears that the trend is for 25” wide pads and older designs that don’t accommodate wider pads are at a serious disadvantage in the marketplace for many.

[@basecampcarolina4352]

Great video! Two of my favorite photographers in one video! Enjoyed it immensely.

[@OutThereInTheWild]

i dont think its going to be a surprise to any one if more than 90% of everyone will chose the Durston i own both that and the Zpacks Duplex even though i am not the biggest fan of trekking pole tents and mostly do stuff in conditions in mountains where i need expedition style tents ...... i think the Durston is the best of what it is if that makes any sense

[@1bobharvey]

I'd be curious what your opinion of a light bivvy and Tarp with poles for shelter are vs ultralight tents like these.

[@EscapeVelo]

Thanks for bringing us this comprehensive comparison of these great tents.

[@MrTuristux]

Thank you for the video. Could you compare the room of Lunar Solo versus Lanshan 1 Pro. Does the Lunar Solo have more space or do they both feel almost the same?

[@aaronpudlicki7418]

Aeon Li user. As a tall guy, it gives me better dimensions at the weight than other options. Would be a quality add or any other li series tarp tent

[@swampyhiker]

I used the Xmid pro 1 on a 120 section of the AT. It was amazing. I do have a gossamer gear the two. Which I also like. Can I say you should also look at the bonfus solus 1p at 575g is up there with those you mention. It’s dyneema and good and roomy. Sets up well but does require a few more pegs and so overall slightly heavier than the Duraton all in.

[@BoofSquank]

Worth mentioning the regular version of the Durston Xmid, might even appeal to more people because the double wall helps prevent condensation from landing on your gear.

[@rootsandpeaks]

I have both and am planning to do a comparison video. Should be fun!

[@BoofSquank]

@@rootsandpeaks Would love to see a video dedicated to a direct comparison of the two, I don’t think one exists yet.

[@NikhilShahi]

I agree. I went with the solid as it is double walled, has less mesh and is only 1.2 lbs more. The extra weight is worth it for me and the X-Mids can't be beat design wise.

[@hittinpure1]

@@NikhilShahiI am new to backpacking and looking for a tent… would the mid x be good enough for beginner? Or too much weight … doing short trips 4-5 miles

[@psyodome]

Came here after your convo with Justin, awesome stuff Mr. tent ;)

[@Pescaditoadventures]

You should make a video on which one is tbe driest in a storm

[@NatureBetsLast]

Question. I see so many loving their tents. Is there any long term reviews on durability for any of these. I mean do i need a tent under 2 pounds or could i get away with a non semi transparent built to last military tent thats 6 pounds or 4.2 pounds without ground sheet and stuff sack. Im not really keen on the semi transparent look.

[@woodchip2782]

I still love my Tarptent Notch 1P. It’s heavier than all those tents but at half the cost and can open on BOTH sides providing good ventilation…😊

[@GeekfromYorkshire]

I have the original from when first released 2012. Still using it. Poles long, pegged wide = warmer weather. Poles short pegged close to fly = winter. Although I also have the Protrail from 2015 which I prefer in summer as it's roomier. I don't use the guyline locks, I use knots and loop around the pegs in pitching then just raise the pole height while inside if there's sag.

[@Jimmy2Bits]

I got the 2nd gen X-mid 1. not the pro. instead of nylon, it's made of polyester which has doesn't sag in the rain because it doesn't absorb water allowing it to dry faster staying lighter. and it's less than half the price of the similarly designed x-mid pro 1.

[@Indykid88]

Man, the Gossamer Gear The One is sure enticing. I've always been a stand-along double wall tent user, but I could shed a full pound with this tent compared to my current one person tent.

[@loganbohn5935]

I think the Tarptent Notch li is a great option at 20 oz, especially if you prefer double walled tents like I do

[@vagabondwildernesswanderings]

I just ordered the xmid 1 pro. We'll see if I still love it next year.

[@blairtelford8596]

Great review! So glad you didnt mention the TarpTent Aeon Li. My experience with both that tent (leaks, hard to pitch and early degradation of material) and after sales service (piss poor- bad!!) TT buyers be warned!!