Zpacks Altaplex Initial Impressions and Cold Rain / Condensation Test | Will It Replace My Solplex?
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- Опубліковано 10 тра 2020
- After having to cancel my PCT thru hike plans for 2020 due to the ongoing state of the world I decided to help "stimulate the economy" and take a look at the very intriguing Zpacks Altaplex.
The Altaplex was recently re-released by Zpacks. The shelter (Camo version) comes in a stuff sack and requires a pole of around 56-58 inches (roughly 147cm) to set up. With the optional carbon fiber trekking pole extender the shelter weighs in around 17.70oz or 502g
As an avid Zpacks Solplex enthusiast the Altaplex offers some nice perks over the Solplex and takes up a fairly similar footprint.
In this video I test setup the shelter and test it out in a cold miserable New England rain storm
Some gear used in this video
Zpacks Altaplex Tent zpacks.com/products/altaplex-...
Katabatic Flex 30 Quilt katabaticgear.com/products/fl...
Thermarest NeoAir Xlite bit.ly/3KsYfcj or amzn.to/40W6lzi
Nemo Switchback bit.ly/3U4N90b or amzn.to/40xWjVb
Rockpals 300w Solar Generator amzn.to/2N2UDP9
Cascade Mountain Tech 3K Carbon Fiber Poles amzn.to/42X7Zm9
MSR Mini Groundhog Stakes bit.ly/3MsqCsz or amzn.to/3zoUlKT
This video was recorded with:
Panasonic Lumix GH5 bhpho.to/40BSgax or amzn.to/3KpaPsY
Panasonic 10-25 bhpho.to/3zr9dZy or amzn.to/38UM8i2
K&F Concept ND Filters amzn.to/3ZF1nGa
Rode Video Micro bhpho.to/3zqO1mj or amzn.to/3K6MUx6
Manfrotto BeFree Live at BHphoto - bhpho.to/3hHpLl1 or amzn.to/2AufoPr
Iphone 11 Pro Max
Full disclosure - The links in this description are more than likely affiliate links. This means if you click on one of these links and make a purchase I make a commission from that sale. As much as I love money, I would highly suggest giving yourself at least 48 hours before any purchase decision and asking yourself “Do I really need this?”. I hope more times than not, you find yourself saying “I Definitely do NOT need this”. If you find yourself still in need, shop around and find the best deal for your money.
Please note that I am not recommending any of the gear seen in any of my videos. The gear I use is what I have found works best for me at the time period I am using it. I have come to these gear choices through vast levels of trial, error, and experimenting with gear out on trail.
Gear, clothing, footwear, etc. are not one style works for all. Do as much research as you can, try out things in person if able, and make the best informed purchase decision for YOU. Do not buy gear just because it worked for, was showcased by, or recommended by someone on UA-cam
July 2020 update - I have been reading online a large amount of complaints about Zpacks as of late (probably the last year extensively). When I was using a bunch of their gear around 2016-2017 they were very quick to reply to issues or questions. That no longer seems to be the case and customer service seems to have fallen to the wayside in the name of business growth.
There have also been other issues regarding quality control, claims of them not living up to lead times given at purchase date, claims of bad work place conditions, and other things I don't care to get into as I try to not to get involved in the Internet drama but it maybe worth looking into if you are planning to purchase a piece of gear from them at this time.
I understand that at the time of posting this Florida is being rocked by the cov situation down there and I am sure that is taking its toll on their production as well but these types of complaints have been going on for a decent amount of time now before all this happened.
Either way I am not telling you not to buy from them or to continue to buy from them. Maybe these stories or issues are exaggerated. Maybe they are not. I would however suggest you do your own research into other peoples issues regarding customer service and quality control and understand that there is a high probability you may not receive the same service that I was provided at the time of purchase
I’ve had bad experiences with their customer service, and they flat out ignored my email when I mentioned that concern.
They have gotten back to me in a day or two. The only issue I have is I payed up for faster delivery and the order did not ship for a while so what was the sense of paying extra. It was for a bear bag kit which I assumed they carried in stock. It also seems to me people on UA-cam loves to hate on Zpack because of the cost of their gear. Generally I believe you get what you pay for. I like Zpack.
They just did a statement that they were correcting thier customer service department and other service related issues. I guess time will only tell.
Just placed an order dispatched quickly will update in regards to quality once I’ve used it for a bit
They built some nice custom rucksacks for me back in the day. Joe became a friend on Facebook, but he eventually dissapeared, and the last bag I had them make back in, say, 2017: They explained they could not do any more custom work, that their growth made them too busy.
I understood. I ordered some carbon stakes a couple days ago but have yet to get more gear. Their rucksacks have been quality, but I have been seeing they have their own packs to build nowadays, tents too.
Everyone says they are good & uses them: now & then a zipper complaint.
Maybe get me some more of their gear one of these days.
Very helpful to see the Altaplex perform in an all night rainstorm and actual video of the condensation, yet a dry bathtub.
Great impression report!
Now this is how a critique of gear is done! Truly a LEGIT presentation. Very helpful, Thank you.
Great initial impressions and test of the Altaplex, Chris. Probably the most useful video I’ve seen on this tent, so thanks! Looks like it worked a treat during a pretty wet night too. Mine just arrived earlier this week and I’m yet to take it out of the stuff sack and do the first pitch. Looking forward to putting mine to the test as well. Happy sheltering!
The best review of a tent that I have seen. Thanks for going thru all the trouble of using your camera equipment at night and early morning, so that we can see what was happening with the rain and condensation.
I commend you on your commitment to this very relevant real world test. Many thanks for your sacrifice.
Love how you get it to rain whenever you test a tent! The REI Flash and now the Altaplex.
Thorough walk through as always Chris! You are a revolving door of shelters and I like it 😁
That rei tent left some major disappointment in my heart 😂 still looking for the perfect winter shelter
Great look at the tent Chris. Nice to see the usable interior space. Good job on showing some many of the practical aspects of the tent. Much appreciated.
Appreciate the appreciation!
That, Chris, was one of the most outstanding demonstrations of how these types of tents performs with condensation dispersal. I am considering a Zpaks tents for my next AT thru attempt. Leaning towards the Duplex for the extra room....but now.....? Maybe not? Bravo-Zulu....well done, sir!
Every aspect of this tent is a win. The BEST thing about this tent is the angle of the walls. The increased angle vastly promotes condensation running out of the tent so much faster. This is my 10/10 tent. Absolutely LOVE this tent. GREAT review!
Great! I just received mine. On a night like that a double wall tent would also have plenty of condensation.
Really helpful video! Thank you
Great video. Been eyeing this tent for a bit since they rereleased it
I really like it from first usage. It improves on everything really I disliked about the solplex. And I loved the solplex haha
Can’t wait for the price of Dyneema to come down, of course when it does, it will be because there is a new better alternative. Chasing the latest technology is an infinite race. Best review of a tent I’ve seen so far.
Greetings from Utah. Helpful review. Thanks! Subbed.
Best review yet, Chris, of the Altaplex. Very thorough. I am 6'1" and had challenges with condensation in the Duplex tent resulting in a damp sleeping bag foot area most mornings - not because it was any shorter in length, but rather in height. The added height of the Altaplex prevents contact with the sloping wall and my bag/quilt.
boom. That's what I am thinking, for anyone over 5'5" probs, but for my 6' the way the tent is constructed, means touching the all purpose fly, drips (may seal seams of roof/peak areas or coat with something as the water pooled in drips there above head).
I'm agonizing over which Dyneema tent to get (so much money - want to get it right), and I've watched a TON of videos. Yours was the absolute best so far. You were in the rain, you slept in the tent, and I got a real feel for the interior space. I don't like the large footprint of the Duplex, so I'm leaning towards the Altaplex. The Tarptents look good, too, but I like the deeper bathtub floors Zpacks tents have. THANK YOU!
Thanks for a great review of the Altaplex! Just placed my order for the tent, the pole jack and a footprint. Ordered the blue on the theory that it would be brighter on overcast mornings and low light conditions. We'll see. Update as of 9/2021, the tent price is now $625. But after a disappointing tent leak that ruined a Winds backpack this summer, I'm ready to spend the $$$ on DCF fabric and lighter weight. The leaky tent was probably a blessing in disguise all things considered.
Well done thanks Chris....
Thanks William!
Great demo.
Hey! "Guy on UA-cam"... great video! Finally a real time, real life, unbiased, product review... Nicely done...
Appreciate it!
I’m was so exited to see a first impression of the tent I bought 2 days ago 😅😁 it looks like very roomy for one person tent. Might be a 2 persons emergency shelter mostly. I looking forward to receive my holy one that will end first on west highland way. Thx for your great videos Chris.
Hope it does great for you out there! Could definitely squeeze two in here in a pinch but you would be sleeping like ON each other haha
Awesome video bro!!🤘
Appreciate it!
Very good video. Still debating between this tent and the Tarptent 2p Rainbow.
One thing I did to my Altaplex as a taller person is took some 1.5 mm MLD guy line and replaced the periphery guy lines with them, made them like 3 feet longer. It helps get a little bit extra leverage so you get more headroom. Plus, it's lighter which is a bonus.
I have definitely already considered getting some new line for it. Genuinely don’t understand the neon yellow with camo
I have the SoloPlex as well and I always put my rain jacket on the foot end of my quilt. Love the looks of this tent as my 25” sleeping pad is too big for my other tent.
Ya it really fixes a lot of the issues the solplex has. And I think if you get the green or blue version the altaplex weighs close to the same or like 1oz more than the solplex
Good job! Thanks
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the demonstration. This looks like about the best tent I've ever seen. One of the things that is important to me is a small foot print so I can fit it on some of the marginal spots I find often find myself camping in. Watching your video I feel like a little kid dreaming about getting that new toy for Christmas. But my wife would absolutely kill me. So I'm stuck with my tarp and bug bivy.......for now.
Thanks Lawrence! Tarp bivy is cool too. Whatever gets ya out and about.... for now haha
You are the condensation king! You need a video or two on the topic. I don't see anyone paying attention to it in videos like you do. Saved me some dollars with the REI Flash tent.
all about the moistness haha. AT taught me ALLLLL about condensation. My favorite quote on condensation I believe came from Swami Hikes "Condensation is much like $h1t... sometimes it just happens" 😂 The rei tent was quite unfortunate. Not sure why they thought releasing that thing was a good idea. I feel like anyone that uses that thing on in heavy rain is going to be VERY displeased
It's a great tent, I've had mine for a couple of years and used it up in the Scottish Highlands where the weather can get real bad and it's never let me down, even in high winds it holds up pretty well, may have to put rocks on the pegs to stop em flying out.
The condensation dropping down is easily solved with a bivvy bag.
That is a nice tent setup and design. I recently purchased a new tent myself, the Tarptent Protrail li. I can already see that your tent has a much easier entry door. And according to what you've posted the weight is similar to the Protrail li. I also like the fact that you can get the dyneema in different color variations on your tent. It seems as well you've got a bit more room to sit up in the tent over all. However looking at the price, you have paid a full $175 more. I purchased a blemished version of my tent, if you purchase the non-blemished version that would be a difference of $125 more for your tent. I don't believe they utilized much more fabric than is on the Tarptent I have, which would lead me to question why the considerable cost difference between the two.
In any case, were the two tents comparable in price it would be a difficult decision in my mind as to which to go with.
Hey Chris, I knew you’d check out the Altaplex some day. With your height, I figured it would be an easier fit. I purchased one a month ago directly from Zpacks after watching another UA-cam review by Darwin. As I’m 5’7”, I appreciated the extra space but found it more like a teepee and takes two extra stakes then the Solplex. I sold my previous Solplex and just bought it again on EBay. IMHO, it’s an easier set up , two less stakes, and as you know better then me, better ventilation with the back pole set up. For my size and with a smaller footprint, it’s a better fit. Thanks for the video and hope you and your lady have adjusted well to the new digs since the apartment fire. Keep rocking the vids!!!!
I feel like I am going to have attachment issues leaving my solplex haha
I'm 6'4" and spent about 45 nights in my altaplex on the pct last year. No issues. Of course, there was no rain and no condensation. However, from a fit standpoint it worked for me. I kept some miscellaneous gear inside and my shoes and pack in the vestibule. Will be using the tent for many more years.
Same night , Altaplex camo, Halifax, ma. I clothes pinned one door open half way up (to the toggle) and had nearly zero condensation (slight film). There was a nice breeze through the netting all around. I'm liking it so far.
I was thinking of a way to add on the stick on loops half way up the door specifically for that purpose. Clothespins could work just as well it seems!
I heard about it from Gregp on the AT.
ua-cam.com/video/4V29B5IO6-c/v-deo.html
Excellent review Chris. I didn't think I could put up with the condensation for a tent that cost that much. So I ordered a Lanshan 2p Pro from Aliexpress. It hadn't arrived yet but it was at a price point to give it a try. If it doesn't work out it could be my fair weather tent. Lol
Pretty par for the course condensation wise in those conditions at least from my experience. Its how it deals with the condensation once its on there thats my biggest concern. I also think I could have kept a door open to help minimize it but wanted to keep it kind of a standard batten down the hatches kind of thing.
Hopefully the lanshan 2 works out well. I hear many great things!
Great review! I purchased my Altaplex about 2 weeks ago for my CT through hike which I hope to start 1 July, virus permitting...
CT was great times. Should work great for you out there assuming you are able to go!
Trying for a CT thru Sobo starting July 25 😁👣
Your condensation test was one of the best I’ve seen, really assessed it well I thought.
I’m not much of a camper personally, but have been looking more recently at gear as I’d like to further my photography, and this might involve overnight trips away / hiking.
Living in ‘old’ England (& not New England), and having done a fair bit of all night Astro photography (usually operating out of a Van, due to amount of kit, so no tent required) I’m aware that we regularly have condensation issues (we routinely use special dew heaters on our telescopes to keep the optics clear of condensation).
It seems to me that what might be rather good (remember I have little camping experience - so anyone, feel free to comment and put me right), would be a light weight tent made with this dynema but have it double skinned to help combat the splash back of condensation. I appreciate that this might add a little to the weight, but in damp locations this might be preferable, there may not always be a dry sunny day the night after to dry stuff out.
My second thought was maybe a light weight sleeping bag cover made out of the thin / light quick wicking towel material, so that absorbs the splash back from any condensation and you can pack your dry sleeping bag away the following day when hiking, but carry the quick wicking sleeping bag cover on the outside of your pack to dry out (if not raining) while hiking. You could also use the quick dry sleeping bag cover to dry the inside of the tent before packing it up so it’s ready to set up later in the day.
There are companies that offer a kind of double wall set up like you are referring to with a dyneema outter and a netting or walled inner, at least in US. Tarptent, Six Moon Designs, Mountain Laurel Designs, Hyperlite Mountain Gear, maybe others too. I believe a few of, if not all of them, will ship internationally too.
I really like these single walled versions for both the weight savings, but also for how absurdly quick they setup. Im not sure if you are familiar with the Appalachian Trail but rain seems to happen all the time, occasionally days on end. Even with the continuous rain I felt the tent I used at the time (a similar design to this) worked out well. Even when I was not able to dry it out between days.
As far as an over sleeping bag liner, I would usually take my backpack cover and put it on the foot end of my sleeping quilt and then place my rain jacket over my sleeping bag too if it was still say super condensation-y inside the tent. It worked out ok for me anyways.
Hope that helps clarify!
ChrisGoesOutdoors ....that’s great feedback!
I’m not familiar with the AT (other than what I’ve seen/heard in youtube videos), but I do live in the UK, so I’m familiar with the concept of ‘raining for days on end’ ;-)
I used to do a lot of dusk-till-dawn Astro Imaging, driving out to a dark site, operating out of a Van & setting up a ton of motorised/computerised sky tracking telescope gear. It was mandatory in the UK to have dew heaters around the front of the telescope to stand any chance of keeping the optics clear on dew. Because of this experience, I’m very mindful of the issue of condensation inside a tent, hence why I’m questioning if a single wall tent is really that suitable for UK climate....but recognise the pros of these single wall dyneema light weight tents. I guess it’s all a bit of a compromise & where you want to take that compromise.
I love my Altaplex. I tried Hawks tent hack and it really cut down the condensation; use two clothes pins (plastic ones are lighter) and roll up the door that is on the opposite side of the wind, halfway and than clip the roll with the two clips.
Someone else mentioned that too. I have some of the dcf patch stick on loops and was thinking I maybe able to fashion something with them but small clothes pins seem like a great choice
I’ve only gotten to spend 1 night in mine so far and loved it. Got down to 30deg and the only spot that had any real condensation was above my face, the Lunar Solo woulda been soaked. Can’t wait to try it out in the rain.
Ya I expected it to get BAD in there on this night. Another night where condensation would be nightmare. And while it was all over the walls the draining worked properly and none of the walls were hitting me. Love it! and hope to see how it performs down the line
ChrisGoesOutdoors Me too. I got to use it on the Manistee River Trail loop if you’re interested. Threw a little clip in of how it did in my videos
U ultra lighters r brave. I cud never do a tent like that. Too see thru doesn't feel like a home to me. And Cuban fiber or not too thin and not bombproof for heavy storms and super high winds or snow loading. I'm a hilleberg tent guy only tents I feel good in. But a great review none the less! Keep it up.
Great review...or whatever it was:)
A showcasing if you will haha. Hope all is well with you Uncle Paul!
What I miss in all tent reviews, including this one, is having tested the tent under windy/stormy conditions. All tents function reasonably well under conditions you have tested your tent (in as shown in this video), however not all tents are equal in more inclement and windy weather (Beaufort scale 5+). Please if you can do that type of review also :-)
We are also missing the "pitched on the wing of a flying airplane" test.
Edit: Added quotation marks.
Hey!
Check out the paria breeze mesh tent 2. I have mine paired with a chill gorilla 10x10 tarp.
Its just over $100
Its under 4 lbs
And as you love you to focus on...no condensation thanks to the design.
Thanks for such a real world test! This was pushing it people never show that loved it, if weight was a little less of a concern what would you choose for a double wall tent?? Stay strong&healthy safe&happy!!(=✌💚
love your vids...you need to bring back "Big Momma" for an Episode
Thanks! tried to get her out a few times after AT but she was doing a lot of traveling. Havent really heard from her since 🤷🏼♂️
Chris been following you for months now and thanking you for all the bets on the 100 mile wilderness! Can you comment how you deal with moisture day in day out? I believe in your Colorado trail review you commented on the constant odor of your other soloplex. Just wondering how drying goes with these tents and additionally perhaps odor management : ). MANY thanks for your channel I’ll be using your gear links in the near figure. 🙏🏻
I have still mainly been using my solplex. In fact I have not used this tent at all after this video. But with the solplex I would usually just dry it out in the sun during the day if taking an extended break or just set it up for a bit once at camp and let it dry out a little. I always let it dry out at home after a trip too.
My issue with the odor from the solplex was from the Appalachian Trail. I would pack it up wet and never particularly cared about airing it out on trail or when in town and it developed a pretty strong mildew odor. When I got home I soaked it in some natural soap for a few days at various occasions and aired it out for days on end and the smell is essentially gone now.
The tents do dry out very quickly though as the fabric itself does not retain water at all
hope that helps
Three issues: The pole is located directly where you enter - difficult entry/exit. No vent w/hood to reduce condensation. Wind, wind driven cold rain and snow may enter due to the lack of a waterproof entry/exit zipper. I see it as a modified tarp eliminating two essentials for classifying it as a tent and to price it within the general pricing of Dyneema tents.
Thanks for the review Chris. Now that you have used it for a while, do you still like it? I’m looking at purchasing it or the duplex. I’d rather get the Altaplex because of the weight and not much (9”) lost space. What do you think?
Great review man! I guess there is a bit to be said to "you get what you pay for" but Zpacks does put alot of thought into there products and are a high end company. What was the comparison of condensation from the Altaplex to the REI Flash Air? Already knowing that the REI doesn't have the mesh down low to drain condensation it was almost known what was gonna happen. Maybe if people suggest to REI to add a lower mesh "drain/buffer" area to the flash that it can address that issue better. Who knows maybe a Flash version 2.0. REI? are ya listening? Thanks man, you and everyone take care
Id say they developed fairly similar levels of condensation but the zpacks does such a better job of letting it shed off the walls and out the tent. I think im going to try to do another follow up this Friday on the REI Flash 1. I think a lot of people are taking it as an avoid at all costs tent due to that rain night. While I personally would not use it based off of that test I would like to see how it performs in not as chilly rain with maybe a door pinned half way open or something. Will see how it pans out!
Chris, love your videos and enjoyed the recent TedTalk throughly! Any chance you got out in this tent? Was wondering if you had a longer term review? Thanks man love the videos!!
Besides this night I actually have not really used the tent. Still been using my solplex. Figure use that until it disintegrates haha
Nice review. With our exchange rate that turns into a $700+ tent.
Ya thats pretty pricy for sure. Not sure what the used market is for you. I assume Canada? but I feel like these pop up on some of the used sites fairly often for a decent discount
Did you start using the Nero instead of the HMG 3400 pack? How do you like the Nero? You should do a review on it! 🙂
Nice! Which tent you using these days?
Nice video, tent looked good out there in the wilderness. Have you decided on any hikes once the lockdown is over?
Nothing yet. I am still employed so probably weekend stuff for time foreseeable future. Will see what happens in the long run but nothing major this year I dont think. I was granted a leave for PCT but canceled that based on the circumstances
I couldn't decide between this and the Tarptent Notch Li. I went with the Notch since it has two doors and full mesh interior but SMALLER and needs two poles. Second guessing myself after seeing this though. Nice tent. I didn't like the Solplex for the same reasons
I think this is an upgrade to the solplex from this initial setup in almost every aspect but its going to be hard switching over. Feel like im emotionally attached to the solplex haha
Just finished PCT I don’t own one but after 2600 miles of traveling with PCT hikers that do. Negatives were noisy drafty and at least in Washington way to much condensation. In desert sections I witnessed wind issues but to be honest 40 mile an hour are extreme.
yes wa or OR would prob have too much condensation, or PA/FL humidity... this is a desert tent
Cool tent Chris. Definitely like it, but with the added weight of the trecking pole extension wouldn’t a duplex compete with weight and give more room inside?
For me the tent has a bunch of things of good things going for it. One of the perks of this to me over the duplex is the foot print the tent takes up is similar to the solplex so its easier to fit in tight places.
I also dont think I actually need the pole extender. Those cascade poles can get to 54 inches and Im pretty sure I could set the tent up at 54 inches in height too without much of an issue. Bathtub may not be as high but it should still work out
Oh mz gosh!! Finally an american taller than 5,11 :D I dont know how many hours I spent searching for you :D Finally I can make my choice, but before I do - do you by any chance have experience with the duplex? I feel like it must have great ventilation and the price or weight is not really different, but Im not sure about me brushing the walls being 6 foot tall.
Nice review. According to Zpack, the Altraplex states up to hikers 6'6". After your review, I don't see how even a hiker 6'4" would not end up with a wet quilt/bag from condensation from touching end. What are your thoughts?
could lay still until rain is over, really avoid touching but yeah, obvs a problem
What stakes are you planning on using with the Altaplex? Just bought an Altaplex and looking it different stake options. Maybe.one type stake for the 6 main points and then another type for the four wall tie outs.
I usually bring 4 MSR mini Ground Hogs. 3 regular Ground hogs, and 2 shepards hooks. the minis get used on the corners, the regulars in the back and front and then the the extra regular and shepard hooks can be used on additional guylines if they are needed
Would a 30” wide pad fit? I’ve got to have a wide pad
Here is a half-door-hack: I have a second door clip on a cord which I pass through the loop of my trekking pole. Then when inside the tent with the center door buckled use the door clip to retract the bottom half of the door. This allows ventilation while keeping driven rain away or for added privacy. Pictures posted here postimg.cc/kRdvQ9sk .
Looks pretty good! I have some of their stick on loops and was debating messing with them to see if I could get something to work for me in that regard
Excellent video! Let me know if you are not using it and would like to sell it?
Where is the video where you switched from zpacks to big agnes???
Hey Chris or anyone reading this I am looking to buy the Altaplex but wondering where is the best place to sell my current tent? FB market place?
These tents are very light, but I’d still rather carry 20 more ounces and not have to dry my sleeping bag everyday, assuming there’s even an opportunity to do that on any given day. The sacrifice for weight savings is creating one problem while attempting to solve another.
Why do you have to dry your sleeping bag everyday?
@@matterisnotsolid8295 refer to 14:46 - 15:27. He mentions that because of the design of the tent, his bag got wet, and that he could overcome that by drying out his bag if he were on a thru hike.
@@BacktotheOutdoors Ah... Well I think manufacturers have implemented new designs in some of their tents to help minimize this type of issue.
@@matterisnotsolid8295 - I took my Triplex out on a solo trip this past weekend and it rained a bit…but no issues with water due to all that extra space. I think the small size of Altaplex presents some challenges, but the weight is nice.
Great video Chris. I do a fair amount of stealth camping in the NE (White Mtns) where space is often at a premium. I've been using a TT Notch LI for the past couple years and would like just a bit more room lengthwise (I'm 6'0"). This tent looks like it would solve my interior space issues, but I'm concerned about its footprint. I know you're still using your Solplex, but can you advise as to whether or not the Altaplex footprint might be a limiting factor in the Whites?
I feel you on the tight spaces up in the Whites. I think the altaplex would do great. I feel like the foot print is similar to the solplex. But I do believe the altaplex is longer length wise. Please dont quote me on that but I genuinely think they are probably equal length wise, maybe the altaplex is like a hair wider on the full setup
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors Thanks Chris - really appreciated!
Well done presenting this tent. You answered many of our questions. I want to get this tent but at 6’4” I have to wait for the altaplex XL. What do you think at 6’?
At 6ft its great. Plenty of room for me. I have heard its pretty tight for 6'4+ tho. Altaplex XL would be interesting but I bet there is a market. I feel like I hear the lightheart gear solong thrown out a bunch with the taller folks. Their website says should fit hikers up to 6'8"
ChrisGoesOutdoors Thanks Chris. I’ve looked into LHG. The wt is 3.5-4 lbs and the reviews are mixed for 6’4” length.
Recently got mine and love it I’m just a hair over 6’2” 230lb and my feeling is I’m right at the limit. It’s big enough but I wouldn’t want to give up an inch. At 6’4” I think you might need a few inches more length.
Thanks for another great review. Where did you find the Zpacks coupon? Are they still available?
It was on their website as well as sent through their email list. Maybe social media too. It was SPRINGPLEX but I think this past Sunday was actually the last day to use it
Thanks
I do not use trekking poles is it possible to get a regular tent pole for a tent like this?
Good stuff! I've been looking at this one! I used the Duplex on my PCT hike/vlog last year and ended up stuffing my footbox into a large plastic bag every night that I got from a grocery store resupply stop. Zpacks should make a UL footbox protector bag :) Or an Alta-Duplex? Thanks for the info!
I used the Zpacks pack cover on my AT thru hike and used that to cover my footbox. Actually worked out really well haha. But the no rubbing on the feet in the Altaplex is pretty awesome for sure
The duplex and altaplex are the same interior length right? Are the walls more slanted upward in the altaplex?
This seems to have become a widespread design of tent - my recently purchased Lanshan 1 Pro is similar (albeit nylon and 7oz heavier) - it's about the lightest design you can get for a 1-person design which still affords bug protection and ground cover - lighter than many 'lightweight' bivvis!
Had to laugh at the luminous guys provided by Zpacks - my forest green Lanshan with neutral guys would be a lot less visible in that forest!
Really like that internal shock cord system and high bathtub though.
Really don’t understand why they don’t put the black guy line on the camo version. My solplex lines got pretty dirty over time but it’s pretty comedic seeing a camo shelter with neon yellow guy line everywhere
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors I suppose it's no great problem to swap out the guys for quieter stuff? I use a 3mm polypropylene which is coloured olive but contains little flecks of red which show up only when you're close to it so you can avoid tripping.
Chris, I’ve ordered my Altaplex thanks to your review and a few other reviews. I wonder why they discontinued the camo version. So I ordered the spruce green version. How are you enjoying the tent?
Havent really used it at all. For whichever reason I have just been going back to the Solplex. Just feels like home so to speak haha. Lot of time in that tent and so familiar with it that I suppose it was hard to give it up
Chris, that’s cool. If you own it use it. After all it’s what makes you happy on the trail. It’s all about being outdoors.
Never had my hands on a zpacks but they remind me of the super cheap kids play tents and the sound from the material is the same
Dyneema is an interesting material. Super shiny when new but then becomes significantly more matte looking with use. The sound water makes bouncing off it is definitely different than nylon. Ive been impressed with how my solplex has held up and this camo version is a slightly thicker dyneema. Solplex has around 3000 miles on it and probably 150-180 uses and besides patching a couple pin holes with some easy to use repair tape its still hanging in there good
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors i use dynema in all my climbing kit and thats not waterproof. Its the composite nature of the fabric not the dynema thats waterproof. For dynema ropes to be some what water repellant they have to be treated. Same with the slings and harnesses. It is a light and strong material though
Love how you never recommend any gear....but you also don't not recommend any gear. Care you don't, but also care you do.
I care so much that I don't care at all that I care that I don't
Just finished my CT hike, I had a couple nights of heavy rain and my tent literally had inches of water inside. Not sure how but it definitely did not handle the heavy rain.
And that was an Altaplex? Or which model?
Yes, the Altaplex.
pole too tight, lower two inches, sag the sides a bit, and then you have problem touching sides, but be careful, then will stay water free mostly
They should make high version of the Duplex.
Maybe even make it 20cm longer...
Would be interesting to see. I bet there is a market for it. I feel like people like 6'3"+ ALWAYS seem to have issues finding tents that work well for them. Like I cant even explain how many comments I get saying so haha
Can you cook blueberry 🥞 the tent?
Chris, off topic but had to ask. The Flex 30 you were using, would you take that on a CT trip in Aug - Sept? Alsek at 22 degrees any better or overkill? Thanks dude
Not too knowledgeable with Colorado that time of year as I went July to august. I faced some definite chilly mornings essentially the whole trail it seemed to be in the 30s-40s in the morning. I actually wanted the flex 22 initially but they only had a flex 30 in long wide available that they could send immediately. If I could buy again I would get the 22 just for my use cases I feel like it covers me deeper into winter but I think if you had a good sleeping of the 30 should cover you good. I slept warm the entire rest of trail once I got the flex 30
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors Thanks for the quick response man. Much appreciated. Final question, if you have time. I've watched all your CT videos several times (good stuff, they are well done), and you mentioned condensation a few times but overall not much. I was thinking about the Altaplex as well for my CT hike and was wondering if you could comment a bit to the condensation you experienced on the CT with your single wall tent. How much of an pain in the a$$ etc.. Even something like "moderate condensation experienced, overall no factor and would still use a single wall tent" would be helpful. Thanks again
I’m highly disappointed in my new Altaplex. The only benefit I found was that I can sit up in it, but even trying to sit up in it you will rub against the condensation soaked walls. You can’t do simple things like change your socks without rubbing against the walls.
When I sat up to do something in the vestibule the arch of the bug net would be right in the middle of my forehead nocking my head lamp off my head or blocking the light with its seam.
I had to blow my air pad up outside in the rain as there was no room to do it inside. This is the most uncomfortable, unpractical tent I have ever used. I wish I could have tried it before I bought it, all I had was a dozen UA-cam reviews that convinced me that this was what I wanted. If I had read a comment like this I would have saved a fortune.
I have decided to go back to my one Tigris tipi nova tent. It packs down to the same size and is very lightweight, although is is not DCF.
hi Chris quick question. I to have altaplex . but thinking of changing to hyper ultamid 2 my concern is setting up rain, witch I watched your video. how often on the AT did you set in the rain or stayed in shelter on those days and were thay available. with (bubble). with the ultamid once set I would be out of weather to prep interior.... your opinion would it be worth having that extra space for extra pound. I don't mind carrying and paying. if worthy
I regularly setup in the rain while on the AT. Just part of the adventure. I rarely stayed in shelters. Mostly stayed in shelters around NH and ME just as they were convenient and not as many people around anymore. Spent many nights in the rain too. For me the setup wasnt too bad. I mean im already drenched so whats a little more water on me while popping my tent up. I would give the altaplex a few tries out in the rain before investing in such an expensive piece like the ultamid 2. You may find you dont mind the rain setup, and if you do then you can always pickup the ultamid
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors thanks Chris. ill try not to be spoiled!
Does it come with steaks? I am looking to buy soon this week. Thank you
Does not come with stakes
The new ones come with a bone-in ribeye.
How would you mitigate the issue of the trekking pole extender sinking into softer ground?
Also, for the life of me I don’t know why Zpacks doesn’t design a ceiling vent of some kind. This would reduce the condensation problem dramatically.
a rock, piece of bark or shoe, anything. and don't camp in swamps. Great idea! ... a ceiling vent can be added with slit, sew, netting and a slight addition of fabric and a little plastic rod to hold it up.. see msr hubba to get the idea!
Do you use anything to stop the trekking pole sinking into the ground?
Nope, the trekking pole extender does have a little rubber cap on it that would work good on most surfaces. I could probably setup without it and just use the trekking pole in which case the little basket on the pole usually prevents it from going through the surface
I actually use the little rubber footy that comes with most trekking pole kits
Did Zpacks provide the tent or did you buy it yourself?
Purchased by me from Zpacks using a publicly available coupon code from their recent sale
If gear was given to me for free I would disclose it at the beginning of the video and within the description of the video. I buy 99% of the stuff seen on this channel with my own money. I think I have accepted one tent previously for free (naturehike cloud up 2) and made sure to mention that right in the beginning of the video. I dont really think it changed my view on the tent but could definitely understand why people think it could. I didn't really want to take the channel down that route so haven't accepted anything for free since
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors awesome, glad to hear...just asked because zpacks has an agressive youtube marketing campaign and not many of the people doing reviews disclose that it was given to them free of charge. Thanks for the video.
Totally understandable! That actually drives me nuts too which is why I try to be very transparent about it
Chris gets another tent. Go figure.
This is the most complete altaplex presentation yet. Right down to the pole extender and condensation.
That REI tent left a bad taste in my mouth haha
Subscription wise... you're on your way to getting free tents from gear makers. Slow down. :)
@@rtsteele567 I dont think I am going to accept much free product. I get emails all the time from companies asking me to make videos about stuff and I refrain from it like 99% of the time. I think getting the stuff for free can be good in that it lets you test out more stuff and all but at the same time I think it can have a detrimental effect review wise. I really hope to continue to just showcase the stuff that really interests me and that I purchased. Will see!
Any issues w non-freestanding tent on the platforms of NH?
No issue personally. It can be a little tricky but if there are some decent size rocks around, which usually there are around the platforms you can setup the tents with rocks. If you watch my first night on the colorado trail I actually had to setup with rocks as the ground was too hard to get stake in
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors thank you. Ill watch it !! I enjoy your videos . Take care.
I noticed you are still using your Solplex in some of your recent videos, did you not like the Altaplex?
I thought about bringing out the altaplex when I started hiking again this season but it felt weird. I have so much experience with the solplex and been through so much with it I couldnt leave it behind haha. Nothing against the altaplex just probably end up using the solplex until it disintegrates
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors familiarity brings comfort for sure. I used my Altaplex on the CT this past summer and it held up well except for the last two nights...Monsoon rains flooded me out completely, not sure any tent would have held up. Starting the AT on 1 March fingers crossed.
Is it just the audio or is dynema very noisy in the rain?
It is fairly loud but it may in fact just be the way the mic is picking it up. It is definitely a different sound than silnylon
All kinds of room for activities lol
😉
Is that Jesus on the tent wall around the 11:00 mark
4 comments are from spam bots! They keep growing!
Crazy lite tent but $$ for my blood.
Usually youtube auto filters those comments instantly. Took them a bit but seems like they are gone now haha
ChrisGoesOutdoors, good. When I see them in the comments I report them. But serious question...wanna be friends 😂
😂
hey Chris any chance you want to sell this shelter?
How deep is the bath tub?
I believe at proper height its 8 inches. Depending how you set it up I believe it can vary
ChrisGoesOutdoors, thank you. I like the price compared to Zpacks. I have a big Agnes tigerwall 2. I have set it up in the rain and it gets soaked. I like how that tent is a single piece and even when it’s raining will remain relatively dry because the cover is always on. How do y’all like it so far?
Do you still own this? Would you be interested in selling it?
Are you not using the Altaplex anymore?
Been still using the solplex. Something familiar with it that I like and kind of want to use it until I can’t anymore. Currently still own the altaplex but may end up selling. Who knows. Maybe collectible since I believe they discontinued the camo 😂
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors I'm interested! ;) Message me if you are looking to sell!
Let me know if you are interested in selling it
Do you still have the Altaplex? Would you be interested in selling it?
I do still have it. Havent used it since this video haha. If you were in the MA or NH area in the US I would consider selling but not really wanting to ship especially internationally. Feel like stuff gets lost too much in the mail
@@ChrisGoesOutdoors If the price is right I would pay international with insurance!
Omg are you going to sleep on the floor? That's soooooooo last year