Zpacks Altaplex (Things I Like, Things I Don't & Competitive Options)

[@pieonthetrail]

Come say hi on IG - @pieonthetrail or get my free ebook on pieonthetrail.com/

[@john_kelley]

Pie!!! So glad to see you back on the ‘tube! Great review.

[@montegomm]

6'4" here. Altaplex works great for me. No issues for about 50 nights on the Pacific Crest Trail in the US. Plenty of room, although I do keep my pack in the vestibule.

[@pieonthetrail]

such a great tent especially for taller folks

[@wolfeadventures]

Still using the tent? Still working for you?

[@montegomm]

@@wolfeadventures Yes, I'm still using it. Did about 30 more nights to complete my section hike of the PCT and will be heading out on a short 160 mile hike across Southern Illinois in a week. It is still holding up well.

[@juketreks2192]

I own an Altaplex 2020. I’m 6’3” 280 and the tent is just right for me with one caveat. I sleep on a Thermarest Xlite which is 2.5” high off the floor. If your sleeping on a closed cell foam mattress then 6’6” would fit inside with no issues. At 6’3” I find the Altaplex to be just right. No more no less. And I’ve had it in 45 mph gust for 11 hours and it performed admirably with 8” Easton Nano stakes.

[@juketreks2192]

@@pieonthetrail I have been backpacking since 1972. I have been lacking in updating my gear since 2005. Last year I began updating. I was stoked on the HMG Ultamid 2 but the size limits the sites I can setup. So I persevered and found this fellow Darwin. He had a lot of the same thoughts I had. He used some of the same gear I have used since 2004 like the Snowpeak Trek 700 which I still use. I also still use the snow peak stove with the igniter. And along with the trekking poles Leki Maluku Ti, are the only things I carried over to now. I want to dislike the Altaplex but can’t find a good reason to hate it. It’s super lite. I have the thicker one that weighs 17 ounces. I bought the EE Enigma and the Xlite. My pack is HMG Junction. I have the 2400 for summer and 3400 for longer thru hikes and winter gear. I looked at the Gossamer gear but couldn’t buy it over the near perfect design and functionality of the Zpacks shelters. I have a feeling that Zpacks will come out with some new shelter this year and if it’s bigger than the Altaplex but as light as the duplex I will buy it for my winter tent and use my closed cell foam with my Altaplex in the warmer hikes. I will not be using the nylon tents ever again. They absorb water and take longer to dry and hold a smell. When I rode a bicycle across country, I wish now that I had DCF but it was only used on sails back then. The One looks nice and has bigger head room space but lower than the Altaplex. I would love to see the Zpacks Soloplex with a 42” x 96” floor. I like having the second pole in the back for the bigger headspace. Thanks for educating us. Your doing a great job keeping informed. Keep up the good work. Happy trails!

[@juketreks2192]

Oh and I have been folding my Altaplex where the tent is inside the fold with the floor on the outside protecting it. It folds down flat into a rectangle that fits at the top of my bag. If it’s wet then I put it in the front pocket. I don’t stuff my tent. Side note I was 35 years old before anyone showed me how a stuff sack is where you Stuff your sleeping gear. Up to that point I rolled it like I did in the military. Live and learn.

[@planner722]

Good review... glad you mentioned alternatives and you were not just a ‘drone’ for zpacks.

[@markgreen6437]

So glad you’re back I really enjoy your videos!

[@markcummings6856]

Good to see you back.Nice review. Hope you have a rad New Year!

[@itshardgettinganame]

In your opinion would you say the gossamer gear One is good for people of up to 6”2?

[@itshardgettinganame]

@@pieonthetrail thanks 👍

[@anonymouscommenter2278]

You can lash two trekking poles together as a backup plan for a broken/lost pole jack or even as a primary plan. Also the Tarptent Aeon Li is comparable to the Altaplex and works with standard trekking poles.

[@kevincampbell7511]

Mate, Leki do a trekking pole that is long enough, or if you use 2 you can tie them together to reach the height! Love this tent. Kev

[@juketreks2192]

@@pieonthetrail you can tie them tiger with one of your tie downs if you don’t carry 50’ of para cord. But a true ultra lite backpacker would just use their shoe string. Cheers and happy trails.

[@bawattsyl]

Sorry to hear about your shoulder, but I'm glad it's on the mend! I lol'ed when you said you now have an ultralight titanium shoulder.. the lengths UL hikers go to..😉🙃 haha. Looking forward to hearing more about your docu! I'm also interested to see your thoughts on the new dcf line by Gossamer Gear. I love Gossamer gear, however, when I looked at the specs on the new " the 2" ; the weight savings from their regular sil Nylon version is only like 2.5 - 3oz.. unless i read it wrong.. I also was a little leary on how a 7D Nylon floor would hold up on something like a pct or cdt thruhike,. I believe that's what they use for their floor (7d). A few other 1 person tents you may want to check out are: the Tarptent aeon Li, the notch Li , or the protrail Li. All 3 are dcf /1 person tents , and are very light. The notch Li stands out because it's a fully double wall 1 person dcf tent. I have no experience with these tents, however , I hiked with several people that had the aeon li, and notch Li, and both gave stellar reviews of them.. I'm currently using Tarptent's Double Rainbow Li, which is dcf 2person tent. Awesome living space! I'm roughly 6'1' so I usually like a little more space in my tents. Anyway, I hope your shoulder keeps getting better! Great review here! I always wondered how it worked with the trekking poles..because I know hyperlite mountain gear sells a set of straps to lash 2 trekking poles together, to aquire the proper height for tents like this.

[@bawattsyl]

@@pieonthetrail Pie, happy to hear you've made a full recovery! Yes, Tarptent really does make great tents! The owner Henry is great to work with. Often doing free repairs, and just always going the extra mile. I'm looking forward to using my double rainbow Li on the PCT this year! I hope you too are able to get out and enjoy some new hiking adventures! Take care!

[@barondavis5692]

A 6’6” person does fit in the tent, as long as they don’t use an inflatable pad, quilt or sleeping bag. If you do use any of these items and are 6’1”, like Darwin, you’ll be fine. There is a rumor that Zpacks is working on a tent/s for tall people. Encourage you to let them know of your interest. Thanks for the post.

[@barondavis5692]

pieonthetrail I’m pretty sure anyone over 6’2” would be touching the sides while on an inflatable pad and quilt. My comment on encouraging Zpacks to make a tent ⛺️ for tall folks was for anyone reading the comments. But hey, if you did too, that’d be great. Thanks

[@reecealeck8314]

Ya I want to get an American made single trekking pole one piece tent but I’m 6’1 and I sleep on my stomach making my overall sleep length much longer. The only option I can think of is the Lanshan 1 pro since the length is reportedly 8’10” but it’s double the weight and not made in the US. Any other recommendations would be helpful

[@barondavis5692]

@@reecealeck8314 Durston xmid 2 should work. The pro may work but it’s a bit smaller than the xmid in sil-nylon.

[@reecealeck8314]

@@barondavis5692 I’ll check em out. Appreciate the reply 👍

[@janefreeman4121]

Thanks for your thoughts . Im almost 5'6" and i love my alta plex! Its basically the same weight as the plexamid model...less than an ounce difference i think. I really like the door height for getting in and out. I have a series of stretches i can do with my feet up. The footprint is really pretty much the same... The extra room is really the height making the sides steeper.... So less likely to rub up against. Ive seen demonstrated using a strap on a second trekking pole to add enough height. The height of the person to me is really irrelevant but great that tall people have an option. I did have the original heximid and yeah it was cramped, cold as it didnt provide 360 protection, had to crawl in, and often wet from my quilt hitting the sides. It is being offered again but didnt work for me at 5'6".The altaplex answers to all of those issues. .

[@ardenchiucarello8990]

Can’t wait to see your film!

[@jerrylangford2991]

I have the Altaplex, and a pair of Walmart trekking poles. I just extend one slightly past the STOP mark on each section, and surprisingly it works fine. Alternatively, you can get a bit of rock to place under the pole to add that couple extra inches, which I have also done.

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

I believe quite a few hikers are doing just as you described to make their hiking poles long enough for some of the shelters. I do it and am happy it works so well. Thanks for mentioning this small hack as everyone should give it a try if they need longer poles.

[@itshardgettinganame]

Good to see you back

[@nutsbutdum]

How do you rate this tent against the new DCF The One from Gossamer Gear?

[@TylerCampbellOutdoors]

I picked up the 2020 "the One" on sale. Personally could not justify the cost of the DCF version, and it appeared to be a little smaller than the 2020 version. Looking forward to getting it out. Looking forward to seeing more of your videos.

[@TylerCampbellOutdoors]

@@pieonthetrail no particular topics. I enjoy info about new or different gear, as well as trip info/options. Also looking for places to add to list. Thanks again.

[@jordandent2717]

Hi pie, I’m looking at getting this for a 2 person shelter. The other person will be the other half so behind close isn’t an issue. On the zpacks website it says the floor is 40” so in theory 2 20” pads should fit?

[@TheAdventureGeek]

It’s good to have you back! Happy trails 🥾- Julia UK

[@wio2189]

Re pole extension, just bring some straps to attach your other pole or a wood stick to it. Should also be lighter (Bungzy has a video on them and Hyperlite sells them I think). Good review, nice to see you back. Personally I would have appreciated if you had included a word about Zpacks reputation for "customer service" (I am speaking from experience...)

[@wio2189]

@@pieonthetrail Looked it up, yeah Hyperlite sells them. I would much prefer it over carbon fiber (when carrying two trekking poles that is) kzbin.info/www/bejne/p3SsZ318mZJsg9U

[@WALKITOFFDavidSmith]

Really looking forward to the GG DCF reviews.

[@PMarsh14]

Sorry to hear about your shoulder. I know what it's like to live with a physical problem holding you back, but you'll be much better off in the long run. I'm from the North West England, near Liverpool. But was wondering if you had done a lot of UK hikes/trails that you'd recommend or any in Europe that are worth doing. I'm planning a few in Scotland including the Skye trail and west highland way. I was also planning the King's Way in Sweden.

[@amyhodapp784]

I'm 5'6'' but have heard the altaplex is the best. I will not have a trekking pole tall enough so I will need the adapter or the Zpacks pole. Do you have a recommendation for a Zpacks tent for a shorter person?

[@amyhodapp784]

Also, do you have thru hike trails you'd recommend internationally? I feel the Appalachian trail would be a very safe first thru hike concerning difficulty level and many opportunities to resupply but I am not interested in the crowds and social culture involved?

[@Onnitfan1]

One reviewer said he does not use the stuff sack for his Altaplex. He just folds it somewhat and pushes it in to his pack. (Bungzy"s Ultralight)

[@adopancia7445]

And, if you are 6” or even 6.2 you should try the Tarptent Aeon Li: lighter, pitches in literally 2.5 minutes, sturdy and minimal footprint required. On my opinion, having had many others similar tent, the perfect dcf tent.

[@mackjenkins7721]

Hey man how's it going it's good to see you do another review video again. You provided such good information on this video thank you. I clearly understand that you had to take a break especially for your shoulder injury. 2018 i broke my shoulder & in 2020 broke it again and both of my feet and I will back tractor trailer accident that nearly had me on my deathbed. So I know the pain that you went through with your shoulders. I also want to thank you because I watch your review about your Bedrock sandals and you talked me into buying a pair. Bedrock sandals had help me with my broken feet and in General Lee just help me with Footwear for somebody who has a very very extremely wide feet. My foot is 6 1/2 inches wide from my big toe to my lil toe. These sandals make it very easy to put on then compared to flip flop. Question man? Do you still have your Bedrock sandals and do you still wear them. Again thank you for the video I really enjoy watching.

[@drytool]

The new CNOC poles are long enough to use with the Altaplex WITHOUT a pole jack.

[@janefreeman4121]

Hi. Not to be fiddly but the footprint between the altaplex and plexamid is virtually the same. The difference is in the height so that the angle of the tent creates the space for feet and head. The floor space just feels bigger. The plexamid is actually 2 inches wider but the vestibule is a touch larger i think for the altaplex. Many taller people like the duplex and that footprint is maybe half again larger. The difference in price is 36 USD. The difference in weight is point 1 ounce or 2.8 grams so a feather. Pushing the cascadia pole works for me and a second pole can be strapped together with the pole base to strengthen the lower piece. Because of the height condensation may be less. I had the og hexamid and at 5'6" it was impossibly small and wet and breezy....so im kind of over it with teeny tiny tents. Anyway i really love the altaplex and the easy to access higher doors. The plexamid also has that peak piece with extra carbon fiber creates a little bulk when packing it down. Ive also made my own dcf tarp tent. 😊 Anyhow. Happier New Year and best wishes with your endeavors. Oh and i have a series of stretches i like to do with my feet up and the alta accomodates that....the dcf the one has certainly piqued my interest tho.

[@davidstefani1]

Very nice review. Especially addressing the needs of taller people. Reviews come from the observers perspective and there seems to be maybe a couple of taller reviewers so relying on a shorter person's recommendation has to be taken with a grain of salt. Thank you and good luck with the movie.

[@rybiii]

hey, how tall are you again pls? Not sure if the GG the one is ok for me being 6 foot tall. I was looking into the duplex and altaplex, but thats a Sofia's choice there, too :D Any recommendations? Im looking to get myself and my gear in the thing. Thanks!

[@Bingbopboop]

Good stuff, as a tall hiker I've been shopping around for a tent that is relatively light that I can fit into. There just doesn't seem to be many other good light options besides the altaplex, lucky that it's actually a decent tent!

[@demoncleaner80]

Check out the LightHeart Gear SoLong 6 - it’s not DCF, but about half the price and a pretty big tent meant for taller folks.

[@Truth-Seeker75]

Interested to see if you picked one up, how tall you are, and if you liked it. I’m 6’5” and wonder if the sides will hit my head or feet if I’m on an inflatable pad. Darwin doesn’t think it is suitable for someone my size.

[@CaptainCamp]

He's back! 😎 Documentary, nice nice! Thanks for the extensive review. Wondering how the practical length compares to for example the LightHeart Gear Solong/Duo and other tents. Both are listed 100" long but the LHG's seem roomier (but quite heavier) than the Altaplex.

[@CaptainCamp]

Trade off indeed 😎 I'd say make whatever video you feel like making 😎 I'm a big fan of anything thru-hiking related though. Also gear reviews like this one or the GG g4-20, stuff I'm actually interested in 👍

[@davidfranson8118]

Awesome practical review! If I were a few inches taller, I would definitely go with this tent. However, at only 5 foot 9, I am leaning towards the Plexamid for my 2022 AT thru hike. Hard to go wrong with either one.

[@janefreeman4121]

Hi.. I have it at 5'6"... I really dint think height matters. I love that the door height is easy to get in and out of. Its still one of the lightest tents out there.

[@janefreeman4121]

@@pieonthetrail i already have the alta and totally love it. The weight difference is point 1ounce or not quite 3 grams. Also, the cascadia trekking pole can be pushed a bit and if concerned two trekking poles can be strapped at the base with one lowered to shore it up.

[@davidfranson8118]

@@pieonthetrail, thanks for the advice. Another question for you related to the Zpacks tents in general: have you any experience with the thinner .51 DCF vs the .74? I'm wondering how much of a difference the thicker material would make. Probably depends on the conditions one is hiking in. Wish Zpacks still carried the camo option...

[@jaredsthomas]

Great video, buddy! Hope you and your lady are doing well. Tell her I say hello!

[@ericb.4358]

I prefer the designs and quality of the DCF Tarptents. I own a Notch Li solo tent and really like it.

[@drytool]

Silnylon wets out, so it's an absolute no go for me. I love silpoly though. It packs even smaller than silnylon, doesn't wet out, doesn't stretch out as much, and is UV resistant.

[@JonathanDowe]

Loved the review, really helped my decision making process. Not seen your channel before, really like your style, new subscriber.

[@AshOutdoorsUK]

Hey man! Great video. Just found your channel as I’ve just brought an altaplex myself, got to wait 6 weeks for it to arrive tho! Are you still using yours? Really excited to get it out on the trail! Random question, are you English, Australian or a bit of both? 😄 couldn’t quite work out the accent 🤔 New sub from me buddy, thanks for sharing Hope the shoulder heals well Ash 🏕

[@trailgoodsco]

Pie your videos are awesome man! Keep it up brother!

[@wmpopper]

Well done review much appreciated. Healthy Happy 2021 for You.

[@wisefrog83]

fantastic review! very helpful

[@AS-yg2kf]

Great review. I have been looking at The one but at 6’4, I liked the Altaplex

[@Truth-Seeker75]

Interested to see if you picked one up, how tall you are, and if you liked it. I’m 6’5” and wonder if the sides will hit my head or feet if I’m on an inflatable pad. Darwin doesn’t think it is suitable for someone my size.

[@AS-yg2kf]

@@Truth-Seeker75 unfortunately a major health issue put me down for the remainder of the year so no. However I saw there was a new Duplex for taller people and it uses the similar ways to raise the side walls like the solong 6

[@philgieseler354]

First time viewer / great job. I'm 5'11" like you but like the idea of more usable length, width and height. Comparing against GG The One (2021 version, which is shorter than 2020), Altaplex would be highly interesting if it allowed me to store pack inside the netting for critter protection, preferably at the side of a 20x72 Thermarest. Would that be feasible in your experience?

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

Save your knees. Get DCF. Be certain whatever you purchase is long enough for your height. If you camp but ten nights a year it will last a long time with care. Perhaps a lifetime IF you roll more than fold, fold more than scrunch...never scrunch your DCF.

[@ohjolt2]

5' 11" isn't not on the shorter side. For example i am 5'9" and I'm not short, completely average.

[@jasonbrooks4371]

CNOC trekking pole

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

This is all too nit-picky for me. Worry about losing my pole extension? No. Concerns over how DCF does not pack as small? None. I just feel lucky just to have a DCF tent and the time to get out on the trail. Let’s just agree to disagree.. thanks for the video.

[@JogBird]

wow thru hiking is expensive af

[@larsthorwald3338]

Nose ring? ...you lost me.