Zpacks Duplex | In-Depth Review

Categorised lists of all the gear I use that can be found on Amazon:
www.amazon.co....
(Inc. Hiking, Filming & Dog gear)
In this video we'll run through my long term review of my Zpacks Duplex tent.
The Zpacks Duplex is an ultralight hiking/backpacking tent for long trails where weight is priority. The Duplex excels at not only being a UL shelter but also comes with the added benefit of being very spacious. I find it ideal for my dog and I and it has served me well on the trail over the past year and a half I have owned it.
In this review I'll give you my thoughts on the tent but also cover specific points like:
Cost
Durability
Size
Weight
Condensation
Pack Size
Ease of use
Bug Resistance
Weather (wind & rain) resistance
Camp / pitch selection
Options
Importing
Who it's for
Who it's not for
I have a couple of other videos on the Duplex like my 'Zpacks Duplex Vs. MLD Duomid' and 'Zpacks Duplex Wind & Rain Test' which you'll find on my channel and also in links and end cards in this video.
All the best,
John & Moss 🐾👍

[@danb8662]

Hi John - big thanks to your good self as I first came across the Duplex watching your (genuinely awesome) Cape Wrath Trail videos, did some research on them and barely being able to find a bad word took the plunge and paid the money. Absolutely thrilled with it. Just back from a failed attempt to complete the Skye Trail which failed due to the most shocking week of weather I've ever been out in - the Duplex was out of this world, held up to all of the wind and rain that was thrown at it. Amazing. So yeah, I owe you one - hadn't even heard of zpacks before I found your channel, nice one mate - and keep it up with the superb (and hugely informative) videos

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thank you Dan! 🐾👍 I'm super glad to hear you took the plunge on a Duplex and love it! Plus your point on it's weather resistance will assure others that the Duplex is indeed a suitable choice for UL shelters in Scotland. Thanks for letting me know; great stuff! That's a shame you got pure smelly weather for the Skye Trail. It's defo turned bad weather season now. Not to worry though, the trail will still be there for you next year. Cheers! 🐾👍

[@danb8662]

@@HoundsofHowgate Aye, it'll still be there and I'll be back. Still loved the trip and Skye is one of my favourite places, it's magic. Actually going to do Cape Wrath in early May next year - and honestly mate, the videos you've done on it are pretty much the whole inspiration for me going on it. The wealth of information you put in there, advice and end of day map checks - absolutely brilliant John, and very entertaining to boot. Can't wait to do it. I may actually send you some questions on it in the run up if you don't mind? Want to be as prepared as possible as it's clearly a serious undertaking

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@danb8662 totally man: I love Skye too! That's great to hear that you have been inspired to hike the CWT! By all mean if you have any questions then ask away! Thanks! 🙂🐾👍

[@danb8662]

@@HoundsofHowgate Will do, cheers bud. And just a quick question while I'm on - have you taken the Duplex out in the snow since you've had it? I found 1 video on YT but it was a guy in the States - snow on the ground but otherwise the most perfect and calm conditions imaginable - so not very representative of how things would be in Scotland, or anywhere in the UK for that matter! 😬 Just interested in how it would hold up, particularly as it's a quarter the weight of my winter tent!

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@danb8662 nah, I have an MLD Duomid that is my winter tent. I use a half inner so have a wet and dry area basically. The shape and amount of guy out points on the Duomid lend itself more to winter conditions. But I still also have a winter bomber tent for exposed locations. I did get the Flex kit with the idea that if I staked the Duplex out and also used the flex kit it might make it more capable in winter. But I've not even had it up with the flex kit yet, nevermind in winter under snow. So canne say basically! 🙂🐾👍

[@andymci3246]

still a dream tent... maybe one day! and thanks for all the awesome guides/vids hounds, effort much appreciated. back to see yer trotternish ridge cos couldn't see a thing when i was there

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thanks Andy! 🐾👍

[@badderthanyou]

Great video. Just got the camo version based on your previous videos. 🤘🏻

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thank you! 🐾👍 You'll love it!

[@climbhigh395]

Hi John another cracking review and very informative buddie. I've watched a fair number of your videos where you've used your Duplex -- i'm still not a convert sorry. I think I would need to have a play with one before I decided to buy one. I've looked at going super lightweight but I like my comfort to much. Keep on plodding all the best to you and wee Moss

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thanks! 🐾👍 No worries: like there is no right or wrong and everyone has to find their own style of hiking that suits them best. It might evolve over time or it might stay the same. I don't know about you but I love seeing how other people do things and compare that to how I want to do things or not which either prompts change or provides validation that what I'm doing is right for me right now. So like, a win either way. All good stuff! 👍 Out of interest what's your go to tent of choice?

[@JustinWhiting9]

Nice one John. 👍 BTW, on previous vids I always thought you had smaller ‘UL’ versions of things, GPS unit, walking poles, maps, Guinness cans, etc. It turns out it’s just that your hands are massive! The size of bloody dinner plates man!

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thanks Justin! 🐾👍 Haha, I don't know man, it might just be the perspective and the wide angle lenses or something! Maybe that explains the 'big hands, wee Boabby' though🤔 ...or mabies not: damn it! ☹ Haha 😂

[@JustinWhiting9]

You know what they say about a man with big hands...... big gloves......

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@JustinWhiting9 you know what they say about a man with big feet.... .....difficult to finding shoes in a variety of styles.

[@dogblackprincehoney]

Justin, you made me laugh :-)

[@Impalaontrail]

its all good being cramped up if ya with a beautiful hiking partner! had mine since '15 (thats the duplex not hotty) great tent but scored a solo mid last year and digging that a bit more. sweet vid dude, happy trails..

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thanks man, and true that! 🐾👍 Aye, defo an awesome tent. Must say I do love my Duomid too, just for different reasons. 🙏💥

[@Impalaontrail]

@@HoundsofHowgate I hear ya dude!! the solomids me wife and the duplex me mistress ;-) both need to be taken out and shown a good time!!

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@Impalaontrail by the way, seen you IG post aboot yer van: what are you thinking about next van wise?

[@Impalaontrail]

@@HoundsofHowgate absalutely gutted bro it was a great wagon but the rust was intense! Of to go look at a belingo tomorrow and make a micro camper if it's kush. Pretty skint so my budget won't cover a sprinter, one day!! Your a mobile dude to ain't ya? What you rocking?

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@Impalaontrail I have a Land Rover Defender with a roof tent and have permanently lived in caravans for the past 4 years. I'm building a cottage in the countryside at the moment and hope to have it finished before winter cos winters are pretty harsh where I am: like getting snowed in for days and everything freezing like the gas regulators, locks, water inlets etc; so kinda over that with the caravan. I ask as I'm thinking of going to a small camper rather than the the Defender, roof tent and caravan. Not entirely sure where life is going to take me TBH as things have changed a lot this past year and a half so have quite a few ideas floating around. The Berlingo has the handy sliding side door and such, doesn't it. I'm with you on the smaller van idea as it's a bit less noticable and economical. Which would be ideal. I have a notion to hike some long trails in Scandinavia so driving there would be super costly in a big van. Costly in a wee one too right enough, but doing big driving miles to get to trails it just makes sense to think wee'er van. More mobile hiking unit base than van life type thang. 👍

[@captainunderpants2554]

Great video once again buddy xx

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thanks Stephen! 🐾👍

[@wackyswanderings3627]

Hi Jon with you 100%. Love my duplex the thing is incredible. Brilliant review, love new closing graphics and I'm still waiting for me Mrs to knock up some Butterys. ATB Pal Dave 😊👍 aka wackyswanderings 😊👍

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thanks Dave! 🐾👍 Haha, you'll love a buttery! 👍👍

[@wackyswanderings3627]

@@HoundsofHowgate will if I ever get it🤨🤪

[@BravingTheOutDoors]

Coolness. I'm still considering which to get, the duplex or plexamid but as it turns out with timing if I am to get it it will probably be for next year.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

I think the Plexamid is still not for sale at the moment: until they sort out the top support. They had a bad batch of carbon fibre supplied to them I think. So if you were to get one now it would have to be the Duplex or their just announced limited run of 100 Hexamid's. 🐾👍

[@baskets8429]

Great review ! Loved mine

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thank you! 🐾👍

[@BenjaminWilcock]

Another awesome video mate, Really digging your channel. I’ve been looking into the zpacks tents but not pulled the trigger yet. I was really interested in the plexamid but they have it pulled from the site for ages now. Been looking more and more into the Duplex and I’m looking to getting into doing more trails. I’ve been rocking the MSR Hubba Nx atm bomber tent but yeah like you say tiny and just over 1kg . Don’t fancy lugging that around on trails tho. Keep up the awesome videos man ✌️ Ben.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thank you Ben! 🐾👍 You could send the guys at Zpacks a quick message to see if they have a date in mind for the Plexamid coming back on line. I really do love my Duplex though!

[@BenjaminWilcock]

Hounds of Howgate hi mate, yeah I did just that. They reckon a few weeks & said they’ve just been product testing the new version in the field atm. It’s been the problem with the carbon fibre rods failing and snapping. Honestly am swaying more towards the Duplex atm. Cheers for your help mate 👍

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@BenjaminWilcock nice one. Aye, so much room in the Duplex. I like keeping all my kit inside to stop the slugs and beasties getting all in aboot it! 🐾👍

[@BenjaminWilcock]

Hounds of Howgate yeah am gonna have to have a serious think and see what changed they’ve implemented with the plexamid and if not just pay that bit extra for the Duplex and get the extra room and double doors. Love your camo version as well it’s sick! ✌️

[@3WalkingPoles]

Thanks for review, John. So I see expensive, drafty, bulkie, and location sensitive tent. Not sure it's made with Scotland in mind. I'd love to try it after watching your enthusiastic review but the price is crazy. I think I'll have to wait for European distributor or manufacturer. Take care, Seb.

[@dogblackprincehoney]

The big companies will not produce it because of the high cost of the cuben fiber, only cottage ones.

[@johngame2119]

I think I’m convinced.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

I defo do love my Duplex! 🐾👍 My MLD Duomid is a great winter tent. I've got a couple of vids comparing the two etc on the channel. Glad to help if you have any questions too! 👍

[@johngame2119]

@@HoundsofHowgate yeah seen them. To be honest by the time I’ve save up for a duplex it’ll be summer! Were you tempted at all by the Triplex? My thoughts are that there is hardly any weight in it-yes its more money-but once you decide to spend these sorts of sums on a lightweight tent it starts to get relative. I’m thinking that if your making an investment like this you might as well go all in for all eventualities. I can see that there might be a problem in terms of size of pitch in tight spots (most of my hiking will probably be lake district England or Isle of Skye Scotland). I had a terrible experience trying to camp for a week in a tiny coffin of a tent in skye-never again-the thought of being able to spread out massively would be a bonus. The other worry is if a larger floor would be a problem in a floating tent. Obviously taken on board your comments about the need to choose where you pitch with a bit more care then in something bombproof. But a combination of wanting to walk from site to site and sometimes wild camp and the grim facts of age-make me want something light. One other thing-I saw some youtuber complaining about leaks on newer models. My suspician is that this is just someone who was unlucky. But I guess seam sealing isn’t too bad a problem. I wonder what customer service is like for those of us who live in Europe. Sorry about the length. Anyway-winter shelter for next year. Enjoy your videos. And love the dog. :)

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Nah, I never really thought about the Triplex. I just knew I needed enough room for me, Moss and my gear and the Duplex fit the bill. (I don't like leaving my gear outside as slugs etc can get all up in it.) Mostly when I'm in the tent I'm crashed out so I didn't really need dwelling space if you know what I mean. Plus when it's not raining I tend to sit outside on my Cuben groundsheet for cooking etc. Bigger footprint, bigger pack size, more surface area to catch wind etc, hmm, I guess it depends on what style of hiking and camping you fancy. It's such an individual thing really. One thing I would say is that I wouldn't worry about the floating floor. When you are in it with your gear that keeps it down. Even if some of it blows up a bit in the wind it doesn't really matter as neither your gear or you are on that bit. I've heard folk mention it before but I'm not sure what it is they are not so keen on; maybe if they have open cups of water sitting and it might tip it over or something? I'm not sure. The floating floor has never bothered me. In fact I quite like it as it allows airflow to dry off the bottom of the groundsheet a bit if it has been on wet grass etc. Where about were they getting leaks? The seams are taped so I wonder if some tape was missing or something? Pretty easy fix if so with some tape. Don't get me wrong, if you are dropping a load of money on a shelter you don't want to be having to repair it when it's fairly new. I can't say I've had any problems with water ingress (apart from one time that was my fault) or condensation for that matter though: Moss and I must not be heavy breathers! I always close up the sides as well! One of the good things about Zpacks stuff is that they sell on eBay like hot cakes! I've seen them go for almost full retail price including import and VAT; one even with a tear in it! If you didn't take to it I think you could sell it pretty easily. That brings a bit of peace of mind. 🐾👍

[@johngame2119]

@@HoundsofHowgate cheers that’s useful. your comment on wind made me think (thinking back to the isle of skye-where one night I was quite glad I was snugly in my ionosphere tent-even if most of the time it was just too cramped for me. Well I’ll be making my decision in time for next year-so that’s useful stuff to think over-thanks again.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@johngame2119 no worries man. 🐾👍

[@dogblackprincehoney]

I'm thinking to buy a MLD pyramid tent, but not cuben fiber. It'll be interesting to hear your review, John, after you use that tent for some time.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

The Silnylon version is good too: especially as it's more stretchy, so you can pitch it closer to the ground. DCF and Silnylon both have their strengths and weaknesses but you won't go wrong with an MLD shelter in either fabric. 🐾👍

[@dogblackprincehoney]

@@HoundsofHowgate Why can't one pitch DCF closer to the ground? Will it tear?

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@dogblackprincehoney nah, Silnylon is just more stretchy and has more give so you can pull it about more. DCF has no give at all. So Silnylon is actually easier to pitch on uneven ground but can loose it's shape if it rains at night and you might need to retension it. DCF wont do that. Just different pros and cons really. 🙂

[@dogblackprincehoney]

@@HoundsofHowgate Silnylon can loose it's shape if the wind strong, that's why they recommend to adjust it before you go to sleep, but I've never bothered to do it and it's fine.

[@rachelairey1141]

Is it possible to compress it once it's in the stuff sack so it takes up less room in your pack? Thanks

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Hi Rachel! 🙂 You can fold it different ways to change the packed shape to make it fit in your pack a little better; like I have done here by putting it in a medium dry bag so I can get it flatter to fit in the front pocket of my Zpacks Arc Zip. When the Duplex is put in the stuff sack it comes with it's basically the perfect size to fit horizontally inside any Zpacks backpack. So not really, that's it pretty much compressed as much as it goes. You can just have it take up different spaces by shape. DCF/Cuben Fibre is noted for being less compressible/compactible than other tent materials. I guess if you were to put it in like a sleeping bag compression style sack with the compression straps then you could crunch it down and get it a little smaller: I'd be worried about doing that though in case I damaged the DCF or caused premature wear though. I don't crunch anything up like that in fact, you know, like my down bag etc. If I don't have the volume I just get a bigger bag. Like for my winter kit, the massive size of my sleeping bag meant that I just had to get a large volume backpack. One thing that might be interesting to you is that even though I put my clothes, electronics and such in different dry bags, for the most part I just close the velcro and don't roll them. I leave a wee bit of a finger sized gap in the middle so air can escape. Then I just jam everything into my pack in layers. As the drybags don't have trapped air so a set shape the stuff inside conforms to stuff next to them to take up any wee gaps so I find I can get more in my pack this way. You probably know or do this but just wanted to mention it in case it might help if you are worried about room in your pack. Another thing that might be helpful is that I have an MLD Duomid with a DuomidXL half inner which is a great modular system for different seasons. The Duomid and half inner come different stuffsacks and I find I can get them to pack smaller and jam them different places making the volume not so much of a thing to think about. If you want to see a side by side picture of the Duplex and Duomid and Inner then I can take some pics for you if you like. Just PM me on Facebook, Instagram or through the contacts page. Hope that helps! If you have anymore questions then ask away. 🙂 John & Moss 🐾👍

[@yesodkhabbal2643]

i have duplex flex and just want to be sure i get the right sack for it because the one it came with is too thick like you said... you sure thats the medium dry bag? there is a couple different options it seems yours looks bigger then the medium on their website but i could be wrong

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Yeah, pretty sure it is the medium. I ordered 3 medium's and a large, which is more rectangular. I can measure it when I get into work tomorrow and get a measuring tape and let you know for sure if you like. Let me know, it's no problem. 🐾👍

[@yesodkhabbal2643]

@@HoundsofHowgate thanks, no need to do that though. because they dry bag is so sealed i was worried it would not allow the tent to still dry a little in the dry bag and also cause some mold/mildew issues if not totally dry when put in... so i thought maybe the drawstring style stuff sack. but are those not issues for you?

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@yesodkhabbal2643 I like the dry bag because I keep my tent in my pack. If it's wet I don't want it leaking out all over the place, so it's ideal. I'm pretty strict on drying and airing out all my kit when I stop for a break so it's never a worry. Plus the Cuben Fibre doesn't get mouldy like nylon does, so it's all good. When I'm hiking I'm putting my tent up that evening too, so it's never in the dry bag for so long. When I store it away for any length of time I always make sure the tent is bone dry. Then when in the sack I dont roll it down; just seal the velcro along and then pop it open a wee bit at the centre tabs to allow stuff to breath. I think it's probably just the perspective of the wide angle lens that makes the dry bag look bigger but it's no problem if you want me to measure it. It's just I have the tent and a measuring tape in a cupboard in work so I can't do it right now. Plus you could always shoot Zpacks a mail too. The roll top dry bags are so handy for all sorts anyway that you wont go wrong. 🐾👍

[@RS.Outdoors]

Great video and still thinking about getting one. My concern is how draughty it is with the single skin and mesh skirt. Had a tent a bit like that a while back and even with a good sleeping bag you could feel the cold coming through across your legs and body. Atb

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thanks! 🐾👍 Yeah, they are draughty for sure. A pro to that is that it helps keep the tent cool in warm conditions and keep condensation to a minimum. I never really find the draught to be a problem as with these tents you have to be more mindful of pitch selection. That's one of the penalties with such an airy lightweight tent. So like with a double skin tent with nylon inner the penalty is weight and the plus more carefree pitch selection and less draughty so arguably warmer. Then with the single skin tents the penalty is more careful camp selection and draughts (which are good in summer) with a plus of being ultra light. As with most things it depends on the style of hiking you want to do, the season and environment. One thing is with my Duomid with half mesh inner which is my winter tent, it's just as draughty but with my good down bag, vapour barrier bag liner and water resistant outer that effectively cancelled out the draughts. Combine that with more careful pitch selection, tent orientation and sleeping position I found that I was totally fine, even in winter. So like, I would pitch with the narrow end into the wind and make sure that's where my feet would be pointing so the wind didn't hit me side on and the length of my body acted like a block. If the wind changed direction I would turn on my side to make sure it didn't hit my face and/or use my bag etc as a wind block. If that wasnt good enough I'd get my waterproof or ground sheet (which I use as a ground sheet the least) and hang that up to drape over the mesh and create a double tent on that side. So yeah, there are ways and means and pros and cons to both setups really. Like I wouldn't get an UL tent unless I was wanting to do bigger mile consecutive days. If I was more weekend camping and doing like say, 10 miles a day, then I'd take a heavier but more 'jack of all trades' type tent as that's a more practical solution. I see these tents as kinda like Ferrari's. Fast, light but need looked after more and are expensive. Whereas the likes of my Alpkit Tetri is more like a Volvo estate car: cheaper, reliable, practical for lots more things but not as fast and light. So like you wouldn't take your Ferrari to go and get the messages but you would really want it if you were going to race it, sort of thing. Everyone would like a Ferrari as they are cool but they are a specialist car for a narrow particular purpose. Most folk would be better with the Volvo unless their primary concern is racing. Haha, bad analogy but you know what I mean! 🙂

[@allisoncronnelly5004]

Hi John, great review and my Duplex is on its way! Using it on TMB next month so won't have much time to use it before trip. It looks like you have added extra guy lines. Was this just because you are tall? Would you recommend? Thx v much

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Hi Allison, thanks! 🙂 That's great that you are going to be hiking the TMB! You'll need to let us know how you find it. The tie outs, so yeah, there is a couple of things I do. As I'm tall I added Zpacks trekking pole cups on the flat sides and bought the small Zpacks carbon rods for them. That way when I pitch the tent and use those I can create a wee bit of a steeper angle on the fly at the bottom of the flat sides. I'm 6'2" so it give me that wee bit more of wiggle room inside. If I was shorter then I wouldn't bother. Another thing you might have seen is that I carry a small roll of guy line with me. It's handy for all sorts like a washing line, tying kit down, replacing burst shoelaces etc. Once you carry it it can come in quite handy for all sorts. Sometimes if I'm camped somewhere particularly windy I'd add that to the tent to give myself long line guys and that just helps keep the tent a wee bit more stable in certain situations. It's just really using what I carry anyway for different things sometimes. Kinda like the gorilla tape I put on my poles, the needle and thread in my first aid kit and the micro tube of super glue I carey in there too etc. You always end up coming up with inventive ways to use stuff like that if you are out for more than a few days I find. Hope that helped! Cheers! 🐾👍

[@allisoncronnelly5004]

@@HoundsofHowgate Hi John thanks very much for getting back to me. Duplex arrived within 3 days of dispatch. I absolutely love it. Doesn't sound like I need the trekking pole cups - only 5'6. But I am ordering a few extras from Zpacks and just wondered if worth getting the ground sheet. I know you have it and you said you use it for many things other than groundsheet. Would you recommend for a ground sheet? I'm ordering extra guy line as suggested & I love the look of their pillow/dry bag so one of those. Flight booked early July for TMB! Thanks again John, Allison

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@allisoncronnelly5004 hi there. Yeah, I always take a groundsheet. I have both the flat groundsheet and the bathtub poncho groundsheet. I mainly use the flat one as it's bigger and it doesn't take up much room or weigh anything. The main thing I like with it is I can use it was a groundsheet if I'm on any ground that I might want a wee bit more extra protection but mostly I like it for sitting down on. So I'll put it out the front of my tent for my gear when I'm unpacking, sit on it when I'm making dinner and also put it down when I want to take a break and the only thing to sit on is wet grass. I spray it with Permethrin so it stops ticks getting on you or your gear when you are sitting around and also helps keep mud and moisture getting on you and your gear from the ground. I'll send you a link to a bit of they Skye Trail where you can see what I mean. I also made a vid about dealing with ticks and midges where I talk about beasties and what I use. I've actually just made an Amazon store front where you can go and see all the kit I use that can be bought via Amazon. The spray on treatment that I use on the groundsheet is in the Insect Protection. www.amazon.co.uk/shop/houndsofhowgate

[@HoundsofHowgate]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYm2p5atbrFkr7M 10:36 --------- kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4WrfpilftOAd6c 09:25

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Everyone is different and has different ways of doing things right enough. But aye, I do personally like having one. Hope that helps! 🙂🐾👍

[@allisoncronnelly5004]

Hi John, thanks very much for your videos. Planning to do TMB in July and counting grams. Really tempted to get Zpacks Duplex - would save me 500grams over Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2. Just wondered which trekking poles you use - carbon or aluminium? Thanks again

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Hi Allison, thank you! 🙂 For 3 seasons and with the Duplex I use carbon poles. Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork's. The ones with the straight handles rather than the ones with the handles that tilt forward (Ergo). In the winter I use an old pair of Leki Khumbu Aluminium poles as they extend long enough to use with my MLD Duomid without the need for an extender. I definitely prefer the BD Alpine Carbon poles though. I like the cork handles and straps on them and the locking system is less bulky. For most hiking, in most seasons then I personally don't worry about any issues with using carbon poles with my shelter set-up. You might have heard that some people advise aluminium as it deforms under excessive load (so you can bash it straight) whereas carbon can shatter, rendering it unusable. I think that might be more of a theoretical worst case scenario and probably something not to really worry about too much when picking poles for normal use. I'd be more inclined to make sure they extend long enough and have a decent locking system. I don't like twist lock poles as they can get messed up over time with water and dirt etc getting all up in there (had an old pair years ago seize on me and then the internal lock break when forced). Plus I just don't feel an internal lock is as a secure as an external lock. I also avoid folding poles for general use, you know, the ones with the cable inside that you lock by pulling them straight and locking off: more things to go wrong in my opinion. You know, it's like risk vs. reward. The fact they can be lighter and pack smaller isn't worth the risk to me as they have more weak points and this chances to go wrong. I'd more use poles like that for day hikes when you are getting on and off public transport and having them pack small is handy. Or an overnight trip where, if they failed, wouldn't be a big deal as you are only out for one night etc. So aye, carbon has been just fine with my Duplex and the BD Alpine Carbon Cork's have been good. In fact, very good. I'm often tempted to refine my gear and I've never thought about my general use poles: which says something! 👍 Cheers, John & Moss 🐾👍

[@allisoncronnelly5004]

@@HoundsofHowgate Thank you so much for all this info - I had been looking at the folding ones! What you said makes sense - will steer away now. Would you count the weight of your poles in the base weight of your bag? They are all so heavy! Thanks very much again Allison

[@lovedogsontheloose]

@@HoundsofHowgate Thanks so much for the videos and this specific reply. I never thought about the folding poles being a weak point. I was planning to buy the Zpacks carbon poles, which are folding poles, because I don't use trekking poles. Maybe not a good idea? Also, I backpack with two dogs and was wondering about durability of the floor against a dog's nails. Maybe not a concern if a thin foam pad is used? I've never had a problem with them on the bare floor of my Tiger Wall but have heard the Duplex floor is more delicate. Thanks for your time!

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@allisoncronnelly5004 Hi Allison, I wouldn't count them in the base weight as I mostly carry them in my hands. So it's not weigh on my back/bag basically. 🙂🐾👍

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@lovedogsontheloose glad the olther answer answered this wan tae. 🙂🐾👍

[@dogblackprincehoney]

After watching Will Wood (Following RedBeard)'s Pacific Crest Trail videos and seeing how hail made holes in his tent I lost my interest of buying a cuben fiber tent. I'm not sure if that video is still on his channel as he works now for Zpacks.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Will's not working for Zpacks at the moment as he's concentrating on his farm with his wife Joe. 🐾👍

[@dogblackprincehoney]

@@HoundsofHowgate Wow, you know everything not just in Scotland, but in USA too.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@dogblackprincehoney Will's a good guy. You should check out 'TheOldFashionFarmstead' and 'FarmingwithJoe' on Instagram. 🐾👍

[@rigbyUnbound]

so reading between the lines i'm guessing you like this tent?! ;) 3rd most popular tent on the PCT.. insane for a 'cottage company' to be pushing that many units & the triplex would be like a bloody palace.. the only thing that bothers me is the netting.. it collapses to the floor when open & doesn't keep out midges

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Haha, could you tell? 😂👍 Yeah, I wasnt sure about the netting being on the floor when I first got it. Then on the CWT my gaiter snagged on it and tore the netting a wee bit when I was reaching in to get something: which was a bit upsetting. I don't really find that it makes much of a difference midge wise personally as I find they get in everywhere anyway; water, food, dead ones in ass crack when you are getting changed etc. What I did find interesting is that the ones inside gravitate to one corner of the mesh and all amass there like they are trying to get out. The few that are still flying about I just clap my hands on. Like I'll be lying there with hundreds of midges wriggling about in a corner a foot from my head but they don't fly away and seem to loose interest in biting you. I don't know why that happens and I've never noticed it happening in more traditional tents. It must be something to do with the mesh around the bottom and some try and get out there, can't and maybe send out a signal that makes the rest come to the same corner? I have no idea, but the good thing is that they are not all in there swarming about and biting you. I was watching Jeff (IBTAT) and he used to have a Duplex and now has the new HMG tent which has half handling doors either side and he said he preffered the Duplex doors. I think it must be because the rainbow doors on the Duplex are just so much more practical for getting in and out of and also for half sitting in the tent. There must be bad mosquitoes over there at times so it was interesting to hear how he still preffered the Duplex doors over the HMG doors.

[@dogblackprincehoney]

@@HoundsofHowgate Bloody midges, because of them I think my next trail will be not in Scotland. I don't know how people manage to live in Scotland with the little beasties.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@dogblackprincehoney haha, kinda annoying, arent they! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🐾👍

[@ZDWildCamping]

I just got the Lanshan 1. Haven't actually used it yet. If I'll feel it's not good enough I'll definitely consider Zpacks. I can't see what else that's out there is better, lighter, more water proof and stronger. My concern is I've previously spent a good amount of money on a high end tent (Hilleberg) and honestly I didn't feel it was worth the money and I don't seem to ever use it. It's also a bit hard justifying £600 for a tent when I just spent £82. That's a really crazy difference. You can literally buy 7 Lanshans for one Zpacks. Man... I just don't know.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

I'd try and not get caught up in the gear trap to be honest. You should try out that Lanshan 1 and if it works out and it suits your needs then stick with it. It's easy to think the most expensive is the best but that's not always the case. Like I was away camping for 8 nights there and didn't take either of my UL tents as they are not really for pitching once at a campsite and then leaving there for days. My £150 Alpkit tent is more practical in those circumstances; but it does weigh almost 3kg. So not something I want to carry for 2 weeks all over the place when trying to get the miles in for example. If your not hiking more that 15 miles a day over multiple days, say, then you don't really need an UL tent unless you have a back back or knees etc. Know what I mean. Plus consider how much will you be using it. I slept in my Duplex for 30+ nights last year, but if someone was just buying one to do the WHW and that was it then they would not getting value in that case. Plus you have to consider what sort of hiker/camper you want to be. You have to be more selective with campsites etc with UL tents. To be honest there are too many variables to consider without knowing exact details but I would say to only get an UL tent if you are fully focused on long distance hiking, big mile days, saving weight and are prepared to compromise on some wee things like talking a bit more time to find a place to pitch in the evening etc.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Let us know how you get on with the Lanshan 1 buy the way! It's always good to hear about other peoples experience with kit. 🐾👍

[@ZDWildCamping]

@@HoundsofHowgate Sure. I made a 'first impressions' video about it. It's not a good or well thought through video. Just a few thoughts and basically me seam sealing it like an idiot. I don't have a good camera yet which makes making any half decent video a real challenge. I wanted to do the coast to coast but I'm not sure if I will. I have a bulging disc in my neck. It's bloody torture. Shit won't go away. I ended up buying the Grayl Geopress filter by the way. Hopefully I'll get to actually do some backpacking and use it all. To answer your question: I am a long distance multi day backpacker. I rarely camp at the same place for a few days. UL became a necessity more than desire. It seems I can no longer carry what I used to when I was in my twenties. My back just refuses to participate if I carry too much. Late thirties suck dog balls honestly ;-)

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Aye, if you have spinal problems at the moment then you defo want to be cutting as much pack weight as possible then. Maybe look to cut it from other areas first that aren't as much of an initial outlay like it is with the tent. You know; pack, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, mug, stove, sleeping clothes, rain gear, head torch etc. All the wee things add up and you'll be able to get your pack pretty light. Aye, let us know how you get on with that filter too! 🐾👍

[@iandelaney7492]

what the hell is "went into the cheese" ? I love it. I'm assuming just the brush. Great videos...accent it cool

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Haha, I don't know? Which bit is it at in the video? It might be went into the 'trees' perhaps? Thanks Ian 🙂🐾👍

[@ppower08081968]

Regarding support and post sale service; can the tent be sent back to US for fixes? Would this be caught again by import duties on the way back?

[@BravingTheOutDoors]

I have emailed Zpacks about that and got a reply from the owner and he says that when they ship it back from being repaired they label it as such and that should (in theory) mean that you won't have to pay anything again. I think that the problem is that the way these things work just because they label it as such it doesn't mean customs will "believe" it because it's something I reckon many companies have abused. As such, you might have to fight with customs and go through a long process of appealing and that can take up to 5 weeks from what I could gather. Or... you might get lucky. Dunno.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Zpacks would repair it for sure. I'm not sure about who would pick up the postal bill if you were sending it back as a warranty repair though. If it's marked as a warrantly repair then I think the value is technically 0, so you shouldn't have to pay full price VAT etc again. You would have to talk to Zpacks as the value of the item they mark on the parcel itself is key. I cannot see them marking a warrantly return as being full value and I would also expect the description to be 'warranty repair' and the value most likely representing the repair cost. So no, I doubt you would have to pay out heavily again. There would still be handling fees and such but it's the VAT that's the sore one and you should not have to pay that again. 🐾👍

[@HoundsofHowgate]

I've usually been able to sort stuff out with customs pretty quickly actually and they were reasonable enough. Plus Joe will have had experience of this before so I'd go with that. 🐾👍

[@BravingTheOutDoors]

@@HoundsofHowgate I was told you have to ship it to them at your expense but they ship it back for free and as you said you shouldn't have to pay customs again... in theory.

[@ewansoutar4793]

I only ever see Americans using this tent. It’s nice to see a Scot’s review

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Thanks Ewan! 🙂 I hope it helped oot! 🐾👍

[@robbystafford8273]

why do you put it in a dry bag?

[@robbystafford8273]

and why do you leave the cords so loose, making your tent so floppy?

[@HoundsofHowgate]

I put it in a dry bag so that when I pack it away if it's wet the water doesn't leak out and make all my other gear wet...and it happens to fit perfectly in a medium DCF dry bag. 🐾👍

[@HoundsofHowgate]

I don't. I loosely pitched both tents in this vid to run through the comparison of their features, which does the trick as it's not a pitching vid; there are already plenty of those online. 🐾👍

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Ah, I thought you were on about the Duomid Vs Duplex vid. You'll have to tell me the bit you are talking about with the loose cords as I believe I put quite a few extracts in this vid. Is it the one where I'm filming from inside in a storm? The sides are flapping up and down?

[@Johnnyexploresscotland]

A wee trick for importing Buy it send it to a friend Ask seller to mark as a gift Boom no import tax

[@HoundsofHowgate]

💥👍

[@dogblackprincehoney]

Does it really work?

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@dogblackprincehoney only if you have someone in the US prepared to send it to you and declare that it has little value as a gift.

[@dogblackprincehoney]

@@HoundsofHowgate I understood Johnny Mitch wrote that if you buy it but the reciever will be a different person (say a friend or a relative in the UK) than the seller will mark it as a gift and no tax for you.

[@Johnnyexploresscotland]

@@dogblackprincehoney yes just have it marked as gift on the outside of the package

[@pete7872]

2:41 'Once it's erect, Its really durable....' What more could anyone want?

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Hahaha! Exactly! 😂🐾👍

[@dogblackprincehoney]

;-)

[@begbie672]

It looks like an expensive summer tent for Scotland below the tree line, did you not tear your's on the cape wrath trail ?

[@HoundsofHowgate]

You didn't watch to the end of the video, did you! 😉 At the end I summarise exactly what and who it's for and how it is a very specific use specialist tent that has compromises in features and use for the benefit of weight saving. These aren't general purpose pitch anywhere tents for sure. But they do weight half the weight. It really depends on the type of hiker you are, the hike itself, environment and what you want from your tent. I did indeed rip some of the bug mesh on the inside with a bit of sharp metal on one of the poppers on my really old gaiters. To be fair it would probably have ripped any fabric. Luckily it was just the mesh so easily repairable. You get DCF tape (it comes with a patch kit) for the main body of the tent and bathtub. I've never had any problems with that and I mostly don't use a groundsheet and Moss paws about it too, so it's done pretty well. 🐾👍 My winter tent is also in DCF but just in a more wind friendly shape. It's called an MLD Duomid. Check them out in the wind: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqHagKOwg9KijrM I still look for less exposed pitches though cos you are right; they are made for trail hiking rather than exposed mountain use. You'd want a more bomber tent in that case of course. This is quite an interesting vid of the Duplex when pitched on an exposed top when a storm rolls in: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5u2eICdodeorqc

[@fraserconnell21]

We're just saying hello again 🙏. How you doing big man? We hope the Moss'ster is good too🐄(yes,it's a coo emoji,but we could'nae find a border collie emoji🙄. ☺️🙏👍

[@ppower08081968]

Another question please- I’ve seen a few comments on KZbin that the floor of the duplex can leak and over 2 years usage there is general leaking through the top of the tent; have you experienced this? Many thanks

[@HoundsofHowgate]

I have not experienced this personally but everyone treats their tents differently; I tend to baby my gear. One thing to remember is that DCF anything is not made for longevity but for utmost weight saving. They say a DCF shelter should last at least a thru-hike of 2.5k miles. But that is a limited timespan; essentially they are built with functionality and lightness first and foremost. Longevity is down the list. I have an MLD Duomid in DCF but they also do them in Silnylon which will last as long as any tent. Plus they are still really light. If utmost weight saving is not your to priority then a Silnylon shelter may be something to consider. I don't use my DCF shelters when I'm not doing multiple night long trails for example. I have normal tents for when I'm not so dialed in on the weight thing. ⛺ What is it you need out of your tent and I may be able to offer some suitable suggestions for you. 🙂🐾👍

[@matmitch6720]

Is this where to had to use a sock to wipe your bubum?lolsorry whyi remember that don't know 😂😂

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Haha, that is indeed the very location of the 'difficult situation'. Haha! 😂🐾👍

[@smujiodome]

Mat Mitch How rude of you to bring up that unfortunate incident after all this time. Then again how could we forget it. It was all up his fkn leg and everything. Far too many Guini if you ask me. Lol. Atb to you and HOH. Great banter and a great review. Such a good resource for anyone thinking of buying one of these tents.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@smujiodome hahaha! Mat is referring to a different jobbying incident! 😂😂😂 There is a theme developing here, isn't there! 😂🐾👍

[@smujiodome]

Hounds of Howgate Yes. I remember now. My mistake. All the same there is an ongoing thread developing. Lol.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@smujiodome there sure is! Haha 😂💩👍

[@climbhigh395]

Its just a pity that none of the outdoor retailers here actually sell the Duplex so that you can see them before you purchase. Maybe one day they will. All the best

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Yeah, for sure. Zpacks sell direct like a lot of smaller cottage companies and everything is still made to order more or less. What would that be called? Economy of scale or something like that?

[@EspenFrafalne]

I believe this tent comes with a "guarantee" that it will last for at least 1 through hike (like the Appalacian Trail, which is usually over 6 months, or ~182 days of camping), and i have heard of people who have used it for 3 such hikes, so i guess that it may last my entire life if i am a bit careful with it... So people living in western countries should probably not complain about the cost of this tent.

[@wackyswanderings3627]

Hi Jon / Moss: Forgive intrusion, Hope all ok Pal not heard in a while. ATB Dave 😊👍 aka wackyswanderings 😊👍

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Aye, all's good: just got my hands full trying to finish building this cottage before winter! 😱😱😱

[@wackyswanderings3627]

@@HoundsofHowgate Good oh that's a relief was missing your nutty antic's and thought, that's odd not heard, wonder if he's alright? See us southern Nancy's worry like that🤣😅🤪🥴😂. So apologies for intrusion and hear from you when you re surface. You be good, you be safe and you keep smiling and ATB for the build😊 Dave aka wackyswanderings 😊👍

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@wackyswanderings3627 haha, aye, even got a view vids that I need to edit and upload but I'm pretty pressed for time at the moment! Plus it's been a bit of a crap year with having to keep most of my holidays for the cottage and not being able to spend them hiking the same. BUT, the cottage should be finished come the turn of the year and I'll have a fresh year worth of holidays so looking forward to making the most of them again! 🐾👍

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@wackyswanderings3627 did you see the vid Renagade Scot made of us doing a wee hike in Glencoe? That wasn't that long ago.

[@HoundsofHowgate]

@@wackyswanderings3627 this one. That was only 3 weeks ago. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gYCrmKOLmJqpl9k

[@fraserconnell21]

Crack on skywalker!!... wee Moss being your wee R2D2.🤓😃👍🤘

[@HoundsofHowgate]

🙂🐾👍

[@combatjohn]

John can you please contact me? Regards JD

[@HoundsofHowgate]

Hi there. You can email me through my contacts page at www.houndsofhowgate.com Or message me through Instagram or Facebook. All houndsofhowgate. 🐾👍

[@combatjohn]

@@HoundsofHowgate already did bro...

[@nilesdelta8636]

Hey john sorry for bad banter I wasn’t going to unsub! Just jealous . 😐

[@HoundsofHowgate]

No worries, I didn't think anything of it. 🐾👍