I used the Lunar Solo for my whole AT thru hike and several week long trips after and could not have been happier. I have never had to worry about staying dry heavy rain even with subpar site selection. Even after 5 months in a row of daily use and the additional trips there are still no tears/ rips. Would definitely recommend for anyone looking to save a bit.
Great review! I picked up the Plex Solo after a good deal of deliberation. I decided to shave every ounce I possibly could from the pack and knowing so many satisfied Zpacks shelter owners, that was the final determining factor. I've pared down from a Big Agnes Copper Spur 2man tent so the weight loss is tremendous!
For a few grams more I just picked up the Lanshan 2 Pro. I'm not a through hiker so the extra weight isn't a big deal but the extra space is very welcome.
Im still hesitating since i like the X-Mid 2, only 4 stakes and 2 Poles and it gets a even more space then the Lanshan - it 200g more with about 1kg but its a double wall tent so condensation is out of the way. Also its made out of silkpoly which doesn't need to be no retightening during rain since silkpoly doesn't sag like Silknylon.
@@raffy141 I would have bought that if it was in stock. Every time I would check it was sold out. Ended up getting the Lanshan as I have a trip coming up and couldn’t wait any longer.
Hi. Great video on two great tent options. I’ve had my Luna Solo since 2014 and it continues to serve me well. I use it for all my 3 season hikes here in the U.K. I agree with you on the value and that was one of the factors that pushed my to buy it. I have nothing but praise for it’s capabilities in bad weather. I used the cash I saved to buy a tarp and bivvy bag system if I need to go lighter than the Six Moons. A genuine 2 for 1 deal!
I am quite a gram weenie but even for me I can’t justify the price. I currently own the six moons solo tent & the tarp version both. These are amazing…. Very reasonable still very light weight & after 5 years looks and functions like new
I bought a lunar solo last September. (2021)I used it on 5 different overnights. I love the new material and the guy outs are cord with line-locs,instead of the ribbons. I paid six moons to seam seal, I think all together it was 285. Was out in the rain and cold with no issues. The weight would be nice with the zpacks but more than double the price,no thanks.
I've had a Lunar Solo for years, just the regular, @ 28 oz in Sil Nylon. I keep looking at the other brands of similar design made of dynema or just lighter and can't justify the price. This has been my favorite tent overall since I first pitched it. Got it new for $160 about 7 or 8 years ago.
I agree the price is hard to justify when the lunar is such a great tent. If I wasn’t trying to produce content I would stick with what I have. Thanks for watching
when my Plex solo arrived I gave away my lanshan 1, my lunar solo, my Zpacks nero, and every other mistake from the past several years. My Sub Nero, Plex solo w/ 10 carbon stakes and my HangTight quilt come in at 3lbs. Worth every penny, and it almost sounds silly calling them my "Big Three"
Plex Solo and Sub-Nero for me as well downsized to 30L last year :) I've got a few quilts but my go to is Cumulus 350. I still have my Lanshan 1 Pro (Unused) and my Hexamid Pocket Tarp. Don't think I'll get rid of them as I have done in past and regretted it. Always nice to have backups and options.
Picked my Lunar Solo for $175 in their scratch and dent sale but it's brand new and wasn't actually scratch and dent. Such a good deal. I used it for the first time at the weekend. Exceedingly easy to erect and really spacious. I love the vestibule cord on the Lunar. Very happy camper.
@@justcallmemario3013 Hi Mario.The color I chose is Spruce Green. I am satisfied with this choice....if I were to choose another color, I think it would be blue👌
I picked up the Lunar Solo on a Black Friday sale for $200! I seam sealed it myself. I use 6 mini ground hog stakes and total weight is 28oz! I’m 6’3” and have plenty of room inside with my 40l backpack also inside! I love this tent! $400 less for half a pound of weight savings is totally worth it!!! Spend that $400 on a lighter sleeping bag / quilt!!!!
My SMD Gatewood Cape is a similar design at 14oz without the inner door or floor. It is good after mosquito and fly season, and works really well as a much better poncho design in the rainy shoulder seasons of the PNW.
I was so stoked to hear 20d sil poly construction on this guy so I went to see their two person offerings and they’re all sil nylon. I hope they make a version of their duplex/gg the two style tent in 20d sil poly!
I bought the SMD Lunar Solo a few years ago, it’s huge inside and pretty storm worthy. Been using it to section hike the Colorado Trail and it’s been fantastic.
So glad the sixmoons tent got such a good review, because I bought the sixmoons trekker, but haven't used it yet. All these tents are very expensive in Australia.
I have a SMD Deschutes Plus. Very similar to the Lunor solo without the floor as it is a shaped tarp with bug netting that hangs to the ground. The weight of the shelter is 16oz alone and shelter, stakes, and polycro ground cloth it weighs in at 22oz on my scale. Another great budget lightweight option that does protect you from bugs.
Just purchased the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo. And decided to also purchased to pole instead of the trekking poles. That seems to be a big mistake. I can only get the bath tub walls about 3 inches in back a 1 inch if that in the front. I ordered a set of trekking poles to see if that will make any difference. Planing to do a 50 mile backpacking trip on the CT trail in just a few days.
The SMD pole is a bit too flexible, the trekking poles should help get a better pitch especially if they are adjustable…but I will say the Lunar is a bit finicky to pitch. You will probably get better the more you do it.
I seriously cannot understand why companies do not seam seal their tents. Are there campers out there that prefer their tents NOT to be seam sealed, NOT to have protection from rain? I feel like its extremely lazy on the companies end. Just add the seam seal and up the price by 40$. I just dont understand lol. Ive been researching tents for weeks now and THE ONLY TENT that checks all the boxes is that 600 dollar tent.
If I could only choose between these two...I feel like me and my bank account would benefit from the SMD tent more. If I was a long distance thru-hiker, then the ZPacks mights be more appealing. However...I'm currently enjoying my Tarptent Notch for my mountain trips and an old semi-freestanding REI Quarterdome that works really well for my desert trips. Sets up easy on sand or slick rock and its colors blend right in with the surrounding red rock. Hope you enjoyed yourselves down there in the old CG.
THAT was an ultralight tent firehose! 😆 Was thinking this morning 'I haven't seen Steven for a while...' and here you are! Excellent video! How are the seams holding up on the Zpacks? Did you do a little extra seam sealing yourself on that one?
I’m still here. I was hiking all last week so no video. I left the Zpacks seems alone and haven’t worried about them. If they peal anymore I’ll send it in for a warranty
@@MyLifeOutdoors Looks like you're in the middle of an awesome adventure! Looking forward to the content when you get back! Or if this one was just for you and no video, I respect that. Enjoy!
Actually the Durston is probably the same weight; the Solo doesn’t include stakes or seam sealing as these are optional. However the Durston I believe requires a larger tenting site and of course; is difficult to find in stock. Doubt you can go wrong with either! Both a great!
Six moon all day , price vs weight. However six moon has Lunar duo 2p I’d like for me & the bride. But if I was a thru hiking, 6months I might Zpack it!! Weight would win
Good stuff! I guess some of it depends on whether you're fine putting everything but yourself on the ground inside. If you're fine setting gear on the ground in the vestibules, either of these would be fine and I'd likely go with the less expensive option. If not, I'd just get something like the REI Flash 2 that comes in at about 31 oz. for the same price (considerably cheaper if you wait for a "savings event."). It's slightly heavier but does have legit 2P interior floor dimensions. The Lunar Solo diagram I found seems to claim a floor space width of 48" and an overall interior space of 79". About 2/3 of that floor space will be filled with your sleep system, but having just another 12" or so is better than what you get with a $110 GeerTop backpacking tent in which the floor is basically the width of a pad and that's about it. As for whether the Lunar Solo is a budget - and not just a less expensive - option, that's up to each person. When I started, I never really expected to spend $300 on a tent. But you discover what you want in a tent - and see what's out there - and your expectations evolve when faced with those realities. I think for a lot of us, the price of Dyneema seems like kind of a scam at this point since it's not exactly a "new" tent technology in 2022. And while we'd be willing to pay $300 for a Dyneema 1P tent, we're less comfortable spending that much on a tent that size that is made from something else. Take care.
Well that depends on kit. I could get all my kit inside on groundsheet with me in Plex Solo if wanted. If not can stick it in vestibule on some polycro.
Nice versus video Steven! Wow, hooking up with Justin Outdoors! Big time! I can't stress enough how much it's either Zpacks or Lanshan Pro 1 on opposite ends. Lanshan is $168 (inc. shipping) and weighs the same as the Lunar Solo. I believe the interior dimensions are very close as well. Both don't come seam sealed but offer the same amount (around $35) to seam seal at factory. The only thing I see the Lunar Solo having that the Lanshan doesn't is the ability to move the door up and down along the guy out which is awesome. I feel like they should have that option on both sides for all tents for max ventilation.
I agree with your assessment. I think highly of both companies but would also lean toward the SMD. I just bought a Paria Arches 2 person tent. I need a 2-3 person ten since I camp with our Saint Bernard. I will say that SMD is my new favorite outdoor company. I recently picked up a backpack with their flight harness and it is a night and day difference as far as comfort (like you also said in a previous video. Lol)
I'm wondering if these tents are worthless in alpine zones where you might be pitching your tent on rock? With a free standing tent, you could at least place rocks in/on each corner if there was no convenient soil to pound in the stakes and insert the pole. Have you successfully used one in these conditions? Thanks
If I was attempting the CDT I'd choose the Zpacks. If shorter hikes the Lunar Solo. The main difference is the weight and do you really need to save it or not.
I was looking at getting a Lunar Solo until I realized that it weighs as much as my freestanding Nemo Dragonfly. I think when I upgrade to a trekking pole tent, it will be Gossamer Gear's The One.
I prefer the lunar solo, although I haven't used the zpacks plex solo, b/c honestly I can't afford it. I much prefer sil/poly over dyneema for several reasons 1) price 2) recyclability 3) packability 4) is easier to pitch tightly because of the nature of the material and 5) fabric holds less water (I haven't tested this, but I suspect there is a significant difference when both have to be packed wet)
I stand corrected, but still standby the other 4 points, especially #1, and might add durability based on some of what I have heard, but again, I personally haven't actually used Dyneema so don't have anything to go on except what I have read.
I'm actually with you. Even if I had excess money I don't think I'd want .51 dyneema. Dyneema is strong. But a very thin PET layer is what makes it waterproof and that stuff isn't very strong. I've heard of contiued problems with pinholes in the tent. Not in a majority of them but it's a weak point in the fabric that can be exploited by rough ground material. And then there's the noise. They say you can get use to it but why pay for something you have your get use to. I don't think ounces make the difference of a enjoyable hike. Plus, there are better designs to shed wind more so your tent doesn't collapse.
Several years ago I looked at both and went with the Lunar Solo. That was when they were a silnylon tent , not one of the new silpoly ones. More comforts attached to the Lunar Solo including a larger entry. One additional benefit , my wallet still has some weight and is not light. lol Since then I have switched to the Dan Durston X-Mid 1. It's a silpoy material and is what I call a poor mans dynema since it does not adsorb water like the silnylon tents do. I can also use it like a ( 2 trekking pole supported 4 ground steaks ) tarp by not using the inner tent portion. I keep the Lunar Solo and refuse to part with it.
Dyneema is a great fabric, but is so cost prohibitive, it really only makes sense to spend extra for it in certain situations. I have a couple dyneema drybags, and I use them enough to justify spending $10-20 extra to keep some important items dry. I can’t justify $300-500 extra to buy a dyneema tent when I camp about 20-30 nights a year, and half are car camping with my son’s scout troop. For A through hiker who is carrying it for months at a time, or an avid backpacker who’s out 100 nights a year, the extra cost for light weight and ability to shake it dry makes a lot more sense.
z packs all the way. how much does your house or car or big screen tv cost ? just save a bit and get the best it will work out at a couple of bucks a night if that , to camp with the ultimate tent. Just my opinion, I saved for the duplex and i feel like a king when i set up my ultralight palace. I wish I didn't waste money on all of my shitty tents in the past.
I recently got a Deschutes plus, it's just 16 oz (2 oz > than the Plex Solo). It has bug protection but no floor, which is fine by me. Edit: oh, and it's silpoly versus DCF, which comes with the perks you mentioned. I'm also happier with the lower height of the Deschutes plus, which fits my hiking pole.
Super-D-duper helpful information in this comparison. I think the most helpful point you made (for my specific needs) was how the different materials pack down. I was curious about how dyneema packs down. My passion is packrafting, so for my needs I would actually prioritize the pack down over the weight penalty. With all the gear I am hauling in, my pack is stuffed tighter than a tick. Totally stoopid question here, I have been tossing my tent into a compression sack (sans poles of course), so do you think this is a horrible idea? Now, I just need to figure out how to turn my breakdown paddle into a tent pole. For that, I think I might find a donor paddle and saw off a few inches from the shaft and connect that to my good paddle. Oooh I never ever pimp my own channel, but if you are interested in seeing some desert SW rivers I have a bunch of dorky vids there…
Sorry - neither ! I'd go with the 1P version 3FUL Lanshan Pro. 20D Silicon, 690g (24.3oz), floor size 230 cms x 125 cms (ht) x 100 cms and under US$130. Though to be totally honest I prefer the 1080g 2P 3FUL Lanshan (non-Pro) for it's huge interior space and double vestibules.
Picked up a flycreek ul 2 bikepack for around 180 on sale recently and I think the couple extra oz is worth it for a semi free standing 2p (1.5p) tent that comes with stakes and everything. I also almost exclusively pack the whites in NH so I need something a little more sturdy. Can't go wrong with a poled tent around 2 pounds for less than 200 🤷♂️
@MyLifeOutdoors are there any freestanding double walled ultra light tents you'd recommend for the whites? I like double wall because it's constantly soaked out here but if there were a single wall that handles condensation well I might be compelled to cut weight there next year
Great review. I’m 6ft 6 and love how long these seem. I saw you pitched these in fairly sandy conditions which has always been tricky for me. What steaks are you using in sandy conditions? Thanks.
I was using MSR ground hog stakes. Not the best for sand but I staked them out and then put a rock on top of the guyline to help hold it. Worked great.
Great video, thank you. Lunar Solo is a good tent, it packs down and is easy to set up and huge interior. My older version has ribbon style guy outs, snd when the tent is wet in the rain and cold, the ribbons do not hold the tent when you are inevitably out in the middle of the night trying to tighten up the slack caused by sagging of the tent. Ordered a plex solo yesterday, looking forward to tight lines, similar to my experience with the duplex.
I have the lunar solo it's nice not sure where it is made the bag says made in China. Zpacks way to much money for me. Did some more research and found that all there All of their product is manufactured in China. I believe it has been like this for the past 2-3 years.
The tent looks at home in the desert. Tried a similar design a few summer days on the arctic tundra. It was drafty and wet before the whole tent blew down.. Not that impressed.
I would definitely recommend the Durston X-Mid 1p when looking at balance between weight, price, weather protection and overall functionality...Way better than the Lunar solo IMO
I've been told the lanshan is a knockoff, but I think it's better than both the tents reviewed here. american youtubers seem to review the same gear all the time - it's very boring !
I have the SMD lunar solo and I think you’ll struggle in it at your height. I’m 6ft4 - with a long length thermarest neo air xlite mat, I’m only just about fitting in mine without the tent walls hitting me in the face when I lay flat on my back with my feet as far as they’ll go down at the other end. I have to use the guy out points to help with this. Overall though, I love this tent - it has stood up to some pretty horrendous storms with high winds and nights of constant torrential rain. It’s a solid 3 season tent.
ZPacks Plex Solo: geni.us/ahG1KjD
SMD Lunar Solo: geni.us/nl45LNS
Lunar Solo on Garage Grown Gear: geni.us/QFJZ
id like to state again how great it is that you just jump into the videos and dont waste time on self promotion or cheesy intros. You a real one mate
I used the Lunar Solo for my whole AT thru hike and several week long trips after and could not have been happier. I have never had to worry about staying dry heavy rain even with subpar site selection. Even after 5 months in a row of daily use and the additional trips there are still no tears/ rips. Would definitely recommend for anyone looking to save a bit.
how was the condensation in it? was the vent good enough to help minimize that?
Lanshan 1 Pro in grey, 24 oz total, for $160 shipped from Alliexpress. Seam sealed mine myself. Same design. Lots of space. Love mine.
Lanshan looks like a great tent. I need to use one myself
Great review! I picked up the Plex Solo after a good deal of deliberation. I decided to shave every ounce I possibly could from the pack and knowing so many satisfied Zpacks shelter owners, that was the final determining factor. I've pared down from a Big Agnes Copper Spur 2man tent so the weight loss is tremendous!
For a few grams more I just picked up the Lanshan 2 Pro. I'm not a through hiker so the extra weight isn't a big deal but the extra space is very welcome.
Me too!
Me three! My Lanahan has been to White Mtns, NH, WY Winds and Tetons and CO Rockies. It just works.
Im still hesitating since i like the X-Mid 2, only 4 stakes and 2 Poles and it gets a even more space then the Lanshan - it 200g more with about 1kg but its a double wall tent so condensation is out of the way. Also its made out of silkpoly which doesn't need to be no retightening during rain since silkpoly doesn't sag like Silknylon.
@@raffy141 I would have bought that if it was in stock. Every time I would check it was sold out. Ended up getting the Lanshan as I have a trip coming up and couldn’t wait any longer.
I'mported goods > domestic goods
Hi. Great video on two great tent options. I’ve had my Luna Solo since 2014 and it continues to serve me well. I use it for all my 3 season hikes here in the U.K. I agree with you on the value and that was one of the factors that pushed my to buy it. I have nothing but praise for it’s capabilities in bad weather. I used the cash I saved to buy a tarp and bivvy bag system if I need to go lighter than the Six Moons. A genuine 2 for 1 deal!
I am quite a gram weenie but even for me I can’t justify the price. I currently own the six moons solo tent & the tarp version both. These are amazing…. Very reasonable still very light weight & after 5 years looks and functions like new
Great comparison in an amazing location! Got my first Lunar Solo from my friends as a Birthday Present in 2017 and it's still going strong.
I bought the SMD Lunar Solo several years ago. I like it very much. I usually use a tarp.
I bought a lunar solo last September. (2021)I used it on 5 different overnights. I love the new material and the guy outs are cord with line-locs,instead of the ribbons. I paid six moons to seam seal, I think all together it was 285. Was out in the rain and cold with no issues. The weight would be nice with the zpacks but more than double the price,no thanks.
The Zpacks is highly specialized. The lunar makes more sense for most people
Can’t stand the ribbon style on my 2019 lunar solo. Great to hear they have switched to line locks.
I've had a Lunar Solo for years, just the regular, @ 28 oz in Sil Nylon. I keep looking at the other brands of similar design made of dynema or just lighter and can't justify the price. This has been my favorite tent overall since I first pitched it. Got it new for $160 about 7 or 8 years ago.
I agree the price is hard to justify when the lunar is such a great tent. If I wasn’t trying to produce content I would stick with what I have. Thanks for watching
when my Plex solo arrived I gave away my lanshan 1, my lunar solo, my Zpacks nero, and every other mistake from the past several years. My Sub Nero, Plex solo w/ 10 carbon stakes and my HangTight quilt come in at 3lbs. Worth every penny, and it almost sounds silly calling them my "Big Three"
Lol. Just “My 3”
Plex Solo and Sub-Nero for me as well downsized to 30L last year :) I've got a few quilts but my go to is Cumulus 350. I still have my Lanshan 1 Pro (Unused) and my Hexamid Pocket Tarp. Don't think I'll get rid of them as I have done in past and regretted it. Always nice to have backups and options.
In which color, and would you chose this color again?
Spruce Green, least transparent and just a bit sturdier than the other options @@justcallmemario3013
Picked my Lunar Solo for $175 in their scratch and dent sale but it's brand new and wasn't actually scratch and dent. Such a good deal. I used it for the first time at the weekend. Exceedingly easy to erect and really spacious. I love the vestibule cord on the Lunar. Very happy camper.
It’s a great little tent and it’s hard to beat the price. $175 is even better! At that price it’s a no brainer
I have the Plex Solo and love it.....It's the best tent I've ever had. Regards from Ireland.
In which color, and would you chose this color again?
@@justcallmemario3013 Hi Mario.The color I chose is Spruce Green. I am satisfied with this choice....if I were to choose another color, I think it would be blue👌
I picked up the Lunar Solo on a Black Friday sale for $200! I seam sealed it myself. I use 6 mini ground hog stakes and total weight is 28oz!
I’m 6’3” and have plenty of room inside with my 40l backpack also inside! I love this tent!
$400 less for half a pound of weight savings is totally worth it!!! Spend that $400 on a lighter sleeping bag / quilt!!!!
I have the plex solo, an love it. switching the lines it is 359g! that is olmost half of my sleepingbag ;)
Haha. I saw a video on switching the lines. I’m crazy but
Nice , which lines did you use? thanks
Hi, from zpacks the dyneema 1.3mm zline cord.
Which guy lines did you use, and in which color do you get your tent, and would you chose this color again?
@@justcallmemario3013 the guy lines are mentioned on top of this question. I have white. I like it. But if you want to hide, green might be better...
Great video! Love my Lunar Solo. Plenty of space. Great weight and price. Can’t go wrong with this tent.
Just bought the Lunar Solo, can’t wait to take it out, thanks for the video!
My Plex Solo arrived yesterday! Can't wait to get out on trail :)
Such a clear and precise video which helped me massively on my choice. Thank you
My SMD Gatewood Cape is a similar design at 14oz without the inner door or floor. It is good after mosquito and fly season, and works really well as a much better poncho design in the rainy shoulder seasons of the PNW.
I was so stoked to hear 20d sil poly construction on this guy so I went to see their two person offerings and they’re all sil nylon. I hope they make a version of their duplex/gg the two style tent in 20d sil poly!
I have the Plex Solo and love it.
Zpack’s Plex Solo for me. Less weight and so many good reviews. Kentucky
The LanShan 1plus (=2021) is 140$ and is seam-taped. 27 oz and double wall. You just seal 3 spots, and it is perfect.
nice, thanks for that
I bought the SMD Lunar Solo a few years ago, it’s huge inside and pretty storm worthy. Been using it to section hike the Colorado Trail and it’s been fantastic.
Gram weenies are hilarious.
I loved my lunar solo but upgraded to The One for moré headroom.
I would definitely go with the Six Moon Design tent if I had to choose. Amazingly I don’t have to choose, I was able to pre order an X-Mid Pro2!
Those x-mids are HOT right now. Congratulations
I appreciate your delivery:quick n sweet.
So glad the sixmoons tent got such a good review, because I bought the sixmoons trekker, but haven't used it yet. All these tents are very expensive in Australia.
I have a SMD Deschutes Plus. Very similar to the Lunor solo without the floor as it is a shaped tarp with bug netting that hangs to the ground. The weight of the shelter is 16oz alone and shelter, stakes, and polycro ground cloth it weighs in at 22oz on my scale. Another great budget lightweight option that does protect you from bugs.
Thanks for the very good comparative presentation.
Nice video, Thanks for making it. Wondering if you know of a double wall the same size as these?
Hey Thanks I rock the lunar solo .your past video on waterproofing a down jacket would that work for the tents. If so what was the solution
Check out the 3ful gear for a budget option. I have the lanshan 2 pro and love it.
I want a Lanshan but haven’t picked one up yet
Perfect comparison video! And under 5 mins 👍👍👍
Just purchased the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo. And decided to also purchased to pole instead of the trekking poles. That seems to be a big mistake. I can only get the bath tub walls about 3 inches in back a 1 inch if that in the front. I ordered a set of trekking poles to see if that will make any difference. Planing to do a 50 mile backpacking trip on the CT trail in just a few days.
The SMD pole is a bit too flexible, the trekking poles should help get a better pitch especially if they are adjustable…but I will say the Lunar is a bit finicky to pitch. You will probably get better the more you do it.
I seriously cannot understand why companies do not seam seal their tents. Are there campers out there that prefer their tents NOT to be seam sealed, NOT to have protection from rain? I feel like its extremely lazy on the companies end. Just add the seam seal and up the price by 40$. I just dont understand lol. Ive been researching tents for weeks now and THE ONLY TENT that checks all the boxes is that 600 dollar tent.
Makes sense now you were with Justin since he made all the desert hiking videos! Six Moons does a good job on bang for your buck.
Great review in a beautiful scenery. I would probably go for the Lunar Solo.
the Durston X-mid solo is a great option.
If I could only choose between these two...I feel like me and my bank account would benefit from the SMD tent more. If I was a long distance thru-hiker, then the ZPacks mights be more appealing. However...I'm currently enjoying my Tarptent Notch for my mountain trips and an old semi-freestanding REI Quarterdome that works really well for my desert trips. Sets up easy on sand or slick rock and its colors blend right in with the surrounding red rock. Hope you enjoyed yourselves down there in the old CG.
THAT was an ultralight tent firehose! 😆 Was thinking this morning 'I haven't seen Steven for a while...' and here you are! Excellent video!
How are the seams holding up on the Zpacks? Did you do a little extra seam sealing yourself on that one?
I’m still here. I was hiking all last week so no video.
I left the Zpacks seems alone and haven’t worried about them. If they peal anymore I’ll send it in for a warranty
@@MyLifeOutdoors Looks like you're in the middle of an awesome adventure! Looking forward to the content when you get back! Or if this one was just for you and no video, I respect that. Enjoy!
For 3 extra oz, I'd just go with the Dursten X-Mid 1P and have a double walled tent that comes with stakes.
Actually the Durston is probably the same weight; the Solo doesn’t include stakes or seam sealing as these are optional. However the Durston I believe requires a larger tenting site and of course; is difficult to find in stock. Doubt you can go wrong with either! Both a great!
Six moon all day , price vs weight.
However six moon has Lunar duo 2p I’d like for me & the bride.
But if I was a thru hiking, 6months I might Zpack it!! Weight would win
Good stuff!
I guess some of it depends on whether you're fine putting everything but yourself on the ground inside. If you're fine setting gear on the ground in the vestibules, either of these would be fine and I'd likely go with the less expensive option. If not, I'd just get something like the REI Flash 2 that comes in at about 31 oz. for the same price (considerably cheaper if you wait for a "savings event."). It's slightly heavier but does have legit 2P interior floor dimensions.
The Lunar Solo diagram I found seems to claim a floor space width of 48" and an overall interior space of 79". About 2/3 of that floor space will be filled with your sleep system, but having just another 12" or so is better than what you get with a $110 GeerTop backpacking tent in which the floor is basically the width of a pad and that's about it.
As for whether the Lunar Solo is a budget - and not just a less expensive - option, that's up to each person. When I started, I never really expected to spend $300 on a tent. But you discover what you want in a tent - and see what's out there - and your expectations evolve when faced with those realities. I think for a lot of us, the price of Dyneema seems like kind of a scam at this point since it's not exactly a "new" tent technology in 2022. And while we'd be willing to pay $300 for a Dyneema 1P tent, we're less comfortable spending that much on a tent that size that is made from something else.
Take care.
Well that depends on kit. I could get all my kit inside on groundsheet with me in Plex Solo if wanted. If not can stick it in vestibule on some polycro.
Nice versus video Steven! Wow, hooking up with Justin Outdoors! Big time! I can't stress enough how much it's either Zpacks or Lanshan Pro 1 on opposite ends. Lanshan is $168 (inc. shipping) and weighs the same as the Lunar Solo. I believe the interior dimensions are very close as well. Both don't come seam sealed but offer the same amount (around $35) to seam seal at factory. The only thing I see the Lunar Solo having that the Lanshan doesn't is the ability to move the door up and down along the guy out which is awesome. I feel like they should have that option on both sides for all tents for max ventilation.
I want to get a Lanshan. I’d like to see first hand how they compare. Thanks for watching!
I agree with your assessment. I think highly of both companies but would also lean toward the SMD. I just bought a Paria Arches 2 person tent. I need a 2-3 person ten since I camp with our Saint Bernard.
I will say that SMD is my new favorite outdoor company. I recently picked up a backpack with their flight harness and it is a night and day difference as far as comfort (like you also said in a previous video. Lol)
I know Saint Bernards are big but I wouldn’t be surprised if you could both fit in the Lunar. It’s surprisingly spacious.
I'm wondering if these tents are worthless in alpine zones where you might be pitching your tent on rock? With a free standing tent, you could at least place rocks in/on each corner if there was no convenient soil to pound in the stakes and insert the pole. Have you successfully used one in these conditions? Thanks
If I was attempting the CDT I'd choose the Zpacks. If shorter hikes the Lunar Solo. The main difference is the weight and do you really need to save it or not.
I was looking at getting a Lunar Solo until I realized that it weighs as much as my freestanding Nemo Dragonfly. I think when I upgrade to a trekking pole tent, it will be Gossamer Gear's The One.
Thanks for the great review, at a time when I'm considering a new solo tent.
Another great video bro!! Love your reviews my man! Looking forward to the Nemo Hornet Osmo one if Nemo ever stock the website 😩😩
I’m waiting on one. Tents are hard to get right now! Thanks for watching!
I prefer the lunar solo, although I haven't used the zpacks plex solo, b/c honestly I can't afford it. I much prefer sil/poly over dyneema for several reasons 1) price 2) recyclability 3) packability 4) is easier to pitch tightly because of the nature of the material and 5) fabric holds less water (I haven't tested this, but I suspect there is a significant difference when both have to be packed wet)
Dyneema holds zero water.
I stand corrected, but still standby the other 4 points, especially #1, and might add durability based on some of what I have heard, but again, I personally haven't actually used Dyneema so don't have anything to go on except what I have read.
I'm actually with you.
Even if I had excess money I don't think I'd want .51 dyneema. Dyneema is strong. But a very thin PET layer is what makes it waterproof and that stuff isn't very strong. I've heard of contiued problems with pinholes in the tent. Not in a majority of them but it's a weak point in the fabric that can be exploited by rough ground material. And then there's the noise. They say you can get use to it but why pay for something you have your get use to.
I don't think ounces make the difference of a enjoyable hike.
Plus, there are better designs to shed wind more so your tent doesn't collapse.
Several years ago I looked at both and went with the Lunar Solo. That was when they were a silnylon tent , not one of the new silpoly ones. More comforts attached to the Lunar Solo including a larger entry. One additional benefit , my wallet still has some weight and is not light. lol
Since then I have switched to the Dan Durston X-Mid 1. It's a silpoy material and is what I call a poor mans dynema since it does not adsorb water like the silnylon tents do. I can also use it like a ( 2 trekking pole supported 4 ground steaks ) tarp by not using the inner tent portion. I keep the Lunar Solo and refuse to part with it.
It’s hard to beat the price on the Lunar. I’m hoping to get a X-mid soon. But they are so hard to get. Thanks for watching!
Dyneema is a great fabric, but is so cost prohibitive, it really only makes sense to spend extra for it in certain situations. I have a couple dyneema drybags, and I use them enough to justify spending $10-20 extra to keep some important items dry.
I can’t justify $300-500 extra to buy a dyneema tent when I camp about 20-30 nights a year, and half are car camping with my son’s scout troop. For A through hiker who is carrying it for months at a time, or an avid backpacker who’s out 100 nights a year, the extra cost for light weight and ability to shake it dry makes a lot more sense.
I couldn’t agree more. Double the weight of the lightest tent on the market is still very lightweight. And it’s hard to beat that price
z packs all the way. how much does your house or car or big screen tv cost ? just save a bit and get the best it will work out at a couple of bucks a night if that , to camp with the ultimate tent. Just my opinion, I saved for the duplex and i feel like a king when i set up my ultralight palace. I wish I didn't waste money on all of my shitty tents in the past.
Lunar Solo of course
I think you've inspired me to do a similar comparison of a couple mountaineering tents... Hmmm. 🤔 Nice video!
Glad I could inspire. I’m sure it will be a great video
Very nice comparison video. Thank you, and keep up the good work.
It’s a little crazy to bring 10 stakes with you for a 1 person tent.
How would the Plex Solo compare to the Pocket Tarp with dcf bathtub floor and S2S Nano net?
Think I'll stick to a ground cloth and Tarp .
very nice review. thanks for the effort. Im going with the forever waterproof fabric....but the 6 moons is in fact a good alternate.
Dyneema does delaminate with wear and time. Consider ultra200 instead (when it comes out)
The Zpacks seems easier to pitch. The little bit of extra stiffness really helps. But it has a very plastic smell inside
do a triple comparison with the Lanshan 1 Pro (2022 edition) - see how they all compare :)
I’m trying to get my hands on one. We will see what happens
Lunar solo for sure
Six moons Lunar, definitely.
I would go with the lunar solo
It’s hard to beat that price
Or you just pick up up the 3F UL Lanshan Pro 1 which is very similar to the Lunar solo, while even more cheap.
There is the Lanshan 1 Pro slightly lighter than the lunar solo and half the price of the lunar solo
I recently got a Deschutes plus, it's just 16 oz (2 oz > than the Plex Solo). It has bug protection but no floor, which is fine by me. Edit: oh, and it's silpoly versus DCF, which comes with the perks you mentioned. I'm also happier with the lower height of the Deschutes plus, which fits my hiking pole.
Weight, or less weight is a powerful thing. I'd pinch dollars and go with the Plex.
Super-D-duper helpful information in this comparison.
I think the most helpful point you made (for my specific needs) was how the different materials pack down. I was curious about how dyneema packs down. My passion is packrafting, so for my needs I would actually prioritize the pack down over the weight penalty. With all the gear I am hauling in, my pack is stuffed tighter than a tick.
Totally stoopid question here, I have been tossing my tent into a compression sack (sans poles of course), so do you think this is a horrible idea?
Now, I just need to figure out how to turn my breakdown paddle into a tent pole. For that, I think I might find a donor paddle and saw off a few inches from the shaft and connect that to my good paddle.
Oooh I never ever pimp my own channel, but if you are interested in seeing some desert SW rivers I have a bunch of dorky vids there…
I checked it out, looks fun! Great doggo as well! But I thought you said they were dorky? It was great!!!✌️
Sorry - neither ! I'd go with the 1P version 3FUL Lanshan Pro. 20D Silicon, 690g (24.3oz), floor size 230 cms x 125 cms (ht) x 100 cms and under US$130. Though to be totally honest I prefer the 1080g 2P 3FUL Lanshan (non-Pro) for it's huge interior space and double vestibules.
Lunar Solo. I have a 2011 model. I would love a new one, but I just simply cannot wear this one out.
It’s a great little tent!
Picked up a flycreek ul 2 bikepack for around 180 on sale recently and I think the couple extra oz is worth it for a semi free standing 2p (1.5p) tent that comes with stakes and everything. I also almost exclusively pack the whites in NH so I need something a little more sturdy. Can't go wrong with a poled tent around 2 pounds for less than 200 🤷♂️
I used the fly creek UL 2 for years. It’s a great tent for sure. And I ultimately prefer freestanding tents. But the weight on these is hard to beat
@MyLifeOutdoors are there any freestanding double walled ultra light tents you'd recommend for the whites? I like double wall because it's constantly soaked out here but if there were a single wall that handles condensation well I might be compelled to cut weight there next year
Great review. I’m 6ft 6 and love how long these seem. I saw you pitched these in fairly sandy conditions which has always been tricky for me. What steaks are you using in sandy conditions? Thanks.
I was using MSR ground hog stakes. Not the best for sand but I staked them out and then put a rock on top of the guyline to help hold it. Worked great.
Watched all of it
Great video, thank you.
Lunar Solo is a good tent, it packs down and is easy to set up and huge interior.
My older version has ribbon style guy outs, snd when the tent is wet in the rain and cold, the ribbons do not hold the tent when you are inevitably out in the middle of the night trying to tighten up the slack caused by sagging of the tent.
Ordered a plex solo yesterday, looking forward to tight lines, similar to my experience with the duplex.
That is a great tent for a great price.
Agreed! Thanks for watching
Why not the lanshan 1 or lanshan 1 pro, costs almost half the price of the lunar solo at around the same weight if not lighter...
I bet they are great but I don’t have one. I’d like to get one to see how they compare for myself
@@MyLifeOutdoors
I got mine from Aliexpress, it takes a little bit of time, but the price is worth it haha
Question is which one is more durable?
Collaboration with Justin? Love both yall channels
We hiked together all last week. It was a blast!
Six moons is the king
I appreciate you saying which one you prefer better! Most people seem to stay neutral! Did you drink a bunch off coffee before you recorded this??😂
Right? He seemed juiced
Lightweight, cheap, strong - choose any two!
4:22 clearly I _would_ choose the lightest tent, if price were not a factor.
I’d choose the Durston XMid 1P
I have the lunar solo it's nice not sure where it is made the bag says made in China. Zpacks way to much money for me. Did some more research and found that all there All of their product is manufactured in China. I believe it has been like this for the past 2-3 years.
I think I'll stick to my $750 1750g biwi. At least i know it will outlast me
You're so onest and credible 😏
Lunar Solo or Gossamer One?
The tent looks at home in the desert. Tried a similar design a few summer days on the arctic tundra. It was drafty and wet before the whole tent blew down.. Not that impressed.
I would definitely recommend the Durston X-Mid 1p when looking at balance between weight, price, weather protection and overall functionality...Way better than the Lunar solo IMO
I’d love to get my hands on one
All this was so my mans could brag he fully achieved an 8 inch depth.
I would love to see the lunar solo vs the 3F UL Lanshan 1 / pro. It looks VERY similar.
I've been told the lanshan is a knockoff, but I think it's better than both the tents reviewed here. american youtubers seem to review the same gear all the time - it's very boring !
Compare it to the Lanshan Pro 1, which is the same tent and a fraction of the priceh
Does anybody know how tall he is? Would be great to compare because I’m 6’8
I know. I’m 5’7” so hard for me to say how these would do for someone as tall as you.
I have the SMD lunar solo and I think you’ll struggle in it at your height. I’m 6ft4 - with a long length thermarest neo air xlite mat, I’m only just about fitting in mine without the tent walls hitting me in the face when I lay flat on my back with my feet as far as they’ll go down at the other end. I have to use the guy out points to help with this. Overall though, I love this tent - it has stood up to some pretty horrendous storms with high winds and nights of constant torrential rain. It’s a solid 3 season tent.