{"id":601,"date":"2023-12-07T18:58:31","date_gmt":"2023-12-07T19:58:31","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/?p=601"},"modified":"2024-03-15T16:22:18","modified_gmt":"2024-03-15T16:22:18","slug":"zpacks-duplex-zip-tent-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/2023\/12\/07\/zpacks-duplex-zip-tent-review\/","title":{"rendered":"Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1499\" height=\"843\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker adjusting the Zpacks Duplex Zip in a plateau with mountains in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-19167 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-3.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The Zpacks Duplex has been the go-to tent for ultralight hikers \u2013 including us \u2013 for years. But over that time, there has been one common criticism: the zipperless vestibules. In response, Zpacks released the <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/duplex-zip-tent?aff=3\">Duplex Zip<\/a> to cater to those who were concerned about splashback and sideways rain getting inside.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>We put the Duplex Zip to the test to see how this new version compares to the <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/duplex-tent?aff=3\">standard Duplex<\/a>, and to find out if it\u2019s worth the added cost. Read on to see what we found during our 500-mile test hike on the Arizona Trail.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Quick Specs<\/h2>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n<div style=\"margin-block-start:0\" class=\"product-details__block md:pb-[1rem] wp-block-acf-product-detail\" id=\"acf-block-65690b6e74be3\">\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 product-details__wrapper md:grid-cols-2\">\n\t\t<!-- Row 1 --><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex flex-wrap md:col-span-2\">\n\t\t\t<!-- Featured Post Image --><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center w-full p-5 product_details__image basis-full xs:basis-2\/5 md:basis-1\/2 md:w-1\/2\">\n<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-post-image lazyload\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/zpacks-duplex-zip-doors-open-1024x576-1.webp\">\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>\t\t\t<!-- Product title, intro and attributes --><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col w-full p-5 product-details__overview basis-full xs:basis-3\/5 md:basis-1\/2 md:w-1\/2\">\n<h3 class=\"mb-5 tracking-tight text-32px\">Zpacks Duplex Zip<\/h3>\n<p class=\"leading-8 text-16px text-arsenic\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"font-bold\">Price:<\/span> $699\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<p class=\"leading-8 text-16px text-arsenic\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"font-bold\">Listed Weight:<\/span> 20.4 oz.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<p class=\"leading-8 text-16px text-arsenic\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"font-bold\">Measured Weight:<\/span> 20.5 oz.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<p class=\"leading-8 text-16px text-arsenic\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"font-bold\">Dimensions (LxWxH):<\/span> 90 x 45 x 48 in.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<p class=\"leading-8 text-16px text-arsenic\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"font-bold\">Note:<\/span> Weights do not include poles or stakes\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>\t\t\t<!-- Product Affiliate links --><\/p>\n<div class=\"w-full p-10 product-details__links basis-full\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<!-- loop through affiliate links: label\/link as buttons --><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/duplex-zip-tent?aff=3\" class=\"text-14px md:text-16px text-center btn-secondary uppercase !py-4 leading-tight\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"View at Zpacks\">View at Zpacks<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<!-- Row 2 --><\/p>\n<div class=\"product-details__list --pro\">\n<h3 class=\"pb-2 text-24px\">Pros<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<!-- loop through pros --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Ultralight<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Durable fabrics<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Packs small<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Excellent weather protection <\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Great ventilation<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Spacious<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Easy to pitch<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Smooth zippers<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Large doors &amp; vestibules<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-details__list --con\">\n<h3 class=\"pb-2 text-24px\">Cons<\/h3>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<!-- loop through cons --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Expensive<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Interior condensation<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Non-freestanding design<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Handle with care<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Difficult to shake out<\/li>\n<li class=\"text-16px text-arsenic\">Pockets only okay<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n<p>\t\t<!-- Row 3 --><\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker in the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent in the morning light with mountains in the background\" class=\"wp-image-19311 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-130-1024x683-1.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Pros<\/h2>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong>Ultralight<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Just like the standard Duplex, the Duplex Zip is extremely light. At just 1 lb. 4.4 oz., it\u2019s the second lightest two-person tent on our lists of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/best-tents-backpacking\/\">Best Backpacking Tents<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/best-ultralight-tarps-and-tents\/\">Best Ultralight Tents<\/a> (beaten out only by the standard Duplex).<\/p>\n<p>This low weight is even more impressive when you consider that Zpacks doesn\u2019t leave out any of the functional details included on similar tents. It has fully waterproof zippers on both vestibules, peak vents, and magnetic door closures.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>So how does the Duplex Zip achieve such a low weight? The main reason it\u2019s so light is because it\u2019s non-freestanding. This means there are no tent poles \u2013 it relies on trekking poles or separate <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/48-carbon-fiber-tent-pole?aff=3\">carbon fiber poles<\/a> for the structure. But the Duplex Zip is also lighter than other very similar non-freestanding tents.<\/p>\n<p>How does it do that? With some smart material choices. Let\u2019s look at the nearly identical <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tool_type=cl&amp;merchant_id=47cd1998-e608-4548-aa0f-3d33e964ad3a&amp;website_id=80cf4755-ad50-4218-afb9-da253407b2ec&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hyperlitemountaingear.com%2Fproducts%2Funbound-2p-tent&amp;ctc=Duplex%20Zip\">Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2<\/a> which is listed at the same interior area as the Duplex Zip (28 sq. ft.) but weighs about 4 oz. more. The Unbound floor is actually made with a lighter material (0.8 oz.\/sq. yd. DCF) than the Duplex floor (1 oz.\/sq. yd. DCF), but the Duplex uses a lighter mesh and lighter guylines. These small weight differences add up when spread out over a whole tent, and that\u2019s how the Duplex Zip remains one of the all-time lightest tents on the market.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-76 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker walking down the trail in Arizona with beautiful views of mountains in the distance\" class=\"wp-image-19352 lazyload\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-272-1-1024x683-1.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group image-right-text has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-77 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);flex-basis:50%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong>Durable fabrics<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The Duplex Zip is constructed with .55 oz.\/sq. yd. <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/pages\/materials?aff=3\">Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF)<\/a> on the canopy and 1 oz.\/sq. yd. DCF on the floor. These incredibly light fabrics have a high tensile strength that makes them far more durable than their weight would suggest.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ve used a standard Duplex (made with the exact same fabrics) for thousands of miles with no major tears or strains on the fabric, and it\u2019s still going strong. We tested the Duplex Zip over 500 miles of hiking through the unforgiving Sonoran Desert, and the result was the same.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Often the first things on a tent to go are the zippers. Zpacks planned ahead for this and included two replacement zipper sliders with the Duplex Zip, and they designed the doors in a way that makes field repair easy.<\/p>\n<p>Also included with the Duplex Zip is a length of repair tape for patching minor punctures and tears.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-style-stretch-content is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-captions-on-top\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1500\" height=\"999\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"The Zpacks Duplex Zip tent in the early morning light with mountains rising over the tent in the background\" class=\"wp-image-19317 lazyload\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-198.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group image-left-text has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-78 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-style-stretch-content is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-captions-on-top\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1126\" height=\"1126\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker stuffing the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent into its stuff sack while out in nature\" class=\"wp-image-19359 lazyload\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-170-edited.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);flex-basis:50%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong><strong>Packs small\/stuff sack included<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>DCF tents generally don\u2019t pack down quite as small as similarly designed nylon or polyester tents, but the Duplex Zip rolls up into a manageable size.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The real pro here, though, is the excellent stuff sack included with the tent. It comes with a <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/medium-plus-stuff-sack?aff=3\">Medium-Plus DCF Drawstring Sack<\/a> (included on our list of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/best-stuff-sacks\/\">Best Stuff Sacks<\/a>), which would run you $29 if you had to buy it separately. Many tentmakers try to cut a few grams by making the stuff sack just barely big enough to store the tent. But with the minimal effort the Duplex Zip fits right into the stuff sack without a fuss.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker holding the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent in one hand and a water bottle in the other hand to show the size of the packed tent\" class=\"wp-image-19312 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-133-1024x682-1.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong>Excellent weather protection<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The Duplex Zip readily sheds wind and rain thanks to the extra wall guyouts, factory-taped seams, inherently waterproof fabric, and the addition of waterproof vestibule zippers. And in the off-chance that rain does find its way under the vestibule, an 8 in. DCF bathtub floor keeps you well-protected from splashback.<\/p>\n<p>One consistent criticism of the standard Duplex is that the hook closures on the ends of the vestibules leave a small gap where blowing rain could creep into the living space. We\u2019ve weathered some pretty intense downpours in that tent and never found the vestibule closure to be much of an issue, but the Duplex Zip eliminates that potential problem entirely.<\/p>\n<p>As if we hadn\u2019t sung the praises of the DCF fabric enough, another huge benefit is that it doesn\u2019t stretch and sag when wet. A tight pitch eliminates flat spots near the peak where water could pool up, provides extra structure to protect against wind, and helps shed interior condensation. With this tent, if you go to sleep with a taut pitch, you\u2019ll wake up with a taut pitch.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"The Zpacks Duplex Zip tent set up among trees with red dirt in the foreground and shadows across the tent \" class=\"wp-image-19313 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-164-1024x682-1.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong>Great ventilation<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019ve used a single-wall tent before, you\u2019re familiar with the constant battle against interior condensation. To avoid the dreaded drippy interior, a tent needs to be very well ventilated. The Duplex Zip is designed with several effective ventilation solutions, so you can get some good airflow in almost any conditions.<\/p>\n<p>First, Zpacks added peak vents at the apex of each vestibule which are held open by a guyline. Though these aren\u2019t the greatest defenses against condensation buildup, many UL tents \u2013 like the standard Duplex and <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gossamergear.com\/products\/the-two?rfsn=2112677.0ed80\">Gossamer Gear The Two<\/a> \u2013 completely omit peak vents. Others, like the HMG Unbound 2, include vestibule vents but don\u2019t provide any way to ensure they stay open. By comparison, the Duplex Zip peak vents are a real perk.<\/p>\n<p>The Duplex Zip is designed with a floating canopy. This means that the DCF canopy tarp is completely separated from the DCF floor by mesh around the entire perimeter. This huge area of mesh can allow for some really nice airflow, but it also serves a really ingenious purpose. At the head and foot, the mesh slopes downward away from the tent interior to provide an escape for condensation as it runs down the walls.<\/p>\n<p>The biggest ventilation benefit lies within the vestibule design though. Mesh walls let surprisingly little air through, and their benefit is greatly diminished with a solid swath of DCF fabric in front of them. The good news is that both sides of the Duplex vestibules can be rolled back and secured with convenient magnetic closures. Rolling back both doors will provide the maximum amount of airflow, or you can roll back one side at a time to balance interior comfort with what the weather is doing.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group gallery-cols-text alignfull-mobile is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-79 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--2-x-large);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--2-x-large)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col-left is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1439\" height=\"958\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"The Zpacks Duplex Tent set up in the sun with desert trees in the background\" class=\"wp-image-19333 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-316.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1243\" height=\"829\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"the top peak with ventilation view of the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent with mountains and blue sky in the background\" class=\"wp-image-19319 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-207.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col-right is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1125\" height=\"1500\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"The top peak with ventilation of the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent with blue sky in the background\" class=\"wp-image-19315 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-166.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<p class=\"has-pt-serif-font-family has-medium-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:700\">The Duplex Zip is designed with several effective ventilation solutions, so you can get good airflow in almost any conditions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong>Spacious<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Sometimes in the tent world, ultralight can mean cramped quarters. But the Duplex Zip interior has plenty of space for two hikers and two sets of compact UL gear. Though there\u2019s not enough floor space for two wide pads to fit without seriously impeding the bathtub floor, you could reasonably fit one wide and one regular pad.<\/p>\n<p>Headroom is where the Duplex Zip really shines. Whether you\u2019re sitting up or lying down, there\u2019s plenty of space to move around without wearing the DCF walls as a hat. The symmetrical design and parallel peaks ensure both occupants have plenty of room while sitting side-by-side. We prefer this symmetrical design over tents with offset peaks, like the <a href=\"https:\/\/durstongear.com\/products\/x-mid-pro-2-tent-ultralight-thruhiking\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Durston X-Mid Pro 2<\/a>, where one person will get the short end of the headroom stick if two hikers are occupying the same side.<\/p>\n<p>The Duplex Zip is plenty big enough for two hikers just needing a place to sleep every night, but pairs wanting a little more wiggle room for playing cards or waiting out rain will love the additional space in the barely heavier <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/triplex-zip-tent?aff=3\">Triplex Zip<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-80 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"749\" height=\"999\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker sitting inside the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent smiling at the camera with a stuff sack on her lap\" class=\"wp-image-19373 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-320-edited-1.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"Two hikers laying down inside the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent looking at each other with smiles on their faces\" class=\"wp-image-19371 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-254-1024x683-1.jpg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong>Easy to pitch<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Setup is pretty straightforward on the Duplex Zip, and the symmetrical design makes it pretty forgiving on uneven terrain or if the stakes aren\u2019t at exactly 45\u00b0 from the corners.<\/p>\n<p>That said, this point comes with a slight asterisk \u2013 the Duplex Zip is quite quick and easy to set up <em>if <\/em>you have experience with non-freestanding tents. But even if you\u2019ve never set up a non-freestanding tent before, Zpacks provides an easy-to-follow tutorial video on the <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/duplex-zip-tent?aff=3\">product page<\/a> that will have you pitching your tent like a pro in no time.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Another thing that makes the Duplex easy to pitch is the size and shape of the footprint. Most people would be pleased to have a more spacious tent. But as UL tents get bigger and bigger, we\u2019ve noticed that there\u2019s a point of diminishing returns. A tent like the Durston X-Mid Pro 2 \u2013 which has a pretty large footprint \u2013 can be a bit limiting when it comes to campsite selection.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Most backcountry campsites are situated in such a way that they make the least impact possible on the environment, which means they tend to be small. In this case, it pays to have a tent with a smaller footprint \u2013 like the Duplex Zip \u2013 to open up more campsite possibilities. And keep in mind that \u2013 as we outlined in the point above \u2013 a smaller footprint doesn\u2019t have to mean a tight interior.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group gallery-cols-text alignfull-mobile is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-not-stacked-on-mobile is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-81 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--2-x-large);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--2-x-large)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col-right is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"749\" height=\"999\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker setting up the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent using trekking poles to prop up one side of the tent \" class=\"wp-image-19377 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-321-edited.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-right has-pt-serif-font-family has-medium-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:700\">The Duplex Zip is quite quick and easy to set up if you have experience with non-freestanding tents.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column col-left is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1396\" height=\"930\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A backpacker adjusting the left outside guyline of the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent in Arizona with mountains in the background and blue sky overhead\" class=\"wp-image-19323 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-260.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"598\" height=\"797\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker securing the tent steaks on the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent with a view of the tent flat on the ground  \" class=\"wp-image-19376 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-210-edited.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong>Smooth zippers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This one is pretty straightforward, but it\u2019s a good point of comparison with the very similar Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2 tent. During testing, we found the waterproof zipper on the Unbound 2 vestibule a little tough to operate. Even after several hundred miles of use, we never got that zipper to a point where we could open it with one hand, and often we needed to loosen the vestibule guyout to get it zipped all the way.<\/p>\n<p>In contrast, the Duplex Zip zipper was smooth and easy to use from the first time we set up this tent. It can be operated with one hand \u2013 even when the pitch is really tight. And it just feels smooth going up or down.\u00a0<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hand of a backpacker adjusting the zippers on the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent to show how they work\" class=\"wp-image-19321 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-209-1024x682-1.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong>Two large doors &amp; vestibules<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Most two-person shelters include two doors and vestibules nowadays, and the Duplex Zip is no exception. The vestibules have plenty of room to store your gear outside if that\u2019s your thing, and the rainbow doors open up wide so it\u2019s easy to get in and out of the tent.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Some hikers don\u2019t love the rainbow door because it can fall onto the ground and cling to dirt and debris when opened up all the way. But we\u2019ve never been bothered by that, and we find that the door is more inclined to fall inward than outward.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-82 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A backpacker opening one door of the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent in the Arizona desert\" class=\"wp-image-19328 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-289-1024x681-1.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"749\" height=\"999\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker adjusting the doors of the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent from the inside while in a sleeping bag sitting on a sleeping pad in the Arizona wilderness\" class=\"wp-image-19384 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-129-edited.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Cons<\/h2>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group image-left-text has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-83 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-style-stretch-content is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized is-style-captions-on-top\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"749\" height=\"999\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A Zpacks Duplex Zip tent in the dark lit by a headlamp from the inside with stars shining above in the sky \" class=\"wp-image-19387 lazyload\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:584px;height:auto\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-107-edited-4.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);flex-basis:50%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong>Expensive<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The Duplex Zip is more expensive than all the two-person tents on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/best-tents-backpacking\/\">Best Backpacking Tents<\/a> list and the second most expensive on our list of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/best-ultralight-tarps-and-tents\/\">Best Ultralight Tents<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Looking at comparable tents, the standard Duplex costs $30 less and similar tents made from sil-nylon\/sil-poly \u2013 like the Gossamer Gear The Two \u2013 will run you several hundred dollars less. We think the Duplex Zip is definitely worth the added cost over sil-nylon\/sil-poly tents if you can swing it because it\u2019s lighter, doesn\u2019t sag when wet, and the fabric itself is waterproof instead of relying on coatings or tape for waterproofing.<\/p>\n<p>But is it worth the extra $30 over the standard Duplex? Since we\u2019ve never found the standard Duplex vestibule flaps to be an issue, we\u2019d save the money and buy that version. But for hikers who often backpack in areas with consistent nasty weather where blowing rain is a big issue, the Duplex Zip may be a worthwhile investment. You really can\u2019t go wrong with either version.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group image-right-text has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-84 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);flex-basis:50%\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong>Condensation can be an issue with single-wall tents<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>We\u2019ve never tested a single-wall tent that was completely immune to interior condensation. But the Duplex Zip has a lot of smart features that help manage moisture as we highlighted in our point above about ventilation.<\/p>\n<p>Still, with the right (or should we say wrong) set of conditions you\u2019ll likely wake up to a damp Duplex interior in the morning. Sleep with the vestibule doors open whenever possible to cut down on the amount of condensation you experience inside.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t let this scare you off from single-wall tents, like the Duplex Zip, though. Interior condensation is a minor inconvenience, and we usually just carry a small <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tool_type=cl&amp;merchant_id=e295c418-295a-447c-b265-734e25f82503&amp;website_id=80cf4755-ad50-4218-afb9-da253407b2ec&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rei.com%2Fproduct%2F221819%2Fpacktowl-personal-towel%3Fcolor%3DMIDNIGHT&amp;ctc=Duplex%20Zip\">Packtowl<\/a> to wipe down the walls in the mornings.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-style-stretch-content is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--x-small);flex-basis:50%\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-captions-on-top\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1261\" height=\"839\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A picture of condensation that has formed on the inside of the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent\" class=\"wp-image-19383 lazyload\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-72-edited.jpeg\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A hiker wiping off the condensation in the inside of the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent from the inside with a small pack towel\" class=\"wp-image-19303 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-50-1024x683-1.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong>Non-freestanding design can make campsite selection difficult<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>We love non-freestanding tents for trips where we want to keep weight as low as possible, but they come with potential pitching challenges in some environments. The structure of the Duplex Zip relies on the ability to pull the corner guyouts taut, but hard-packed ground and rocky terrain can make it pretty difficult to get tent stakes secured.<\/p>\n<p>With a little creativity, we\u2019ve never found ourselves in a position where we couldn\u2019t get the tent pitched well enough to get sheltered sleep. We\u2019ve had to tie the corner guylines to rocks, logs, or shrubs on multiple occasions, but there\u2019s almost always a way to get the tent pitched using things in the surrounding environment.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Still, it can be a hassle to pitch this way, so you\u2019ll have to decide if that\u2019s something you want to deal with before purchasing the Duplex Zip or any other non-freestanding tent for that matter.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A view of the guylines and tent stakes on the Zpacks Duplex Tent\" class=\"wp-image-19329 lazyload\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-292-1024x682-1.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group image-left-right-vv is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--large);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--large)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-85 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--large);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--large)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong>Ultralight materials need to be handled with care<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>We mentioned in our pro about durability above that we\u2019ve used the Duplex for thousands of miles without any real durability concerns. But this is still a piece of ultralight gear, and as such it really pays to take some extra care when selecting your campsite. Taking time to make sure your site is free from sharp rocks or sticks will go a long way to extend the life of your Duplex.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1500\" height=\"1000\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"The Zpacks Duplex Zip tent set up among trees with red dirt in the foreground and shadows across the tent \" class=\"wp-image-19314 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-165.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-86 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--large);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--large)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1001\" height=\"1334\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A backpacker holding the loose Zpacks Duplex Zip tent in his hands demonstrating how to shake it out\" class=\"wp-image-19325 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-262.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-layout-31 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong>Difficult to shake out dirt &amp; debris<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>No matter how careful you are, you\u2019re bound to track some debris into the tent. When you roll it up, small twigs and pebbles left inside can damage the Noseeum mesh, so you\u2019ll want to shake the tent out periodically to mitigate the risk.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>This is a pretty minor gripe \u2013 because it\u2019s really more of an inconvenience than anything \u2013 but the non-freestanding design of the Duplex makes it difficult and awkward to shake out. Because the tent will have no structure to hold the doors open when you pick it up, dirt and debris tend to get stuck in the corners. This task is definitely easier if you have two people working at it \u2013 one person to hold the door and peak apart and one person to shake the tent \u2013 but solo hikers can just turn the whole tent inside out and shake it to get stuff out.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-87 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--large);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--large)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-layout-32 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-montserrat-font-family has-big-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\"><strong><strong>Pockets aren\u2019t the most useful<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This is by no means a dealbreaker, but the dinky little pockets in the Duplex Zip are next to useless. When you\u2019re sleeping two inside the tent, the pockets have a tendency to get lost under sleeping pad baffles, and anything in the pockets is at risk of getting squished.<\/p>\n<p>We wouldn\u2019t put anything super important in there, like glasses or a camera, but it\u2019s fine enough to store your headlamp in an easy-to-reach place for nighttime bathroom breaks.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-top is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"999\" height=\"999\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"An interior shot of a pocket in the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent with a headlamp inside the pocket\" class=\"wp-image-19385 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-307-edited.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" style=\"text-transform:capitalize\">Bottom Line<\/h2>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n<p>Overall, we really love the <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/duplex-zip-tent?aff=3\">Zpacks Duplex Zip<\/a>. It\u2019s ultralight, very durable for the weight, and it provides good protection from the elements. Though it\u2019s certainly expensive, we think it\u2019s worth the cost if keeping weight to an absolute minimum is your priority. And since the DCF fabric is a lot tougher than you\u2019d think based on the weight, the Duplex Zip is an investment that can last for thousands of trail miles.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re stuck deciding between the standard <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/duplex-tent?aff=3\">Duplex<\/a> and the Duplex Zip, we recommend really thinking about the types of environments and conditions you like to backpack in. Are you heading out into the Rockies during summer monsoons or are you hitting the Sierra in the mild early fall? Hikers who head to the mountains no matter what the weather is doing may benefit from the additional protection provided by the Duplex Zip, but those who wait for fairer weather will likely prefer to save a bit of money and go with the standard Duplex.<\/p>\n<p>No matter which option you choose, you\u2019ll be getting one of the lightest, most spacious, and toughest ultralight tents on the market. Learn more about how the Duplex Zip stacks up against the competition on our lists of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/best-tents-backpacking\/\">Best Backpacking Tents<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/best-ultralight-tarps-and-tents\/\">Best Ultralight Tents<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" alt=\"A backpacker sitting inside the Zpacks Duplex Zip tent in a sunny field with desert trees in the background\" class=\"wp-image-19332 lazyload\" data-src=\"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/AZT_SOBO-315-1024x681-1.jpeg\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">More Information<\/h2>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n<p>We hope this review helps you determine if the <a rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/zpacks.com\/products\/duplex-zip-tent?aff=3\">Zpacks Duplex Zip<\/a> is right for you. As always, please leave a comment below if you have any recommendations, questions, or suggestions. <\/p>\n<p>If you found this review helpful, please feel free to share on social media and visit our<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/cleverhiker\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> Facebook page<\/a> and<a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/cleverhiker\/?hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> Instagram<\/a> to join the community conversation.<\/p>\n<p>Make sure to check out the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/best-backpacking-gear-guide\/\"> CleverHiker Gear Guide<\/a> where we test and recommend tons of outdoor gear from a variety of categories. Here are some related articles you\u2019ll probably enjoy:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/ultralight-backpacking-basics\/\">Ultralight Backpacking Basics<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/backpacking-trip-guides\/\">Backpacking Trip Guides<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/durston-x-mid-pro-2-tent-review\/\">Durston X-Mid Pro 2 Review<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/zpacks-hexamid-duplex-tent-review\/\">Zpacks Duplex Review<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/zpacks-triplex-tent-review\/\">Zpacks Triplex Review<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/six-moon-designs-lunar-duo-tent-review\/\">Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo Review<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/zpacks-mummy-sleeping-bag-review\/\">Zpacks Mummy Sleeping Bag Review<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/hyperlite-mountain-gear-unbound-2-tent-review\/\">Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2 Review<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\/backpacking\/zpacks-duplex-zip-tent-review\/\">Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cleverhiker.com\">CleverHiker<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Photo credit: Casey Handley (CleverHiker.com) The Zpacks Duplex has been the go-to tent for ultralight hikers \u2013 including us \u2013 for years. But over that &hellip; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[15],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/601"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=601"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/601\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":630,"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/601\/revisions\/630"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=601"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=601"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.s1aircon.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=601"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}