Gear Review: Zpacks Duplex Tent, first UL tent

“Light as a feather, tough as nails.”

For ultralight enthusiasts and thru-hikers, finding the perfect shelter is a crucial part of the journey. The Zpacks Duplex has long been a favorite in the ultralight community, and after spending some time testing it, I understand why. Here’s my detailed review of this tent, broken down into key factors that matter on the trail.

Specifications

• Weight: ~17.9 oz (tent body)

• Material: Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF)

• Setup: Requires two trekking poles or Duplex Free Standing Flex Kit (purchased separately)

• Capacity: 2-person

• Price: $699

Design & Setup

Desolation Wilderness

The Duplex is simplicity itself. It’s a single-wall, two-trekking-pole design that eliminates the need for traditional tent poles, saving weight and space in your pack. Setting it up takes just a few minutes, though I recommend practicing at home to perfect your tensioning. The learning curve is very minimal, and once you get it dialed in, the taut pitch withstands wind and rain exceptionally well.

Weight & Packability

At just 17.9 ounces, this tent feels like it belongs in a different league compared to most other shelters. It packs down incredibly small, taking up minimal space in your pack. For anyone prioritizing a lightweight setup without compromising on durability, the Duplex is

PCT Section Hike - Oregon

Interior Space

For a 2-person tent, the Duplex feels roomy. Its rectangular floor plan (45” x 90”) and 48” peak height provide enough space for two people or one person with gear. The vertical walls, achieved through the trekking pole design, add to the sense of openness, especially compared to traditional dome-shaped tents.

Roomy for one person and gear!

Desolation Wilderness


Weather Protection

The Dyneema fabric is inherently waterproof, so no additional rainfly is needed. During testing, the Duplex handled heavy rain with ease, and the fully taped seams kept the interior dry. The bathtub floor is a bonus for added protection in wet conditions. However, the single-wall construction can lead to condensation, particularly in humid climates, though the ample ventilation options (two large doors and vestibules) mitigate this to some extent.

Point Reyes National Seashore Sky Camp


Durability

Dyneema is remarkably tough for its weight, resisting punctures and abrasions better than I expected. However, it requires some care, as it’s not invincible. Avoid sharp rocks and always use a groundsheet to extend the tent’s lifespan.

Pros

• Ultralight: One of the lightest tents on the market.

• Packability: Compact enough to fit in the smallest packs.

• Roomy: Comfortable for two or luxurious for one.

• Weatherproof: Fully waterproof fabric and design.

Cons

• Price: At $699, it’s an investment.

• Condensation: Like most single-wall tents, moisture management is a challenge. 

• Setup: Requires trekking poles, which might not suit everyone.

Who Is This Tent For?

Yosemite National Park - Ten Lakes

The Zpacks Duplex is ideal for thru-hikers, ultralight backpackers, and anyone looking to cut weight without sacrificing comfort or durability. It’s a perfect match for long-distance trails like the Pacific Crest Trail, where weight savings and reliability are paramount.

Final Thoughts

The Zpacks Duplex is a near-perfect shelter for those who value ultralight performance and are willing to invest in high-quality gear. While the price tag is steep, the weight savings and functionality make it worth considering for serious hikers.

Lost Coast Trail


Rating: 9/10

Would I use it on my PCT thru-hike? Definitely! Every ounce matters on a journey that long, and the Duplex strikes the perfect balance of weight, space, and weather protection.

What do you think of the Duplex? Let me know your thoughts or share your favorite tent!

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