Zpacks Plexamid - Better Than The Duplex?

Stuff I Mentioned in this Video:
Zpacks Plexamid - zpacks.com/products/plexamid-...
Zpacks Duplex Tent - zpacks.com/products/duplex-te...
AZT Gear List - • AZT Thru-Hike Gear List
PCT Gear List - • Post PCT Thru-Hike Gea...
DISCLOSURE:
I have no contractual agreement with Zpacks and only give reviews on gear I myself would use or feel would benefit my viewers to know more about. This is NOT a Paid Review, nor did I receive the product in TRADE for a review. I am self-employed and do not receive further compensation from Zpacks for this gear review.
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-----Intro By: Kat Pendergast-----
------ Music By: Mike Boren -------
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[@DarwinOnthetrail]

What's your Favorite Zpacks Tent? What Tent are you currently Rocking on the Trail? 👇Let Me Know Down Below!👇

[@yurijanssen2148]

After my Six Moon designs Lunar Solo tore (good tent, just had bad luck with it twice) i got the MSR Freelite II, heavier but comfy & roomy, i can deal with the extra weight :) (1100g)

[@KimAcheson]

I'm considering going with a tarp and bathtub setup or bivy. What do you think if the Plexamid vs Summit Mosquito Pyramid Net Shelter 2.9 oz Z-Packs Hexamid Pocket Tarp w/ Door 5.2 oz Z-Packs Solo-Plus size Bathtub Groundsheet 3.5oz for a total weight of 11.6 oz Or vs bivy set up Z-Packs Hexamid Pocket Tarp w/ Door 5.2 oz Enlightened Equipment Recon bivy 6.35 oz 11.55 oz

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Sounds like a WINNER to me. I recently picked up the Hexamid Pocket Tarp w/ Door & the Solo-Plus size Bathtub. Hadn't thought about using it with my Recon tho 🤔 Thanks for the Idea! Hike On, Darwin

[@demoncleaner80]

MSR Hubba Hubba NX, bout 2-3 years old. It's a good tent but I hate setting the damn thing up. Feel like I'm always fighting the rainfly to get the proper setup. It's my most expensive tent but I'm always trying to find a replacement for it. Also don't want to spend another $350+ on a tent again!

[@KimAcheson]

@@DarwinOnthetrail The Hexamid and bathtub seem like a perfect solution once a bug net gets involved. My third option is Hexamid with a Mountain Laurel Designs MLD Bug Bivy 6.5 oz for a total of 11.7 oz. It has more room than the EE Recon. I'm kind of leaning towards the Hexamid with Bathtub plus and Sea to Summit net. This gives me the most room for almost the same weight. Everything should still be pretty small for bike camping (I would still bring a trekking pole to incase I'm in an area where I need a cane). Also if something does break I replace that part and not a whole $500+ tent. Haha when you're in rehab waiting to get your new legs you have time to look this stuff up. Thanks for the video! It was perfect timing and really helped me decide what I think I want to do.

[@godbackwards]

well out of my price range, watched the whole video anyway because you've got great content.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks Matt!

[@noahhunsaker3400]

I did the same thing! Haha

[@anniebrown921]

Me too 😂

[@cjcookster]

I keep looking at the Duplex and telling myself, "someday...". But right now that's like a year's worth of diaper money, so until the kids grow up I'll just have to live vicariously through your videos. Thanks!

[@rickwebermusic]

Eh, let the kids poop in the yard. Just make sure they don't get any on your new Duplex!

[@homelessmillionaire1]

@@DuffyGabi yep, a great father over a zpack tent any day

[@aussiehiker2]

I have three young kids myself and would love a Duplex but it breaks my budget. I bought the 3F UL Lanshan 2 from Aliexpress. It’s dual wall with the same shape as the Duplex. It’s 1290g but fairly cheap for the weight and size.

[@bucyrus99]

Get the 3F Lanshan for $150..outstanding!!!!

[@surfk9836]

We'll look for your post in 18-21 years!

[@jamesthomas7754]

Thank you for the review. I've been wavering between these two tents since the Plexamid came out. Always love your gear reviews.

[@jt4513]

Darwin these videos are practically ASMR and I love it!!! Its going to be years before I'm in any position to buy high-end gear like this but every time I see you post a new video I never hesitate to hear what you've got to say. I could literally listen to you ramble on about tents for the rest of my life

[@mississippiblues2426]

Hay man i just want to thank you for all the valuable information. haven't always followed your advise but you have always pointed me in the right direction. keep following your path brother.

[@IntenseAngler]

Excellent review Brother! Gotta love the weight, that's for sure! Happy Trails...

[@stevenldustin]

Just picked up my first ultralight tent at the beginning of 2019. I’m rocking the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2. I love it. I have used it was two people ... definitely a bit tight. With only one ... it’s pretty darn perfect. Had it out in some pretty bad rain/wind for multiple nights and had zero problems. Been super happy so far.

[@gogerwi]

Appreciate the honest review, I'll stay with my duplex. Congrats on the new shirt.

[@bobbyboombeck]

I've been waiting for this review. Great news. I love my duplex and happy to hear your honest review. Ps. I'm in Lone Pine heading out on the JMT on Monday. A little intimidated by these mega mountains, but here I go!

[@aussiehiker2]

Thanks mate. A very informative video for us considering a substantial purchase. Also, being from down under, love it anytime you mention the weight in grams.

[@girthbrooks7645]

I had me and 2 other dudes in my duplex this weekend during an emergency thunderstorm for 4 hours. Crazy rain. I love the duplex. No brokeback.

[@daiveedino]

Lol

[@Jerrymc1975]

Nothing more manly than broke back

[@KillRhythm]

Right. Brokeback AF, duder.

[@therealbennybraden]

Great comparison video and review my friends. Pretty straight forward. You know me, I absolutely love my Duplex.

[@GODOFROCK22]

Man you really make a great case for the duplex over the plexamid. Makes it an even harder decision! Great vid as always!

[@karebear1775]

I saved up for awhile to buy this tent. Shipping takes forever and I keep coming back and watching your video 🥲

[@DevilDawg2008]

I'm 6'5" and was waiting on the Plexamid to come back in stock. You saved me a lot of annoyance in having to return it and buy the Duplex. Thanks!

[@ondrejbaly]

Hi, I´m 6'4" (193cm) tall and looking for some UL tent. It´s looks Zpacks are all too short for me:-( Have you some ideas or tips for 1person UL Tent? My favourite is SMD Lunar Solo 2019... (I use now tarp Appy trail mark3). Thanks for help:-)

[@DevilDawg2008]

@@ondrejbaly The longest UL 1P I've come across is the Lightheart Gear SoLong6. If you're deadset on a 1P tent, thats worth a look. I'm just gonna grab the Duplex. Its only $50 more than the Plexamid and I know I fit well in it on the diagonal.

[@DevilDawg2008]

@@ondrejbaly I've got the SMd Lunar Solo too and its a little to short for my liking.

[@ondrejbaly]

@@DevilDawg2008 thanks for tip:-) SoLong6 is for me something new, i will check it. Yes, Duplex + diagonal position is good solution:-) you have some space for gear inside.

[@DevilDawg2008]

@@ondrejbaly precisely. I like my gear inside with me. Even when I used a freestanding tent (MSR Hubba Hubba NX) I used a 2P tent.

[@joe_munger]

I just purchased the Duplex, still in the 2 week wait to get it but I am anxious to get it and try it out. Thanks for the awesome trail and gear reviews.

[@dannyadventurer1172]

Great review. I almost went with the plexamid last year, but bought the Duplex. With 900 PCT miles this year, the Duplex is by far my favorite.

[@beyondtheblaze2758]

Thanks for your honesty. Keep up the great work. I love your videos.

[@peterkeegan1749]

I am using a Duplex in New Zealand bush, performed well in extreme rain, very very pleased with it.

[@towerclimber7277]

I bet it's gorgeous (one day I'll get to hike New Zealand). When it does happen it'll be in a Duplex w/o a doubt.

[@Austen.McDaniel]

Been waiting for this! I bought my Plexamid in late March. After practicing pitches a few days in my backyard I took it on a 3 day trip in the Ozarks! Was perfect. The weight, pole setup, and room space as 5ft 10in male could not have been better. Unfortunately after my hike I set it up in my yard to air out and later found the small rods broken. Zpacks quickly answered the call and shipped replacements...however those too failed after another two trips. After contacting again they told me they were in the works for a solution and gave me the choices of refund, swapping up, or wait for the new rods to be developed. I love everything else about the tent and chose to wait for new rods. I've had them in and replaced now for three trips with no fail. Could not be more pleased in the tent now and their customer service!!! I love only using one pole and am glad to keep using this tent. The condensation has been very minimal even in the humidity of the Arkansas summer. And the rectangle packing size works well with my 38lt SWD pack despite the volume it takes up. Excellent and fair review as always Darwin! Happy hiking!

[@magpiecollingwood9116]

Hi Austen, would you mind saying what type of replacement struts Zpacks mailed you ? They mailed me a pair of taped double thin white struts. Others were mailed a pair of single thicker struts. I've used the replacement struts for 3 nights in wind and rain and so far so good.

[@Austen.McDaniel]

@@magpiecollingwood9116I can't remember what they called them. I know they are different material and thicker than original. The email they sent said they had tried a "epoxy compound" that tested well and they would send me them. I've not had much test other than a weekend trip and a yard set up but they held up fine so far... pretty basic conditions though so not a great test yet. They felt way more sturdy.

[@magpiecollingwood9116]

@@Austen.McDaniel Thanks for your reply. I've been further testing the tent in my backyard the last 3 days with some rough weather . The double white struts are still ok. The plexamid is still not available on Zpacks which means they're still testing. Which also means that what they have sent us may not be the ones they finally release. I hope Zpacks will send those successful struts to their existing Plexamid customers (Either as a spare or to replace what we've got already)

[@texasermd1]

Great review. Based on this review and availability, I ordered the Duplex. Pretty stoked for the new gear.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Can't go Wrong with the Ol' Duplex! Tried & True! Hike On, Darwin

[@DanBecker]

Your killer beard alone is reason for me to stay subbed you your awesome channel. The review was great as well!!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

😂😂😂 Thanks Dan!

[@HuckOutdoors]

It's the beard we all aspire to!

[@iamcat281]

Don't do it Dan! We like your face. LET Darwin's epic beard be his own. Lol

[@bertman4]

Nice review and very fair. I just got my first trekking pole tent, the X-Mid UL 1P tent. So far I've only taken it out twice but loving it.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

I try 😂... I've been interested in the X-Mid. Looks pretty decent! Hike On, Darwin

[@benkowall5158]

I’m really glad you made this video man! As usual, your gear reviews are super informative. I had been waiting to get my hands on a Plexamid, but after seeing your review here, I realized I had just assumed that it would pack down smaller than the Duplex. I think I’ll go for the Duplex now, considering that there’s not much packability difference between the two. Thanks again!

[@petersherman2552]

If you collapse the Duplex onto its floor and then fold that in half 3 times, to roughly the length of the bag, fold in half, the other direction and then roll up around your tent peg bag towards the last fold, you can get it to easily fit into the zpacks 4 litre slim stuff sack. Could have been made for it. Takes up allot less volume that way as the tent tends to expand to fill the bag its in. That way it will even fit into one of the side pockets of the arc blast or haul, if that's what you want.

[@modestadventurers]

Great review Darwin and thanks for your honesty 🤗

[@guitarhiker4449]

Nice review man! I really like your honesty about your gear too! I myself carry more weight than some, especially when it comes to my tent but i love double wall free standing dome style tents! Less condensation, plenty of room and very durable and practically waterproof in my case. I've never got wet in it ever! I'm using a one man military tent by ORC called the ICS (Improved Combat Shelter). I love this thing!! It is heavy at 5 pounds but it is a 4 season tent. It packs down to about the size of your duplex and i love how fast and easy it is to setup! This is my second ICS tent in 10 years. I handed off my first one to a friend and bought brand new one. Ebay usually has them new for about $120. Best $120 you could spend on a tent in my opinion! They were originally $320 new on ORC's website and they are not cheaply made by any means! The military did recently upgrade their one man tents to the Litefighter 1 (4 pounds). They also make a Raider tent by Catoma (2.5lb.) which is kinda a bivy tent. I recently purchased one i've only used it twice but its very nice 3 season tent packs very small but like alot of bivy tents theirs not alot of room. I carry a heavy tent i admit that but my other pieces of gear are fairly light! Zpacks arc blast pack, Sea to Summit Micro 2 dry down sleeping bag in the long version weighs only 1lb. 7oz. and packs very small. Pocket rocket 2 mini stove kit and so on, stuff like that helps me keep my weight down and makes up for having a heavy tent. Moral of the story is use what you like and what you can afford, but certain items try not to skimp! Thanks Darwin always good stuff! Hope you get years of good use outta your Zpacks tents! Hike on!

[@jandal8905]

Just bought a Duplex in spruce green after thinking about it for two years - your videos were a great help in making this decision. Will use it on my next through-hike (either the PCT or CDT).

[@Bertpauw84]

I just used the Plexamid for my PCT thru hike this year. By far the best tent I ever owned! I had no issues with it, no broken rods... After 2653 miles it stil looks new (exept for the stufsack)

[@rogertaylor712]

I recently made my own ‘duplex’ not DCF but very similar dimensions. It’s a very good design that they have come up with. If I could afford and couldn’t see they I would love a duplex. Awesome videos as always Darwin 👍

[@backkat9475]

I'm fortunate enough to have both the duplex and betaV plexamid. Love the duplex room and the plexamid weight. Only a lineloc getting lines twisted in them so far with the Beta version. Zpacks makes great tents and Darwin makes great videos. Thanks!

[@joeljones4080]

Got a Duplex this year and in limited usage so far, I'm pleased. I like the concept of a single pole tent, and I own one (SMD Lunar Solo), but I feel just a bit claustrophobic in it. I'm sticking with the Duplex for a while longer!

[@drbryanbikes]

Hey, Darwin, excellent review! I have both the Duplex and the Plexamid. I fully agree the Duplex is the better tent! With two doors, some folks may not realize that it SERIOUSLY cuts down in the condensation as you have more air moving around. I actually think the older version ( now discontinued) of the Solplex had better ventilation. But 4 ounces is 4 ounces!! Thanks for a great video!!

[@rockslide4576]

Great review, Darwin, thanks! This was just for me: Love my Duplex and was thinking about the Plexamid, but you've talked me out of it. (Not to worry, Zpacks has PLENTY of my money, lol!)

[@aaronliu9945]

Looks like the Duplex is still my dream tent. Great review!

[@newmansparks3392]

Thanks for the Vid it was helpful. I just ordered the duplex!

[@kurtsrandomoutdoorstuff9346]

I’ve been carrying a camo duplex for over two years now, I believe I have found my perfect shelter! Besides, the customer service @zpacks is AWESOME!!!

[@debsmith7050]

Thoughtful review; as always. Thanks Darwin :)

[@rudekperezacupuncturist]

Thanks for your honesty even though you are "hanging out" with zpack. It's important to maintain that and is something not easy to do.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

It Actually is Quite Easy to do... I don't work for them & they don't pay me to use or talk about their gear. Friends are Friends, but I play by my own rules & really dig having integrity. 😉 Hike On, Darwin

[@rogerhudson2814]

It had the cons as well a the + so a fair review.

[@rudekperezacupuncturist]

@@rogerhudson2814 exactly.

[@pedestrian0101]

this is the tent i bought for my PCT hike next year. i'm slept in it in the back yard a few times, still need to take it out. so for i love it though.

[@Sklallamstrong]

Oh I love the gear review videos! My go-to is a Marmot Astral 2 person tent: easy set up, been with me for years working with the boy scouts it's been in thunder storms, hot summer nights, cold snowy nights. It's heavy by z-packs standards at 4 1/2 lbs, I would like to get one lighter but this is working ok for now. I did get a bigger tent for my wife and I to use when we go backpacking: the Zenith 3 by Alps Mountaineering. It did give us more space but it's harder to set up and not as stable as the Marmot even with all the many guy lines. I'm glad I got the Zenith because it does have a place in my gear but I like the Marmot more.

[@falingsky5731]

Thanks for the review! I have the duplex and sometime use my hammock setup depending on how much food I need to carry and distance I’m hiking. I was thinking about getting the Plexid for my longer trips trips where I want to be lighter and more compact but I think I’ll stick with the Duplex. I do like the ability of spreading gear out in my tent when I need to organize and such.

[@Chavez3d]

Thumbs up for being honest and informative. Duplex for the AT next year

[@davidowennelson]

I don't have a Zpacks budget yet.(kids eat 💰) however I just upgraded from my Paria Bryce 1P that was over 3.5 lbs with all the stakes I needed to a SMD Trekker and so far I am diggin it. Shedded some decent weight too. Love you videos. Living vicariously through you! I was just able to section hike part of the PCT in the Angeles Forest area. Weekend warrior here. David "The Danish Krinkle" Nelson

[@jpawl4362]

Great review Darwin. Nice to know I can stick with my Duplex.

[@kevinfearssatan1437]

Perfect timing. Duplex sounds like the better option, now to decide if I want to swap out my Big Agnes UL2 for the Duplex to hike New Zealand end of this year ...

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

NICE! Which Big Agnes Tent?

[@Justonemorestep123]

I sold my Plexamid in May and bought a new Duplex. More room, two entries, and no x-pieces where the trekking poles to break. I had one snap on the AT.

[@HuckOutdoors]

Great review bud! I've really been enjoying my Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker.

[@RICHat22]

I am still in love with my Duplex Camo 18 months later. I like the room/weight/color (I hide off trail) and my Bella puppy loves it as well. We both have plenty of room and I don't think I would enjoy the angle. Thanks for your input on that and the EE. Good vid.

[@johnpayne2170]

Another great review Darwin.

[@3WalkingPoles]

Being 6.1 if I ever considered this tent (due to its weight) - not anymore. Thanks for valuable (literally) review. Greeting from Scotland. Seb

[@striderq3110]

Totally honest review dude 😎

[@jeremiahgillam3536]

Spot on review. I am 6'2" and wish all of their tents were about 6 inches longer. While I didn't "upgrade" from my Duplex to the Plexamid, I did also own the Solplex and, while I loved the weight, I liked having 2 doors for ventilation and the extra interior space.

[@ondrejbaly]

Hi, I´m 6'4" (193cm) tall and looking for some UL tent. It´s looks Zpacks are all too short for me:-( Have you some ideas or tips for 1person UL Tent? My favourite is SMD Lunar Solo 2019... (I use now tarp Appy trail mark3). Thanks for help:-)

[@jeremiahgillam3536]

@@ondrejbaly, Light Heart Gear, SoLong 6. Wait a few months and they will be releasing the tent in SilPoly which should be awesome.

[@ondrejbaly]

@@jeremiahgillam3536 thanks, SoLong6 is for me something new, looks good, I will check some review...

[@chriswoods2647]

@@ondrejbaly solong seems to be the biggest of the bunch. Can't understand why all others and just 6" short of what most people need

[@ondrejbaly]

@@chriswoods2647 because they count every gram (UltraLightMania) and a bigger tent didn't look good in marketing materials and teoretic parametrs :-(

[@scothunter3221]

Having had to weather a serious storm or two in a Plexamid sized tent I’ll never again go that small, especially when the price and weight difference is as little as between the Pleximid and Duplex. It’s the Duplex I carry.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

DUPLEX FOR THE WIN!

[@mdmale1]

I have owned a Duplex for 4. years now very durable “lightweight “ it does take a little practice to learn how to set up but with the weight savings it’s all worth it.

[@briancswartz6411]

My main tent is a Duplex, but I recently got the Pocket Tarp (no doors) with polycryo ground sheet for those times I think I'm more badass than I actually am. Darwin, I'd love to see a review of your newly acquired Pocket Tarp w/ Doors.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Stay Tuned! Need to get a bunch of miles on it 1st 😉

[@justinstrong9172]

I enjoy my six moon designs lunar solo! Held up great under the bridge at scissors crossing during a crazy windstorm! (Lots of zpacks tents had to be fixed in the middle of the night) and it’s only a third of the price!

[@kathleen3756]

I used to buy tents frequently looking for The Right One until I bought the ZPacks Solplex (forerunner of the Plexamid) in 2015. I haven't felt the need to try any other tents, not even the Plexamid. I like the second, short pole for the rear, the room, all the reasons you say about DCF, how well it holds up, and the ease of setup.

[@edwardleibnitz3589]

You comments are "right on target" - I just got through using the Plexamid cycling the Trans America Trail and slept in this tent about 60 times. It wasn't until my group entered Oregon and met some PCT thru hikers that I found out about other people having broken carbon fiber rods on the top. Mine broke in Kentucky after less than 20 days usage and it poked a hole in the DCF (which was easily repaired). But still this tent is impressive and it worked well even with a broken top! I also felt that in the rain you have to take extra care in pulling up the internal draw strings to overlap the top over the bathtub flooring to avoid rain going inside when it runs down the side. But if this done well, the tent basically NEVER GOT WET inside, even in serious wind and rain. Additional Note: Once in serious wind storm a few of us ran for shelter in a bathroom (long story) - I set down the one tent pole and let the tent collapse (I thought it might blow away if left up) - when I returned, the footprint was completely dry.

[@richardlearl]

I have the plexamid and I love it. Im only 5ft 8 though, there’s plenty of room for me. I could see the frustration with being as tall as you are. I’ve not had any issues with it yet either, it’s holding up great.

[@rickybrock6159]

I get a good work out ! I use a B A copper Spur 3 person tent ! at 3lbs 8 oz. alone with a B A Insulated Q core Deluxe sleeping pad at 2 lbs 9 ozs I sleep like a baby with plenty of room to lounge around in the tent but I pay for that with weight oh yes I have a Osprey 105 pack to manage all of that weight . The AT was fun along with the Pinhoti trail and the Benton Mackaye trail . So you can hike with regular hiking gear its just what ever works for you I enjoy your video's Thank you Ricky

[@TheAdventureGeek]

I love your honest reviews. Thanks for sharing. ATB - Julia

[@ericb.4358]

I looked at the Plexamid, then the Tarptent AEON Li and finally got the Tarptent Gen. 2 Notch Li double wall tent. Love it. Two vestibules and 2 doors for max storage or ventilation. IMHO it's the best Dyneema solo tent out there. VERY fast to pitch. Requires only 2 guy lines IF the fly doors are ALL rolled back or if there is a windstorm. BONUS: My CF hiking poles "hiking length" is the same as the length needed to pitch the Notch Li.

[@paddle_hike]

Thanks for the review. Im saving to buy a zpacks tent and was wondering about which one to take. 🙂

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Wish they would bring back the Original Hexamid. I just got the New Hexamid Tarp, but wish it still had netting. 😕

[@LeonidasontheTrail]

Spruce Duplex for both my favorite and my current tent.

[@brianphillips3541]

Thanks for the review!!!

[@timfehr7223]

Hey Darwin. Love the videos. I think the advice about whether a tent is good or not depends significantly on the environment in which you intend to use it. I really like the Plexamid and it checks almost all the boxes for me: I 'm 6 feet and I fit, it's light, sturdy, and well designed. However I primarily hike in the PNW and I've come to think it may not be the best choice for my area due to it's tendency to form condensation. I just finished the Wonderland Trail yesterday with the Plexamid and it worked perfectly part of the time. a couple days it was slightly damp inside, and a couple days it was quite wet inside (as you describe in your Timberline video). I found that on one morning it was actually wetter inside than on the outside surface. Sometimes it condenses inside even with a door left wide open. If you are lucky you can dry it during the day as I did during the WT but for much of the PNW hiking season you may not have a chance to dry it, even on an extended hike. Ultimately I think I is a great tent and will work awesome for some environments and/or times of the year but I'll probably be selling mine and taking the weight penalty of a double wall.

[@irreverentbard7322]

Being a hardcore city kid, I’ve recently discovered my love of nature. This has been the most informative channel! Thanks for the great info for us newbs!

[@TogetherinParis]

Excellent review, mirroring my experience with Z-packs' 2 pole version. Go with Duplex.

[@kaizuhlsdorf5338]

I just got the plexamid these days and I can say that I'm totally fine with the dimensions. I'm 187cm and I have plenty of space for both: feet and head. Maybe they really made it a bit taller because of your review??!! Also to build it up for me was no problem because it was the same as my last tent: sixmoondesign lunar solo. That was too small for me and not that waterproof in the lang term... so the plexamid for me solved All problems of the lunar solo and is in my opinion the perfect 1p tent🥰👍🥰😍 But for low budget I can recommend the lunar solo for dudes not taller than 178cm!!!

[@jigo13]

After the PCT this year, I can tell that those rods on the square plate on top were the worst. Even after drying the tent in the sun, they snapped... for like the 6th time. I figured the sun was the culprit. I kept asking Zpacks to send me other rods but after that drying session, I was like "OK l give up". So I just continued and finished without them, having a bad headroom in the tent and condensation water on my head and shoulders when there was condensation. Single wall tents are bad for condensation... even tho I haven't had any problem pitching that tent (for people that might put the argument that the airflow was bad) The snapped rods pierced the DCF material a couple times. I used all my Cuben Fiber tape to repair it on trail, and still have holes in it. I hope they will come with a better design for that plate, because at first this tent was rocking it honestly. Oh and the bathtub floor ripped too. I put Leukotape at that time to close the ripped part, but I was surprised to see that this thing can rip.

[@brandoninworld]

I bought the Plexamid from Zpacks at the beginning of June 2019. I set it up for the first time in the backyard and the carbon rods on the top broke the first time I set it up. Returned to Zpacks for a refund which they did. Glad to hear they have stopped selling it to fix the problems.

[@danieljenkins2468]

Yep!! Had the Carbon Fiber Rods break while setting it up the first time. Had two more that were sent to me by Zpacks break also. The customer service was nothing short of terrific, but I ended up sending the tent back and they refunded the whole purchase price. They "DO" stand behind their products 100%. Once they get the bugs out, I might be tempted to give the Plexamid another try. We'll see...….

[@cbglockman]

Great review. Thanks!

[@climbslc2281]

Used the Plexamid on Skurka's Wind River High route this season and it was perfect. Held up to high winds and I needed the bug protection. No condensation on those breezy high alpine nights. I also have a duplex and those 5 oz were important given the need to carry 8 days of food. Smaller FOOTPRINT was also KEY. At least three of the nights would have been really hard to find a rock circle large enough to pitch a duplex.

[@toddbernhard6139]

My Duplex did the AT and could probably do it again, what a tough little tent! Get the cammo version for more privacy and stealth. Also, the company, Zpacks, is really great and stands behind the products. Example, they mailed me a new rain kilt and chest pack while I was on the trail (zipper teeth issues) then repaired my pack and gave me a new stuff sack for the old Duplex. Their gear isn't cheap but in my experience worth every single penny!

[@fullsquish]

I splurged and bought a Duplex. My wife likes to stay in the same tent with me when we backpack and some day...probably within 3 years, I plan to hike the entire PCT NOBO so, it’s just an investment in my future!

[@GrandeurNature]

Thanks a lot Darwin. I was worried about my size, 186cm (around 6.2 feet I think), and I think you confirmed my fears. They should do a semi 1,5 person Duplex, and it could be perfect ha ha ha. Take care and hugs from Switzerland

[@maxwanders]

You did it! 😁 👍👍 Thanks for the info!

[@inkblots-life1111]

Great review. Im looking at switching from silnylon to dcf shelter and semi free standing to trekking pole.

[@xmetal280]

I have the grandpa to the Plexamid, the Hexamid Solo Plus and it's a great fair weather shelter. Super light and packs pretty small. However, in really bad weather the limited size and low doors makes it super tough if things start to get wet. I decided on a larger pyramid style (Locus Gear) with a half mesh insert as my main tent, for maximum flexibility in setup (bug mesh only, tarp only, both together) and more interior space for just a tiny weight penalty.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Hexamid was such a Great Tent!

[@gregingalls3873]

I agree 100% I own both tents. If I was to start a 2020 through hike it would be with my Duplex. I only used my Plexamid 4 nights on a 100 mile section hike. So my review is limited. I got one of the bad tents I broke both rods that caused other damage to the tent so my tent is being repaired. That said I really like the Plexamid for what it is. I’m a smaller guy 5’7” so it does fit me better but for 5oz I will take the room. On nights with condensation it’s still hard not touching the walls while getting dressed in the morning. All in all if the carbon rod problem does get fixed I would buy one of these if it fits your needs. I personally wish I would not have bought the Plexamid because I already own the best tent ever, the Duplex. Hard to beat the king of tents. Darwin great review I agree 100%

[@AJHart-eg1ys]

Everyone has his own price point. For $550, I feel it should set itself up and rub my feet at the end of the day.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

You should see Hyperlite's 1 Person Tent. It's Heavier & Cost $795 which is really insane... As far a DCF Tents go, The Plexamid seems to be a Good Price for what you get 👉 www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/collections/ultralight-backpacking-shelters-tents/products/dirigo-2-ultralight-backpacking-tent Hike On, Darwin

[@mississippiblues2426]

go with an old school BA Scout .price good, performs well ,weighs 2lbs, and cost 160.

[@samtoshner8002]

At 19 oz, it's rubbing your feet every step of the way along the trail. Nothing makes your feet sore like a heavy pack.

[@AJHart-eg1ys]

@@samtoshner8002 That makes the assumption that a much less expensive alternative would weigh more to the point where the pack would feel heavy to you. You can get a similarly claustrophobic hiking tent like the Geertop that comes in at an est. touch over 2.5 pounds for about $100. It will also pack down smaller and isn't half the pain in the ass to set up that this Zpacks one apparently is.

[@AvgDietCokeEnjoyer]

How I see it is, I pay about $700 a month for rent. If I use this tent on a 4 month thru hike and then more. Well, you see where I’m getting at.

[@dallashill23]

Thanks for being so great.

[@timnorman2312]

I had that issue with my plex beta v. Carbon stay broke and poked a hole in the tent. Zpacks fixed me up with new stays and a long strip of tape to patch the hole.

[@YilgarnRallye]

have a Duplex used for 100 nights and Pleximid for 30 nights, I also prefer the Duplex for ease of setup and room, better storm protection also. One of the CF stays broke in my Pleximid on the 3rd night, got replacements, its been fine. picking only one tent, I'd go the Duplex for sure 100%

[@pecarew2003]

Thanks for the review D, I'm only 5'10" and I still find the Plexamid is too short for a 2.5" thick pad and a 20 degree bag, the toe box is usually wet by mornin :(

[@joedemlcla]

First, absolutely love your videos, I tend to fo slot of research on whatever I plan on doing. Thanks for all the information. I have a question...what are your thoughts on the teton tents? As far as functionality and usability on the trail? Again thanks for all the great information.

[@CommanderXED]

I love my duplex for distance backpacking...but for car camping I love the comfort of my ALPS Mountaineering Taurus 4 person Outfitter tent.

[@jhonyermo]

Who gives a shit? Put that on a car camping site.

[@seaotter52]

@@jhonyermo You did

[@CommanderXED]

@@jhonyermo Triggered by a tent comment...is a clear indication of other...deeper problems!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

I remember when @YERMO Adan was a Super Positive Guy & always left great comments.... Who Hurt You @YERMO Adan?

[@jakegolden8475]

The wife and I use the big agnes mtnglo tumble 3. Its much heavier then any of those but still a fun great tent with a ton of room. Plus picking it up from a rei garage sale for $150 bucks helps

[@tomdolan1071]

I agree with everything said except the part about packability. I own a Plexamid and a Duplex and my Plex packs down to half the size of the Duplex.

[@thesecrethiker7454]

I love my Solplex, while you was in Scotland I was hiking the Cape Wrath Trail North to South. I wouldn't of changed a single thing... Apart from putting a zip in the rear bug net to access the back.

[@longwildernesswalks]

I've had a Hexamid Solo tent with a DCF bathtub for 3 years now. At the time I was worried that the tent wouldn't last, or wouldn't provide the protection needed in the rain. Boy was I wrong. I've spent 40-50 nights a year in this tent in heavy rains, freezing weather, and sweltering nights. It breaths really well. Weighs in at 14 oz with Shepard hook TI stakes. I have discovered that the pitch can be tricky, but I can plan for the night by pitching it high or low to the ground. If I'm at a lower elevation and the night will be mostly dry I'll pitch the tent 4-5" higher than I would on a wet or colder night. This provides ample ventilation or lack thereof. I've never had a wet night through blowing thunderstorms. Condensation isn't as much a problem as on more closed up tents. This is the tent for me without a doubt. Plus - when you're in the position where you have to 'figure it out' you tend to discover some of the best tricks for your gear. You develop a relationship with it. I can't recommend the Hexamid Solo more. I'm 5' 10" and fit my XTherm (large), 20F Zpacks quilt, and all clothing and gear either inside my tent with me or hanging my pack from my trekking pole holding up the tent. This is another excellent way to keep your gear off the ground. Since I purchased mine in 2016 they've made significant improvements to the tent. No longer do you have the 'rain beak' that I have. Instead, you get storm doors. You will need to purchase a DCF bathtub that suspends from the inside that you sleep within. I hope this helps someone. This tent is by far the best piece of gear I have.

[@TheUltralightMindset]

I'm 6'1" also so that was great info!!! Duplex for me. Big fan. My only one complaint is the way the bathtub pushes out past the fly if you slide at all. Flat ground is not always an option. Rain happens. Sloping ground, tall folks, crazy wiggly sleepers. Ive had probably a half gallon of water in the floor from this issue. Luckily its usually due to sloping ground so the water tends to collect in one corner of the foot area. Hit it with a piece of shamy, great for condensation also, and start walkkin. Have you had this happen? Great review 🤙🤙🤙

[@swoo5117]

I'm usually a hammock kind of guy but did purchase a flame creed 2 person tent . It the same layout as the duplex but made out of silpoly and not a huge tube bottom maybe about 3" tall. But it's also a lot less expensive if you can wait . Have been caught in a rain storm and had no issues of leaks .

[@northernbound6709]

I'm currently using a Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo myself. I'm only about 5 foot tall and a minimalist by nature so space wasn't much of an issue.

[@papajeff5486]

I have the camo duplex, love it. I also have a dynema tarp, love it. They are are both lighter and dryer than the one tent I used to carry. Probably won’t change unless something comes along that will tickle my ass with a feather. Texas

[@elced01]

I have a Duplex but it makes me anxious when reaching camps late at night that have hard packed out pads. I also hate my toe box being soaked from the tent sidewall as it was a heavy rain year this year on the GDT. Love the weight of the tent but miss some of the harder weather benefits of double walls and free standing. Would trade the weight benefit I have for harder weather trips and just leave the tent stakes behind with a Nemo.

[@skipandcherieadventures116]

Love our triplex!❤️❤️

[@Wordsmyth8]

I’ve never used a Zpacks tent. I prefer something a little more substantial. My favorite tent for solo hikes is the Marmot Tungsten 2-person tent (the 1-person is a bit claustrophobic for me). Great, fairly lightweight tent that’ll stand up to most anything.